JPH119822A - Game machine and game equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce troublesome transfer of game balls during the playing by a method wherein a recovery path is provided to recover an overflow of game balls discharged from a discharging device and the game balls recovered are counted to add counts to the number on credit so that the recovered balls are re-discharged within a range of the number on credit. SOLUTION: A specified number of game machines are discharged from a discharging device based on specified discharging conditions held and the discharged game balls are received by trays (an upper tray 64 and a lower tray 70) on the front side to store. When the tray is filled to the capacity, an overflow of game balls are recovered into a recovery path provided facing a releasing path 52 to count the number of the game balls as overflow and the counts are added to the number on credit to be stored into a credit circuit. It is so arrange that the game balls can be re-discharged to the side of the tray within a range of the number on credit to store. In the re-discharging of the game balls, when the jamming of balls is detected in the recovery path, the discharging of the game balls by the ball discharging device is stopped.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a ball discharge device for discharging a required number of game balls based on a predetermined discharge condition, and a front surface capable of receiving and storing game balls discharged from the ball discharge device. And a gaming machine including the gaming machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a gaming machine for playing a game using a gaming ball, for example, a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine, a pachicon machine, an arrangement ball game machine, a sparrow ball game machine, and the like are known. The machine is installed in the amusement store as a game facility along with the island facilities. Of these gaming machines,
In a pachinko game machine, a predetermined amount of game balls are discharged from a discharge device (ball discharge device) to a saucer on the front side of the game machine in accordance with the winning of the game balls. In this saucer, it is possible to store game balls within a predetermined amount range,
For example, when a large amount of game balls are discharged from the discharge device, such as at the time of a big hit, it is necessary to move the game balls that cannot be stored to a ball storage box or the like by operating an operation lever or the like. On the other hand, when the game balls in the saucer are exhausted, the game balls cannot be launched into the game area, so that the player can pay attention to the storage state of the saucer, and if necessary, move the game balls from the ball storage box to the saucer. The game was played under the inconvenience of performing a transfer.

In order to avoid such inconvenience, for example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 3-193076, the discharge of prize balls to be discharged based on winning is held under a certain condition, and the discharge is performed. The prize ball which has been suspended is re-discharged to the saucer as needed, thereby enabling the player to play the game, thereby enabling the player to continue the game continuously without transferring the game ball. Gaming machines are being developed.

[0004]

However, Japanese Patent Application No. Hei.
In the case of the gaming machine described in JP-A-193076, when the player presses the ball payout button, the held game balls are discharged, and the player can play the game without transferring the game balls. Although they can be continued, such systems are not very practical due to the complexity and cost of their control. In addition, when the discharge of the game balls to the receiving tray is suspended, the player cannot hear the sound of discharging the game balls and cannot see the actual balls.
For this reason, the player has no choice but to recognize the number of the game balls for which the acquisition of the prize ball is suspended, and the sense of presence of a large number of balls obtained in the case of a so-called jackpot state becomes thin. In addition, the game is slightly different from the original game characteristics of the gaming machine, and the satisfaction of the player has not been satisfied.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and eliminates the need for troublesome transfer of game balls during a game as much as possible, and reduces the clogging of balls in a collection path. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can be quickly eliminated, and a gaming machine including the gaming machine.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ball discharge device for discharging a required number of game balls based on a predetermined discharge condition.
(E.g., an upper tray 64, a lower tray 70, etc.) on the front side capable of receiving and storing gaming balls discharged from the ball discharging device (e.g., a pachinko game). Machine 100), a collecting path (for example, a first collecting path 54) for collecting the overflowing game balls that cannot be received by the receiving tray because the receiving tray is full, and a ball generated in the collecting path. Ball clogging detection means (for example, ball clogging detection switch 58) for detecting clogging, overflow detection means (for example, credit ball detection switch 57a) for detecting game balls collected through the collecting path, and overflow detection Credit means for counting the number of game balls for the overflow based on the detection output of the means, adding the counted value to the number of credits, and storing the credit number (for example, Credit circuit 200), and re-discharges the game ball from the ball discharging device within the range of the credit number stored in the credit means, thereby enabling a game using the re-discharged game ball. In addition, the discharging of the game balls by the ball discharging device is stopped based on the detection by the ball clogging detecting means.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, of the game balls discharged from the ball discharging device, the number of overflowing game balls that cannot be received by the tray because the tray becomes full is set as the credit number. It is stored in the credit means, and within the range of the number of credits stored in the credit means, the game ball is re-discharged from the ball discharge device, and it becomes possible to play a game using the re-discharged game ball, The player can play the game continuously without troublesome movement of the game ball. In addition, since the game balls are basically discharged only to the saucer portion, the number of the game balls inside the island facility may be smaller than before. In addition, since the discharge of the game balls from the ball discharge device is stopped based on the detection by the ball clogging detecting means, the state of the ball clogging is prevented from being further deteriorated by the discharged balls, and the time required for clearing the ball clogging is reduced. Can be minimized.

Here, the game machine is a game machine using a game ball, and is, for example, a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine, a pachicon machine, an arrangement ball game machine, or a sparrow ball game machine. The predetermined discharge condition includes, for example, a discharge command signal based on the detection of a winning game ball, a game ball lending command signal using a valuable medium (prepaid card),
Another discharge command signal (including a re-discharge command signal) is output to the ball discharge device. The saucer is a dish for receiving the game balls ejected from the ball ejection device, and it does not matter whether the number is one or more.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game machine including the gaming machine according to the first aspect, wherein a notifying unit (for example, a liquid crystal device) for notifying the occurrence of the ball clogging based on the detection by the ball clogging detecting unit. Display unit 400).

According to the second aspect of the present invention, since the notifying means notifies that the ball is clogged in the collecting path,
The ball clogging can be dealt with promptly, and the ball clogging can be quickly resolved. In addition, the early elimination of the ball clogging can minimize the influence of the ball clogging on other parts, and reduce the possibility of causing other troubles.

Here, the notification means includes an LED and a liquid crystal display. In addition, the installation position of this notification means
Any other position, such as a gaming machine, a game ball rental machine attached to the gaming machine, a game facility such as an island facility, and the like, as long as the player can view the game while playing the game.

[0012]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pachinko gaming machine exemplified as a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an upper tray provided in the pachinko gaming machine. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of a lower tray showing a credit operation unit provided in the pachinko gaming machine. In addition to including at least a pachinko gaming machine, it is referred to as a gaming facility including an island facility in which the pachinko gaming machine is installed, a calling device, and the like, but illustration thereof is omitted. Gaming equipment may include a ball-to-ball rental machine or the like.

The pachinko gaming machine 100 of this embodiment
Is for playing a game by firing a game ball into an internal game area (described later). In the upper half of the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 100, a single-sided opening with a glass plate 101 held by a glass frame 102. The glass plate 10
A game board 104 (not shown in the figure) constituting a game area is installed at the back side of the game board 1. This pachinko machine 10
Next to 0, a stand-to-face ball lending machine 300 is juxtaposed, and lending game balls based on a valuable medium such as a prepaid card inserted.

In the lower front half of the pachinko gaming machine 100, an upper receiving tray 64 exemplified as a receiving tray, and an upper receiving opening serving as a receiving opening for the upper receiving tray 64 for receiving game balls discharged from the discharging device 50 described later. 51, an overflow ball viewing window 66 covered by a clear member, a discharge ball discharge port 52 from the discharge device 50, an effective residual amount display for displaying an effective residual amount recorded on a valuable medium such as a prepaid card. Device 61, a return switch 62 for returning the inserted valuable medium, a ball lending switch 63 for lending game balls with the valuable medium, an operation lever 65, a lower tray 70 exemplified as a tray, A lower receiving port 71, an operation lever 72 for opening and closing the bottom of the lower receiving tray 70,
Receipt issuing unit 74 for issuing a payment receipt (which may be a card) exemplified as a payment recording medium, a credit operation unit 80, an operation handle 30 for launching a game ball, and an ashtray 11
0 etc. are installed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 100 is provided with a credit circuit 200 (FIG. 9) that does not appear in FIG.

The upper receiving tray 64 receives and stores spheres and the like discharged from a discharging device 50 (described later) exemplified as a sphere discharging device, and sequentially supplies the stored balls to an internal firing unit (not shown). The game balls can be stored in a predetermined amount.

The operation lever 65 is for performing an operation of discharging the game balls stored in the upper tray 64, and is normally in a closed state. Drilling is performed. The game balls removed from the upper tray 64 are collected inside and added to the number of credits when a credit lamp 82 described later is turned on, and are moved to the lower tray 70 when the credit lamp 82 is turned off. It has become so. The operation lever detection switch 65a (FIG. 2) determines whether the operation lever 65 is in the open operation state or the close operation state.
When it is detected that the game machine is in the open operation state, the discharge of the credited gaming ball to the upper tray 64 is suspended. When the operation lever 65 is returned to the closing operation state from this state, the closing operation state is detected by the operation lever detection switch 65a, and after a predetermined time elapses, the discharge of the credited game ball to the upper tray 64 is suspended. It is released and can be discharged again.

The lower receiving tray 70 receives game balls that cannot be stored in the upper receiving tray 64 through the internal flow path and the lower receiving port 71 and stores them. By the operation of 65, it is received from the lower receiving port 71 and stored. The balls stored in the lower tray 70 can be discharged to a ball storage box placed below the operation lever 72 that opens and closes the bottom thereof.

As shown in FIG. 3, the credit operation section 80 includes a ball number display section 81, a credit lamp 82, a flow path changeover switch 83, a leaving switch 84a, a remaining time display meter 84b, a settlement switch 85, and the like. When the number of credits is displayed, when the operation lever 65 is used to select a method of discharging the game balls stored in the upper saucer 64 (real ball, credit), when the player leaves the seat or makes a payment. Operation and the like can be performed.

The ball number display section 81 mainly displays the number of credits, so that the player can recognize how many balls are in a credit state and, at the end of the game, set the settlement switch 85. By performing the ON operation, the number of credits is recorded in the settlement receipt, and is issued from the receipt issuing unit 74.

The flow path changeover switch 83 is a switch for selecting a method of removing balls when the game balls stored in the upper tray 64 are removed by operating the operation lever 65.
By operating the flow path switch 83, the flow path is switched between the credit state and the non-credit state. When the credit state is switched, the credit lamp 82 is turned on. When the state is switched to the non-credit state, the credit lamp 82 is turned on. Turns off. The game ball pulled out from the upper tray 64 is moved to the lower tray 70 when the credit lamp 82 is turned off, and is added to the number of credits when the credit lamp 82 is turned on.

The unseat switch 84a is used when the player leaves the seat while playing a game in a credit state. When the unseat switch 84a is turned on, the settlement switch 85 for a predetermined period of time is used. Is deactivated to prevent theft when the player leaves.
In addition, the effective time of the unseating switch 84a (time during which the account cannot be paid)
Can be set by game stores and players as appropriate,
The player can recognize the remaining effective time of the leave switch 84a by displaying the remaining time display meter 84b of the effective time. During this valid time (time when payment cannot be made), the number of credits is not displayed on the ball number display section 81 so that the number of credits is not known to others.

The settlement switch 85 is used when the game is completed and the settlement is performed. When the settlement switch 85 is turned on, the emission of the game ball to the game area is stopped and the prize ball is transferred to the upper tray 64. Stop payout and settle switch 85
Deactivate the input. For a predetermined time after the settlement switch 85 is turned on, the process of adding the number of credits to the payout of the ball generated after the settlement switch 85 is turned on is displayed to indicate that the settlement process is being performed. Here, the addition processing to the credit number may be performed by discharging the real sphere from the discharge device 50 to the upper receiving tray 64 and then adding the credit to the credit number by operating the operation lever 65a.
The actual ball may not be discharged from 0, but may be directly added to the number of credits by the prize ball signal. Further, the display indicating that the settlement process is being performed can be performed by blinking the settlement switch 85 or by using other lamps, LEDs, or the like. When a predetermined time has elapsed after turning on the settlement switch 85, a settlement receipt in which the number of credits is recorded is issued from the receipt issuing unit 74, and then the launch of the game ball to the game area is stopped, and the prize ball is transferred to the receiving tray 64. , And the inactivation of the input of the settlement switch 85 is released.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the pachinko game machine when the glass plate is opened, and FIG. 5 is a perspective perspective view showing a first collection path and the like exemplified as a collection path provided in the pachinko game machine. It is.

As shown in FIG. 4, below the game board 104 of the pachinko gaming machine 100, a discharge port 52 of a game ball from the discharge device 50, an inflow path 54a of a first collection path 54 for collecting overflow balls and the like. , A foul ball collection port 55, a ball passage 56 serving as a discharge path from the upper tray 64, and the like.

The discharge port 52 is a discharge port for the sphere discharged from the discharge device 50 (described later). The sphere discharged from the discharge port 52 normally receives the upper tray 64 through the upper receiving port 51.
However, when the upper tray 64 becomes full and cannot be received by the upper tray 64, the first collection path 5
4 and finally collected through the first recovery path 54 to the recovery flow path of the island facility below the back side. A storage state detection switch 89 is provided near the upper receiving port 51 so as to detect the storage state of the game balls in the upper receiving plate 64. As shown in FIG. 4, the inflow path 54a of the first recovery path 54 is formed in a shape protruding in an arc shape with the opening and closing axis of the glass frame 102 as the axis. When the glass frame 102 is closed, the inflow path 54a is housed in the lower space of the upper tray,
02 is open and the discharge port 52 and the upper receiving port 51 are open.
You can pick up a spilled ball.

The foul ball collection port 55 is a collection path for receiving a foul ball that has been weak and cannot reach the game area among the fired game balls. The received foul ball is collected as a credit ball. Or flow down to the lower tray 70. The ball passage 56 is a flow path for discharging the ball stored in the upper saucer 64 by operating the operation lever 65, and the ball passing through this flow path is collected as a credit ball similarly to the foul ball, Lower tray 70
Or run down.

As shown in FIG. 5, the first collection path 54 is gently inclined so as to be lower toward the back of the pachinko gaming machine 100, and the ball flowing down to the first collection path 54 is the first collection path. It is guided by the road 54 and flows down to the back of the pachinko gaming machine 100 to be collected by the collection gutter of the island facility.

FIG. 6 shows a flow path for allowing game balls discharged through a discharge port of a game ball discharged by a discharge device (described later) provided in a pachinko game machine to flow to an upper tray or to be collected as credit balls. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows a system.

The flow path system includes a discharge port 52 for discharging game balls discharged from a discharge device 50 (described later),
An upper receiving port 51 for receiving the game balls released from the second receiving port and flowing into the upper receiving tray 64, and an overflow ball no longer received by the upper receiving tray 64 via the collecting port 53 on the back side of the upper receiving port 51. A first collection channel 54 for collecting as credits, and a discharge device 50
The game balls discharged from the discharge port 52 and discharged from the discharge port 52 normally flow into the upper tray 64 via the upper receiving port 51, but the stored balls in the upper tray 64 have a predetermined amount. If it exceeds, it flows down to the first collection path 54 behind it through the collection port 53 on the back side of the receiving port 51 and is collected. Although not illustrated, the collection port 53 may be configured so that the player can control the inflow of the ball into the first collection path 54 by opening and closing the opening. Then, for example, the first collection path 54 is normally opened, and is closed when a ball is clogged in the first collection path 54.

FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view showing the periphery of the first recovery path and the second recovery path viewed from above, and FIG. 8 is the first recovery path viewed from the back side.
It is an outline rear view showing the circumference of a recovery way and the 2nd recovery way.

The pachinko gaming machine 100 is provided with a first collection path 54 and a second collection path 44 for collecting balls as credits, and as shown below, passes through each collection path. The number of credits is counted.

The first collection path 54 is for collecting overflow spheres that are no longer accepted because the upper pan 64 is full.
An inflow passage 54a for receiving an overflow sphere that cannot be accommodated in the air passage, a rectification passage 54b for rectifying the sphere flowing down through the inflow passage 54a, and the rectified sphere in the rectification passage 54b are divided into two rows and further rectified. Diverging rectification path 54
c. With this configuration,
When the sphere discharged from the discharge device 50 and discharged from the discharge port 52 flows into the first recovery path 54, first, the sphere 5
4a, the rectification path 54b is reached, and once rectified in the rectification path 54b so as not to be clogged, the rectification path 5b
In 4c, it is rectified into two rows and collected. In the course of the collection, the credit ball is detected by a credit ball detection switch 57a exemplified as overflow detection means provided at the end of the rectification path 54c. Further, a ball clogging detection switch 58 exemplified as a ball clogging detection means is installed in the rectifying path 54b of the first recovery path 54, and a ball clogging state generated in the first recovery path 54 by the ball clogging detection switch 58 is provided. Is detected. When the ball clogging detection switch 58 detects the ball clogging, the discharge of the prize ball from the discharge device 50 is stopped, and the process of adding the prize ball to the credit number based on the prize ball signal is performed.

The second collecting path 44 has a foul ball collecting port 55
This ball is used to collect, as credits, a ball that has flowed in from the ball or a ball that has been discharged from the upper tray 64 by operating the operation lever 65 and has passed through the ball passage 56.
The ball passing through 4 is detected by the credit ball detection switch 57b, and is counted as a credit. On the other hand, a lower plate discharge path 59 is provided as a flow path when the ball flowing from the foul ball collection port 55 or the ball passing through the ball passage 56 is not used as a credit,
The ball passing through the lower tray discharge path 59 moves to the lower tray 70. The switching of these channels is performed by the channel switching plate 83B as described below.

As shown in FIG. 7, the flow path switching plate 83B
This is for switching between the second recovery path 44 and the lower plate discharge path 59 for discharging the ball flowing from the foul ball recovery port 55 or the ball passage 56 to the second recovery path 44 or the lower plate discharge path 59. The switching is performed by a flow path switching solenoid 83A. The operation is performed. The ON / OFF operation of the flow path switching solenoid 83A is performed by the flow path switching switch 83. In a normal state, the credit lamp 82 is turned on and the flow path switching solenoid 83A is turned off, and the flow path switching plate 83B closes the inlet of the lower plate discharge path 59, and the second collection path 44 is closed. The inlet is open. Therefore, the sphere flowing from the ball passage 56 or the foul ball collection port 55 flows down to the second collection path 44 having an open inflow port, and the credit sphere detection switch 57b passes through the second collection path 44 during the passage. Detected by
Added to the number of credits. In this state, when the player turns on the flow path changeover switch 83, the credit lamp 82 is turned off and the flow path changeover solenoid 83A is turned off.
N, the flow path switching plate 83B is rotated by the flow path switching solenoid 83A to open the inflow port of the lower plate discharge path 59 and convert the inflow port of the second recovery path 44 to a closed state. By this conversion, the ball passage 56 and the foul ball collection port 5
The ball flowing from 5 flows down to the lower plate discharge path 59 having an open inflow port, and is discharged to the lower tray 70. The conversion to this state can be confirmed by the player looking at the lit credit lamp 82. After a certain period of time has elapsed after turning on the flow path switch 83 in this manner, the flow path switching solenoid 83A is automatically turned off by the credit circuit 200 described later, and returns to the credit state.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a credit circuit and a network of peripheral devices provided in the pachinko gaming machine.

As shown in FIG. 9, each pachinko gaming machine 100
, A credit circuit 200, which is exemplified as a credit means, is connected to a management device 210 and a prize management system (POS) 220 via a LAN line 231 and a LAN terminal 230, and a LAN network is built in the store. Have been.

The management device 210 controls each pachinko gaming machine 10
0, etc., information on the number of hit balls and discharge of balls, information on credits, information on leaving a seat, information on clogged balls, etc. are received via a credit circuit 200. And plays a role of performing overall management and operation management of the entire store.

A prize management system (POS) 220 is installed in a prize counter or the like, and manages information for exchanging prize balls for prizes recorded on a payment recording medium such as a payment receipt. Sent to 210. The consistency of the output signal from the prize management system 220 and the adjustment-related signal (serial number, number of adjustment balls) output from the credit circuit 200 is checked by the management device 210, and an abnormal value is detected. Is being done.

Each of the credit circuits 200 provided in each of the pachinko gaming machines 100 includes an emission control circuit 50A, a firing circuit 30A, a printer 74A, an operation display 32, and the like, which are provided in each of the pachinko gaming machines 100. Are connected to the sensors 33, etc.

The discharge control circuit 50A is provided for the pachinko game ball 1
A circuit for controlling the discharge device 50 and the like provided at 00 and connected to the CR unit 31. The CR unit 31 is a device that lends gaming balls based on a valuable medium such as a prepaid card inserted, and is attached to the pachinko gaming machine 100.

The printer 74A records the number of credits on a recording medium, and prints the number of credits using the receipt 74B as a recording medium.

The firing circuit 30A controls a firing device (not shown) for firing a game ball to a game area, outputs a firing command signal to the firing device based on the operation of the operation handle 30, and controls the firing device. Controlling.

The operation display 32 includes a credit ball number display section 81, a credit lamp 82, and a remaining time display meter 8.
4b and the like.

Each of the sensors 33...
3, a leaving switch 84a, a settlement switch 85, a leaving time setting means 88, a storage state detection switch 89, credit ball detection switches 57a and 57b, a ball jam detection switch 58, an operation lever detection switch 65a, and the like.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a credit circuit provided in a pachinko gaming machine and functioning as a credit means and peripheral devices thereof.

As shown in FIG. 10, the credit circuit 20
0 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, ROM
(Read Only Memory) 22, RAM (Random Access Me)
mory) 20, clock 24, power supply circuit 25, and I /
The I / O interface 23 and the like are configured to control devices connected to the I / O interface 23 in accordance with control programs and control data written in the ROM 22.

The CPU 21 stores the RAM 20 in the work area
In accordance with the control program written in the OM 22, various arithmetic processes are performed, and the I / O interface 23
, And transmits / receives signals to / from each device and each switch connected thereto.

The ROM 22 stores a control program and control data for the game, a control program and control data for performing a leaving process described later, a control program and control data for performing a settlement process, and a control program and control for performing a storage state process. Data, a control program and control data for performing the ball removal processing, a control program and control data for performing the flow path switching processing,
Control program and control data for performing overflow ball counting processing, control program and control data for performing ball clogging notification processing, control program and control data for performing abnormal processing,
A control program, control data, and the like for performing a subtraction process at the time of re-discharge are written.

The RAM 20 contains data indicating the number of credits based on the detection of the credit ball detection switches 57a and 57b, data indicating the elapsed time of leaving the seat based on the input of the switch 84a, and the ball based on the input of the operation lever detection switch 65a. A storage area for storing data indicating the elapsed time of the cutting operation, data indicating the settlement elapsed time based on the input of the settlement switch 85, various setting values input from the credit operation unit 80, various data, and the like; It has an area.

The I / O interface 23 includes a firing circuit 30A, a management device 210, a receipt issuing unit 74, a credit lamp 82, a credit ball number display unit 81, a flow path switching solenoid 83A, a leaving switch 84a, a settlement switch 85, Storage state detection switch 89, flow path changeover switch 83, credit ball detection switch 57a, credit ball detection switch 57b, discharge control circuit 50A for controlling discharge device 50, leaving time setting means 88, ball jam detection switch 58, ball removal A lever detection switch (operation lever detection switch) 65a and the like are connected.

The pachinko gaming machine 100 of this embodiment
Is configured as described above, and the credit circuit 200 controls, for example, the following credit-related processing.

In the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100, the firing device operates under the control of the firing circuit 30A based on the turning operation of the operation handle 30 by the player, and the game board 104 is operated.
The game ball is fired in the game area of the game.

The game balls fired in the game area are played on the game board 1
A prize port (prize area) on the prize 04 or a prize port flows out. When a game ball wins a winning opening, the winning ball is detected by a winning ball detector, and a detection signal is input to a discharge control circuit 50A, and based on the input signal,
The discharge control circuit 50A outputs a discharge command signal to the discharge device 50. When a predetermined amount of prize balls are discharged from the discharge port 52 from the discharge device 50 based on the discharge command signal, the prize balls are transferred to the upper tray 64 or the first tray according to the storage state of the upper tray 64. It flows into one of the recovery paths 54.

That is, the game balls discharged from the discharge port 52 usually try to flow into the upper tray 64 through the upper receiving port 51, but when the upper tray 64 is full, it is not received by the upper tray 64. The collection port 53 on the back side of the upper reception port 51
And flows down to the first collection path 54, and is collected below the back side of the game board 104. The game balls that have flowed into the upper saucer 64 are sequentially supplied to the internal launching unit, and are launched into the game area by the launching device.

The game balls flowing into the collecting port 53 flow down from the inflow path 54a of the collecting path to the rectifying path 54c via the rectifying path 54b, and a large amount of game balls flow at one time in the rectifying path 54c. The flow is rectified so as not to cause clogging even when the ball is clogged, and flows down to the terminal end side of the rectification path 54c where the credit ball detection switch 57a is installed to be collected. In the process of collecting the game ball, the credit ball detection switch 57a
And the detection signal of the game ball is sent to the credit circuit 2
00 and is counted, and the counted number of the game balls corresponding to the overflow is added to the credit number data stored in the RAM 20. The credit number data stored in the RAM 20 is output to the ball number display section 81 and displayed as the credit number on the ball number display section 81. The ball collected from the first collection path 54 is collected by the island facility, and is temporarily stored in the island facility until it is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 100 again.

When a large amount of game balls flow into the first collecting path 54 at one time and the ball is clogged, a ball clogging detection switch 58 provided on the rectifying path 54b of the collecting path.
Detects clogged balls. This ball clogging detection switch 5
8, when the ball clogging is detected, the credit circuit 2
A ball clogging detection signal is input to 00, and the discharge control circuit 50A stops discharging game balls from the discharge device 50 based on the input signal. Here, the number of unreleased prize balls is calculated based on the prize ball signal from the discharge control circuit 50A,
It is directly added to the credit number data stored in the RAM 20. At the same time, based on the ball clogging detection signal, the notification means provided in the pachinko gaming machine 100 notifies the player that a ball clogging has occurred, or sends the ball to the management device 210 via a LAN line in the store. A clogging detection signal is output, and a notifying unit provided in the management device 210 notifies a store clerk that a ball clogging has occurred. After the cause of the ball clogging is eliminated by the clerk, the game is restarted by inputting a reset button or the like, and the discharge of the game balls from the discharge device 50 becomes possible.

When the game balls stored in the upper tray 64 are shot into the game area and reduced, and the upper tray 64 reaches a predetermined storage state, the storage state detection switch 89 is operated, and the credit circuit 200 is activated. The detection signal of the storage state is output to the controller. When the detection signal of the storage state is output and the credit number data in the RAM 20 is not “0” and the discharge of the credit sphere is not inactivated, the control of the discharge control circuit 50A is performed. Then, the discharging device 50 discharges a predetermined amount of game balls within the range of the credit number data, and replenishes the upper receiving tray 64 with the game balls via the upper receiving port 51. At the same time, the discharging device 5
0 is subtracted from the credit number data in the RAM 20, and the credit number data after the subtraction is output to the ball number display section 81 of the credit operation section 80, and is output to the ball number display section 81. Shown as credits. As described above, in the credit state, the game balls are appropriately replenished to the upper saucer 64 within the range of the credit, so that the player transfers the game balls using his / her hand or performs other special operations. Even if not, the game can be continued.

When the player interrupts the game due to a toilet or a meal and leaves the seat, pressing the leave switch 84a of the credit operation section 80 outputs a detection signal of the leave switch 84a to the credit circuit 200. Then, based on the detection signal, the input of the settlement switch 85 is deactivated for a predetermined time. In this way, during leaving the seat, the settlement switch 85
Is deactivated, so that the prize balls credited while away from the desk are not easily stolen. The time during which the payment switch 85 is inactive (payment disabled time) can be set by the unattended time setting means 88. However, at the game store, all pachinko machines 10 in the store are set.
0... May be set in advance in common, or may be set each time the player leaves the seat in accordance with the time during which the player is away. In addition, by transmitting the detection signal output from the seat release switch 84a to the management device 210 via the LAN line in the store, the behavior of the player in the store and the game situation can be managed. In addition, leave switch 8
After the button 4a is pressed, the remaining time display meter 84b installed in the credit operation unit 80 activates the leaving switch 84a for the player based on the set time input by the leaving time setting means 88. The time (unsettled time) is notified, while the number-of-balls display section 81 does not display the number of credits, but displays, for example, "away" to prevent others from knowing the number of credits. Keep it.

When the game is completed and the settlement is made, first, the game balls stored in each receiving tray and the ball storage box are added to the credit. When the operation lever 65 is opened with the credit lamp 82 of the credit operation unit 80 turned on, the opening operation is detected by the operation lever detection switch 65a, and the game ball is transferred to the upper tray 64 based on the detection signal. While the automatic replenishment is stopped, the game balls stored in the upper tray 64 flow down from the ball passage 56 to the second collection path 44 by the flow path switching plate 83B and pass through the second collection path 44. It is detected by the credit ball detection switch 57b. This detection signal is input to the credit circuit 200 and counted, the counted number of game balls is added to the credit number data in the RAM 20, and the added credit number data is output to the ball number display section 81. Is displayed as the number of credits on the ball number display section 81. Further, the game balls collected from the second collection path 44 are collected to the island facility. As for the game balls stored in the lower receiving tray 70 and the ball receiving box, the game balls are poured from the opening of the upper receiving tray 64 to be added to the credit similarly to the gaming balls stored in the upper receiving tray 64. Can be.

As described above, when all the prize balls stored as real balls have been credited, the player presses the settlement switch 85 provided in the credit operation unit 80. When the leaving switch 84a is active, the settlement switch 85 is inactive, and the input from the settlement switch 85 is invalidated. When the output signal of the settlement switch 85 is input to the credit circuit 200, the firing circuit 30A
Outputs a firing stop signal to the launching device, and the launching of game balls from the launching device to the game area is stopped. Then, the output of the discharge command signal to the discharge device 50 based on the winning ball detection signal is stopped, and the input of the settlement switch 85 is deactivated. For a predetermined time after the settlement switch 85 is pressed, the CPU 21 performs addition processing of the credit number data based on the prize ball signal for the prize ball to be ejected after the settlement switch 85 is turned on and updated. The credit amount data is stored in the RAM 20. Further, for example, the settlement switch 85 is blinked to notify the player that the settlement process is being performed. After the settlement switch 85 is pressed and the predetermined time has elapsed, the credit number data stored in the RAM 20 is output to the receipt issuing unit 74, and the printer of the receipt issuing unit 74 records and outputs the number of credit balls on the settlement receipt. Further, “0” is transferred to the credit amount data stored in the RAM 20, and the display of the ball count display unit 81 of the credit operation unit 80 is set to “0”. After the payment receipt is issued, the player is notified that the payment processing has been completed, for example, by turning off the payment switch 85, and a discharge command signal from the firing circuit 30A to the firing device or a discharge signal based on the winning ball detection signal. The output of the discharge command signal to the device 50 is enabled again, and the settlement switch 8
The deactivation is also canceled for the input of No. 5. In addition, by transmitting an output signal from the settlement switch 85 to the management device 210 via a LAN line in the store, the game situation can be managed. The player receives the receipt 74B in which the acquired number of prize balls is recorded, and receives the receipt 74B.
When B is brought to the premium counter, the acquired prize ball is exchanged for a premium via a receipt 74B.

FIGS. 11 to 21 are performed in a credit circuit in order to perform the above-described processing relating to credit.
A flowchart of the credit control process, FIG. 11 shows a main routine of the flowchart, and FIGS. 12 to 21 show a subroutine of the flowchart.

The following processing is performed for each sequence based on the clock generated by the clock 24.

First, in step S1, a flow path changeover switch 83, a leaving switch 84a, a settlement switch 85, a leaving time setting means 88, a storage state detection switch 89, and a flow path changeover switch 83, which are connected to the I / O interface 23 of the credit circuit 200, The output signal from the credit ball detection switch 57a, the credit ball detection switch 57b, the ball jam detection switch 58, the operation lever detection switch 65a, and the output signal from the power supply circuit 25 are input, and the process proceeds to step S2.

In step S2, when the power is turned on, the process proceeds to step S13, and otherwise, the process proceeds to step S3.

In step S13, the RAM area (credit number data, leaving switch ON input elapsed time, settlement switch ON input elapsed time, ball release lever detection switch ON)
Initialization of input elapsed time, storage state detection switch ON input elapsed time, etc.) is performed, and the process proceeds to step S14.
In step S14, an initial value is set in the RAM area, and the processing of one sequence ends.

The processes after step S3 are, in order, a leaving process in step S3, a settlement process in step S4, a storage state process in step S5, and a step S6.
In step S7, a flow path switching process in step S7, an overflow ball counting process in step S8,
Ball clogging notification processing in step S9, step S1
At 0, an abnormality process is performed, at step S11, an emission signal output process, and at step S12, an output process is performed.

The leaving process (FIG. 12) in step S3 starts from step S20.

In step S20, the leave switch 84a
If the input is ON, the process proceeds to step S21,
If F, the process proceeds to step S23. That is, in step S20, it is determined whether or not to perform the leaving process based on the ON / OFF state of the leaving switch 84a. In step S21, a process of inactivating the settlement switch 85 is performed, and the process proceeds to step S22.

In step S22, the player is notified that the settlement switch 85 is deactivated, and the process proceeds to step S2.
Move to 3. The notification method is lamp, LED,
Any method may be used as long as it can notify a player such as a display screen that the settlement switch 85 is deactivated.

At step S23, the leaving time setting means 88
The monitoring of the time based on is performed, and the process proceeds to step S24. That is, in step S23, the time elapsed since the settlement switch 85 was deactivated is counted based on the clock of the clock 24, and the remaining effective time of the leaving switch is displayed on the remaining time display meter 84b (the settlement impossible time). I do. In addition, the input by the leaving time setting means 88 may be set in advance at the store side at an appropriate time, but each time the player leaves, for example, in accordance with the leaving time, Alternatively, the set time may be selected by operating a ten-key button. When set by the player, the set time is made visible on the remaining time display meter 84b or the like.

In step S24, the leaving time setting means 8
8 and the set value of the leaving time entered by the
Then, a comparison is made with the time that has elapsed since the inactivation of Step 5, and if it is within the set time, the flow proceeds to the settlement process of Step S4, and if not, the flow proceeds to Step S25.

In step S25, the inactivation of the settlement switch 85 is released, the processing for activating the input from the settlement switch 85 is performed, and then the flow proceeds to the settlement processing in step S4.

Settlement process in step S4 (FIGS. 13 and 14)
Is performed after the leaving process in step S3,
Start from 30.

In step S30, ON / OFF of the input of the settlement switch 85 is confirmed.
Then, the process proceeds to step S33.

In step S31, the settlement flag is set, and the process proceeds to step S32. In step S32,
A deactivation process necessary for the settlement is performed, for example, deactivation of the settlement switch 85, stopping the emission of the game ball to the game area, and the like, and the process proceeds to step S33.

In step S33, it is confirmed whether or not the settlement flag is set. If it is set up, the process proceeds to step S34, and if not, the process proceeds to step S39. In step S39, the fact that the input of the settlement switch 85 is valid (activated) is output to the notification means, and the settlement processing in step S4 is completed, and the flow proceeds to the storage state processing in step S5. In step S34, the fact that the input of the settlement switch 85 is invalid (inactivated) is output to the notification means, and the process proceeds to step S35. That is, in step S33, it is determined whether or not the settlement process is being executed.
In the example, each display is performed based on the determination result of step S33. In addition, as the notification means, the settlement switch 85
Can be displayed in a blinking type, or can be displayed by other lamps, LEDs, or the like.

In step S35, the elapsed time after the settlement switch 85 is pressed is counted based on the clock of the clock 24, and the elapsed time is compared with a set predetermined time. If so, the process proceeds to step S36; otherwise, the process proceeds to a credit process (described later) in step S40.

In step S36, the receipt issuing section 74
At, issue a receipt that records the number of credits,
Move to step S37. Although a receipt is used here as a recording medium, any payment recording medium such as a magnetic card or an IC card may be used as long as the number of credits can be recorded. In step S37, the process inactivated in step S32 (the payment switch 85
Of the game ball, stop firing of the game ball to the game area, and the like, and shifts to step S38. In step S38, the settlement flag is turned off. Then, the settlement process in step S4 is completed, and the process in step S5 is completed. Move to storage state processing.

Credit processing in step S40 (FIG. 1)
5) starts from step S41. In step S41, it is determined whether or not there is a prize in the winning opening. If there is no prize, the credit processing in step S40 is terminated, and the flow proceeds to the storage state processing in step S5. Also,
If there is a prize, the credit number data is added in step S42, then the credit processing in step S40 is terminated, and the flow proceeds to the storage state processing in step S5. That is, in the credit processing of step S40,
When a prize is generated after the settlement switch 85 is pressed, the prize balls are not discharged from the discharge device 50 to the upper tray 64, and the process of adding the number of prize balls to the credit number data based on the prize ball signal is performed. Is going. In the credit processing of step S40, the number of prize balls is added to the credit number data based on the prize ball signal from the discharge control circuit 50A. However, the prize balls are discharged to the upper tray 64, and the discharged prize balls are operated. By operating the lever 65, it may flow down to the second collection path 44 and may be added to the credit number data. The time for repeatedly executing the credit processing in step S40 can be appropriately set in consideration of winnings that may occur after the settlement switch 85 is pressed.

As shown in the settlement timing chart of FIG. 22, the settlement process in step S4 is started when the ON input of the settlement switch 85 is detected (step S30).
First, after performing the deactivation process (step S32),
The credit notification (step S34) and the credit function (step S40) are continuously performed for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), and after the predetermined time has elapsed, a settlement receipt is issued (step S36) and the activation process (step S3).
Perform 7) and terminate.

Storage state processing in step S5 (FIG. 16)
Is performed after the settlement process in step S4,
Start from 50.

In step S50, ON / OFF of the ball-pulling flag (set in the ball-pulling process in step S6 described later)
Is checked, and if it is OFF, the process proceeds to step S51 and O
If the answer is N, the storage state process in step S5 is terminated, and the flow proceeds to the ball emptying process in step S6. That is, when the ball removal flag is ON (while the game balls stored in the upper tray 64 are being discharged), the supply of the game balls to the upper tray 64 is not performed.

In step S51, ON / OFF of the input of the storage state detection switch 89 is confirmed, and if the input is OFF for the set required time, the process proceeds to step S52.
Otherwise, the storage state process of step S5 is terminated, and the process proceeds to a ball emptying process of step S6. That is, in step S51, the storage state of the game ball in the upper receiving tray 64 is detected by performing the detection (for a plurality of times) during the required time by the storage state detection switch 89 for detecting the position. . The setting time can be appropriately changed according to the detection method of the storage state detection switch 89, the accuracy, the mounting position, and the like.

In step S52, if the credit amount data stored in the RAM 20 is "0", the storage state process in step S5 is terminated, and the process shifts to the ball emptying process in step S6. The process moves to S53. That is, in step S52, the presence or absence of the credited prize ball is confirmed, and it is determined whether or not the game ball can be re-discharged.

In step S53, the discharging device 50
A predetermined number of game balls are discharged, the storage state process in step S5 ends, and the process proceeds to a ball removal process in step S6. It should be noted that the number of discharged game balls is determined by the storage state detection switch 8.
The setting can be changed as appropriate in consideration of the mounting position of No. 9 and the like.

The ball removing process in FIG.
This is performed after the storage state processing in step S5, and step S5 is performed.
Start from 60.

In step S60, ON / OF of the ball release lever detection switch (operation lever detection switch) 65a is performed.
Check F and if it is ON (open operation state), step S
The flow shifts to 61, and if it is OFF (close operation state), the flow shifts to step S63.

At step S61, the fact that the ball is being removed is notified by the ball number display section 81 or the like, and the routine goes to step S62. In step S61, the number-of-balls display section 81 is illustrated as the notification means, but any other format and position can be used as long as the player can be notified that the ball is being removed.

In step S62, the ball-pulling flag is set to ON, and in step S63, the ball-pulling flag is set to OFF.
The flow proceeds to the flow path switching process.

That is, in the ball removing process in step S6, a ball removing flag for determining whether or not the ball removing process is being performed (the storage state process in step S5 described above) is set.

The flow path switching process in step S7 (FIG. 18)
Is performed after the ball removing process in step S6, and starts from step S70.

In step S70, the flow path changeover switch 8
After confirming ON / OFF of the input of No. 3, if it is ON, the process proceeds to step S71, and if it is OFF, the process proceeds to step S73.

In step S71, the flow path switching solenoid 83A is turned on (excited), and the routine goes to step S72.

In step S72, for example, the credit lamp 82 of the credit operation section 80 is turned off to notify that the discharge flow path from the upper tray 64 is the lower tray, and the flow path switching processing in step S7 is completed. Then, the process proceeds to an overflow ball counting process in step S8. That is, the ball discharged from the upper tray 64 by the operation of the operation lever 65 or the foul ball flowing from the foul ball collection port 55 is
The state is released to 0.

In step S73, the flow path switching solenoid 83A is turned off (demagnetized), and the routine goes to step S74.

In step S74, for example, the credit lamp 82 of the credit operation unit 80 is turned on to notify that the discharge flow path from the upper receiving tray 64 is in the credit state, and the flow path switching processing in step S7 ends. , Step S
Then, the process proceeds to an overflow sphere counting process of No. 8. That is,
The ball discharged from the upper tray by the operation of the operation lever 65 and the foul ball flowing from the foul ball collection port 55 are
It will be in a state of being collected as a credit ball.

The overflow sphere counting process (FIG. 19) in step S8 is performed after the flow channel switching process in step S7, and starts from step S80.

In step S80, ON / OFF of the input of the credit ball detection switch 57a and ON / OFF of the input of the credit ball detection switch 57b are confirmed.
If it is ON, the process proceeds to step S81. If it is OFF, the overflow ball counting process of step S8 is terminated and the process proceeds to the ball clogging notification process of step S9.

In step S81, "+1" is added to the value of the credit number data stored in the RAM 20, then the overflow ball counting process in step S8 is terminated, and the flow proceeds to the ball clogging notification process in step S9. That is, in step S80, the credit ball detection switch 57
The game balls flowing into the first collection path 54 are detected according to the ON / OFF state of a, and the second collection path 4 is determined according to the ON / OFF state of the credit ball detection switch 57b.
4 is detected, and in step S81,
The number of credits is counted.

The ball clogging notification processing in step S9 (FIG. 2)
0) is performed after the overflow ball counting process in step S8, and starts from step S90.

In step S90, the ON / OFF of the input of the ball clogging detection switch 58 is confirmed. If it is ON for a predetermined time (a plurality of times), the process proceeds to step S91. If it is OFF, the ball clogging notification processing in step S9 is performed. Is ended, and the process proceeds to the abnormality processing in step S10. Step S91
In step S9, notification of ball clogging is performed, the ball clogging notification process in step S9 ends, and the process proceeds to the abnormality process in step S10. That is, in steps S90 to S91, whether the ball is clogged in the first collection path 54 is detected by turning on / off the input of the ball clogging detection switch 58 provided in the first collection path 54, and the ball is detected. When clogging is detected, notification of ball clogging is performed. The method of notifying the ball clogging may be a method of turning on a pilot lamp or the like provided on the front upper portion of the pachinko gaming machine 100 or displaying the credit ball number display section 81 to notify the player, or a method of notifying the player of the ball clogging to the management device 210. A detection signal may be output to notify the clerk.

The abnormality processing in step S10 (FIG. 21)
This is performed after the ball clogging notification processing in step S9, and starts from step S100.

In step S100, it is checked whether or not an abnormality has occurred. If an abnormality has occurred, the process proceeds to step S101. If no abnormality has occurred, the abnormality processing in step S10 is terminated, and the discharge signal output in step S11 is performed. Move on to processing. Here, as a target of the abnormality, for example, occurrence of clogging of the ball in the first recovery path 54 based on the clogging detection switch 58 is given.

In step S101, the discharge control circuit 50
The credit number data is added based on the prize ball signal from A, the abnormal processing in step S10 ends, and the process proceeds to the emission signal output processing in step S11. That is,
In step S101, when abnormalities occur, the discharge of the game balls to the upper tray 64 is stopped, and based on the prize ball signal,
Credit number data is being added.

When the abnormal processing in step S10 ends,
As shown in FIG. 11, the discharge signal output processing is sequentially performed in step S11 and the output processing is performed in step S12, and the processing of one sequence is completed.

In step S11, a discharge signal output process is performed, and the flow advances to step S12. That is, step S
At 11, the credit number data stored in the predetermined storage area of the RAM 20 is updated, and when the replenishment of the game balls to the upper tray 64 is performed by the storage state process of step S5, When the number of game balls discharged from the discharge device 50 is subtracted from the number of credit balls stored in the RAM 20, and the settlement process in step S4 is performed, the number of credit balls is initialized (the number of credit balls is changed to " 0 ”).

In step S12, output signal processing is performed, and the processing of one sequence ends here. That is, in step S12, the output data stored in the predetermined storage area of the RAM 20 (the flow path switch ON / OFF data based on the detection of the flow path switch 83, the ON / OFF switch based on the detection of the OFF switch 84a). / OFF data, elapsed time data indicating the elapsed time of leaving the seat based on the detection of the absence switch 84a, adjustment switch ON / OFF data based on the detection of the adjustment switch 85, and absence based on the detection of the time setting unit 88. Time setting data, upper tray storage state data based on the detection of the storage state detection switch 89,
Credit number data based on the detection of the credit ball detection switch 57a, credit number data based on the detection of the credit ball detection switch 57b, and a ball clogging detection switch 5
Ball clogging data based on the detection of No. 8, game stop data instructing to stop the game based on detection of the ball clogging detection switch 58, detection data of the operation lever detection switch 65a, etc.)
, A flow path changeover switch ON / OFF signal, an ON / OFF signal of the operation lever detection switch 65a, a leaving switch ON / OFF signal, a leaving time signal, a settlement switch ON / OFF signal, a leaving time setting signal, An upper tray receiving state signal, a credit ball number signal, a ball clogging signal, a game stop signal, and the like are output to the management device 210, and a seat release switch ON / OFF signal, an operation lever detection switch 65a.
Is output to output the ON / OFF signal and the credit ball count signal to the ball count display unit 81.

As described above, according to the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the first embodiment, of the game balls discharged from the discharging device 50, the upper tray 64 becomes full and cannot be received by the upper tray 64. The number of game balls corresponding to the overflow is stored in the RAM 20 as the number of credits.
20 within the range of the number of credits stored in
Since the game ball is re-discharged from 0 and the game can be performed using the re-discharged game ball, the player can continuously play the game without troublesome movement of the game ball. .

The storage state detection switch 89 detects the storage state of the game balls in the upper receiving tray 64, and based on the detection signal from the storage state detection switch 89, the discharging device 50.
Is operated to discharge a required number of game balls out of the number of credits stored in the RAM 20 to the upper tray 64. Therefore, the player pays attention to the storage state of the upper tray 64, and plays the game as necessary. The trouble of having to transfer the ball to a ball storage box or the like is eliminated, and the player can concentrate on the game.

When the game is completed and the payment is made, the RAM 2
The credit amount data stored in 0 is recorded on the receipt 74B by the receipt issuing unit 74 based on the input of the settlement switch 85, and the recorded receipt 74B is issued to the player. It is free from the troublesome work of moving the prize ball to a predetermined place where the counter is installed in the store using the ball storage box as in the related art, and there is no needless consumption of physical strength.

Since the discharge of the game balls from the discharge device 50 is stopped based on the detection by the ball clogging detection switch 58, the state of the ball clogging due to the discharged balls is prevented from being further deteriorated, and the ball clogging is solved. Time can be minimized.

Further, the fact that the ball is clogged in the first collecting path is notified by the ball number display section 81 or the like, so that it is possible to deal with the ball clogging promptly, and the clearance of the ball clogging can be further expedited. Becomes In addition, the early elimination of the ball clogging can minimize the influence of the ball clogging on other parts, and reduce the possibility of causing other troubles.

Also, ON / OF of the flow path changeover switch 83
F signal, ON / OFF signal of the leaving switch 84a, elapsed time signal of leaving the seat, ON / OFF signal of the settlement switch 85,
The unattended time setting signal, storage state detection signal, credit ball count signal, ball jam signal, game stop signal, etc.
By outputting the information to the management device 210 via the line, the centralized management of the behavior of the player in the store, the state of the pachinko gaming machine, the game status, and the like can be performed, and the overall management of the store and the operation management can be performed. .

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the recovery of the overflow sphere is performed between the discharge port 52 of the discharge device 50 and the upper receiving port 51, but in this embodiment. In the above, the overflow sphere is collected after being once discharged from the upper receiving port 51 to the upper receiving plate 64. Except for the parts unique to the second embodiment, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

In the second embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing an upper tray provided in a pachinko gaming machine exemplified as a gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 24 is a schematic plan view of the upper tray, and FIG.
Shows an AA cross-sectional view of the upper tray of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 23, like the first embodiment, the effective residual amount recorded on a valuable medium such as a prepaid card is provided on the side surface of the upper tray 64 of the second embodiment. , A return switch 62 for returning the inserted valuable medium,
A ball lending switch 63 for lending the game balls with valuable media, an operation lever 65 for discharging the game balls stored in the upper tray, and the like are provided. Upper saucer 6
As shown in FIG. 24, an overflow ball recovery port 254 is provided between the upstream portion 64b and the downstream portion 64a.

Both the upstream portion 64b and the downstream portion 64a are gently inclined so that the supply side to the firing portion is lowered, and the game balls discharged to the upper tray 64 via the upper receiving port 51 are transferred to the downstream portion via the upstream portion 64b. It flows down to the 64a side and is stored. Then, when the downstream portion 64a is full, the game balls subsequently discharged to the upstream portion 64b of the upper tray 64 via the upper receiving port 51 are credited to the first collecting path 54 via the overflow ball collecting port 254. They are collected as balls.

As shown in FIG. 24, the storage state detection switch 289 is provided in the downstream portion 64a of the upper receiving tray 64, and detects the storage state of the game balls in the downstream portion 64a. The storage state detection switch 289 is connected to the upper pan 64
If the storage state of the game balls stored in the downstream portion 64a of the game ball can be detected, the game ball can be installed at an arbitrary position.

In the upper tray 64 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the second embodiment configured as described above, the overflow ball is collected as follows.

When a prize is generated, the game ball discharged from the discharging device 50 is first discharged to the upstream portion 64b through the upper receiving port 51 as shown in FIG. Upstream section 64
The game ball discharged to b flows down to the downstream portion 64a. The game balls flowing down to the downstream portion 64a normally stay in the downstream portion 64a as they are and are sequentially supplied to the firing portion. However, when the number of stored balls in the downstream portion 64a exceeds a predetermined amount, the ball flows through the overflow ball collection port 254. It is collected in the first collection path 54. As it is, the game is continued, and when the game balls stored in the downstream portion 64a are launched into the game area and decrease to reach a predetermined storage state, the predetermined storage state is detected by the storage state detection switch 289, The detection signal is
As in the first embodiment, the output is output to the credit circuit 200, and the storage state processing (discharge of the credit sphere to the upper tray 64) is performed.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the second embodiment
According to 00, since the overflow ball collection port 254 is provided on the upstream side of the upper tray 64, it is not necessary to provide the overflow ball viewing window 66 shown in the first embodiment, and the prize ball is discharged. You can directly see how the game is flowing and touch the overflowing ball directly with your hand, and you can directly enjoy the real thrill of gaming machines unique to acquiring gaming balls.

[Third Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the number-of-balls display section 81 provided in the credit operation section 80 includes:
The remaining time display meter 84b displays the number of credit balls, displays the remaining time of the effective switch 84a, and the like. In the third embodiment, the liquid crystal display unit 400 is used to display these. While displaying, various other displays are also performed. Except for the parts specific to the third embodiment, the configuration is the same as that in the first embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 26 is a partial plan view of a lower tray showing a credit operation unit provided in a pachinko gaming machine according to the third embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 26, the credit operation section 80 is provided with a liquid crystal display section 400, a credit lamp 82, a flow path changeover switch 83, a leave switch 84a, a settlement switch 85, and the like, which are exemplified as notification means. , The number of credits is displayed, the method of discharging the game balls stored in the upper saucer 64 by operating the operation lever 65 (real ball, credit) is selected, and when the player leaves the seat or makes a payment. Time operations and the like can be performed.

The liquid crystal display section 400 performs various displays relating to credit processing, and includes a leave switch 84a, a settlement switch 85, a flow path changeover switch 83, and an operation lever 65.
The display content changes depending on the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and the game state of the pachinko gaming machine 100.

FIGS. 27 and 28 specifically show display examples by the liquid crystal display unit.

Hereinafter, various displays displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 400 will be described with reference to FIGS.

When the game is not being played, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, as the demonstration screen, for example, a game title is displayed.

When the player operates the operating handle 30 to play a game, for example, a screen display during the game shown in FIG. 27B is displayed. As the screen display during the game, for example, the display of the number of credit balls, the display that the firing device is driven and the game balls are firing to the game area, the upper tray 6
An indication that automatic replenishment from credit balls is being performed is made according to the storage status of No. 4.

When the player presses the leave switch 84a, the screen shifts to the screen during the leave processing shown in FIG. 27c. As the screen during the leaving process, for example, a character display of “away” and a display of the remaining valid time of the leaving switch 84a are displayed.

After the credit lamp 82 is turned off (credit is released) by operating the flow path changeover switch 83, the ball is moved from the upper tray 64 to the lower tray 70 by opening the operation lever 65. After the shift, as shown in FIG. 27D, the screen shifts to a screen display indicating that the ball is being moved from the upper tray 64 to the lower tray 70. For example, an arrow indicating that the ball is being discharged from the upper tray 64 to the lower tray 70 and a credit ball number are displayed.

When the operating lever 65 is turned on while the credit lamp 82 is lit (normal time), as shown in FIG. 28A, the ball ejected from the upper tray 64 becomes a credit ball as a credit ball. The screen shifts to a screen display indicating that the number has been added. For example, the number of credit balls is displayed.

When the settlement switch 85 is depressed, FIG.
As shown in (5), the screen shifts to a screen display indicating that the settlement process is being performed. For example, characters such as "payment in progress" and the number of credit balls are displayed.

When a ball clogging state is detected by the ball clogging detection switch 58 provided in the first recovery path 54,
As shown in FIG. 28C, the screen shifts to a warning screen for warning that a ball is clogged in the first recovery path 54. For example,
A warning message such as "The ball is stuck in the collection path" is displayed.

Abnormalities in predetermined portions (for example, clogged balls in the discharge device, abnormal radio waves generated by fraudulent acts, clogged balls in each flow path, strong shaking due to earthquakes or artificial actions, etc.) are detected. Then, as shown in FIG. 28d, the screen shifts to a screen display indicating that an abnormality has occurred in a predetermined portion of the pachinko gaming machine 100. For example, a character display of "abnormal occurrence", a display indicating that the prize ball is being added to the credit number, a display of the credit ball number, and the like are performed.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the third embodiment
According to 00, since various displays related to credit processing are intensively performed by the liquid crystal display unit 400, the player does not need to search for the display location, and can easily and quickly read the display content. Since the liquid crystal display unit 400 can display characters, it is easy to understand and can transmit a lot of information to the player.

The display contents of the liquid crystal display unit 400 are not limited to those described above, and various information displays (for example, display of lucky numbers, exchange numbers, etc.) are provided to the player from the management device 210 via the LAN line. It is also possible to carry out a display such as prohibiting credit when a big hit occurs.

[Fourth Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the input and display relating to various credit processes are performed by the credit operation unit 80. However, in the fourth embodiment, the pachinko machine is used. Inputs and displays related to various credit processes are performed by the inter-ball ball lending machine 301 provided side by side with the gaming machine 100.

In the fourth embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a pachinko game machine and a table ball rental machine according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 29, the ball-to-ball rental machine 301 is juxtaposed next to the pachinko gaming machine 100. A credit number display lamp 41 is provided on
0, a liquid crystal display unit 400, a credit lamp 82, a receipt issuing unit 74 (which may be a card issuing unit), a flow path changeover switch 83, a leaving switch 84a, a settlement switch 85, and cash for lending game balls with cash. There are provided a cash input port 420 as an input port, a cash return port 421 for returning cash input from the cash input port 420, and the like.

The credit number display lamp 410 is composed of a plurality of lamps, and displays the approximate amount of credit by changing the location and the number of lamps to be lit according to the number of credits. For example, one lamp with more than 2500 credits, two lamps with more than 5000 credits, 7500 credits
Three or more lamps are turned on.

The liquid crystal display unit 400, the credit lamp 82, the receipt issuing unit 74, and the liquid crystal display unit 400 described in each of the above embodiments.
The flow path changeover switch 83, the leaving switch 84a, and the adjustment switch 85 have the same functions except that the installation positions are different.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the fourth embodiment
According to the game equipment including the 00 and the ball-to-ball rental machine 301,
By inputting and displaying various credit processes in the inter-ball game machine 301, changes to the pachinko gaming machine 100 can be minimized, the existing pachinko gaming machine 100 can be used, and costs associated with the change can be reduced. I'm trying.

In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display unit 4
Although the example of setting 00 is shown, it is also possible to install the number-of-balls display section 81 and the remaining time display meter 84b instead, as described in the first embodiment.

The present invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine 100 of this embodiment, but uses ball as a game medium, such as a pachi-con machine, an arrangement ball gaming machine, and a ball game machine such as a sparrow ball gaming machine. Is also applicable. In addition, the detailed configuration and method, such as the configuration of the credit operation unit 80 that performs various operations and the credit control processing procedure including a plurality of subroutines, can be changed without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0150]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, among the game balls discharged from the ball discharge device, the number of game balls corresponding to the overflow that cannot be received by the tray because the tray is full is the number of credits. Since the game ball is re-discharged from the ball discharging device within the range of the number of credits stored in the credit means as the credit number, the game using the re-discharged game ball becomes possible. Therefore, the player can continuously play the game without troublesome movement of the game ball. In addition, since the game balls are basically discharged only to the saucer portion, the number of the game balls inside the island facility may be smaller than before. In addition, since the discharge of the game balls from the ball discharge device is stopped based on the detection by the ball clogging detecting means, the state of the ball clogging is prevented from being further deteriorated by the discharged balls, and the time required for clearing the ball clogging is reduced. Can be minimized.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, since the notifying means notifies that the ball has been clogged on the collecting path, it is possible to promptly deal with the ball clogging and to expedite the elimination of the ball clogging. It becomes possible. In addition, the early elimination of the ball clogging can minimize the influence of the ball clogging on other parts, and reduce the possibility of causing other troubles.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a pachinko gaming machine exemplified as a gaming machine according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an upper tray provided in the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of a lower tray showing a credit operation unit provided in the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an appearance when the glass frame of the pachinko gaming machine is opened.

FIG. 5 is a perspective perspective view showing a first recovery path provided in the pachinko gaming machine.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a flow path system for causing game balls discharged through a discharge port of the game balls discharged by a discharge device provided in a pachinko game machine to flow out to an upper receiving tray or to be collected as credit balls. FIG.

FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view showing the periphery of a first recovery path and a second recovery path viewed from above.

FIG. 8 is a schematic rear view showing the periphery of a first recovery path and a second recovery path viewed from the rear side.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a credit circuit provided in the pachinko gaming machine and a network of peripheral devices thereof.

FIG. 10 shows a credit circuit provided in a pachinko machine,
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the peripheral device.

FIG. 11 is a main routine of a flowchart of a credit control process performed by the credit circuit.

FIG. 12 is a subroutine for performing a leaving process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a subroutine for performing a settlement process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a continuation of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a subroutine for performing a credit process of the flowchart in FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is a subroutine for performing a storage state process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 17 is a subroutine for performing the ball removing process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 18 is a subroutine for performing a flow path switching process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 19 is a subroutine for performing an overflow ball counting process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

20 is a subroutine for performing a ball clogging notification process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 21 is a subroutine for performing an abnormal process in the flowchart of FIG. 11;

FIG. 22 is a timing chart of a settlement process.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing an upper tray provided in the pachinko gaming machine according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a schematic plan view of an upper tray provided in the pachinko gaming machine according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the upper receiving tray of FIG. 24 taken along the line AA.

FIG. 26 is a partial plan view of a lower tray showing a credit operation unit provided in the pachinko gaming machine according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a display example by the liquid crystal display unit of the third embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a display example by the liquid crystal display unit of the third embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a pachinko game machine and a table ball rental machine according to a fourth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 20 RAM 21 CPU 22 ROM 24 Clock 30 Operation handle 30A Firing circuit 44 Second recovery path 50 Discharge device (ball discharge device) 54 First recovery path (recovery path) 54b Rectifying path 54c Rectifying path 55 Foul ball collection port 57a Credit ball Detection switch (overflow detection means) 57b Credit ball detection switch (second recovery path) 58 Ball clogging detection switch (ball clogging detection means) 64 Upper tray (sinking tray) 64a Downstream part 64b Upstream part 65 Operation lever 65a Operation lever detection switch ( Ball release lever detection switch 66 Overflow ball viewing window 70 Receiving tray (Receiving tray) 74 Receipt issuing unit 81 Ball number display unit 82 Credit lamp 83 Flow path changeover switch 83A Flow path changeover solenoid 84a Leaving switch 84b Remaining time display meter 85 Calculation switch 88 unattended time setting means 89 storage state detection switch 100 pachinko game machine (game machine) 104 game board 200 credit circuit (credit means) 210 management device 220 prize management system (POS) 254 overflow ball collection port (second (Embodiment) 289 Storage state detection switch (Second embodiment) 300 Inter-ball lent machine 301 Inter-ball lent machine (Fourth embodiment) 400 Liquid crystal display unit (Third embodiment) 410 Credit number display lamp (fourth embodiment)

Claims (2)

[Claims] 1. A ball discharge device for discharging a required number of game balls based on a predetermined discharge condition being satisfied, and a front tray capable of receiving and storing game balls discharged from the ball discharge device. In a gaming machine provided with, a collecting path for collecting game balls for the overflow that the tray is full and can no longer be received by the tray, and ball clogging detecting means for detecting ball clogging generated in the collecting path. Overflow detection means for detecting game balls collected through the collection path, counting the number of game balls for the overflow based on the detection output of the overflow detection means, and adding the count value to the number of credits A credit means for storing, and within the range of the number of credits stored in the credit means, re-discharges the game ball from the ball discharge device, Thereby allowing a game of using the ball, on the basis of detection by said ball clogging detection unit, a game machine, characterized in that so as to stop the discharge of the game ball by the ball discharging unit. 2. A game machine including the gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a notifying unit for notifying the occurrence of a ball jam based on the detection by the ball jam detecting unit. .