JPH11216240A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To shorten an inspecting time by executing an inspection more easily. SOLUTION: A main substrate 31 is provided with an information output circuit 64 for outputting information which indicates the states of parts related to variable display in a variable display device and a display control substrate 80 is provided with the information output circuit for outputting information which indicates the display state of the variable display device. Information from the respective information output circuits 64 are outputted to an external part with a relay substrate 110. The relay substrate 110 is provided with a converting circuit 111 for converting respective kinds of information by format.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a pachinko game machine,
For gaming machines such as coin gaming machines or slot machines,
In particular, the present invention relates to a gaming machine including a variable display device whose display state can be changed, and in which a predetermined game value can be given when a display result on the variable display device has a predetermined specific display mode.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a gaming machine, a variable display device having a variable display portion whose display state can be changed is provided, and when a display result of the variable display portion becomes a predetermined specific display mode, a predetermined game is performed. Some are configured to provide value to the player. Some variable display units have a plurality of variable display areas, and are usually configured to display the display results of the plurality of variable display areas at different times. On the variable display section, for example, a plurality of identification information such as symbols are variably displayed. The fact that the display result of the variable display unit is a combination of a predetermined specific display mode is usually referred to as a “big hit”. In addition, the game value is a game in which the state of the variable winning ball device is such that a hit ball is likely to win based on a result of a special game such as a symbol change in a special game device such as a variable display device provided in a game area of the gaming machine. Or a right to be in an advantageous state for the player.

[0003] In addition, among the combinations of the display modes of "outside" other than the combination of "big hit", at a stage where some of the display results of the plurality of variable display portions have not been derived and displayed yet, the display results are already displayed. The state in which the display mode of the variable display unit that is derived and displayed satisfies the display condition that is a combination of the specific display modes is referred to as “reach”. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a jackpot.

[0004] In addition to a variable display device for generating a jackpot, various types of electric accessories are provided in the gaming machine. Further, various components such as a sensor for detecting a winning of a hit ball during the progress of the game, a mechanical component such as a solenoid for opening and closing a variable winning opening, and a lamp for storing a starting winning are provided. .

[0005]

When the product is completed based on the product design, it is necessary to confirm whether the symbol change in the variable display section is as designed. In addition, it is necessary to confirm whether or not various electric accessories and other components operate normally. There are many types of symbols displayed on the variable display section, and as described above, since the variable display device has a plurality of variable display areas, the number of symbol combinations is enormous. Further, many of the sensors, solenoids, and other parts operate in relation to the symbol display result of the variable display unit, so it is necessary to confirm whether or not they are operating properly in relation to the symbols. Therefore, the inspection requires a great deal of time and labor.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of performing inspection more easily and shortening the inspection period.

[0007]

A gaming machine according to the present invention comprises:
A gaming machine that includes a variable display device whose display state can be changed, and that can provide a predetermined game value when a display result of identification information displayed on the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display mode. Game control means for controlling the progress of the game; display control means for controlling the display state of the variable display device based on instructions from the game control means; and information output for outputting information indicating the display state of the variable display device. Means,
Conversion means for converting the information output by the information output means into a predetermined format. The gaming machine may include at least a second information output unit that outputs information indicating a state of the portion that affects the variable display and a portion that is affected by the variable display on the variable display device. Note that the portion that affects the variable display and the portion that is affected by the variable display in the variable display device are, for example, mechanical components that operate during a jackpot operation based on a sensor input or a variable display result that is a condition for starting variable display. is there. The gaming machine may include a relay unit for outputting information from the information output unit, or information from the information output unit and information from the second information output unit, to the outside of the gaming machine.
The conversion unit may be a configuration included in the display control unit, or may be a configuration included in the game control unit and the display control unit. Moreover, the structure provided in the relay means may be sufficient. Further, the information output unit and the second information output unit may have a configuration including a connection unit for outputting information to the outside or a configuration not including the connection unit.

[0008]

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the front, FIG. 2 is an overall rear view showing the internal structure of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and FIG. 3 is a rear view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the back. Here, a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and may be, for example, a coin gaming machine or a slot machine.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 comprises:
It has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a hit ball supply tray 3. Below the hitting ball supply tray 3, a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing premium balls overflowing from the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle 5 for firing a hitting ball are provided. A game board 6 is detachably mounted behind the glass door frame 2. A game area 7 is provided on the front of the game board 6.

In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, an image display section 9 for variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols and a 7-segment L
A variable display device 8 including a variable display 10 using an ED is provided. On the side of the variable display device 8, a passing gate 11 for guiding a hit ball is provided. The hit ball that has passed through the passing gate 11 is guided to the starting winning opening 14 via the ball exit 13. In a passage between the passage gate 11 and the ball outlet 13, there is a gate sensor 12 that detects a hit ball that has passed through the passage gate 11. The winning ball that has entered the starting winning port 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the starting port sensor 17. In addition, a variable winning ball device 15 that performs opening and closing operations is provided below the starting winning port 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16. An opening / closing plate 20 that is opened by the solenoid 21 in a specific game state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. One of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6 (V zone)
The winning ball that has entered is detected by the V count sensor 22, and the winning ball that has entered the other is detected by the count sensor 23.
At the lower portion of the variable display device 8, a starting winning storage display 18 having four display sections for displaying the number of winning balls entering the starting winning port 14 is provided. In this example, the start winning prize storage display 18 increases the number of lit display units by one each time there is a starting prize, with the upper limit being four. Then, every time the variable display of the image display unit 9 is started, the number of the lit display units is reduced by one.

The gaming board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports 19 and 24. Decorative lamps 25 are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7 so as to blink during the game.
There is an out port 26 for absorbing a hit ball that does not win. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided at upper left and right sides outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a game effect lamp / LED 28 is provided. In this example, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when a prize ball is paid out is provided in the vicinity of one of the speakers 27, and a ball out lamp 52 that is turned on when a replenishment ball is out in the vicinity of the other speaker 27. Is provided. Furthermore, in FIG. 1, it is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming table 1,
Also shown is a card unit 50 that enables lending of balls by inserting a prepaid card.

The hit ball fired from the hitting ball launching device enters the game area 7 through the hitting rail, and thereafter, enters the game area 7.
Come down. When a hit ball passes through the passage gate 11 and is detected by the gate sensor 12, the number displayed on the variable display 10 changes to a continuously changing state. When the hit ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening sensor 17, the three symbols in the image display section 9 start rotating. The rotation of the image in the image display unit 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of the symbols at the time of stop is the combination of the big hit symbols, the game shifts to the big hit game state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls is won. When a hit ball wins in the specific winning area while the opening and closing plate 20 is being opened and is detected by the V count sensor 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening and closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is permitted a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times).

If the combination of symbols in the image display unit 9 at the time of stoppage is a combination of jackpot symbols with probability fluctuations and the symbol indicated by the variable display 10 is a predetermined symbol, then the variable winning ball is set. The device 15 is frequently opened and the probability of the next big hit increases.
That is, the state becomes more advantageous for the player.

FIG. 2 shows a game control board (main board) 31.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration in FIG. FIG. 4 also shows a prize ball substrate 37, an illuminated substrate 35, and a display control substrate 80. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit 53 including a game control microcomputer for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate sensor 12, a starting port sensor 17, and a V count sensor 22.
And a switch circuit 58 for supplying a signal from the count sensor 23 to the basic circuit 53, and a solenoid circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the opening and closing plate 20 in accordance with commands from the basic circuit 53. And a lamp / LED circuit 60 for driving the variable indicator 10 by the 7-segment LED and blinking the decoration lamp 25, transmitting a prize ball number signal from the basic circuit 53 to the prize ball substrate 37, and
And a prize ball substrate input / output circuit 61 for inputting a prize data signal from the player 7 to the basic circuit 53. The winning is detected by the winning ball detector 99. In that case,
The prize ball substrate 37 outputs a winning data signal. The basic circuit 53 responds to a winning data signal from the winning ball substrate 37,
A prize ball number signal is given to the prize ball substrate 37. For example, when a winning data signal corresponding to the turning on of the starting port sensor 17 is input, the basic circuit 53 outputs “6” to the winning ball number signal and responds to the turning on of the count sensor 23 or the V count sensor 22. When the winning data signal is input, "15" is output as the winning ball number signal. Then, when a winning data signal is input when these sensors are not turned on, "10" is output as the winning ball number signal.

The main board 31 includes an illuminated board 35.
An illumination board command output circuit 62 for transmitting a command from the basic circuit 53 to the display control board 80;
CRT circuit 6 for giving commands and strobe signals from
3, a voice synthesizing circuit 71 for outputting a voice signal such as a sound effect according to a control signal from the basic circuit 53, and a speaker 27 shown in FIG. And a sound volume amplifying circuit 72 to be provided.

Further, the basic circuit 5 is provided on the main board 31.
According to the data given from 3, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot, the effective start information indicating the number of start winning balls used to start the image display of the image display unit 9, the probability change information indicating that the probability variation has occurred, and the like. Information output circuit 6 to output
4 are provided. Information from the information output circuit 64 is
For example, it is output outside the gaming machine via a relay board (not shown in FIG. 2). The information output circuit 64 includes, from the basic circuit 53, the gate sensor 12, the starting port sensor 17, the count sensor 23 and the V count sensor 22 on, the solenoids 16 and 21 on, the display state of the variable display 10, and the start-up. Information on the display state of the storage display 18 is also input. Further, error information indicating an error state of the gaming machine is also input. Therefore, the information output circuit 6
4 can also output such information to the outside.

The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing a control operation in accordance with the control program, and an I / O port unit 57. Note that the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 may be built in the CPU 56 in some cases.

Further, the main board 31 is provided with an initial reset circuit 65 for resetting the basic circuit 53 when the power is turned on, and a reset pulse is applied to the basic circuit 53 periodically (for example, every 2 ms) to control the game. A periodic reset circuit 66 for executing the program again from the beginning;
An address decode circuit 67 that decodes an address signal provided from the basic circuit 53 and outputs a signal for selecting one of the I / O ports in the I / O port unit 57 is provided.

FIG. 3 shows a circuit in the display control board 80 and a CR.
It is a block diagram showing an example of the composition of image display part 9 by T82. The image display unit 9 has a C for displaying an image.
An RT 82 and a display control circuit 81 for controlling image display on the CRT 82 are included. Further, the image display unit 9
Includes a reset circuit 83 for resetting the display control circuit 81, an oscillation circuit 84 for providing a clock signal to the display control circuit 81, and a VRAM 86 for storing image data generated by the display control circuit 81. A character ROM for storing frequently used image data may be provided. The frequently used image data is, for example, a person, an animal, or an image composed of characters, figures, symbols, or the like displayed on the CRT 82.

When a strobe signal is input from the CRT circuit 63 of the main board 31, the display control circuit 81 inputs command data from the CRT circuit 63 and recognizes the state indicated by the command data. The display control circuit 81 controls the CRT 8 according to the state of the command data.
2 to generate image data to be displayed. Then, the image data is stored in the VRAM 86. The image data stored in the VRAM 86 is sent to the CRT 82 as a video signal composed of an RGB color signal and a SYNC signal,
An image is displayed at T82.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the display control circuit 81. The display control circuit 81 includes a display control CPU 91, video display controllers 93 and 94, and a control data ROM 92 in which control data is stored. Display control CPU 9
1 is according to command data from the CRT circuit 63,
Data for controlling the display on the CRT 82 is read from the control data ROM 92. Then, the display control CPU 9
1 sends a control signal to the video controllers 93 and 94 based on the read control data. The video controllers 93 and 94 generate image data to be displayed on the CRT 82 in accordance with the control signals, and
Store it in M86. The data stored in the VRAM 86 is sent to the CRT 82 as a video signal. In addition,
Although not shown in FIG. 4, the display control board 80 and the CRT
A CRT substrate having a CRT drive circuit for driving the CRT 82 based on a video signal is provided between the CRT 82 and the CRT 82.

The display control circuit 81 includes a CRT 8
An information output circuit 95 for outputting information related to the symbol displayed on the display 2 is also provided. The information output circuit 95 outputs at least information indicating whether or not the symbol is currently changing, and if the symbol is changing, information indicating each displayed symbol. Note that the information output circuit 95 may be configured to directly output the display control command data input from the basic circuit 53 of the main board 31.

FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing transmission timing of display control command data given from the main board 31 to the game control board 80. Each display control data constituting the display control command data is transmitted continuously, but as shown in FIG. 5, the display control data is transmitted every 2 ms. Then, a strobe signal is output in synchronization with each display control data. Since the display control CPU 91 is interrupted at the rising edge of the strobe signal, the display control CPU 91 can fetch each display control data by the interrupt processing program.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the display control command data. Here, FIG. 6 shows only typical display control command data such as “all symbol variation display”, but other display control command data indicating a reach type and a specific symbol are indicated. Display control command data and the like are prepared.

Next, the operation will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the basic circuit 53 on the main board 31. As described above, this process is started, for example, every 2 ms by the reset pulse generated by the periodic reset circuit 66. When the basic circuit 53 is activated,
First, the basic circuit 53 performs a stack setting process for setting a designated address of a stack pointer (step S1). Next, initialization processing is performed (step S
2). In the initialization processing, the basic circuit 53 determines whether or not the RAM 55 contains an error. If the error is included, the basic circuit 53 performs processing such as initializing the RAM 55.
Then, the command code sent to the image display unit 9 is R
After performing the process of setting a predetermined area of the AM 55 (step S3), the process of outputting a command code is performed (step S4).

Next, a process for transmitting a predetermined command for sound generation and LED lighting control to the illuminated board 35 via the illuminated board command output circuit 62 is performed.
Through the information output circuit 64, jackpot information, start information,
A process for transmitting data such as probability variation information is performed (data output process: step S5). In addition, various abnormality diagnosis processes are performed by the self-diagnosis function provided inside the pachinko gaming machine 1, and an alarm is issued if necessary according to the result (error process: step S6). The error information is output to the outside via the information output circuit 64.

Next, a process of updating each counter indicating each determination random number (such as a random number for determining whether to make a jackpot) is performed (step S7). The basic circuit 53 further performs a process of updating the display random numbers (such as random numbers for determining a lost symbol or a reach type) (step S11).

Further, the basic circuit 53 performs signal processing with the award ball substrate 37 (step S12). That is, it is determined whether or not a winning data signal is output from the prize ball substrate 37, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the prize ball substrate 3
7 to output a prize ball number signal. The payout control microcomputer mounted on the prize ball board 37 drives the ball payout device 97 according to the prize ball number signal.

Thereafter, the basic circuit 53 repeats the display random number updating process in step S13 until the next reset pulse is given from the periodic reset circuit 66.

In the special symbol process of step S8, the basic circuit 53 confirms the value of the number of stored start winnings as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 (step S5).
0). If the start winning prize memory number is not 0, the value stored in the random number storage area corresponding to the start prize storing number = 1 is read out (step S51), the value of the starting prize storing number is reduced by 1, and The value of the random number value storage area is shifted (step S52). That is, the value stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the number of start winning prizes = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the random number value storage area corresponding to the number of start prize memories = n-1. . In addition, in each random number value storage area, the value of the special symbol determination random number extracted when the starting opening sensor 17 is turned on and the number of starting winning storages is increased by one. The special symbol determination random number is one of the determination random numbers updated in the process of step S7.

The big hit determining means of the basic circuit 53 determines the hit / miss based on the value read in step S51, that is, the value of the extracted special symbol determination random number (step S53). When it is determined that a big hit has occurred, the basic circuit 53 determines the stop symbol based on the value of the specific symbol determination random number. Here, if the limiter is not operating, a stop symbol is determined from a table including all symbols according to the value of the random number for specific symbol determination (steps S54 and S55). When the limiter is operating, the basic circuit 53 determines a combination of symbols that causes a probability variation according to the value of the specific symbol determination random number (probable symbol).
A stop symbol is determined from a symbol table that does not include the symbol (steps S54 and S56). The limiter is for restricting the occurrence of the jackpot due to the probable symbol continuously, that is, the continuation of the high probability state continuously.
For example, if the high probability state continues four times in a row, the limiter is activated. Therefore, in the limiter operating state, the stop symbol is determined from the table that does not include the special symbol in which the probability change is performed. Further, the basic circuit 53 extracts a reach random number and determines a reach type based on the extracted random number (step S67). The reach random number is one of the display random numbers updated in steps S11 and S13.

If it is determined that there is a deviation, the basic circuit 5
3 determines whether or not to reach (step S5)
7). When you decide to reach,
The basic circuit 53 extracts the reach random number and determines the reach type based on the extracted random number (step S67).

If it is determined not to reach, the basic circuit 53 extracts a symbol corresponding to the value from the left stop symbol table using a predetermined random number (step S64). Next, the right symbol is determined based on the left symbol (step S65). For example, a new symbol number is generated by adding a predetermined random number value to the symbol number determined in step S64, and the symbol corresponding to the symbol number is set as the right stop symbol. Further, the basic circuit 53 extracts a value of a predetermined random number and determines a symbol corresponding to the value as a stop symbol of the middle symbol (step S66).

As described above, it is determined whether the display mode of the symbol variation based on the winning start is a jackpot, a reach mode, or a loss mode, and the combination of the respective stopped symbols is determined.

Information indicating the determined symbol and a command for instructing all symbol changes are displayed as display control command data.
From the basic circuit 53 of the main board 31, the display control board 80
Is transmitted to the display control circuit 81. The basic circuit 53 may transmit only the information indicating the combination of the stopped symbols to the display control circuit 81, or may transmit the display control command data indicating the instantaneous symbol variation to the display control circuit 81. Good.

The display control circuit 81 includes a display control CPU 91 and a video display processor 9.
3 and 94 generate image data to be displayed on the CRT 82 and output video data to the CRT 82 via the VRAM 86. The image data also includes a fluctuating symbol image. When the display control circuit 81 is performing the symbol variation control, the CPU 91 outputs information indicating each displayed symbol to the information output circuit 95. The information output circuit 95 outputs information of each symbol to the outside of the gaming machine via, for example, a relay board (not shown in FIG. 4).

If the combination of symbols at the time of stop is a combination of big hit symbols, the game shifts to a big hit game state.
That is, the basic circuit 53 drives the solenoid 21 to open the open / close plate 20. Then, the open state is continued until a predetermined time has elapsed or until a winning of a predetermined number of hit balls is detected by the count sensor 23. When the hit ball wins in the specific winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is being opened and is detected by the V count sensor 22, a continuation right up to a predetermined number of times is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. During this time, the basic circuit 53 detects the ON state of the count sensor 23 and the V count sensor 22, and the ON state is output to the information output circuit 64 shown in FIG. Also,
The state of the solenoid 21 is also output to the information output circuit 64.

The information output circuit also controls the ON state of the start-up opening sensor 17 which is the condition for starting the symbol change on the CRT in the variable display device 8 and the ON state of the gate sensor 12 which is the condition for the symbol change on the variable display 10. 64. Since the basic circuit 53 outputs the valid start information to the information output circuit 64, the ON state of the start port sensor 17 may not be given to the information output circuit 64. The basic circuit 53 controls the display of the variable display 10 and the start storage display 18 via the lamp / LED circuit 60, and the display states of these displays are also output to the information output circuit 64.

Therefore, the information output circuit 64 can output such information to the outside. As described above, the information output circuit 95 of the display control board 80 also outputs information of each symbol to the outside of the gaming machine, so that various information during the progress of the game can be collected outside the gaming machine.
For example, an inspection device for inputting information from the information output circuits 64 and 95 can be prepared, and the inspection device can automatically collect statistics of combinations of stopped symbols. Therefore, when the occurrence frequency of each combination of the stop symbols is different from the design value, the inspector can immediately know that fact. In addition, since the on / off information of each sensor and the solenoid can be input, the right to open the opening and closing plate 20 should be generated or the opening and closing plate 20 should be opened even though the V count sensor 22 was not turned on. However, a problem that the solenoid 21 is not driven can be easily found in the final inspection in the development stage.

In addition to the valid start information, the probability change information, and the error information, information on the ON state of each sensor, the ON state of each solenoid, the display state of the variable display 10, and the display state of the start storage display 18 are also inspected. The state of the gaming machine can be checked using the inspection device in a state where the gaming machine is installed in the game arcade since the input can be made to the device and the display state of the symbol can be inputted. Therefore, even if the game machine is improperly modified, it can be easily detected by connecting the inspection device.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a main board 31 and a display control board 80 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Note that, in FIG. 9, description is omitted for blocks other than blocks related to outputting information to the outside. In this embodiment, on the main board 31, an input signal from each sensor and an output signal to each solenoid and a lamp / LED from the basic circuit 53 are input to the information output circuit 64. Further, on the display control board 80, the display control command data is output as it is via the buffer circuit 95B.

According to such a configuration, the load on the CPU 56 in the basic circuit 53 and the load on the display control CPU 91 on the display control board 80 can be reduced. Specifically, the program capacity related to information output can be reduced.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 10, the main substrate 53
2 also shows a connector (CNA) 69 for outputting display control command data transmitted to the display control board 80 and a connector (CNB) 70 for outputting information from the information output circuit 64. Also, the display control board 8
At 0, a connector (CNC) 100 for receiving display control command data from the main board 31 and a connector (CND) 98 for inputting and outputting information from the information output circuit 95C are also shown. The connector 6
The components corresponding to 9, 70, 98 and 100 are also provided in the configurations shown in FIGS. 2 and 9, but are not shown in FIGS. 2 and 9. In FIG. 10, the blocks other than the blocks related to the information output are omitted.

In this embodiment, the connectors (CN1 to CN1)
CN4) The relay board 110 having 121 to 124 is clearly shown. For example, a cable reaching the inspection device 200 is connected to the connectors 121 to 124. Relay board 1
In addition to the connector (CNE) 112 for inputting information from the main board 31 and the connector (CNF) 113 for inputting information from the display control board 80, a conversion circuit 111 is provided on 10. . The conversion circuit converts the information from the main board 31 and the display control board 80 into a predetermined format, and converts the format of an externally input signal so that the signal can be handled by the main board 31 and the display control board 80.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of a format of a signal input / output to / from the relay board 110 from the outside. In the example shown in FIG. 11, format 1 includes the following signals. Format 1
Is a signal output from the relay board 110 to the outside.

Symbol number: Symbol number of the symbol displayed at the digit specified by format 2 described later. The conversion circuit 110
The information relating to the display symbols input from the information input / output circuit 95C of the display control board 80 is converted into symbol numbers. For example,
When the information input / output circuit 95C is configured to directly output the display control command data from the main board 31, the display control command data is often expressed in a command system specific to the model. .
For example, a command header is included. Therefore, the conversion circuit 110 converts information based on the display control command data into a symbol number. Color data: Indicates the color of the design. This is set when the same design has different colors. Conversion circuit 110
Generates color data from the information on the display symbols input from the information input / output circuit 95C of the display control board 80.

Hold lamp 1 signal to hold lamp 4 signal:
The one corresponding to the start winning prize memory output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31. Special winning opening solenoid signal: Indicates the state of the solenoid for opening and closing the special winning opening. In this embodiment, the state of the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the open / close plate 20 is a signal output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31. Big hit signal: It is turned on from the time when the symbol combination that becomes the big hit is stopped until the big hit processing ends. Conversion circuit 110
Is, for example, from information by display control command data,
This jackpot signal is generated. Ordinary symbol hit signal: In this embodiment, the signal is turned on at the time of hit according to the display mode of the variable display 10 using the 7-segment LED. The conversion circuit 110 generates this signal from the display symbol of the variable display 10 output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31, for example. Probability changing signal: Turns on when the probability is high and turns off when the probability is low. The conversion circuit 110 generates this signal from the probability change information output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31, for example. Signal during symbol fluctuation: Turns on during symbol fluctuation. The conversion circuit 110 is an information input / output circuit 95C of the display control board 80.
This signal is generated from the information on the display symbol input from the user. Symbol determination signal: Turns on for a predetermined period (for example, one second) after the symbol change stops. The conversion circuit 110 generates this signal from the information regarding the display symbols input from the information input / output circuit 95C of the display control board 80. Error signal: Turns on when the gaming machine enters an error state. In this embodiment, the state of the error information output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31 is set.

In this embodiment, since 8 bits are prepared as a symbol number in the format 1,
It can handle 256 types of symbols. In addition, since 4 bits are prepared as color data, 16 types of colors can be handled. The reason why a large number of symbols and colors are determined as described above is to consider a gaming machine having a large number of symbol display areas. That is,
This is because we want to share this format among many models. In addition, as for the holding lamp 1 signal to the holding lamp 4 signal, the special winning opening solenoid signal, the normal symbol hit signal and the error signal, signals can be generated using the information output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31 as it is. However, the conversion circuit 110 performs a conversion process of setting the information input from the information output circuit 64 at a corresponding position in the format 1.

In the example shown in FIG.
Includes the following signals. Note that the signal in the format 2 is a signal input to the relay board 110 from the outside. The signal input from the outside to the relay board 110 is subjected to format inverse conversion by the conversion circuit 111,
The display control board 80 is provided.

Design digit designation code: A signal for designating the display digit of the symbol number to be set in format 1. The conversion circuit 110 converts the display symbol of the digit designated by the symbol digit designation code into a symbol number and sets the symbol number to the format 1. In this embodiment, since there are three symbol display areas, any one of 1 to 3 is designated by the symbol digit designation code.

Start port switch: A pulse signal for starting symbol fluctuation. In this embodiment, the signal is a signal corresponding to the start-up opening sensor 17 being turned on. By giving this signal from the inspection device 200 to the gaming machine, it is possible to start symbol fluctuation for the inspection. Fluctuation time reduction button: A pulse signal to shorten the fluctuation time of the symbol. By giving this signal to the display control board 80 side, the symbol change time for the inspection from the inspection apparatus 200 can be reduced. 10-count switch: A pulse signal that substitutes for the ball hitting the big winning opening. In this embodiment, the signal is a signal corresponding to turning on of the count sensor 23. By giving this signal from the inspection device 200 to the gaming machine, it is possible to generate a state in which a ball is hit at the big winning opening for inspection. V switch: A pulse signal that substitutes for a ball hitting a specific area (V zone) of the special winning opening. In this embodiment, the signal is a signal corresponding to the ON state of the V count sensor 22. By giving this signal from the inspection device 200 to the gaming machine, it is possible to generate a state in which a ball is hit in the V zone in the special winning opening for inspection.

In this embodiment, in the format 2, since 4 bits are prepared as a symbol digit designation code, 16 digits can be handled as a symbol display area. The reason why such a large number of digits can be handled is that the format is to be shared between many models.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, since the information output circuit 64 in the main board 31 outputs only information and does not input a signal, in this embodiment,
The signals of the starting port switch, the 10 count switch, and the V switch cannot be provided to the main board 31 from the inspection apparatus 200 side. However, if the information output circuit 64 is replaced with an information input / output circuit and the basic circuit 53 is configured to be able to operate according to an external signal, the gaming machine performs an operation according to a signal from the inspection device 200. be able to.

In the example shown in FIG. 12, format 3
Includes the following signals. The signal in the format 3 is a signal from the relay board 110 to the outside.

Normal symbol number: Format 4 described later
The symbol number of the ordinary symbol of the digit specified by. In this embodiment, it corresponds to the symbol number displayed on the variable display 10. The conversion circuit 110 converts the information on the ordinary symbols input from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31 into symbol numbers. Normal design color data: Indicates the color of the normal design. This is set when the same design has different colors. In this embodiment, the variable display 10 is a 7-segment LED.
, So there is usually no design color data.
In that case, 0 is set.

Hold lamp 1 signal to hold lamp 4 signal:
When a holding lamp is provided for the normal symbol display, the conversion circuit 111 generates the holding lamp using a lighting signal of the holding lamp output from the information output circuit 64 of the main board 31.

In this embodiment, since 4 bits are usually prepared as a symbol number in format 3, 16 types of symbols can be handled. In addition, since 4 bits are prepared as color data, 16 types of colors can be handled. The reason why such a large number of patterns and colors are determined is that the format is to be shared between many models.

In the example shown in FIG.
Includes the following signals. The signal in the format 2 is a signal from the outside to the relay board 110.

Normal design digit designation code: Format 3
Signal that specifies the display digit of the normal symbol number to be set to. The conversion circuit 110 converts the display symbol of the digit designated by the ordinary symbol digit designation code into an ordinary symbol number and sets the format to format 3. In this embodiment, since there is usually one symbol display area, 1 is designated in the symbol digit designation code.

Operating port switch: A pulse signal for starting a symbol change normally. In this embodiment, the signal is a signal corresponding to turning on of the gate sensor 12. By giving this signal from the inspection device 200 to the gaming machine, the symbol change of the variable display 10 can be started for the inspection. Fluctuation time shortening button: A pulse signal for shortening the fluctuation time of a normal symbol. By giving this signal from the inspection device 200 to the gaming machine, it is possible to shorten the normal symbol change time for the inspection. Winning switch: A pulse signal that replaces the hit ball that wins a winning opening that is normally operated by an electric accessory. In the present embodiment, the signal is a signal corresponding to the winning in the variable winning ball device 15. By giving this signal from the inspection device 200 to the gaming machine, it is possible to generate a state in which a ball is hit at a winning opening for inspection.

In this embodiment, since 4 bits are prepared in the format 4 as the normal symbol digit designation code, 16 digits can be handled as the ordinary symbol display area. The reason why such a large number of digits can be handled is that the format is to be shared between many models.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the information output circuit 64 on the main board 31 outputs only information and does not input a signal.
The signals of the operation port switch, the fluctuation time reduction switch, and the winning switch cannot be given to the main board 31 from the inspection apparatus 200 side. However, if the information output circuit 64 is replaced with an information input / output circuit and the basic circuit 53 is configured to be able to operate according to an external signal, the gaming machine performs an operation according to a signal from the inspection device 200. be able to.

In the relay board 110 shown in FIG. 10, each of the connectors 121 to 124 serves as a connector for inputting and outputting signals of formats 1 to 4 with the inspection apparatus 200. As described above, the relay board 110 for transmitting information inside the gaming machine to the outside is provided, and the converting circuit 111 and the gaming machine and the inspection apparatus 200 are provided in a predetermined format.
If the configuration is such that signals can be exchanged between the two, the inspection can be facilitated and a common inspection apparatus 200 can be used between the respective models. Therefore, it is not necessary to create an inspection device according to the model, and the inspection can be simplified. The format shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 is a simple example, and various modifications and additions can be made according to the functions of the gaming machine.

In this embodiment, the conversion circuit 11
Although 1 is provided on the relay board 110, the function of the conversion circuit 111 may be realized by the information output circuit 64 and the information input / output circuit 95C. In such a case, the conversion circuit 111 is not necessary in the relay board 110, and the signals from the main board 31 and the display control board 80 can be directly output to the connectors 121 to 124. Alternatively, only the information input / output circuit 95C may be provided, the information input / output circuit 95C may be configured to have a conversion function, and only the information based on the display control command data may be format-converted and input / output. Since the display control command data includes information on the occurrence of a jackpot and the operation of the jackpot in addition to the state of symbol fluctuation, even if only information based on the display control command data is output to the outside, the main game machine Operation information can be collected externally. As a result, the inspection of the main operation of the gaming machine is facilitated.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing still another embodiment of the present invention. Although not shown in FIG. 2 and the like, each sensor, each solenoid, each LED / lamp, and the like are mounted on each substrate. Therefore, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the main board 31 includes, for example, a sensor board 300 on which the gate sensor 12, the starting port sensor 17, the count sensor 23, and the V count sensor 22 are mounted.
(CN11) 10 to which the cable leading to is attached
1 has been implemented. Further, a connector (CN12) 102 to which a cable reaching the solenoid board 400 on which the solenoids 16 and 21 are mounted is mounted. Furthermore, a lamp substrate 5 on which each display and lamp are mounted
Connector to which the cable reaching 00 is attached (CN13)
103 is implemented. A connector (CN31) 301 to which a cable from the main board 31 is connected is mounted on the sensor board 300, and the solenoid board 400
Is mounted with a connector (CN41) 401 to which a cable from the main board 31 is connected, and a lamp board 500 is mounted with a connector (CN51) 501 to which a cable from the main board 31 is connected. Although a board configuration including the sensor board 300, the solenoid board 400, and the lamp board 500 is illustrated here, various board configurations may be adopted depending on the model of the gaming machine.

Three connectors (CNG to CNI) 114, 115, and 116 corresponding to the connectors 301, 401, and 501 are also added to the relay board 110 shown in FIG. The connectors 101 to 1 of the main board 31
03 (CNJ-CNL) corresponding to 03
7, 118 and 119 are also added. Further, a connector (CNM) 120 for cable connection with the connector 69 of the main board 31 is also added. Then, at the time of inspection, as shown in FIG. 13, the cable from the main board 31 to each board is removed, and each board is connected to the relay board 110.
Is connected by cable.

At the time of inspection, the main board 31
Signals are not exchanged directly with the sensor board 300, the solenoid board 400, and the lamp board 500, but are exchanged via the conversion circuit 111 of the relay board 110. Therefore, in this embodiment, the conversion circuit 111 performs signal relay between the main board 31 and each board together with the format conversion described above. For example, display control command data from the main board 31 to the display control board 80 includes a connector 69,
The information is transmitted to the display control board 80 via the connector 120, the conversion circuit 111, the connector 113, and the connector 100. Then, the conversion circuit 111 creates a signal of format 1 based on the input display control command data, and outputs the signal to the inspection device 200. The signals supplied from the main board 31 to the other boards and the signals going to the main board 31 (signals from the sensor board 300) are also converted by the
1, the conversion circuit 111
, And signals from the sensor substrate 300 to the main substrate 31 and generate signals set in formats 1 and 3.

According to such an inspection mode, the inspection apparatus 2
Starter switch according to format 2 from 00, 10
A sensor input can be artificially given to the main board 31 by the signals of the count switch and the V switch, and the signals of the operation port switch and the winning switch in the format 4. This is because when those signals from the inspection device 200 are turned on, the conversion device 111 only needs to turn on the corresponding signals reaching the main board 31. When such a signal is given, the basic circuit 53 of the main board 31 can operate in the same manner as when an actual sensor is turned on. This is because both the actual sensor-on input and the pseudo sensor-on input from the inspection device 200 are transmitted to the main board 31 via the connector 101 on the same line. Therefore, for example, the signal of the starting port switch in the format 2 from the inspection device 200 is transmitted to the relay board 11.
When it is input to 0, the symbol variation is started in the same manner as when the starting port sensor 17 is actually turned on.

As described above, according to this embodiment,
The conversion circuit 111 provided on the relay board 110 is provided with a signal provided from the main board 31 to each board and the sensor board 3
Since the signal input from the main board 31 to the main board 31 is relayed, the device status can be transmitted to the inspection device 200 in a predetermined format, and the components constituting the gaming machine based on a command from the inspection device 200 in the predetermined format Can be operated. Therefore, it is possible to select a component to be inspected and perform an operation test from the outside, and the inspection efficiency is further improved. In addition, the inspection device 20
Since the signal format between 0 and the gaming machine is determined, the inspection apparatus 200 can be shared between different models, and the inspection procedure may be common. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the conversion circuit 111 constitutes a conversion means and also constitutes an information output means for outputting the internal state of the gaming machine to the outside.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of an implementation of the second information output means for outputting information indicating the state of at least a portion affecting the variable display and a portion affected by the variable display in the variable display device. . In each of the above-described embodiments, the second information output unit is provided in each of FIGS.
Alternatively, the information output circuit 64 shown in FIG. 13 or the information output circuit 64 and the connector 70 are included. FIG. 14 (A)
FIG. 14C shows a configuration example in which the information output circuit 64 inputs output information from the basic circuit 53. FIG. 14C shows an example in which the information output circuit 64 outputs the information from the switch circuit 58, the solenoid circuit 59, and the lamp / LED circuit 60. It is a structural example in the case of inputting information. When inputting output information from the basic circuit 53, an output port 641 connected to the CPU 53 is provided as the information output circuit 64. When inputting output information from the switch circuit 58, the solenoid circuit 59, and the lamp / LED circuit 60, an output latch circuit 642 is provided as the information output circuit 64. Note that if the output currents of the switch circuit 58, the solenoid circuit 59, and the lamp / LED circuit 60 are sufficient, the output latch circuit 642 may not be provided.

As shown in FIGS. 14B and 14D, the second
The connector 70 may not be mounted on the information output means. For example, during inspection, the connector 70 is mounted as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14C, and when shipped as a product, the connector 70 is not mounted as shown in FIGS. 14B and 14D. You. Therefore, FIG.
(B) and (D) show the land 643 at the mounting position of the connector 70. Further, at the time of shipment as a product, the relay board 110 shown in FIGS. 10 and 13 need not be mounted.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of an information output means for outputting information indicating the display state of the variable display device. In the configuration shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 9, or FIG. 10, the information output means is connected to the information output circuit 95, the buffer circuit 95B, or the information input / output circuit 95C shown in FIG. 98. FIG. 15 (A)
Is an information output circuit 9 connected to the display control CPU 91.
5 (or information input / output circuit 95C) and a connector 98, and an output port (or input / output port) 951 as an information output circuit 95 (or information input / output circuit 95C) and a connector 98 are provided. included. When the buffer circuit 95B is used, the latch circuit 95B as the buffer circuit 95B is used as shown in FIG.
2 and a connector 98 are included.

As shown in FIGS. 15B and 15D, the connector 98 need not be mounted on the information output means.
For example, at the time of inspection, the connector 98 is mounted as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15C, and at the time of shipment as a product, FIG.
As shown in (B) and (D), the connector 70 is not used. Therefore, FIG.
In (D), a land 953 is shown at a mounting position of the connector 98.

FIG. 16 shows a game machine installation island 7 in a game store.
1 is a perspective view showing a connection example between the pachinko gaming machines 1A to 1F installed at 00 and an inspection device 200. Inspection device 200
May be used to inspect gaming machines one by one.
, A plurality of gaming machines may be inspected at a time. As shown in the figure, each of the pachinko gaming machines 1A to 1A
Intermediate board 110 mounted on the back of F and inspection device 200
And are connected by each cable. The processing for inspecting each of the pachinko gaming machines 1A to 1F is as described above.

As described above, according to the present invention, even when the pachinko gaming machines 1A to 1F are installed in a game store,
The state of the gaming machine can be checked using the inspection device 200. Therefore, the test can be performed in an actual operating environment of the gaming machine, and an operation failure based on the environment can be inspected. In addition, with the same configuration, even in a test at an inspection organization of a game machine or a test at a development stage of a game machine maker, an inspection can be performed in an environment close to the actual situation of installation in a game room.

[0076]

As described above, according to the present invention, an information output means for outputting information indicating a display state of a variable display device, and information output by the information output means are converted into a predetermined format. And a conversion means that can easily grasp the state of the gaming machine externally, making it easier to inspect the game, and shortening the development period and inspection period. There is an effect that can be done. Also, in the state where the gaming machine is installed in the game store,
The state of the gaming machine can be checked using the inspection device. Further, the inspection can be performed by the inspection apparatus commonly used between the respective models, and there is an effect that the inspection can be executed more efficiently. A sensor serving as a condition for starting variable display when at least a second information output unit that outputs information indicating a state of the variable display device and a part affecting the variable display in the variable display device is provided. Inspection of mechanical components operating during input or jackpot operation can be easily performed. In the case where there is provided relay means for outputting information from the information output means or information from the information output means and information from the second information output means to the outside of the gaming machine, the inspection means and the gaming machine The connection with is simplified,
The inspection can be performed more easily. When the conversion means is included in the display control means, the configuration for converting the information and outputting the converted information to the outside can be reduced in size. When the conversion means is included in the game control means and the display control means, it is possible to easily perform a sensor input as a condition for starting a variable display and an inspection of a mechanical component operating during a jackpot operation, and also to transmit information. The structure for converting and outputting to the outside can be reduced in size. Further, when the conversion means is provided in the relay means, there is an effect that the load on the game control means and the display control means concerning the external output of information can be reduced. When the information output unit and the second information output unit are configured to include a connection unit for outputting information to the outside, the inspection is facilitated, but the connection unit is not included. When configured, there is an effect that the product cost can be reduced.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine viewed from the front.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration in the game control board.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit in a display control board and a configuration of an image display unit using a CRT.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a display control circuit.

FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing transmission timing of display control command data given from the main board to the game control board.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of display control command data.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing main processing of the basic circuit.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process of determining a variable display stop symbol of the image display device.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a main board and a display control board according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a format of a signal input / output to / from the relay board from the outside.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a format of a signal input / output to / from a relay board from the outside.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an implementation example of a second information output unit.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating an implementation example of a first information output unit.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an example of connection between a pachinko gaming machine installed on a gaming machine installation island and an inspection device.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 8 variable display device 9 image display section 14 starting winning opening 15 variable winning ball device 31 game control board (main board) 53 basic circuit 64 information output circuit 80 display control board 81 display control circuit 91 display control CPU 95 information output circuit 95B Buffer circuit 95C Information input / output circuit 110 Relay board 111 Conversion circuit

Continuation of the front page (72) Inventor Nobuharu Yoshida 3-55, Daimancho, Meito-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi 1 Ad Tech Co., Ltd.

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A variable display device whose display state is changeable, wherein a predetermined game value is given when a display result of identification information displayed on the variable display device has a predetermined specific display mode. A gaming machine capable of controlling a progress of a game, a display control means for controlling a display state of the variable display device based on a command from the game control device, and a display of the variable display device. A gaming machine comprising: an information output unit that outputs information indicating a state; and a conversion unit that converts information output by the information output unit into a predetermined format. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second information output unit configured to output information indicating at least a part of the variable display device that affects the variable display and a state of the part that is affected by the variable display. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the information output by said information output means is converted into a predetermined format. 3. The game machine according to claim 1, further comprising a relay unit for outputting information from the information output unit, or information from the information output unit and information from the second information output unit, to the outside of the gaming machine. Item 3. The gaming machine according to Item 2. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the conversion means is included in the display control means. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the conversion means is included in the game control means and the display control means. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the conversion means is provided in the relay means. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the information output means and the second information output means include a connection means for outputting information to the outside. 8. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the information output means and the second information output means do not include a connection means for outputting information to the outside.