WO2006025476A1 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A game machine capable of making an external apparatus recognize the occurring state of abnormality in the operating condition. When operating condition information indicative of a plurality of preset operating conditions is transmitted to a hall computer (208) appropriately by an external centralized terminal board (60), abnormality of operating condition is judged and an error signal indicative of judgment state of abnormality is inputted as one piece of the operating condition information to the external centralized terminal board (60).

Description

 Specification

 Game machine

 Technical field

 The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a slot machine that uses medals, coins, game balls and the like as game media.

 Background art

 Conventionally, in gaming machines, in particular, pachislot machines, a predetermined number of gaming media are inserted and a start lever is operated to execute a winning lottery for the game, and a plurality of peripherals on the circumferential surface. The so-called symbol variation display is started when a plurality of columns (generally three columns) of symbol variation reels (display devices) on which symbols are displayed rotate.

 [0003] The symbol variable reels that have started rotating by operating the start lever described above are stopped almost at the position intended by the player when the player operates a stop button provided for each of them. .

 [0004] Here, an internal lottery is executed when the start lever is operated, and it is determined whether or not a win / loss is made. The player performs a stop operation of each symbol variable reel by a stop button, and the internal lottery. If you have won a prize, you will receive a prize and the right will be exercised when the symbols corresponding to that prize are available.

 [0005] When the result of the internal lottery is out, the symbol variation reel is stopped by performing so-called slip control so as not to display the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination.

 [0006] Note that even if the result of the internal lottery is a win, if the symbol variable reel does not stop display with the symbol corresponding to the winning combination, the winning is not performed and the above right is not exercised.

 [0007] Further, there are a small combination and a large combination as a combination, and a game medium payout set in advance is executed as the exercise of the right of winning the small combination. In addition, the small role includes replays, and when replaying, it is assumed that a dividend equivalent to the game media inserted for the game has been paid, and a new game media is inserted. You are entitled to replay without doing it.

[0008] On the other hand, in order to exercise the right to win a major player, a so-called bonus game (regular board) is executed from the above-mentioned normal gaming state after a predetermined game medium payout is executed for the player. There are eggplants and big bonuses), and a special game state is entered a predetermined number of times.

 [0009] Generally, a plurality of this type of gaming machine is installed in one hall, and each gaming machine is connected to the hall computer, and information such as the status of entering / exiting game media, execution status of bonus games and re-games to the hall computer Is supposed to send. As a result, the operating state of the gaming machines in the hall can be grasped by the hall computer.

 [0010] Conventionally, in order to make it possible for a hall computer to grasp fraud, a technique for detecting fraud and sending it to the hall computer (see, for example, Patent Document 1) and the amount of medals in the hopper are detected. When the amount of medals is detected to be below the reference value, a technique for outputting a payout abnormality detection signal (see, for example, Patent Document 2), payout information indicating the number of coins to be paid out, and actual There is a technique (for example, see Patent Document 3) that compares the number of coins that have been paid out with the number of coins that have been detected and sends mismatch information to the hall computer when there is a mismatch.

 Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-73456

 Patent Document 2: JP 2002-210077 A

 Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-254214

 Disclosure of the invention

 Problems to be solved by the invention

[0011] However, according to the technology described in each of the above-mentioned patent documents, although it is possible to let an external device such as a hall computer know about a specific fraudulent act to be detected, each gaming machine There was a problem that it was not possible to grasp the occurrence status of the error.

[0012] That is, when an error occurs, the player is informed that the error has occurred by means of a display or voice on the gaming machine body, so that the player calls an attendant in the hall and responds to the attendant. If the player does not call, the clerk will not be able to respond to the error immediately. For this reason, it is difficult for the hall side to detect a player's fraudulent behavior on a platform where the error frequency is too high. In addition, the hall side cannot automatically calculate and manage the number of error occurrences for each vehicle, and cannot detect a defective gaming machine at an early stage. [0013] The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that allows an external device to grasp an occurrence state of an abnormality in an operation state. Means for solving the problem

 [0014] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 has display means that can display the symbols in a variable manner, performs a lottery drawing based on a player's starting operation, and displays the symbols in the display means. The display means is displayed in a display manner in which a symbol corresponding to the winning combination of the combination lottery is preliminarily stopped based on the subsequent stop operation of the player. A game that wins the winning combination when it is stopped and displayed, and executes a game according to the winning combination, and transmits operation state information indicating a plurality of preset operation states to an external device through communication means as appropriate. A determination means for determining an abnormality in the operation state; an input means for inputting abnormality information indicating an abnormality determination state by the determination means to the communication means as one of the operation state information; It is characterized by having .

 [0015] According to the invention described in claim 1, the display means capable of displaying the symbols in a variable manner is provided, and a lottery drawing is performed based on a player's starting operation, and a change in the symbols on the display means is started. The change of the symbol is stopped based on the player's stop operation, and if the symbol corresponding to the winning combination of the winning lottery is stopped and displayed on the display means in a predetermined display mode, the winning combination is won. When the game corresponding to the winning combination is executed and the operation state information indicating a plurality of preset operation states is appropriately transmitted to the external device by the communication unit, the abnormality of the operation state is determined by the determination unit. As one of the operation state information, abnormality information indicating an abnormality determination state by the determination unit is input to the communication unit by the input unit.

 That is, since abnormality information indicating a determination state of an abnormality in the operation state in the gaming machine is transmitted to the external device by the communication device, the occurrence state of the abnormality in the operation state can be grasped by the external device.

[0017] For example, when a hall computer or the like that manages gaming machines throughout the hall is applied as an external device, the hall computer can grasp the state of occurrence of abnormality in the operating state of each gaming machine, so the player calls an attendant. Even if there is no problem, the staff can grasp the situation of the occurrence of the abnormality, and if an abnormality occurs due to an illegal act, a quick response can be realized. wear. It is also possible to statistically analyze and manage the occurrence of abnormalities.

 [0018] Further, according to the present invention, as in the invention described in claim 2, when the determination means determines that the operation state is abnormal, the switching means for switching the operation state to an abnormal state is further provided. It can also be set as the structure provided.

 [0019] According to the invention described in claim 2, when the abnormality occurs in the operation state, the operation state is changed to an abnormal state, so that the game cannot be continued ignoring the occurrence of the abnormality. Therefore, even if an abnormality occurs due to fraud, damage can be minimized.

 [0020] As the abnormal state, for example, as in the invention described in claim 3, at least one of turning on the error signal, notifying that the abnormality has occurred, and prohibiting the progress of the game. Can be applied.

 [0021] Further, according to the present invention, as in the fourth aspect of the present invention, when the operation state is determined to be abnormal by the determination unit, a notification for notifying information related to subsequent correspondence on the hole side It can also be set as the structure further provided with the means.

[0022] For example, as a response on the hall side, information indicating that an error has occurred is being transmitted to the hall computer or that an attendant is ready to use is displayed on the display means, or voice guidance is provided by a speaker. Notify by doing so.

[0023] Thereby, when an abnormality occurs due to an illegal act, it is possible to prevent the illegal act from being continued or to be carried out in the future.

[0024] Further, according to the present invention, as in the invention described in claim 5, the communication means may transmit two or more types of information in a time division manner.

[0025] Thereby, more information than the number of information that can be appropriately transmitted by the communication means can be transmitted to the external device. For example, even if abnormal information is newly added to information to be transmitted by communication means, even if the information to be transmitted exceeds the number of information that can be appropriately transmitted by the communication means, communication using existing communication means is possible. Can be done.

[0026] Further, according to the present invention, as in the invention described in claim 6, the communication means transmits the operation state information and the abnormality information by a pulse signal, and a pulse of each information pulse signal to be transmitted. The width and the period may be different from each other. [0027] This makes it possible to easily analyze received information in an external device. In addition, complicated processing is not required when transmitting a plurality of pieces of information in a time division manner.

 [0028] Further, according to the present invention, as in the invention described in claim 7, the determination unit determines abnormality in a plurality of types of operation states, and the communication unit transmits the abnormality information to the determination unit. The presence / absence of the detected abnormality and the type of abnormality determined by the determining means may be transmitted to the external device.

 [0029] Thereby, it is possible to make the external device know the occurrence status of the abnormality in more detailed operation state. In addition, by making it possible to grasp the details of the occurrence of abnormalities on external devices, it is possible to statistically analyze and manage the occurrence of abnormalities on external devices, so early detection of defects in gaming machines and high occurrence frequency There is also an advantage that a new causal relationship between anomaly and fraud can be discovered.

 [0030] Further, according to the present invention, as in the eighth aspect of the invention, insertion means for inserting medals used in the game, insertion operation detection means for detecting movement of medals in the insertion means, The determination means may determine abnormality of the operation state based on a result of detection of movement of medals by the insertion detection means.

 [0031] Here, the insertion operation detecting means, for example, as in the invention according to claim 9, is arranged such that the first medal disposed at a position where a medal passing through a predetermined passage route in the insertion means can be detected. A medal detection element and a second medal detection element provided on the downstream side of the arrangement position of the first medal detection element in the passage path can be configured.

 [0032] By using the throwing motion detection means configured as described above, for example, as in the invention according to claim 10, the determination means is configured to precede the first medal detection element in the second detection element. When a medal is detected, it can be determined that the operation state is abnormal.

 [0033] Further, for example, as in the invention described in claim 11, the discriminating unit includes the second medal detection element in the second medal detection element while the medal is continuously detected in the first medal detection element. When no medal is detected, it is possible to determine that the operation state is abnormal.

[0034] That is, according to the inventions of claims 10 and 11, when there is a possibility that the medals have flowed back, it is determined that the medals are abnormal. Since it is transmitted to the component device, it is possible to quickly cope with the reverse flow of medals.

[0035] Furthermore, as in the invention described in claim 12, for example, when at least one of the first detection element and the second detection element continuously detects medals for a predetermined period or longer, Can also be determined to be abnormal.

 [0036] That is, according to the invention of claim 12, when there is a possibility that the medal is staying in the passage route, it is determined to be abnormal, and this is transmitted to the external device as abnormality information. Therefore, it is possible to quickly cope with the medal retention.

 [0037] Further, the present invention, as in the invention of claim 13, is provided along the passage route in the throwing means, and is normally retracted from the passage route, and appropriately appears and disappears in the passage route. And a medal blocker that prohibits the passage of the medal, and when the operation state is determined to be abnormal by the determining means, the medal blocker is caused to appear and disappear in the passage route to prohibit the progress of the game. You can also.

 [0038] According to the invention of claim 13, when it is determined that there is an abnormality, it is possible to prevent the situation from deteriorating until it is appropriately dealt with.

 [0039] On the other hand, according to the present invention, as in the invention of claim 14, the storage means for storing medals inserted through the insertion means, and the medals stored in the storage means are paid appropriately. A payout means for paying out, and a payout detecting means for detecting medals paid out by the payout means, wherein the determining means determines an abnormality in the operation state based on a medal detection result by the payout detecting means. It can be in the form.

 [0040] At this time, for example, as in the invention described in claim 15, when the state in which no medal is detected by the payout detection unit for a predetermined period or more during the operation of the payout unit continues, the operation state is abnormal. It can also be determined that there is. As a result, when there is a possibility that there is no medal in the storage means, it is determined that there is an abnormality, and this is sent to the external device as abnormality information. can do.

[0041] Further, as in the invention described in claim 16, for example, when the medal is continuously detected for a predetermined period or more by the payout detecting means, it is possible to determine that the operation state is abnormal. As a result, when a foreign object is clogged at the time of payout, it is determined that there is an abnormality, and this is transmitted to the external device as abnormality information, so that it is possible to respond quickly. [0042] Further, as in the invention described in claim 17, for example, when a medal is continuously detected for a predetermined period or more by the payout detecting means even though the payout means is not in operation, the operation state is changed. It can also be determined that there is an abnormality. As a result, it is determined that there is an error when there is a false detection in the payout detection means or when a foreign object has entered, and this is sent to the external device as error information. The ability to respond quickly S.

 [0043] As in the invention of claim 18, the present invention further comprises an overflow detection means for detecting a medal spilled from the storage means when the storage means is filled with medals, and the overflow detection The means can also determine that the operation state is abnormal when a medal is detected continuously for a predetermined period or longer. As a result, it is possible to respond quickly without leaving the overflow, and it is possible to prevent a medal from being scattered inside the apparatus and causing troubles inside the apparatus.

 The invention's effect

 [0044] As described above, the present invention has an excellent effect of providing a gaming machine that allows an external device to grasp the occurrence state of an abnormality in the operating state.

 Brief Description of Drawings

 FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an arrangement state of pachislot machines in a hall in which a pachislot machine network system according to an embodiment is constructed.

 FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a pachislot machine according to the embodiment.

 FIG. 3 is an operation control block diagram of the pachislot machine according to the embodiment.

 FIG. 4 is a block diagram functionally showing a control system mainly for a normal game in the main control unit.

 FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a communication path with the hall computer of the pachislot machine according to the embodiment.

 FIG. 6 is a diagram showing error types and error codes determined in the embodiment.

 FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a medal selector according to the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an example of a time chart showing detection signals of the medal sensor 1 and the medal sensor 2 when a game medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot. FIG. 9A] is an example of a time chart showing a game medal backflow error occurrence pattern 1 when the error is automatically canceled.

FIG. 9B] is an example of a time chart showing an occurrence pattern 1 of a game medal backflow error when manually canceling the error.

FIG. 10A] is an example of a time chart showing a game medal backflow error occurrence pattern 2 when the error is automatically canceled.

FIG. 10B] is an example of a time chart showing a game medal backflow error occurrence pattern 2 when the error is manually canceled.

FIG. 11A] is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a hopper according to an embodiment.

[FIG. 11B] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a hopper payout device according to an embodiment.

 FIG. 12 is an example of a time chart when an error with no payout medal occurs.

13] This is an example of a time chart when a payout medal clogging error occurs.

 FIG. 14 is an example of a time chart when a payout medal sensor abnormality error occurs.

15A] It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the overflow sensor according to the embodiment.

 FIG. 15B is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the overflow sensor according to the embodiment.

 FIG. 16 is an example of a time chart when a game medal over error occurs.

17A] This is an example of a time chart when a game medal retention error occurs when the error is automatically canceled.

17B] This is an example of a time chart when a game medal retention error occurs when manually canceling the error.

 FIG. 18 is an example of a time chart when a backup error occurs.

19] This is an example of a time chart when a winning determination error occurs.

 FIG. 20 is an example of a time chart when a RAM data error occurs.

FIG. 21] An explanatory diagram showing a communication path with the hall computer of the pachislot machine according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 22] is an example of a time chart when a game medal insertion signal and a game medal payout signal are transmitted in a time-sharing manner using the external concentration terminal board according to the second embodiment. 23A] is transmitted to the host computer as error signal 2 according to the second embodiment It is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error, and is a diagram showing a game medal backflow error.

 FIG. 23B is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as the error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and shows a payout medal no error.

 FIG. 23C is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as the error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and shows a payout medal clogged error.

FIG. 23D is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as the error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and shows a payout medal sensor abnormality error.

 FIG. 23E is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and shows a game medal over error.

 FIG. 23F is an example of a signal according to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as the error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and shows a game medal retention error.

 FIG. 23G is a diagram showing a backup error as an example of a signal according to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as error signal 2 according to the second embodiment.

 FIG. 23H is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and is a diagram showing a winning determination error.

 FIG. 231 is an example of a signal corresponding to the type of error transmitted to the host computer as error signal 2 according to the second embodiment, and shows a RAM data abnormality error.

 FIG. 24 is a time chart when an error occurs according to the second embodiment, and shows the states of error signal 1 and error signal 2;

 BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows an arrangement state of the pachislot machines 300 in the hall in which the pachislot machine network system according to the present embodiment is constructed. Ten or more pachislot machines 300 are arranged in a horizontal row, forming an island 212 in a state of being back to back. In addition, a plurality of islands 212 are arranged vertically and horizontally in the hall.

[0047] Each pachislot machine 300 is assigned a base number (eg, 001, 002, etc.). Each pachislot machine 300 can be identified by the unit number.

[0048] Each of the pachislot machines 300 is network-connected by a bus 214 such as a LAN cable. A hall computer 208 is connected to this network so that the gaming state of each pachislot machine 300 can be collectively managed.

A pachi-slot machine 300 as shown in FIG. 2 includes a main body 302 and an operation / decoration section 303 as an opening / closing cover provided on the front surface of the main body 302.

[0050] The operation / decoration unit 303 can be classified into the decoration unit 304, the operation unit 306, and the payout unit 310 from the top.

 [0051] The decoration unit 304 is attached with a display panel unit 312 through which a printed picture or character is transmitted and illuminated by turning on a backlight unit (not shown). As a part of the decorative portion 304, a three-dimensional top lamp 304A, which will be described later as a decorative lamp, is provided in the left-right direction above the decorative portion 304. In addition, speakers 305R and 305L are provided in the vicinity of the top lamp 304 for reproducing sound for performance and the like.

 [0052] The display panel unit 312 of the decoration unit 304 includes a liquid crystal display device 313 for displaying a moving image for presentation, and a display window 314 for displaying a rotating display symbol. The display window 314 is formed of a transparent region that is integrally formed with the display panel unit 312.

 [0053] Inside the display window 314, there is provided a symbol variation portion 316 configured mainly with three spinning reels 350A, 350B, and 350C.

 [0054] Also, at the bottom of the display window 314, a 7-segment display 315A for displaying the number of medals paid out as the game medium of the pachislot machine 300, setting of the remaining number of times of the game and the game state (six levels) display, etc. A display unit 315B for displaying the number of credits and a 7-segment display unit 3 15C for displaying the number of credits are provided.

[0055] The operation unit 306 has an upper portion protruding forward, and a medal insertion portion 320 is provided at the right end portion of the upper surface (table 306A) of the protruding portion, and credits are sequentially added from the left end portion of the upper surface. A checkout button 103 that is pressed when paying out, a single bet (insert) button 352A, and a maximum bet (maximum input) button 352B are provided. In addition, a start lever 354, stop buttons 356A, 356B, 356C, and the like are provided in this order from the front left end of the protruding portion. The payout unit 310 includes a medal discharge port 326 and a tray 328 that receives a medal discharged from the medal discharge port 326.

 [0057] The three linoles 350A, 350B, 350C are rotated so that the display window 314 force can be seen in sequence by rotating, and when the rotation is stopped, the lines are arranged in the middle line among the patterns visible from the display window 314. A line connecting the centers of the symbols, a line connecting the centers of the symbols arranged in the upper row, a line connecting the centers of the symbols arranged in the lower row, two lines connecting the centers of the symbols arranged in two diagonal lines, The combination of symbols stopped on the five active lines indicates the result of the game.

 [0058] Of the five lines, which line is the effective line is determined by the number of medals invested, and when one medal is bet, the center of the symbols arranged in the middle line is connected. A line is considered an active line, and if 3 medals are bet, all lines are considered active lines.

 [0059] The stop buttons 356A, 356B, and 356C are provided at the lower part of the symbol changing portion 316, and correspond to the respective linoles 350A, 350B, and 350C. That is, the rotation of the corresponding reels 350A, 350B, and 350C can be stopped by the player operating the stop buttons 356A, 356B, and 356C.

 [0060] Further, by operating (tilting) the start lever 354 provided on the left side of the stop buttons 356A, 356B, 356C, the respective linolees 350A, 350B, 350C start to rotate. This rotation is normally such that the three reels 350A, 350B, and 350C start rotating simultaneously.

 Further, the operation timing by the start lever 354 is an internal lottery timing described later, and the winning (winning) Z is determined by the operation of the start lever 354.

 FIG. 3 schematically shows a control block diagram for controlling the operation of the pachislot machine 300.

[0063] The control system of the pachislot machine 300 is configured mainly by the main control unit 100. The medal insertion unit 320 power is detected by the medal sensor 1 and the medal sensor 2 in the main control unit 100. Based on the result, it is identified and the number and type of medals inserted (illegal or genuine) Is connected to the medal selector 102, and the stop lever 356A, 356B, 356C, MAX bet button 352B, single bet button 352A, respectively, for the start lever 354 and the above-mentioned reels 350A, 350B, 350C. In addition, a checkout button 103 for returning a medal stored (credited) inside the gaming machine when the game is stopped is connected via a sensor (not shown) that detects the operation state.

 [0064] The main control unit 100 includes a main control circuit 110 including a CPU. The main control circuit 110 mainly includes a RAM 128 that temporarily stores a game progress status and the like, A ROM 130 in which a program and the like are stored is connected, and a clock pulse generation circuit 124 that generates a clock pulse serving as a reference for the operation of the main control circuit 110 is connected via a frequency divider 126.

 In addition, a random number generator 120 and a random number sampling circuit 122 are connected to the main control circuit 110. The main control circuit 110 controls the random number generator 120 in synchronization with the clock pulse input via the frequency divider 126 to sequentially generate random numbers. In the random number sampling circuit 122, the random number generator 120 generates the random numbers. Get the random number and sample it.

 [0066] In the pachislot machine 300, an internal lottery is performed by the main control unit 100 to determine whether a major player or a small player is successful at the operation timing of the start lever 354. In the main control circuit 110, the start lever When 354 is operated, random number acquisition circuit 122 is instructed to acquire, sample, and output random numbers, and thereby a lottery result is derived according to the random number input from random number sampling circuit 122.

 [0067] If the internal lottery is a win (role winning), the player will get the number of medals according to each symbol when the winning symbols are obtained by the stop operation with the stop buttons 356A, 356B, and 356C thereafter In addition to this, a gaming state that is advantageous to the player can be made according to the arranged symbols.

Here, the role includes a small role and a big role. Of these, the big actors include big bonuses (hereinafter referred to as “8” as appropriate) and regular bonuses (hereinafter referred to as “RB” as appropriate), and the degree of advantage to the player differs in the corresponding games. A game corresponding to RB (hereinafter referred to as “RB game” as appropriate) is composed of a plurality of small role games, and a game corresponding to BB (hereinafter referred to as “BB game” as appropriate) is in the gaming state. It is composed of multiple RB games. For this reason, of course, RB games The BB game is more advantageous for the player than the RB game.

 [0069] In addition, a motor drive circuit 132 is connected to the main control unit 100, and each motor drive circuit 132 (the left, second (B), middle (C), right (R) motors for each of the motors. The left, middle and right linoles 350A, 350B and 350C are connected via 106A, 106B and 106C, respectively.

 [0070] Further, a reel position detection circuit 134 for detecting the rotational positions of the three reels 350A, 350B, and 350C is connected to the main controller 100. In the main controller 100, each reel 350A is connected. , 350B, 350C can always be known.

 [0071] Further, in the pachislot machine 300, the symbol variation by the symbol variation unit 316 is started at the operation timing by the start lever 354, and the main control unit 100, when the start lever 354 is operated, The reel motors 106A, 106B, and 106C are driven via the motor drive circuit 132, respectively, and the three linoles 350A, 350B, and 350C are rotated respectively, and the subsequent stop buttons 356A, 356B, and 356C are used. Stop rotating the three reels 350A, 350B, 350C.

 [0072] Here, in the main control unit 100, when stopping the rotation of the linole 350A, 350B, 350C based on the stop operation by the stop buttons 356A, 356B, 356C, according to the result of the internal lottery, The slip control for a predetermined number of frames is executed.

 [0073] In other words, when the internal lottery is off, if the stop button 356A, 356B, 356C is operated at the stop timing when the symbol that stops only on the winning line stops on the active line, this symbol is intentionally stopped. In order to avoid this, the stop position is shifted (kicked away), and control is performed so as to stop in the off symbol arrangement.

 [0074] Also, when the internal lottery is won, even if the winning symbol does not stop at the stop timing operated by the player, if the winning symbol is within the predetermined number of symbols, the winning symbol is intentionally stopped on the active line. The stop position is shifted (retracted) so that

 [0075] By kicking and pulling in, the result of the internal lottery and the game result can be made uniform, and even if the stop operation timing is slightly shifted, it is possible to align the winning symbols. By doing so, it will prevent the player from being lost as much as possible.

Further, a hopper drive circuit 136 for operating a hopper 138 provided in the pachislot machine 300 is connected to the main control unit 100. Medals stored in Hopper 138 In the main control unit 100, in accordance with the stop symbol specified by the output from the reel position detection circuit 134, the payout of medals from the hopper 138 through the hopper drive circuit 136 is executed.

 Furthermore, a medal detection sensor 140 for detecting a medal to be paid out is disposed in the vicinity of the medal payout exit of the hopper 138, and is connected to the main control unit 100 via a payout completion signal circuit 142. . The payout completion signal circuit 142 determines whether or not the payout is completed based on the detection signal from the medal detection sensor 140, and generates a payout completion signal when it is determined that the payout is completed. Input to 100.

 In main controller 100, when a payout completion signal is input from payout completion signal circuit 142, the medal payout by hopper 138 is terminated via hopper drive circuit 136.

 [0079] Further, below the hopper 138, an overflow sensor 148 is provided for detecting medals that cannot be accommodated in the hopper 138 and have overflowed.

 [0080] Further, a display lamp drive circuit 144 is connected to the main control unit 100, and the 7-segment display unit 315A, the display unit 315B, and the 7-segment display unit 315C described above are connected via the display lamp drive circuit 144. In addition, it controls the turning on and off of the indicator lamp 146 such as the enabling line.

 On the other hand, a sub control unit 150 is connected to the main control unit 100, and the main control unit 100 inputs a command signal indicating a control state to the sub control unit 150 as needed. In the present embodiment, as communication between the main control unit 100 and the sub control unit 150, only one-way communication from the main control unit 100 to the sub control unit 150 is executed. Communication with the control unit 100 cannot be performed at all.

 A liquid crystal control circuit 152 is connected to the sub-control unit 150, and the liquid crystal control circuit 152 controls the display state of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) 313 provided for production.

[0083] Further, a lamp driving circuit 156 is connected to the sub-control unit 150, and the top lamp 304A (the LED 54 incorporated therein and the linole 350A, 350B, 350C is connected via the lamp driving circuit 156. And controls the light emission of the backlight 158 etc. that emits light toward the positions facing the symbols on the peripheral surfaces of the linole 350A, 350B, 350C displayed on the display window 314. [0084] Further, a speaker drive circuit 154 is connected to the sub-control unit 150, and the speakers 305L, 3

Controls sound (sound effect) output from 05R.

[0085] In the sub-control unit 150, depending on the control state of the pachislot machine 300 of the main control unit 100, the LCD3

13, Speakers 305L, 305R, Backlight 158 and Top Lamp 304A L

The notification effect by ED54 etc. is executed.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram functionally showing a control system for normal game control in main control unit 100 according to the present embodiment.

The main control unit 100 includes a lottery unit 180, and an operation signal indicating that the start lever 354 has been operated is input to the lottery unit 180. The lottery unit 180 executes an internal lottery with the operation of the start lever 354 after a predetermined number of medals have been inserted (bet) as a trigger.

The lottery unit 180 acquires a random value in synchronization with the operation of the start lever 354, and sends the random value to the winning combination / symbol determination unit 184 via the table selection unit 182.

[0089] The table selection unit 182 stores a table in which information indicating a role / symbol corresponding to a numerical value that can be acquired by the lottery unit 180 is stored for each gaming state of the pachislot machine 300.

. Note that the gaming state of the pachislot machine 300 is, for example, normal gaming, BB internal winning, R

This includes normal games during BB operation, RB operations during BB operation, RB games, etc. during BB operation.

 [0090] The table selection unit 182 obtains information indicating the current gaming state from the gaming state control unit 186, and selects a table for which the table power / symbol provided for each gaming state is to be determined. Based on the table selected by the table selection unit 182, the winning combination 'symbol determination unit 184 determines and determines the winning combination (small role (including replay), major role (RB, BB)) and winning symbol. The winning combination and the winning symbol are input to the gaming state control unit 186.

[0091] The game state control unit 186 is connected to a game program memory 188 in which data indicating various programs corresponding to the game state of the pachislot machine 300 is stored. The game state control unit 186 controls the game state by appropriately reading and executing game program data corresponding to the game state from the game program memory 188 mainly by the game execution control unit 186A. [0092] Note that the game program memory 188 stores data indicating a normal game program and data indicating a major player game program. For example, in the normal game state, the game program memory 188 stores the normal game program data. In the case of a major player gaming state, the major player game program data is read according to the internal winning state of BB and RB, and the gaming state of BB and RB, and processed based on the respective program data Is executed.

 [0093] On the other hand, the main control unit 100 includes a reel drive control unit 194. Based on the start operation of the start lever 354, 4.1 seconds have elapsed after the end of the previous game, The motor drives 106A, 106B, and 106C are driven through the motor drive shaft β132 to start rotation of the motors 350A, 350B, and 350C.

 Further, the reel drive control unit 194 performs stop control for stopping the rotation of the linolees 350A, 350B, and 350C based on the operation of the stop buttons 356A, 356B, and 356C.

 [0095] Further, position detection sensors 198Β, 198Β, and 198C are attached to the reels 350A, 350B, and 350C, respectively, and are connected to the reel drive control unit 194 via the reel position detection circuit 134. . Linore drive control ί Wholesaler 194 recognizes the rotation positions of Linore 350A, 350B and 350C, stops reels 350Α, 350Β and 350C in consideration of the above-mentioned slip control, and stops the stopped Linore 350A. , 350B, 350C symbols lj are sent to the game state control unit 186.

 [0096] In the gaming state control unit 186, a winning determination is performed by the stopped linole 350A, 350B, and 350C symbol IJI IJ, and it is confirmed whether or not a winning combination has been won. In addition, if the winning combination is a replay, replay control is executed, and if the winning combination is a major player, the major game program is read from the gaming program memory 188 and executed by the game execution control unit 186A.

 Note that the regular bonus game program and the big bonus game program are separately stored in the major player program, and are selectively read based on the elected major player.

[0098] In the regular bonus program, a maximum of 12 games (maximum number of games) can be executed while the lottery probability of a small role is higher than the probability of lottery during normal games. The regular bonus game ends when you win any small role up to 8 times (maximum number of wins) during these 12 games.

[0099] On the other hand, in the big bonus program, a regular bonus game can be executed with high probability as an exercise of rights, and when the number of executions of the regular bonus game reaches a preset upper limit, finish.

 [0100] Further, a flag memory 192 is connected to the gaming state control unit 186 via the flag management control unit 190, and the internal winning state of the combination corresponding to the winning result of the internal lottery described above is displayed as the flag state. It is managed by changing.

 [0101] Each flag is established by winning by internal lottery. Generally, the state of the small role flag disappears in one game (the flag is not established). 350A, 350B, and 350C are stopped, and the main character symbols are displayed in a predetermined arrangement on the display window 314, so that they are maintained until winning the main character.

 Note that the flag memory 192 is connected to the reel drive control unit 194 described above, and the state of the flag stored in the flag memory 192 is a stop button 356A, 356B, 356C by the reel drive control unit 194. This is applied as a parameter for the slip control of pull-in or kick-off during stop control based on the operation of.

 [0103] Here, in the pachislot machine 300 according to the present embodiment, a replay time in which a specific small role (replay) is won with a high probability in a general game inside a major role (a state where the major role is elected internally). (RT) is set for a predetermined period, and in the RT setting general game inside the big game, the reel drive control unit 194 described later performs stop control so that the big game cannot win. On the other hand, in the case of an RT non-set general game (in the state where RT has been completed) inside the big game, stop control that can win the big game is executed.

 [0104] Also, in this embodiment, in the RT setting general game in the inside of the big game, when replay is won, stop control that can win a replay and stop control that cannot win a replay have a predetermined selection probability. Select to execute in. As a result, ribray wins with high probability in internal winning, but the probability of actually winning a replay is the same as when RT is not set.

[0105] In addition, it will be possible to win a prize for the replay selected in the RT setting general game inside the big officer Whether or not to control will be set as appropriate depending on the game characteristics and the game play rate Power Stop control will be executed so that even if winning a replay is not won, the player will be in RT It is common not to know.

 [0106] That is, the pachislot machine 300 according to the present embodiment is not able to win a major player until a predetermined condition is satisfied, so that the major player elected by the internal lottery can not win immediately. It is configured as a so-called stock machine that keeps the major players who were elected internally during the game in sequence while stocking different times with the timing of major players' release.

 For this reason, in the flag memory 192, the number of major players who are elected internally as stock information is stored in different areas for each of BB and RB. In the flag management control unit 190, when winning a major role (RB, BB) by internal lottery, the number of elected major roles is added, and when winning a major role according to the gaming state, the winning major role The stock information is updated and stored in a timely manner so as to reduce the number of stocks, and the type of major player to be released next is selected based on the stock information.

 [0108] Further, the pachislot machine 300 according to the present embodiment applies the execution of the RT game as many times as determined by the lottery as a predetermined condition for enabling the winning role of the major player won by the internal lottery, Until the RT game is over, it is not possible to win a major player.

 [0109] Therefore, in the game state control unit 186, the RT setting unit 186B connected to the game execution control unit 186A selects and sets the RT game execution count (1 to 1192 times) by lottery. ing.

 [0110] By the way, in the pachislot machine 300, an abnormality in the operating state (error) is determined. If it is determined that an error has occurred, error information indicating that fact is transmitted to the hall computer 208. Yes.

 FIG. 5 shows a state of connection to the bus 214 of the network to which the hall computer 208 of the pachislot machine 300 is connected. As shown in the figure, the main board 110 on which the main control circuit is mounted has a connector 50 provided with ten output terminals.

[0112] In addition, the pachislot machine 300 is connected to the network bus 214 via the external centralized terminal board 60, and the external centralized terminal board 60 is connected to a hall computer that satisfies a predetermined standard. A connector is provided. For this reason, the external concentration terminal board 60 is used. Therefore, it can be connected to the bus 214 regardless of the specifications of the gaming machine, and information can be transmitted to the hall computer 208.

As shown in the figure, the main board 110 and the external concentrated terminal board 60 are connected via the connector 50.

 Further, as shown in the figure, in this embodiment, one type of information is transmitted on one channel, and the information transmitted from main control board 110 is converted into an error signal, The game signal, game medal payout signal, game medal insertion signal, regular bonus signal, and big bonus signal are received.

 [0115] After all Linore 350A, 350B, 350C are stopped, the replay signal is turned on when the replay operation is complete (replay 'replay' replay), and with the end of replay operation, Switch to OFF. In other words, it indicates that replay is active while the replay signal is ON.

 [0116] In addition, the game medal payout signal is the number of pulses according to the number of dividends according to the aligned symbols when all the linole 350A, 350B, 350C are stopped and the symbols corresponding to some combination are aligned. Is output.

 The game medal insertion signal outputs the number of pulses according to the number of medals (the number of bets) inserted in the game after the start lever 354 is pressed and the game is started.

 [0118] Regular bonus signals and big bonus signals are available for all Linore 350A, 350B,

 After 350C is stopped, it is switched to N when the regular bonus (Bar'Bar.Bar) or Big Bonus (Seven'Seven'Seven) is complete, and it is switched OFF when the RB game or BB game ends. That is, it indicates that the RB game is operating while the RB signal is ON, and that the BB game is operating while the BB signal is ON.

[0119] FIG. 6 shows, as an example, the types of errors determined by pachislot machine 300 according to the present embodiment and error codes displayed on display device 315A when each error is determined. ing. As shown in the figure, game medal backflow error (E. 1.), payout medal error (E. 2.), payout medal clogged error (E. 3.), payout medal sensor error (Ε · 4.), game medal over error (E. 5.), game medal retention error (E. 6.), backup error (E. 7.), winning judgment error (EE) and RAM data error error. C.).

 (1) Game medal backflow error

 The game medal backflow error is detected by the medal selector 102. As shown in FIG. 7, the medal selector 102 is configured such that game medals are inserted from the direction indicated by the arrow A and discharged in the direction indicated by the arrow B through the abbreviated path.

 [0120] Further, a medal sensor 72A force is provided on the upstream side of the game medal passage route, and a medal sensor 72B force is provided on the downstream side. The medal sensor 72 determines the medal sensor 72A force. It has become so.

 [0121] Further, as shown in the figure, the medal selector 102 is provided with a medal blocker 70 so as to be retractable from the passage path of the game medals, and the medal blocker 70 projects into the passage path of the game medals. Thus, the game medals are retained in the passage route of the medal selector 102, while the game medals are discharged from the medal selector 102 without delay when the medal blocker 70 retreats from the passage route of the game medals.

 [0122] FIG. 8 shows the states of the detection signals of the two medal sensors when the game medals are paid out normally. The medal sensor 1 indicates a medal sensor 72A disposed on the upstream side of the passage path of the inserted medal, and the medal sensor 2 indicates the medal sensor 72B disposed on the downstream side of the passage path. Further, as the medal sensor 72, for example, a photosensor configured by a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit can be used. In this case, when the medal does not pass, the light from the light emitting unit reaches the light receiving unit, and when the medal passes between the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit, the light from the light emitting unit is blocked by the medal. The light from the light emitting unit is not detected only while the medal is passing. Therefore, the detection signals from the medal sensor 1 and the medal sensor 2 are in an ON state when no medal is detected, and when a medal passes each sensor, the medal is detected and the detection signal is in an OFF state.

[0123] As shown in the figure, when the game medal passes normally, the medal sensor 1 first detects the game medal and the detection signal is turned off. Is detected and the detection signal is turned off. In this way, medal sensor 1 and A predetermined time difference is generated between the sensor 2 and the dull sensor 2 according to the interval between the positions of the sensors, and the change of the detection signal of the medal sensor 2 follows the change of the detection signal of the medal sensor 1.

 [0124] Based on the detection signals of these two medal sensors 72, there are two types of patterns that can be determined that game medals are flowing backward, and FIGS. 9 and 10 are time charts for determining game medals backward error. It is shown. Hereinafter, the determination of the game medal backflow error will be described with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG.

 [0125] As shown in FIGS. 9 (A) and 9 (B), when a game medal is detected in the medal sensor 2 before the medal sensor 1, the game medal flows backward and is abnormal. Determined.

 [0126] On the other hand, if it is determined that the flow of game medals is abnormal, the main control unit 100 activates the medal blocker 70 to close the game medal slot and shows an error code E indicating a medal backflow error. . Switch the operating status to the abnormal status by displaying 1. In addition, the error signal output to the hall computer 208 via the external concentration terminal board is switched to the ON state.

 [0127] As shown in Fig. 9 (A), when the error is automatically cleared, the error is automatically cleared and the normal operation state is restored after a predetermined period (2604.0ms) has elapsed since the error determination.

[0128] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 9 (B), when manually canceling the error, after confirming the error occurrence status, either pressing the setting change switch separately to cancel the error, Or manually clear the error by closing the door. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 [0129] Note that the main control unit 100 operates the medal blocker 70 to open the medal slot, terminates the display of the error code by the display 315A, switches to the display of the number of payouts, and generates an error signal. The error is canceled by turning it off.

Next, as shown in FIGS. 10 (A) and 10 (B), the medal sensor 1 continues to detect the game medal and the medal is in the OFF state. Sensor 2 Then, if a medal is not detected continuously and the detection signal is in the “N” state, it is determined that the gaming medal is in reverse, and it is determined that there is an error.

Note that the processing after error determination in this case is the same as that at the time of detection of the game medal backflow error shown in FIG. 9, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

 (2) No payout medal error

 The determination of the no-pay-out medal error is performed based on a detection signal from the medal detection sensor 140 arranged along the game medal pay-out path in the hopper 138.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 11 (A), the hopper 138 includes a dispensing device 200 and a tray 202, and the tray 202 stores the medals that have passed through the medal selector 102. It has become.

 [0133] Note that the receiving tray 202 is provided with an overflow duct 212 and an overloading IJ medal outlet 214 force S. When the receiving tray 202 is filled with medals, excessive medals flow into the overflow duct 212, It is discharged from the excess medal outlet 214 to an overflow tray 216 (not shown in the figure, see FIG. 15) in the apparatus.

 Further, as shown in FIG. 11 (B), in the dispensing device 200, a rotating disk 206 is attached to a rotating shaft 210 that rotates by receiving a driving force of a motor (not shown). As the motor rotates, the rotating disk 206 also rotates.

 [0135] The rotating disk 206 is provided with a hole 206A having the same diameter as that of one game medal, and the medals stored in the hopper 138 are sequentially inserted into the hole 206A as the rotating disk 206 rotates. As shown in the figure, in the vicinity of the payout opening 208, a guide pin 202 that guides the medal inserted in the hole 206A in the direction of the payout opening 208 and an extrusion pin 204 that pushes the medal to the payout opening 208 by the urging force. Is provided. For this reason, the medals abutting on the guide pins 202 are pressed against the push pins 204 as the disk 206 rotates and vigorously jump out of the outlets 208 in the direction of arrow D. In this way, medals stored in the tray of the hopper 138 are paid out one by one.

 [0136] At this time, the push pin 204 reciprocates as shown by the arrow C, so the push pin 204 operates as many times as the number of medals paid out.

[0137] The medal detection sensor 140 detects the position of the push pin 204 and is normally O. Turns on when a game medal passes in the FF state.

FIG. 12 shows, as an example, a time chart at the time of detecting the no payout medal error. In the game medal payout process, a game medal is paid out by driving the hopper 138, the game medal to be paid out is detected by the medal detection sensor 140, and the medal detection sensor 140 determines the number of medals according to the number of payouts. When it is detected, dispensing by driving the hopper 138 is terminated.

 [0139] As shown in the figure, if the medal detection sensor 140 is in the OFF state (the medal is not detected) for a predetermined time (1524.0 ms) during the game medal payout process, the hopper is driven. As a result, no medal is detected even though a game medal is paid out. In this case, it is determined that there is no payout medal, and an error is determined.

[0140] When it is determined that there is no payout medal error, the error code 2. · 2. Is displayed on the display 315A to switch the operation state to the abnormal state and the above error signal to the ON state.

 [0141] Thereafter, after the hopper 138 is supplied with medals, the error is manually canceled by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (3) Payout medal clogged error

 FIG. 13 shows an example of a time chart when a payout medal clogging error occurs. As shown in the figure, the payout medal clogging error is also determined based on the detection signal from the medal detection sensor 140 arranged along the payout path of the game medal provided in the hopper 138. Done.

[0142] During the game medal payout process, during the game medal payout process, the medal detection sensor 140

O If the state of N (medal is detected) continues for a predetermined time (204. Oms) or longer, it is determined that the medal payout route is clogged and an error is determined.

[0143] If it is determined that the payout medal clogging error has occurred, the error code E. 3. is displayed on the display unit 315A to switch the operation state to the abnormal state and the above error signal to O.

Switch to N state. [0144] After that, when foreign matter or the like in the vicinity of the push pin 204 is removed, the push pin 204 returns to the normal position and the signal of the medal detection sensor 140 is turned OFF, and then the setting change switch is pushed or the door is moved. The error is cleared manually by closing. As a result, when the pressing signal of the setting change switch or the door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (4) Payout medal sensor error

 FIG. 14 shows an example of a time chart when a payout medal sensor abnormality error occurs. The determination of a payout medal sensor abnormality error is also made based on a detection signal from a medal detection sensor 140 disposed along a payout path of game medals.

[0145] As shown in the figure, when the state of the medal switch force SON (the state where a medal is detected) continues for a predetermined time (6.0 ms) or more even though the game medal payout process is not in progress Is determined to be an error by determining that the push pin 204 or the medal detection sensor 140 is malfunctioning or that a foreign object has entered the medal payout path.

 [0146] If it is determined that there is a payout medal sensor abnormality error, error code E. 4. is displayed on display unit 315A to switch the operating state to the abnormal state and the above error signal to the ON state.

 [0147] After that, when foreign matter or the like in the vicinity of the push pin 204 is removed, the signal of the medal detection sensor 140 is turned off, and then the error is manually detected by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. It is canceled with. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (5) Game medal over error

 The game medal over error is an error that is determined when the game medal stored in the tray 202 of the hopper 138 overflows. The error is determined from the overflow sensor 148 disposed in the vicinity of the hopper 138. This is performed based on the detection signal.

As shown in FIG. 15, medals discharged from the excess medal outlet 214 through the overflow duct 212 provided in the tray 202 described above are overflows installed near the excess medal outlet 214. Stored in tray 216. This overflow tray 2 An overflow sensor 148 is attached to 16.

 [0149] The overflow sensor 148 includes two electrodes 218A and 218B that are inserted into predetermined positions on the upper layer side and the lower layer side of the overflow tray 216, respectively. As shown in FIG. If no medal is stored in the tray 216 or if there are few medals, the detection signal is OFF.

 On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the number of medals stored in the overflow tray 216 increases, the electrodes 218A and 218B are conducted through the medals, and the detection signal force SON state Become.

 [0151] FIG. 16 shows an example of a time chart when a game medal over error occurs. As shown in the figure, when the detection signal from the overflow sensor 148 is OFF for a predetermined time (1002. Oms) or more, it is determined that a game medal overflow error has occurred and the medal blocker 70 is activated. The medal slot is closed and error code E. 5. is displayed on display unit 315A to switch the operating state to the abnormal state and the error signal to the ON state.

 [0152] After that, when the game medals in the hopper 138 and the overflow tray 216 are removed, the signal of the overflow sensor 148 turns ON, and then an error occurs by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. Is released manually. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (6) Game medal retention error

 FIG. 17 shows an example of a time chart when a game medal retention error occurs. The game medal retention error is a state in which medals inserted from the medal insertion slot stay in the passage route, and is determined based on detection signals from the medal sensor 1 and the medal sensor 2.

[0153] As shown in the figure, when the OFF state of the detection signal from the medal sensor 1 or the medal sensor 2 continues for a predetermined time (102. Oms) or more, a game medal is placed in the vicinity of the medal sensor 1 or the medal sensor 2. Is determined to be a game medal retention error. [0154] If it is determined that the game medal retention error is detected, the medal blocker 70 is activated to close the medal slot, and the error code E. 6. is displayed on the display 315A to switch the operation state to an abnormal state. Switch the error signal to ON.

 [0155] After that, when the game medals that have stayed are removed, the detection signals of the medal sensor 1 and the medal sensor 2 are both in the N state, and then an error occurs by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. Is released manually. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (7) Backup error

 FIG. 18 shows an example of a time chart when a backup error occurs. As shown in the figure, in the initialization process when the system reset is instructed, it is determined that a backup error has occurred when it is determined that the backup has not been executed normally.

 [0156] If it is determined that a knock-up error has occurred, error loop processing is executed and error code E. 7. is displayed on display 315A to switch the operating state to an abnormal state and to generate an error. Switch the signal to the ON state.

 [0157] Also, in the error loop process, instead of the initialization process, a cold start process is executed in which the power is turned off and the RAM contents are completely cleared and then restarted. The error is released manually by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door closing signal of the door sensor is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (8) Prize determination error

FIG. 19 shows an example of a time chart when a winning determination error occurs. As shown in the figure, when the rotation of all the Linore 350A, 350B, 350C is stopped based on the player's operation of the stop buttons 356A, 356B, 356C, the display is stopped on the active line of the display window 314. A winning determination is made as to whether or not the combination of symbols is a combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination by internal lottery. In the winning judgment, the combination power of symbols stopped on the effective line. If it is a combination of symbols according to the situation, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the winning judgment, it is determined that there is a winning judgment error, and the error code EE is displayed on the display unit 315A. Is switched to the abnormal state and the error signal is switched to the ON state.

 [0158] After that, the error is manually cleared by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door sensor door closing signal is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 (9) RAM data error error

 Figure 20 shows an example of a time chart when a RAM data error occurs. As shown in the figure, when a start lever 354 is operated by a player, the number of game medals inserted for the game started by the operation of the start lever 354 is checked. When the number of inserted sheets is other than 1 or 3, it is determined that an error has occurred in the RAM data, and a RAM data error is determined.

 [0159] On the other hand, according to the operation of the start lever 354, the time from the stop of the rotation of the reels 350A, 350B, 350C in the previous game is counted. 4. The time measured by the 1 second timer has elapsed 4.1 seconds The reels 350A, 350B, and 350C start to rotate after waiting to be turned off, and the display of the payout piece in the previous game displayed on the indicator 315A is turned off. Thereafter, the player's stop button 356A, 356B, 356C is operated (this base stops all the linole 350A, 350B, 350C rotations).

 [0160] At this time, error code EC is displayed on display unit 315A to indicate that a RAM data error has been detected when start lever 354 is operated, and the error signal is turned ON while the operating state is switched to an abnormal state. Switch to.

 [0161] After that, the error is manually cleared by pressing the setting change switch or closing the door. As a result, when a pressing signal of the setting change switch or a door sensor door closing signal is detected, the normal operation state is restored.

 [0162] The normal game flow of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment will be described below.

[0163] In the state where the medal is credited (or the medal is inserted from the medal insertion unit 320), the medal is operated by operating the single bet button 352A or the max bet button 352B. When the betting is completed by inserting the medal from the medal insertion unit 320 or the power to complete the betting of the lap, the start lever 354 can be operated.

[0164] When the start lever 354 is operated, the internal lottery force S is played by the lottery unit 180 at the same time as this operation, and the Linore 350A, 350B, 350C starts rotating.

 The result of the internal lottery is transmitted from the winning combination / symbol determination unit 1848 to the gaming state control unit 186. The gaming state control unit 186 updates and stores the state of the flag in the flag memory 192 according to the result of the internal lottery via the flag management control unit 190.

 [0166] Note that when a major player is elected by this internal lottery, stock information is updated according to the type of major actor (BB, RB). If no other major player is stocked as stock information when the stock information is updated, the number of RT games that can be awarded to the elected major player is set by lottery and the gaming state is changed to the RT game state. Set.

 [0167] After that, when the player operates the stop buttons 356A, 356B, 356C, the force to stop the rotation of the reels 350A, 350B, 350C by this stop operation is performed according to the flag stored in the flag memory 192. The stop control of the linole 350A, 350B, 350C is executed so that the corresponding symbol is drawn into the predetermined position and the tray is skipped from the predetermined position force. That is, the reel drive control unit 194 selects the stop control table according to the flag state stored in the flag memory 192 and the game state by the game state control unit 186, and the flag is established. In some cases, the winning symbol can be stopped by a precise timing. In addition, a slight shift in the stop operation timing is corrected by slip control. On the other hand, if the flag is not established, even if the target is pushed, the rotation of the linole 350A, 350B, 350C is caused to slip so that it does not stop at the winning symbol.

 [0168] Next, when all the linoles 350A, 350B, 350C force S are stopped, the winning determination is made based on the stopped symbols, and if the winning is made, the winning combination is determined.

[0169] If it is determined in this determination that the major player has won, the bonus game control of the big bonus (BB) or regular bonus (RB) is executed (exercise of rights) in accordance with the suspension pattern, If it is determined, the predetermined payout set in advance for the small role Control.

 [0170] In such a normal game flow, the above-described various errors are determined based on the output of each sensor and the like, and if it is determined to be an error, an error code corresponding to the error is displayed on the display unit 315A. The operating state is switched to an abnormal state, and the error signal sent to the hall computer 208 is turned on. This makes it possible for the hall computer 208 to grasp that an error has occurred.

 [0171] As described in detail above, according to the present embodiment, the display window 314 that can display the symbols in a variable manner is provided, and the internal lottery of the combination is performed based on the start operation by the start lever 354 of the player. At the same time, the symbols in the display window 314 are started to change, and the symbols are stopped based on the stop operation by the player's stop button 356A, 356B, 356C, and the symbol corresponding to the winning of the internal lottery is determined in advance. If the display window 314 is stopped and displayed in the displayed mode, the winning combination is won and a game corresponding to the winning combination is executed, and operation state information indicating a plurality of preset operation states is appropriately provided. When transmitting to the hall computer 208 via the external centralized terminal board 60, the abnormal state of the operating state is determined, and an error signal indicating the abnormal state is input to the external centralized terminal board 60 as one of the operational state information. As a result, it is possible to let an external device know the status of occurrence of abnormal operating conditions.

 [0172] Also, according to the present embodiment, when the operation state is determined to be abnormal, the operation state is switched to the abnormal state, so the game is continued ignoring the occurrence of the abnormality. By making it impossible to do so, damage can be kept to a minimum even if an abnormality occurs due to fraud.

 (Second embodiment)

 In the above embodiment, an explanation has been given of an embodiment in which an error signal that is in a state of N when it is determined as an error has been transmitted to the hall computer 208 via the external concentrating terminal board. However, in the second embodiment, an error is transmitted. In addition to an error signal (hereinafter referred to as error signal 1) that is turned ON when it is determined that the error signal 2 is detected, an error signal 2 indicating the type of error is further transmitted to the hall computer 208.

FIG. 21 shows the main board 110 via the external concentration terminal board 60 according to the second embodiment. 2 schematically shows a signal transmitted to Hall computer 208. FIG. Here, in the above embodiment, in order to further transmit the error signal 2, it is necessary to newly add a channel. However, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. No. and game medal payout signal are transmitted using one channel, so that error signal 1 and error signal 2 can be transmitted without adding channels.

 FIG. 22 shows an example of a time chart when a game medal insertion signal and a game medal payout signal are transmitted through a common channel.

 [0175] As shown in the figure, first, at timing A when the start lever is operated, a game medal insertion signal P having the number of pulses corresponding to the number of bets is input, and then the player's stop button 356A, Rinole 350A, 350B, 350C force S based on operation B of 356B, 356C S When a stop is made, a winning judgment is made, and if a winning combination is made, the number of game medals paid out according to the number of medals paid out Signal Q is input.

 [0176] As shown in the figure, the game medal insertion signal and the game medal payout signal have different periods and pulse widths, and the game medal insertion signal and the game medal payout signal are based on the pulse width and the cycle. Can be reliably identified.

 [0177] Next, FIGS. 23A to I show the state of the error signal 2 corresponding to each type of error. In the second embodiment, when an error occurs, the types of errors to be transmitted to the hall computer 208 are (1) a game medal backflow error described in the above embodiment, and (2) a payout medal. None error, (3) Payout medal clogged error, (4) Payout medal sensor error error, (5) Game medal over error, (6) Game medal retention error, (7) Backup error, (8) Prize determination error (9) RAM data error error is applied. Fig. 23A shows a game medal backflow error, Fig. 23B shows a payout medal no error, Fig. 23C shows a payout medal clogged error, and Fig. 23D shows a payout medal sensor error error. Fig. 23E shows a game medal over error, Fig. 23F shows a game medal retention error, Fig. 23G shows a backup error, Fig. 23H shows a winning judgment error, and Fig. 231 shows a RAM data error error. , Respectively.

[0178] As shown in the figure, depending on the type of error, the pulse width is changed in units of 5 ms and the period is changed in units of 10 ms, and the types of errors occurring based on the pulse width and period are different. It can be identified.

 FIG. 24 shows an example of a time chart of error signal 1 and error signal 2 from error occurrence to error cancellation. As shown in the figure, error signal 1 is turned on when an error occurs, and error signal 2 is turned on and off with a pulse width according to the type of error and a cycle according to the type of error. And repeat. As a result, the hole computer 208 can recognize the error that has occurred and the type of error that has occurred.

 [0180] When the error is released, the error signal 1 and the error signal 2 are turned off in synchronization with the error release. As a result, during error occurrence (period indicated by E in the figure), error signal 2 always indicates the state corresponding to the type of error, and it is also possible to measure the pulse width of multiple pulses or multiple cycles. In this case, the force S can be identified with certainty.

 [0181] As described in detail above, according to the second embodiment, two or more types of information are transmitted in a time-sharing manner from one terminal. More information than can be transmitted appropriately can be transmitted to the host computer 208. For example, even if an error signal is newly added to information to be transmitted by the external concentrated terminal board 60, even if the information to be transmitted becomes larger than the number of information that can be appropriately transmitted by the external concentrated terminal board 60, Communication is possible using the external concentration terminal board 60.

 [0182] Further, according to the second embodiment, the operation state information and the error signal are transmitted by the pulse signal, and the pulse width and the period of the pulse signal of each information to be transmitted are different from each other. Therefore, it is possible to easily analyze received information at the host computer 208. In addition, when multiple pieces of information are transmitted from one terminal in a time-sharing manner, the processing is simple and a complicated configuration is not required.

Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, a plurality of types of operation state errors are discriminated, and the presence / absence of the error discriminated as error signal 1 is determined as the error type discriminated as error signal 2. Is transmitted to the host computer 208, so that the host computer 208 can grasp a more detailed error occurrence state. [0184] In addition, by making it possible for the host computer 208 to grasp the detailed error occurrence status, it is possible to statistically analyze and manage the error occurrence, so early detection of defects in the pachislot machine 300 and the frequency of occurrence There is also an advantage that it is possible to discover a new causal relationship between anomalous abnormalities and fraud.

In this embodiment, in addition to the error information, information transmitted via the external concentration terminal board 60 includes a game medal insertion signal, a game medal payout signal, a regular bonus signal, a big bonus signal, and a re-game. Although a mode in which a signal is applied has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and information indicating an operating state may be set to be transmitted as appropriate.

 [0186] For example, in the model that performs the challenge time (CT) entry lottery at the end of the BB operation, when the CT is won in the entry lottery, it switches from the OFF state to the ON state, and switches to the OFF state when the CT operation ends. At the front of the gaming machine, a challenge time (CT) signal, a medal payout signal that switches from OFF to ON when the hopper sensor and hopper motor in the gaming machine are driven, and switches to OFF when the hopper motor is driven. When the door is opened, it switches from the OFF state to the ON state, and when the door is closed, the door signal switches to the OFF state.When the setting key switch is turned ON, the setting key switch is switched from the OFF state to the ON state, and the setting key switch is turned OFF. When the setting key signal that switches to the OFF state and the power is turned on, the state becomes 0N and the power is turned off. There is a power-on signal, etc. that switches to the OFF state when

 [0187] Furthermore, the configuration of the pachislot machine according to the present embodiment (see Figs. 1 to 5 and 21) and the flow of each process are examples, and it goes without saying that they can be changed as appropriate.

 [0188] For example, in the present embodiment, the form in which the present invention is applied to a stock machine in which the winning time by the internal lottery's internal lottery and the release time are different from each other has been described. In addition, the present invention can also be applied to models that can be awarded to major players.

 [0189] Further, it may be configured to further include an informing means for informing information relating to subsequent correspondence on the hall side when it is determined that the operation state is abnormal.

[0190] For example, as a response on the hall side, the fact that an error has occurred is sent to the hall computer Information is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 313, indicating that it is in the middle or that the clerk is right now, or informed by voice reproduction through the speakers 305L and 305R.

[0191] As a result, when an abnormality occurs due to an illegal act, it is possible to prevent the illegal act from being continued or to be carried out in the future.

 Industrial applicability

[0192] It can be used for a gaming machine such as a slot machine that uses medals, coins, gaming balls, etc. as a game medium. When transmitting to the communication device, the abnormality of the operation state is determined, and the abnormality information indicating the abnormality determination state based on the determination is input to the communication device as one of the operation state information. It is possible to identify an abnormality on the main unit and let the external device know the result (occurrence of abnormal operation state).

 Explanation of symbols

[0193] 50 connectors

 60 External concentration terminal board (communication means)

 100 Main control unit (discriminating means, input means, switching means)

 110 Main control circuit, main board

 150 Sub-control unit

 186 Game state controller

 186B RT setting section

 188 Game program memory

 190 Flag management control unit

 192 Flag memory

 194 Reel drive controller

 208 Host computer (external device)

 212 islands

 214 Bus

 300 pachislot machine

305L, 305R (notification means) 313 Liquid crystal display (notification means)

314 Display window (display means)

315A display

 352A single bet button

 352B Max Bet button

354 Start lever

 350A, 350B, 350C Ginole

356A, 356B, 356C Stop button

Claims

The scope of the claims

 [1] It has display means capable of variably displaying symbols, performs a lottery drawing based on the player's starting operation, starts symbol variation on the display means, and then performs the above-mentioned based on the player's stop operation A game corresponding to the winning combination when winning the winning combination when the symbol corresponding to the winning combination of the winning lottery is stopped and displayed on the display means in a predetermined display mode. A game machine that appropriately transmits operation state information indicating a plurality of preset operation states to an external device through communication means, and a determination unit that determines abnormality of the operation state;

 Input means for inputting abnormality information indicating an abnormality determination state by the determination means to the communication means as one of the operation state information;

 A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising a switching unit that switches the operation state to an abnormal state when the operation unit determines that the operation state is abnormal.

 [3] The game according to claim 2, wherein the abnormal state is at least one of setting an error signal to N, notifying that an abnormality has occurred, and prohibiting the progress of the game. Machine.

 [4] Claims 1 to characterized by further comprising notifying means for notifying information relating to subsequent handling on the hall side when the operating state is determined to be abnormal by the determining means. The gaming machine according to claim 3.

 5. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the communication means transmits two or more types of information in a time-sharing manner.

 6. The communication means transmits the operation state information and the abnormality information by a pulse signal, and changes a pulse width and a period of a pulse signal of each information to be transmitted. The game machine according to any one of claims 5 to 6.

 [7] The discriminating unit discriminates an abnormality in a plurality of types of operation states,

The communication means transmits the abnormality information determined by the determination means and the type of abnormality determined by the determination means to the external device as the abnormality information. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

[8] Insertion means for inserting medals used in the game;

 Insertion operation detecting means for detecting movement of medals in the insertion means, and

 The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the determination unit determines an abnormality in the operation state based on a detection result of the movement of the medal by the insertion detection unit.

 [9] The insertion operation detection means includes a first medal detection element disposed at a position where a medal passing through a predetermined passage route in the insertion means can be detected, and the first medal on the passage route. 9. The gaming machine according to claim 8, comprising a second medal detection element provided downstream of the position where the detection element is disposed.

 [10] The determining means may determine that the operating state is abnormal when a medal is detected before the first medal detecting element in the second detecting element. 9. The gaming machine described in 9.

 [11] When the medal is no longer detected by the second medal detection element while the medal is continuously detected by the first medal detection element, the determination means has an abnormal operation state. 10. The gaming machine according to claim 9, wherein it is determined that there is a game machine.

 [12] In at least one of the first detection element and the second detection element, when a medal is continuously detected for a predetermined period or longer, it is determined that the operation state is abnormal. The gaming machine according to claim 9.

 [13] The apparatus further comprises a medal blocker provided along the passage route in the throwing means, normally retracted from the passage route, and appropriately moved in and out of the passage route to prohibit the passage of the medal,

 13. The game according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein when the operation state is determined to be abnormal by the determination means, the medal-blowing force is allowed to appear and disappear in the passage route to prohibit the progress of the game. 1. A gaming machine according to item 1.

[14] Storage means for storing medals inserted through the input means;

A payout means for appropriately paying out medals stored in the storage means; A payout detecting means for detecting medals paid out by the payout means;

 Further comprising

 The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the determination unit determines an abnormality in the operation state based on a medal detection result by the payout detection unit.

 [15] The claim 14, wherein the operation state is determined to be abnormal when a state in which no medal is detected for a predetermined period or longer by the payout detection means continues during the operation of the payout means. Game machines.

 16. The gaming machine according to claim 14, wherein when the medal is continuously detected for a predetermined period or longer by the payout detecting means, the operation state is determined to be abnormal.

17. The operation state is determined to be abnormal when a medal is continuously detected for a predetermined period or more by the payout detection means, even though the payout means is not in operation. 14. A gaming machine according to 14.

[18] The apparatus further comprises overflow detection means for detecting a spilled spill from the storage means when the storage means is filled with medals,

 2. The overflow detection means determines that the operation state is abnormal when a medal is detected continuously for a predetermined period or longer.

8. The gaming machine according to any one of 7 above.