JP6674731B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine capable of performing a predetermined game.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium, which is a game medium, is fired into a game area by a launch device, and when a game ball wins a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying (also referred to as “fluctuations”) the identification information is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a specific display result on the variable display device, a game state (game The state of the machine, and, specifically, the state in which the gaming machine is controlled.) Is provided so as to give a predetermined game value to the player.

  Note that the game value is a right to make the state of the variable prize ball device provided in the game area of the gaming machine advantageous for a player who is likely to win a hit ball, or to be in a state advantageous for the player. Or a condition in which the conditions for paying out prize balls are easily satisfied.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, a predetermined specific display mode is derived and displayed as a display result of a variable display of a special symbol (identification information) started on the variable display device based on a winning of a game ball in a starting winning opening. When this is done, a "big hit" occurs. Note that the derived display is to finally stop and display the symbol (final stop symbol). When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the state shifts to a big hit game state in which a hit ball is easy to win. Then, in each open period, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning prizes is won, the winning prize opening is closed. The number of opening of the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and if the opening time elapses even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the winning opening is closed. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round. A game in a round may be called a round game.

  Further, in the variable display device, a symbol other than a symbol which is a final stop symbol (for example, a middle symbol among the left, middle, and right symbols) is continuously stopped for a predetermined period of time and stops and swings in a state where the symbol matches a specific display result. It is possible for a big hit to occur before the final result is displayed due to movement, enlargement / reduction or deformation, or when multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously with the same symbol, or when the position of the displayed symbol is switched, etc. An effect performed in a state in which sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as a reach state) is referred to as a reach effect. The reach state and the state thereof are referred to as a reach mode. Further, a variable display including a reach effect is called a reach variable display. Then, if the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, the result is “missing” and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In such a gaming machine, there is a gaming machine configured to detect an error relating to a game and output error information. For example, Patent Literature 1 includes a winning ball detector that detects a game ball that has entered a winning opening, and determines the number of game balls that are continuously detected by the winning ball detector within a predetermined time that is set in advance. It is described that an alarm operation is performed when the measured and measured number of game balls is equal to or more than a predetermined number exceeding the number corresponding to the frequency of game balls entering the winning device.

JP 2011-167406 A

  According to the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, it is determined whether or not the winning of the game ball is due to cheating, and when it is determined that the winning is due to cheating, an electric decoration device such as a decorative lamp is completely installed. By flashing or generating an alarm sound from the speaker, the fact can be notified. However, Patent Literature 1 does not describe a process in a case where an illegal act is simultaneously performed on a plurality of winning detection units. That is, in the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, when error information is output based on the occurrence of an error in one of the prize detecting means and an error also occurs in the other prize detecting means. It is conceivable that error information is not output based on the occurrence of an error in other winning detection means.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can output error information based on the occurrence of a new error even when a new error occurs while outputting the error information. And

(Means 1) In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a first winning area (for example, starting winning opening, large winning opening, winning opening, gate 32) and a second winning area (for example, starting winning opening, large winning opening, winning opening). , A gate 32), and a first detecting means (for example, a start-up switch 14a or a counter) provided in the first winning area for detecting that the game medium has passed through the first winning area. Switch 23, winning opening switches 29a, 30a, gate switch 32a) and second detecting means (for example, starting opening switch 14a) provided in the second winning area for detecting that the game medium has passed through the second winning area. , The count switch 23, the winning opening switches 29a and 30a, and the gate switch 32a) and a first monitoring period (a monitoring period shown in FIG. 15) from the time when the first detecting means detects the passage of the game medium. Until the first detecting means counts the number of times the first detecting means detects the passage of the game medium again (for example, the processing of steps S2507 and S2508 of the starting port switch determining processing (step S259a) by the CPU 56 is executed). Part), and the number of times the second detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium again until the second monitoring period (the monitoring period shown in FIG. 15) elapses from the time when the second detecting means detects the passing of the game medium. (For example, a portion corresponding to steps S2507 and S2508 of the start-up opening switch determination process (step S259a) in the winning opening switch determination process (step S259b) performed by the CPU 56) and the first counting process. A first error determination step for determining that an error has occurred when the number of times counted by the means has reached a predetermined number; (For example, an error occurs when the number of times counted by the second counting means reaches a predetermined number) (for example, a portion where the processes of steps S2511 and S2512 of the start-up switch determination process (step S259a) are executed by the CPU 56). (E.g., a portion of the winning opening switch determination process (step S259b) executed by the CPU 56 in which the processes corresponding to steps S2511 and S2512 of the start opening switch determination process (step S259a) are executed) and the radio wave (E.g., the radio sensor 61) for detecting an error, and radio sensor error determination means (e.g., the CPU 56 determines in steps S264 and S265 that a radio sensor error has occurred when a radio wave is detected by the radio sensor). Where the processing of A predetermined error is determined when at least one of the first error determination unit and the second error determination unit determines that an error has occurred, and when the wireless sensor error determination unit determines that a radio sensor error has occurred. An error information output unit that outputs information (security signal) (for example, a part where the processing of steps S1004 to S1015 of the information output process is executed by the CPU 56), and the error information output unit includes: a first error determination unit; When it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the second error determination unit and the common output unit (for example, the connector CN8 provided on the terminal board 160), a predetermined output period (for example, 0) is used. .2 seconds) and outputs error information based on the determination by the first error determination means. Output error information and output error information based on the determination by the second error determination means, output error information over different output periods, and output the error information based on the determination by the first error determination means. when the error by the second error determining means in the output period has is determined to have occurred, passed output period, by using a common output means after a lapse of a further predetermined waiting period, the second Error information is output over an output period corresponding to a case where an error has been determined to have occurred by the error determination means (for example, a portion where the processing of steps S1004 to S1015 of the information output processing is performed by the CPU 56), and the first counting means , when the number of times counted is determined that the error has occurred by the first error determination means based on the fact that a predetermined number of times , The number of times counted is initialized (e.g., part of the processing of step S2513 is executed by the CPU 56), whenever the state of the first detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium is continued for a predetermined period of time, a continuous error detection A first continuous detection error determining unit that determines that a continuous detection error has occurred, and a second continuous detection that determines that a continuous detection error has occurred each time a state in which the second detecting unit detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period. Each time at least one of the error determination means, the first continuous detection error determination means, and the second continuous detection error determination means determines that a continuous detection error has occurred, the common output means is used for a continuous period of time. An error is generated by at least one of the continuous detection error information output means for outputting detection error information , the first error determination means, and the second error determination means. When it is determined that a continuous detection error has occurred, or when it is determined that a continuous detection error has occurred by at least one of the first continuous detection error determination unit and the second continuous detection error determination unit, the notification effect can be executed. And a continuation detection error information output unit, wherein the continuation detection error information output unit outputs the continuation detection error information based on the determination of the first continuation detection error determination unit and the continuation detection error information determination unit determines whether the continuation detection error information is to be output. When the continuous detection error information is output, the continuous detection error information is output over different specific periods, the error information is output by the error information output means, and the continuous detection error information is output by the continuous detection error information output means. the output period information is output, different, and outputs the error information error information output means with a common output means When at least continuous detection errors by one of the first continuous detection error determination means and the second continuous detection error determining means is determined to have occurred in one output period, continuous error detection information output means, said first After the output period has elapsed, and further after the first standby period has elapsed, the continuous detection error information is output using a common output unit, and the continuous detection error information output unit outputs the continuous detection error information using the common output unit. When it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the first error determination unit and the second error determination unit during the output second output period, the error information output unit outputs the second information. An output period has elapsed, and after a second standby period different from the first standby period has elapsed, error information is output using the common output unit. Is capable restrict execution of knowledge effect, it does not limit the execution of the notification effect when power supply to the gaming machine is started, characterized in that.
With such a configuration, even when a new error occurs while outputting the error information, the error information based on the occurrence of the new error can be output using the common output unit.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the error information output means may be configured to output the error information over a common output period regardless of which error judgment means has determined that an error has occurred. .
According to such a configuration, since the output period is common, a process for outputting error information can be shared.

(Means 3) In the means (1) or (2), when the state in which the first detecting means detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period, the first continuous detecting error determining means for determining that a continuous detecting error has occurred. (For example, a part where the processing of steps S2502 to S2506 of the start-up opening switch determination processing is executed by the CPU 56) and when the state in which the second detecting means detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period, the continuous detection is performed. A second continuation detection error determination unit that determines that an error has occurred (for example, a portion in which a process corresponding to steps S2502 to S2506 of the start-up opening switch determination process is performed by the CPU 56 in the winning opening switch determination process); When it is determined that a continuous detection error has occurred by the detection error determination unit or the second continuous detection error determination unit And a continuous detection error information output unit that outputs the continuous detection error information over a specific period by using a common output unit (for example, a part where the processes of steps S1004 to S1015 of the information output process are executed by the CPU 56). It may be configured.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to detect the occurrence of ball clogging in the winning area.

(Means 4) In the means 3, the error information output means may determine that an error has occurred by the error determination means within a specific period during which the continuous detection error information output means outputs the continuous detection error information using the common output means. If it is determined, the specific period elapses, and after the specific standby period elapses, error information is output using a common output unit, and the continuous detection error information output unit has a common error information output unit. If the continuous detection error determination unit determines that a continuous detection error has occurred during the output period in which the error information is output using the output unit, the output period has elapsed, and the specific standby period has elapsed. Subsequently, the continuous detection error information is output using a common output unit (for example, the CPU 56 performs the start-up opening switch determination process in the winning opening switch determination process). Partial process corresponding to-up S2502~S2506 is performed: FIG. 20 (A) refer) may be configured so.
According to such a configuration, when it is determined that an error has occurred by the error determination unit within a specific period during which the continuous detection error information output unit outputs the continuous detection error information, or when the error information output unit outputs the error information. Even if the continuous detection error determination unit determines that a continuous detection error has occurred during the output period during which the error is output, the common output unit can be used to output the error information or the continuous detection error information. it can.

(Means 5) In the means 1 to 4, a game machine capable of performing a predetermined game, a game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game, and a game control means An effect control means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100) for controlling the effect means (for example, the effect display device 9 and the speaker 27) in accordance with the command output by the user, and an operation means (for example, the operation button 120). In addition, when it is determined that a predetermined error has occurred (for example, when it is determined that an error has occurred in step S23 or step S24), the effect control unit executes the error notification using the effect unit. Error notification executing means (for example, executing steps S3004 and S3005 in the effect control microcomputer 100) And setting means for setting whether or not to limit the execution of the error notification (for example, a part for executing steps S701 to S704 and S750 to S757 in the effect control microcomputer 100). Setting is performed so as to limit the execution of error notification when a predetermined operation is performed by the operating means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S753 to S757 when Y is determined in step S750), When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the execution of the error notification is set so as not to be restricted (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 does not back up the power of the RAM and executes the initialization process of step S701). This clears the error notification prohibition flag, and proceeds to step S70 In the error volume setting value is set to the maximum value) may be configured so.
According to such a configuration, even if the user has forgotten to set the execution of the error notification to be restricted, it is possible to prevent an illegal act from being overlooked.

(Means 6) In the means 5, the error information output means may generate an error by the first error judgment means or the second error judgment means irrespective of the setting state of whether or not to limit the execution of the error notification by the setting means. It may be configured to output error information when it is determined that
According to such a configuration, error information can be output irrespective of whether the execution of the error notification is set to be restricted or not, so that illegal acts can be prevented.

(Means 7) In the means 5 or 6, at least a game control board (for example, a game control board (main board) 31) on which a game control means is mounted or an effect control board (for example, an effect control board 80) mounted with effect control means ) Is equipped with a notifying means (for example, error notification LEDs 31A and 80A) for performing a predetermined notification, and uses the notifying means when it is determined that a predetermined error has occurred. (For example, a part that executes step S262 in the game control microcomputer 560 that executes the error notification (for example, turns on the error notification LEDs 31A and 80A). It executes step S3002 in the effect control microcomputer 100. ), And the predetermined notification execution means controls execution of error notification by the setting means. Regardless of the setting state of whether or not to execute, the predetermined notification is executed when it is determined that the predetermined error has occurred (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 particularly sets the restriction on the execution of the error notification. Step S262 is performed without performing the process and without being restricted by whether or not the execution of the error notification is limited on the side of the effect control microcomputer 100. The effect control microcomputer 100 sets the error notification prohibition flag Step S3002 is executed without being limited by the presence or absence of the error sound volume setting value.).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that an error has occurred by checking the game control board or the effect control board, regardless of whether or not the execution of the error notification is set to be restricted. Therefore, fraudulent acts can be prevented.

(Means 8) In any one of the means 1 to 7, a specific notification (for example, on the condition that the setting of the error notification is not restricted by the setting means when the power supply to the gaming machine is started) 24 (1), a power supply start notification unit (for example, a part for executing step S703 in the effect control microcomputer 100) for executing the error notification restriction release screen shown in FIG. 24 (1). Is also good.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that the execution of the error notification is not restricted when the power supply to the gaming machine is started.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko gaming machine from the front. It is a front view showing the front of a game board. It is the rear view which looked at the gaming machine from the back. It is a block diagram showing an example of composition of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the example of a circuit structure of a relay board, an effect control board, a lamp driver board, and a sound output board. It is an explanatory view showing an example of bit allocation of an output port in game control means. It is an explanatory view showing an example of bit allocation of an input port in game control means. FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a terminal board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4ms timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flow chart which shows abnormal winning judgment processing. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch determination process. It is an explanatory view showing a monitoring time determined for each switch type. It is a flowchart which shows a sensor error determination process. It is a block diagram showing various signals outputted to a terminal board. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing output timing of a security signal. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing output timing of a security signal. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for effect control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an error notification restriction setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an error notification process. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for describing a display example of an error notification restriction release screen and an error notification restriction setting screen. It is a flowchart which shows the modification of a starting port switch determination processing. It is a flowchart which shows the modification of an information output process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing the front of the gaming board.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape and provided in a game frame so as to be openable and closable. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be freely openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanical components and the like are attached, and various components attached to them (excluding a game board described later). And a structure including:

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a hit ball supply tray (upper tray) 3. A surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing game balls are provided below the hit ball supply tray 3. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure that includes a plate-like body constituting the board and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front of the game board 6.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, an effect display device (decorative design display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each of which variably displays a decorative design for effect (effect design) is provided. The effect display device 9 has, for example, three variable display sections (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The effect display device 9 variably displays an effect symbol as a decorative (effect) symbol during a special symbol variable display period by the special symbol indicator 8. The effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on an effect control board.

  At the lower part of the effect display device 9, there are provided four special symbol hold storage displays 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls in the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start winning memory). ing. The special symbol reservation storage display 18 displays up to four reservation storage numbers in the order of winning. The special symbol hold storage display 18 increases the number of lighted LEDs by one each time the start winning port 14 has a start winning. Then, each time the special symbol display 8 starts the variable display on the special symbol display 8, the special symbol holding storage display 18 reduces the number of LEDs in the lighting state by one (ie, turns off one LED). Specifically, the special symbol holding storage display 18 shifts the lighting state each time the special symbol display 8 starts variable display. In this example, the upper limit number (up to four) is provided for the number of start storages by winning in the start winning port 14, but the upper limit number may be four or more.

  Above the effect display device 9, a special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 for variably displaying a special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, a 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers from 0 to 9, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display more types of numbers such as 0 to 99 in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. The effect display device 9 variably displays an effect symbol as a decorative (effect) symbol during the variable period of the special symbol displayed by the special symbol indicator 8.

  Below the effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 forming a starting winning opening 14 is provided. The variable prize ball device 15 is configured to be able to open and close the wings. When the wings are open, the game ball is in a state where it is easy to win (open state), and when the wings are not open (closed). The game ball is in a state where it is difficult to win (closed state). The winning ball that has entered the starting winning port 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6, and is detected by the starting port switch 14a (for example, a proximity switch). Further, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16. Note that a first starting winning port may be provided directly above the variable winning ball apparatus 15, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be used as a second starting winning port.

  Below the variable prize ball device 15, a special variable prize ball device 20 using an open / close plate controlled to be opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific game state (big hit state) is provided. The special variable winning ball device 20 is means for opening and closing a special winning opening. A winning ball that has won the special variable winning ball device 20 and has been guided to the back of the game board 6 is detected by a count switch 23 (for example, a proximity switch).

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the display of the ordinary symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, the variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (the symbols become visible when lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. In the vicinity of the ordinary symbol display 10, an ordinary symbol start storage display 41 having a display unit of four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls passing through the gate 32 is provided. Each time a game ball passes through the gate 32, the symbol start storage display 41 normally increases the number of lit LEDs by one. Then, every time the variable display of the ordinary symbol display 10 is started, the number of the lighted LEDs is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports 29, 30. Winning of the gaming balls into the winning ports 29, 30 is detected by winning port switches 29a, 30a (for example, proximity switches), respectively.

  Each of the winning ports 29 and 30 constitutes a winning area provided on the game board 6 as an area for receiving a game medium and allowing a winning. The start winning port 14 and the big winning port also constitute a winning area in which a game medium is accepted and a winning is allowed. It should be noted that instead of detecting the game balls that have won each of the winning ports 29 and 30 with the winning switch, a configuration may be used in which the detection switches detect that the game balls have passed through a predetermined area (for example, a gate). Decorative lamps 25 that blink during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and the lower part has an out port 26 for absorbing game balls that have not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided at upper left and right sides outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7. Further, decorative LEDs are installed around each structure (such as a special winning opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative illuminant provided in the gaming machine. Note that, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which a light emitting body provided in a game machine is configured using a lamp or an LED. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in this embodiment. All the light-emitting bodies provided may be configured using LEDs.

  Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a prize ball lamp that is lit during payout of the prize ball is provided near the left frame lamp 28 b, and a supply ball is provided near the top frame lamp 28 a. A cut-out lamp that lights up when cut out is provided. The prize ball lamp and the ball cut lamp are controlled to be turned on by the effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board when the prize ball is being paid out or when the ball is cut. Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter, referred to as “card unit”) 50 that enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card is provided adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The card unit 50 includes, for example, an availability indicator lamp indicating whether or not the card is in a usable state, a connection board direction indicator indicating which side the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponds to, and a card unit. When checking the card insertion indicator lamp indicating that a card is inserted in the card, the card insertion slot where the card as a recording medium is inserted, and the mechanism of the card reader / writer provided on the back of the card insertion slot. A card unit lock for releasing the card unit is provided.

  A game ball fired from the hitting ball firing device by the operation of the player enters the game area 7 through the hitting rail, and then descends from the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) on the special symbol display 8 if the symbol variable display can be started. If it is not in a state where the variable display of the symbol can be started, the number of reserved storages is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the special symbol at the time of stop (stop symbol) is a big hit symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a big hit game state. That is, the special variable prize ball device 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls are won. The opening of the special variable winning prize ball device 20 is allowed up to the last round of the determined number of rounds (for example, up to 15 rounds).

  When the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 at the time of stoppage is a big hit symbol (probable change symbol) with a probability change, the probability of the next big hit increases. In other words, a more favorable state for the player, that is, a probable change state.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32, a normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 10. In addition, when the stop symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time.

  An operation button 120 as an operation means operable by a player is provided in a member constituting the hit ball supply tray 3. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that allows a player to perform a pressing operation. In addition, the operation button 120 is provided not only with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player, but also with a dial that can be rotated by the player. The player can make a predetermined selection (for example, selection of an effect) by rotating the dial.

  Further, in this embodiment, a radio wave sensor 61 is provided on the back surface of the area where the starting winning opening 14 and the big winning opening are provided in the game area 7. In this embodiment, a magnet sensor 62 is provided on the back of a predetermined area of the game area 7. Note that the number and arrangement of the radio wave sensors 61 and the magnet sensors 62 shown in FIG. 1 are merely examples, and the radio wave sensors 61 and the magnet sensors 62 may be arranged in various numbers and positions depending on the configuration of the game area 7 and the like. Good. For example, the radio wave sensor 61 and the magnet sensor 62 are provided on the back of the gaming machine (for example, on the back position corresponding to the winning opening, on the effect control board or the game control board), and not on the surface of the gaming machine or the game machine board. It may be provided on a frame. As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the provision of the radio wave sensor 61 makes it possible to detect an act of incorrectly erroneously detecting a winning using radio waves, and the magnet sensor 62 is provided. This makes it possible to detect an act of illegally guiding a game ball to a winning opening using a magnet.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a back view of the gaming machine as viewed from the back. As shown in FIG. 3, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a variable display control unit including an effect control board 80 on which an effect control microcomputer 100 for controlling the effect display device 9 is mounted, a game control microcomputer, and the like. Various boards such as a mounted game control board (main board) 31, a sound output board 70, a lamp driver board 35, and a payout control board 37 mounted with a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control are installed. I have. The game control board 31 is stored in the board storage case 200. The effect control board 80 and the game control board (main board) 31 are provided with error notification LEDs 80A and 31A, respectively, so as to be visible when viewed from the back side.

  Further, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, there are provided a power supply board 910 and a touch sensor board 91 on which a power supply circuit for generating various power supply voltages such as DC30V, DC21V, DC12V and DC5V is mounted. The power supply board 910 is supplied with the game control board 31 and each electric component control board (effect control board 80 and payout control board 37) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and each electric component (electric power) provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. A power switch as a power supply permitting means for executing or interrupting power supply to a component which operates by performing the operation, a clear switch for clearing the RAM 55 of the game control microcomputer 560 of the game control board 31 are provided. ing. Further, a replaceable fuse is provided inside the power switch (inside the substrate).

  In this embodiment, the main board 31 is provided on the game board side, and the payout control board 37 is provided on the game frame side. Even with such a configuration, as described later, communication between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is performed by serial communication, thereby facilitating the routing of wiring when replacing the game board. .

  Note that control means including a control microcomputer is mounted on each control board. The control means is an electric component (game device: ball dispensing device 97, effect display device 9, light emitting device such as lamp or LED) provided in the game machine in accordance with a command signal (control signal) as a command from the game control device or the like. Body, speaker 27, etc.). Hereinafter, the description may include the main board 31 included in the control board. In that case, the control means mounted on the control board indicates a game control means and a means for controlling an electric component provided in the gaming machine in accordance with a command signal from the game control means or the like. A board other than the main board 31 on which a microcomputer is mounted may be called a sub-board. Note that the ball payout device 97 is a device for paying out a game ball guided by a passage guiding a game ball and a sprocket driven by a stepping motor or the like to an upper plate or a lower plate, and the ball is paid out. A payout number counting switch for counting award balls and lending balls is also configured as a part of the unit. In this embodiment, the payout detecting means is realized by the payout number count switch 301, and has a function of detecting that a prize ball or a loaned ball is actually paid out from the ball payout device 97. In this case, the payout number count switch 301 outputs a detection signal each time a payout of a prize ball or a loaned ball is detected.

  On the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a terminal board 160 having terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed. On the terminal board 160, for example, information output signals such as jackpot information indicating occurrence of a jackpot game state (symbol determination frequency 1 signal, start port signal, jackpot 1 signal, jackpot 2 signal, jackpot 3 signal, time signal shown in FIG. 17) An information output terminal for externally outputting a short signal, a winning signal, a security signal, a high-accuracy medium signal, and prize ball information is provided.

  The game balls stored in the storage tank 38 pass through a guide rail (not shown), pass through a curve gutter, and reach a ball dispensing device 97 covered with a dispensing case 40A. Above the ball payout device 97, a ball out switch 187 is provided as a game medium out detecting means. When the ball-out switch 187 detects the ball-out, the payout operation of the ball payout device 97 stops. The ball-out switch 187 is a switch that detects the presence or absence of a game ball in the game-ball passage. The ball-out switch 167 that detects the shortage of replenishment balls in the storage tank 38 is also provided at an upstream portion (in the storage tank 38) of the guide rail. (Adjacent portion). When the ball out detection switch 167 detects a shortage of game balls, the supply mechanism provided on the game machine installation island supplies the pachinko game machine 1 with game balls.

  When a large number of game balls as a prize based on a prize or game balls based on a ball lending request are paid out and the hit ball supply tray 3 becomes full, the game balls are led to the surplus ball tray 4 via the surplus ball guide path. Further, when the game balls are paid out, the sensing lever (not shown) presses the full state switch as the storage state detecting means, and the full state switch as the storage state detecting means is turned on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device stops, the operation of the ball payout device stops, and the driving of the hit ball firing device also stops.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 4 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. On the main board 31, a game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a control clock generation circuit 111, and a random number clock generation circuit 112 are mounted. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to include at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be externally or internally provided. Further, the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. Further, a random number circuit 509 for generating a hardware random number (a random number generated by a hardware circuit) is incorporated.

  Here, the control clock generation circuit 111 generates a control clock CCLK which is an oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency outside the game control microcomputer 560. The control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111 is supplied to the clock circuit 502 via a control external clock terminal EXC of the game control microcomputer 560, for example. The random number clock generation circuit 112 generates a random number clock RCLK, which is an oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency different from the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK, outside the game control microcomputer 560. The random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 is supplied to the random number circuit 509 via a random number external clock terminal ERC of the game control microcomputer 560, for example. As an example, the oscillation frequency of the random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 may be lower than the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111. Alternatively, the oscillation frequency of the random number clock RCLK generated by the random number clock generation circuit 112 may be higher than the oscillation frequency of the control clock CCLK generated by the control clock generation circuit 111.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) hereinafter executes (or performs processing). Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to the microcomputer mounted on a board other than the main board 31.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads out numerical data as random R from the random number circuit 509 when a start winning is generated in the starting port switch 14a, and at the time of starting the change of the special symbol and the effect symbol, a specific display is performed based on the random R. It is determined whether or not to display the big hit as a result, that is, whether or not to make a big hit. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, the game state is shifted to a big hit game state as a specific game state advantageous to the player.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a built-in serial communication circuit 511 for inputting / outputting (transmitting / receiving) signals by serial communication with the payout control board 37 (payout control microcomputer 370). The payout control microcomputer 370 also has a built-in serial communication circuit for inputting and outputting signals to and from the game control microcomputer 560 through serial communication.

  In this embodiment, a case is described in which serial communication is performed between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370. However, a serial communication circuit is also mounted on the effect control board 80 side. Then, the game control microcomputer 560 may perform control to transmit an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 using a serial communication method.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM serving as a non-volatile storage unit, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on a power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 are preserved for a predetermined period (until the backup power supply becomes incapable of discharging the capacitor as the backup power supply). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (a special symbol process flag, a value of a reserved storage number counter for counting the retained storage number, and the like) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls ( Specifically, the value of the award ball command output counter described later) is stored in the backup RAM. The data according to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restarting the game based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like. In addition, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating a progress state of the game. In this embodiment, the backup RAM also stores a magnetic abnormality flag indicating that a magnetic abnormality described later has been detected, and a security signal information timer used to output a security signal.

  A reset signal from a power supply board is input to a reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit that generates a reset signal to be supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal goes high, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like enter an operable state, and when the reset signal goes low the game control microcomputer 560 and the like enter an operation stop state. Therefore, during the period when the reset signal is at the high level, an allowance signal allowing the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is output, and during the period when the reset signal is at the low level, the game control microcomputer This means that the operation stop signal for stopping the operation such as 560 is output. The reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric components is mounted).

  Further, an input port of the game control microcomputer 560 receives a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value. That is, the power supply board monitors a voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). Power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that the power-off signal is detected. Instead of mounting the power supply monitoring circuit on the power supply board, the power supply monitoring circuit may be mounted on a board (for example, the main board 31) that is backed up by a backup power supply. Further, a clear signal (not shown) indicating that a clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to an input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  In addition, a gate switch 32a, a starting port switch 14a, a count switch 23, and an input driver circuit 58 for providing detection signals from the winning port switches 29a and 30a to the basic circuit 53 are also mounted on the main board 31, and the variable winning ball device 15 is provided. And an output circuit 59 for driving a solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable prize ball device in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53, and resets the game control microcomputer 560 when the power is turned on. Output circuit 64 for outputting an information output signal such as a jackpot information indicating occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer via a terminal board 160. Are also mounted on the main board 31.

  The game control microcomputer 560 includes a special symbol display 8 for variably displaying a special symbol, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying a normal symbol, a special symbol hold storage display 18 and a normal symbol hold storage display 41. Perform display control. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 controls the lighting of the error notification LED 31A.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (comprising an effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 transmits an effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. It receives and controls the display of the effect display device 9 that variably displays the effect symbols.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 5, a microcomputer is not mounted on the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, but a microcomputer may be mounted. Further, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information about effects such as effect symbol process flags. Note that the RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the effect control microcomputer 100 is not backed up by a power supply. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates according to a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal (from the main board 31) input via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received via an input driver and an input port (not shown) according to the effect control INT signal). Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the effect control microcomputer 100, and maps the VRAM there. The VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs a command for reading necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) to the VDP 109 in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM previously stores character image data and moving image data to be displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, data of persons, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including effect designs), and background image data. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in accordance with a command from the effect control CPU 101. Then, the VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  Further, effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving a lamp to lamp driver board 35 via output port 105. The effect control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The lamp driver 352 supplies a current to the light-emitting members provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c based on a signal for driving the lamp. In addition, a current is supplied to the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates a voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs to the speaker 27 an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the audio synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706. The sound data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating a sound effect or a sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a fluctuation period of the effect symbol).

  The effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 106 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player. The effect control CPU 101 controls the lighting of the error notification LED 80A via the output port 105.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of output port assignment in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 6, a payout control signal (a connection signal in this example) transmitted to the payout control board 37 is output from the output port 0. Further, a solenoid (large winning opening door solenoid) 21 for opening and closing a variable winning ball device 20 for opening and closing the large winning opening, and a solenoid (ordinary electric accessory solenoid) 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 for opening and closing. The signal is also output from output port 0. The output port 0 also outputs a high-probability signal among signals output to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via the terminal board 160.

  Note that a logic (for example, 0 is in an on state) opposite to the “logic” (for example, 1 is in an on state) shown in FIG. 6 may be used. In particular, regarding the connection signal, the main board 31 and the payout control board are used. "Logic" is determined so that the payout control microcomputer 370 always detects an off state when a disconnection occurs in a signal line between the signal line 37 and a cable disconnection (including a cable not connected). . Specifically, in general, when a disconnection or disconnection of a cable occurs, a high level is detected on the signal receiving side, so that the high level on the signal line between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is changed to a game control means. "Logic" is determined so that the output port is turned off at the output port. Therefore, if necessary, an output buffer circuit for logically inverting a signal is provided outside the output port on the main board 31.

  Then, from the output port 1 to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via the terminal board 160 to an external device (for example, a hall computer), various information output signals, that is, information relating to control (for example, a symbol determination frequency 1 signal, a starting port signal, a jackpot) The output data includes one signal, two big hits, three big hits, a time-saving signal, a winning signal, and a security signal. However, as described above, the high-probability middle signal among the externally output signals is output from the output port 0. In this embodiment, prize ball information (a signal output every time 10 prize ball payouts are detected) is also output to the external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, the payout control board 37 detects winning ball payout, and the winning ball information is input to the main board 31. The prize ball information input to the main board 31 is output to the outside via the terminal board 160 via the main board 31 without passing through the game control microcomputer 560. Note that the prize ball information input to the main board 31 may be temporarily output via the terminal board 160 after passing through the game control microcomputer 560 once.

  Note that signals output externally via the terminal board 160 are not limited to those described in this embodiment. For example, a door open signal indicating that the gaming frame is open, a prize ball signal 1 (a signal output each time one prize ball is paid out), a gaming machine error state signal (the gaming machine is in an error state ( In this example, a signal indicating that the ball is out of ball or in the full error state) may also be output to the external device via the terminal board 160. In this case, on the payout control board 37 side, it is also detected that the gaming frame is in the open state, the winning ball payout, and the error state of the gaming machine are detected, and the door opening signal, the winning ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error state signal are transmitted to the main board. 31 is input. The door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 pass through the terminal board 160 via the main board 31 without passing through the game control microcomputer 560. Output to the outside. In this case as well, the door opening signal, the prize ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error state signal input to the main board 31 pass through the game control microcomputer 560 once, and then are externally output through the terminal board 160. May be performed.

  Further, for example, when a gaming machine is configured to include two special symbol display devices, a symbol determination frequency signal is used as a symbol determination frequency signal for notifying the number of times the special symbol has changed, in addition to the symbol determination frequency 1 signal. Alternatively, external output may be performed via the terminal board 160. In this case, for example, a symbol determination number 2 signal is externally output as a signal for notifying only one of the special symbol change numbers, and the symbol determination number is a signal for notifying the change number of both special symbols. What is necessary is just to comprise so that the signal of the number of times 1 may be externally output. With such a configuration, on the external device side such as a hall computer, in addition to the change frequency of only one of the special symbols, the total change frequency of both special symbols can be grasped.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of bit assignment of input ports in the game control means. As shown in FIG. 7, the detection signals of the count switch 23 and the detection signals of the winning opening switches 29a and 30a are input to bits 0, 2, and 3 of the input port 0, respectively. In addition, a radio sensor signal, a magnet sensor signal, a door opening signal, and prize ball information are input to bits 4 to 7 of the input port 1, respectively. In addition, a detection signal of the starting port switch 14a, a detection signal of the gate switch 32a, a detection signal of the clear switch from the power supply board 910, and a power-off signal are input to bits 0, 2 to 4 of the input port 2, respectively. .

  FIG. 8 is a circuit diagram showing the internal configuration of the terminal board 160. In the terminal board 160 shown in FIG. 8, the upper left connectors CN-1 and CN-2 are connectors for connecting cables for transmitting signals from the main board 31, and the lower left connector CN-3 is This is a connector for connecting a cable that transmits a signal from the payout control board 37 via the main board 31. The right connectors CN1 to CN10 are connectors for connecting cables for transmitting signals to an external device such as a hall computer. Further, semiconductor relays (PhotoMOS relays) PC1 to PC10 as driver circuits are mounted on the terminal board 160.

  When the cable from the main board 31 is connected to the connectors CN-1 and CN-2, various signals are input to the terminal board 160 from the main board 31 (game control microcomputer 560). More specifically, a symbol determination count 1 signal is input to the terminal “2” of the connector CN-1, a starting port signal is input to the terminal “3” of the connector CN-1, and a terminal “4” of the connector CN-1. , A big hit signal is input to the terminal "5" of the connector CN-1, three big hit signals are input to the terminal "6" of the connector CN-1, and a terminal "7" of the connector CN-1. , A winning signal is input to terminal “8” of connector CN-1, a security signal is input to terminal “9” of connector CN-1, and a terminal “9” of connector CN-2 is input. The high accuracy middle signal is input to.

  When the cable from the payout control board 37 is connected to the connector CN-3 via the main board 31, a signal from the payout control board 37 (the payout control microcomputer 370) is input to the terminal board 160. You. Specifically, prize ball information is input to the terminal “9” of the connector CN-3.

  As shown in FIG. 8, on the terminal board 160, a signal line of a reference potential is connected to the terminal “1” of the connector CN-1, the connector CN-2, and the connector CN-3, and the signal line is branched. Are connected to the input terminals "1" of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10. The signal lines connected to the terminals “2” to “9” of the connector CN-1, the connector “9” of the connector CN-2, and the connector “9” of the connector CN-3 each have a resistance R1 of 1 KΩ. Through R10 to the input terminal "2" of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10. The signal lines connected to the output terminals "4" of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are connected to the terminals "1" of the connectors CN1 to CN10, respectively. The signal lines connected to the output terminals “3” of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are connected to the terminals “2” of the connectors CN1 to CN10, respectively.

  In the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10, when a signal current flows through the input terminal, the light emitting element (LED) on the input side emits light. The emitted light is applied to a photoelectric element (solar cell) provided to face the LED through transparent silicon. The photoelectric device receiving the light exchanges a voltage according to the amount of light, and this voltage passes through the control circuit and charges the MOSFET gate at the output. When the MOSFET gate voltage supplied from the photoelectric element reaches the set voltage value, the MOSFET is turned on and turns on the load. When the signal current at the input terminal is cut off, the light emitting element (LED) stops emitting light. When the light emission of the LED stops, the voltage of the photoelectric element decreases, and when the voltage supplied from the photoelectric element decreases, the gate load of the MOSFET is rapidly discharged by the control circuit. This control circuit turns off the MOSFET and turns off the load.

  By the operation of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 as described above, signals input from the connectors CN-1, CN-2, and CN-3 on the input side are transmitted to the connectors CN1 to CN10 on the output side. Output to external device. Specifically, the connector CN1 outputs a symbol determination count 1 signal, the connector CN2 outputs a starting port signal, the connector CN3 outputs a jackpot signal, the connector CN4 outputs a jackpot 2 signal, and the connector CN5 outputs a jackpot signal. Three jackpot signals are output, a time saving signal is output from the connector CN6, a winning signal is output from the connector CN7, a security signal is output from the connector CN8, a high accuracy signal is output from the connector CN9, and a prize is output from the connector CN10. The ball information is output. The assignment of the connector to each external output signal on the terminal board 160 is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the security signal may be output from the terminal connector (for example, the connector CN10) provided on the terminal board 160.

  It should be noted that the winning signal output from the connector CN7 meets a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) of winning balls (start winning opening 14, large winnings). A prize has been generated in the opening prize holes 29, 30. The payout of the prize balls has not been performed yet.Specifically, the proximity switches (winning opening switches 29a, 30a, the count switch 23, the starting opening switch 14a) ) Is a signal indicating that a predetermined payout condition has been determined to be satisfied, on condition that the detection signal from) is input. By confirming the winning signal, an external device such as a hall computer can recognize the expected number of awarded balls to be paid out.

  The prize ball information output from the connector CN10 indicates that a specific number (10 in this embodiment) of prize balls have been paid out (the ball payout device 97 is driven to actually pay out the prize balls). Is performed). By confirming the prize ball information, the number of prize balls actually paid out can be recognized by an external device such as a hall computer. Also, by confirming the expected number of prize balls indicated by the winning signal and the number of paid out prize balls indicated by the prize ball information, it is possible to determine whether or not the prize ball payout has been normally performed and the number of prize balls excess / deficiency. And an external device such as a hall computer.

  The security signal output from the connector CN8 is a signal indicating the security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, as described later, when it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the magnet sensor 62, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize on the external device side such as a hall computer that an illegal act of guiding a game ball to a winning opening using a magnet has been illegally performed.

  In this embodiment, when a security signal is externally output based on the occurrence of a magnetic abnormality, the security signal based on the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality is generated until the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. External output continues. As will be described later, when the initialization process is performed, the security signal is externally output for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds), and more precisely, the power to the gaming machine is turned on again. When the initialization process is executed, the external output of the security signal based on the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality is internally terminated, the external output of the security signal based on the initialization process is started, and a predetermined period (for example, 0. The output of the security signal is continued until 2 seconds have elapsed. Therefore, apparently, when the external output of the security signal is started based on the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality, the power supply to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed, and thereafter, for a predetermined period (for example, 0. When two seconds have elapsed, the external output of the security signal ends.

  In this embodiment, when it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 61, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). Is done. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize on the external device side such as a hall computer that an improper act of illegally erroneously detecting a winning using radio waves has been performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the variable winning prize ball device 15 is not in the open state, when the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 14 is detected, or when the big hit game is not being played, the winning of the game ball to the big winning opening is performed. Is detected, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred. Also, when the abnormal winning is detected, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormal prize has occurred due to an improper action on the variable prize ball device 15 or the special winning opening. It can be reliably prevented.

  In this embodiment, the starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a and 30a, or the gate switch 32a detect the game ball winning from the time when the winning of the game ball is detected until a predetermined monitoring period elapses. When the number of times that the passage is detected again becomes a predetermined number of times, or when the state of detecting the winning of the game ball continues for a predetermined period, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, and when the abnormal winning is detected, Also, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). By determining that an abnormal prize has occurred when the number of times of detecting the passage of the game ball again reaches a predetermined number of times from when the winning of the game ball is detected until a predetermined monitoring period elapses, for example, some equipment To enter the inside of the gaming machine and illegally operate the game balls that win the starting winning opening, etc. It is possible to detect a fraudulent act of emitting a signal or an improper act of outputting a signal to be output when a game ball is detected, by irradiating radio waves from the outside and erroneously operating the switch. With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormal winning has occurred due to an illegal act on various switches, and as a result, it is possible to reliably prevent an illegal act on various switches. Further, when it is determined that the abnormal winning has occurred when the state of detecting the winning of the game ball continues for a predetermined period, for example, it is possible to detect that the ball is clogged in the starting winning opening. . With such a configuration, it is possible to notify that an abnormality has occurred due to ball clogging in various switches, and as a result, it is possible to detect ball clogging in various switches.

  In this embodiment, even when the power to the gaming machine is turned on and the initialization process is executed, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). Is done. With such a configuration, it is recognized that the initialization process has been performed at an unnatural timing (for example, after the power reset operation of all the gaming machines has been completed when the gaming shop is opened). By making it possible, it is possible to allow an external device such as a hall computer to recognize the possibility that a gaming machine has been unauthorizedly resetting the power supply and an improper act aimed at a big hit has been performed at the timing of the power reset. it can.

  In this embodiment, as described above, a case where a magnetic abnormality is detected, a case where a radio wave abnormality is detected, a case where an abnormal winning is detected, and initialization processing (for example, When the power is turned on, a common security signal is output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 to the case where processing such as clearing the stored contents of the RAM 55 based on the operation of the clear switch is performed. Output. This is because the initialization processing is normally performed only when the power of the gaming machine is reset when the gaming shop is opened, and the terminal is output only once a day because of a signal output only about once a day. Providing a dedicated connector or semiconductor relay on the substrate 160 is not efficient and wasteful. Also, since magnetic abnormalities, radio wave abnormalities, and abnormal prizes do not occur unless some kind of wrongdoing is performed, it is also efficient to separately install dedicated connectors and semiconductor relays for magnetic abnormalities, radio abnormalities, and abnormal prizes. Not wasteful. Therefore, in this embodiment, a common connector CN8 is used when a magnetic abnormality is detected, when a radio wave abnormality is detected, when an abnormal winning is detected, and when initialization processing is executed. The configuration is such that the security signal is output from the external device, thereby reducing waste of signal lines and circuit elements for external output. That is, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of components of a mechanism for outputting information to an external device such as a hall computer, and to prevent a wiring operation from becoming complicated.

  Note that the signals externally output from the common connector as security signals are not limited to those described in this embodiment. For example, in this embodiment, when the game is controlled to be unable to win, an abnormal winning of both the starting winning opening 14 and the big winning opening is detected and the security signal can be externally output. It may be configured such that only one of the start winning opening 14 and the special winning opening is detected and a security signal is externally output.

  Further, when an abnormality of various switches provided in the gaming machine is detected (for example, the number of times that the passage of the game ball is detected again until a predetermined monitoring period elapses from the time when the winning of the game ball is detected is equal to the predetermined number of times) When the state of detecting the winning of the game ball continues for a predetermined period, when the input value is determined to have exceeded the threshold, and when the occurrence of a short circuit or the like is detected, the terminal board 160 Although the configuration is such that the security signal can be externally output from the common connector CN8, a switch that is not controlled to output externally when an abnormality is detected may be provided.

  Further, for example, even when a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 can be externally output as a security signal. You may. In this case, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the failure to receive the payout control command from the payout control microcomputer 370, and transmits the signal from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. It may be externally output as a security signal. Further, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that a communication error has occurred based on the setting of any error bit value of a status register (not shown) of the serial communication circuit 511, The security signal may be externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160.

  In addition, a signal line and a connector dedicated to a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 may be provided on the terminal board 160, separately from the security signal line and the connector CN8. Then, when a communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, an external device such as a hall computer is transmitted via the terminal board 160 as a signal different from the security signal. May be output.

  In addition to the security signal output signal line, detection of execution of initialization processing, detection of magnetic abnormality, detection of radio wave abnormality, detection of abnormal winning in the start winning port 14, detection of abnormal winning in the large winning port, and the like. Separate signal lines are provided for detection, detection of abnormal winnings in various switches, and detection of communication errors. From the terminal board 160, together with the security signal, an external output signal corresponding to each error is also output from a hall computer or the like. You may make it output to an external device. With such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that an error has occurred by checking the security signal, and further by checking the signal output for each type of error, the game store can determine the type of error. You can check. Therefore, in the case where it is requested from the game store to check the type of error, by providing an external output signal for each type of error separately from the security signal, an external output that further meets the needs of the game store can be provided. Can be done. On the other hand, in the case of a game store requiring only confirmation that some kind of error has occurred, of the signals output from the outside, only the security signal is connected to an external device such as a hall computer. You only have to confirm.

  As described above, by providing the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 on the terminal board 160, it is possible to prevent a signal input from the outside to the inside of the gaming machine, and as a result, it is possible to surely prevent fraud. In the above example, the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10 are provided on the terminal board 160, but other relay elements such as mechanical relays may be used instead of the semiconductor relays PC1 to PC10.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by CPU 56 of game control microcomputer 560 in response to the start of power supply to the game machine and the reset signal to game control microcomputer 560 attaining a high level. It is. When the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether the contents of the program are valid according to the security check program 54A stored in the ROM 54. After executing the security check process, the main process from step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, an interrupt mode of a maskable interrupt is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designated address is set as a stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the game control microcomputer 560 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is: Set the mode to indicate the interrupt address. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter on the stack.

  Next, the CPU 56 starts outputting a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 370 (step S4). When the output of the connection signal is started in step S4, the CPU 56 sends the connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 370 as long as the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped or the output becomes impossible due to some communication error. Output continuously.

  Next, the internal device register is set (initialized) (step S5). Through the processing in step S5, setting (initialization) of the CTC (counter / timer) and the PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits), is performed.

  The game control microcomputer 560 used in this embodiment also includes an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC) 504.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the RAM 55 to an accessible state (step S6), and proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  Note that a software delay process for delaying the start timing of the game device control process (game control process) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such a software delay process, the start timing of the game control process can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay process is not executed. When the delay processing is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive a command transmitted by the game control board (main board 31) with respect to another control board (for example, the payout control board 37). Can be prevented.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the clear switch is turned on (step S7). Note that the CPU 56 may check the state of the clear signal only once through the input port 0, or may check the state of the clear signal a plurality of times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is in the off state, after a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 second) delay time, the state of the clear signal is confirmed again. At that time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is on, it is determined that the clear signal is on. At this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is in the OFF state, after a predetermined delay time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to one or two, but may be three or more. Alternatively, the check may be performed twice, and the check may be performed again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch is not turned on in step S7, it is determined whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, processing for stopping power supply such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine has been stopped. Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when the power supply is stopped, a process for protecting the data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that the power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop has been saved. . If it is confirmed that the power supply stop processing has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization processing.

  Whether or not the power supply stop processing has been performed depends on whether the value of the backup monitoring timer stored in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop processing is a value corresponding to the execution of the power supply stop processing (for example, 2). ) Or not. Note that such a confirmation method is an example. For example, in the power supply stop processing, a flag indicating that the power supply stop processing has been executed is set in the backup flag area, and in step S8, the flag is set. If it is confirmed that the power supply is stopped, it may be determined that the process at the time of power supply stop has been performed.

  If it is determined that the control state at the time of stopping the power supply is stored, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) of the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in a checksum data area, and a checksum calculation start address is set in a pointer. In addition, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checked is set. Then, an exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the value of the pointer is increased by one, and the value of the number of checksum calculations is decremented by one. The above process is repeated until the value of the number of checksum calculations becomes zero. When the value of the number of checksum calculations becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as a checksum.

  In the power supply stop processing, a checksum is calculated by the same processing as the above processing, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is restored after an unexpected power outage or other power supply interruption, the data in the backup RAM area should have been saved, and the check result (comparison result) becomes normal (match). If the check result is not normal, it means that the data in the backup RAM area may be different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state at the time of stopping the power supply, the initialization processing (the processing of steps S10 to S14) executed at the time of turning on the power other than the recovery from the stop of the power supply is performed. Execute.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a hot start process for restarting the game using the data stored in the RAM 55 that has been backed up (Step S91). Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S92), and proceeds to step S15. After the setting in step S92, the backup command is transmitted after the serial communication circuit setting process in step S15a described later is performed.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. The start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, according to the control state such as a random number counter for normal symbol determination, a buffer for normal symbol determination, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a magnetic abnormality flag, and the like. An initial value is set to a flag for selectively performing processing. An initial value (clear data) is also set in each timer (such as a security signal information timer) used to output each external output signal described later.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the command transmission table during initialization stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub-board to the sub-board in accordance with the contents. The process is executed (Step S14). As the initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9, an initialization command for the payout control board 37, or the like can be used. After the setting in step S13, the initialization command is transmitted after the serial communication circuit setting process in step S15a described later is performed.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) in the security signal information timer (step S14a). The security signal information timer is a timer for measuring the ON time of the security signal output from the terminal board 160. In this embodiment, based on the fact that a predetermined time is set in the security signal information timer in step S14a, an information output process (see S31), which will be described later, is executed. Is executed, a security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initializing the random number circuit 509 (step S15). In this case, the CPU 56 performs a setting for causing the random number circuit 509 to update the value of the random R by executing a process according to a random number circuit setting program stored in the ROM 54 in advance.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a serial communication circuit setting process for initializing the serial communication circuit 511 (step S15a). In this case, the CPU 56 sets the data stored in the predetermined area of the ROM 54 in the serial communication circuit 511 in accordance with the serial communication circuit setting program, thereby setting the serial communication circuit 511 to perform serial communication with the payout control microcomputer. I do.

  When the serial communication circuit 511 is initialized, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of the interrupt processing executed in response to the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 (step S15b). In this case, the CPU 56 performs the processing according to the interrupt priority setting program 557, thereby initially setting the priority of the interrupt processing.

  For example, the CPU 56 initializes the priority of each interrupt process according to a predetermined interrupt process priority table including a default priority of each interrupt process. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs an initial setting in accordance with the interrupt processing priority table so as to preferentially execute the interrupt processing caused by the occurrence of a communication error in the serial communication circuit 511 as an interrupt cause. In this case, for example, the CPU 56 sets a communication error interruption priority execution flag indicating that the interruption processing with the occurrence of the communication error as the cause of the interruption is preferentially executed.

  In this embodiment, when the timer interrupt and the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 occur simultaneously, the CPU 56 gives priority to the interrupt process by the timer interrupt.

  The default priority of each interrupt process can be changed by the user. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 previously stores, in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 54, designation information for designating an interruption process set by a user (for example, a game machine maker). Then, the CPU 56 sets the priority of the interrupt processing according to the specification information stored in the predetermined storage area of the ROM 54.

  Note that, in addition to steps S15 to S15b, part of the setting processing of the random number circuit 509 and the serial communication circuit 511 is also executed in the processing of step S5. For example, in step S5, a process of setting initial values in the baud rate register, the communication setting register, the interrupt control register, and the status register of the serial communication circuit 511 as built-in device registers is executed.

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a timer interrupt setting process for setting a register of a CTC built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that the timer interrupt is periodically performed at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 4 ms) ( Step S16). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically performed every 4 ms.

  When the setting of the timer interrupt is completed, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt to a disabled state (step S17), and executes an initial value random number updating process (step S18a) and a display random number updating process (step S18b). The interrupt is permitted again (step S19). That is, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt disabled state when the initial value random number updating process and the display random number updating process are executed, and sets the interrupt enabled state when the initial value random number updating process and the display random number updating process are completed. To

  The initial value random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of a counter for generating an initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining a type of a big hit (for example, a random number for determining a big hit symbol for determining a special symbol for generating a big hit, or determining whether to shift a game state to a certain change state). The initial value of the count value of a counter (determination random number generation counter) for generating a random number for determining a probability change, a random number for determining a normal symbol hit for determining whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol, and the like. It is a random number for determining the value. A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls a game device such as an effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, and a ball payout device 97 provided in the game machine, or In a process of transmitting a command signal to control another microcomputer, also referred to as a game device control process), when the count value of the determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  The display random number is a random number for determining display of the special symbol display 8. In this embodiment, as a display random number, a random number for determining a fluctuation pattern of a special symbol, or a random number for reach determination for determining whether or not to reach when a big hit does not occur is used. Used. The display random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of a counter for generating a display random number.

  Also, the reason why the interrupt prohibition state is set when the display random number update process is executed is that the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are also executed in a timer interrupt process described later (that is, the timer interrupt process is performed). This is because the same processing is executed in steps S26 and S27 of the interrupt processing), thereby avoiding conflict with the processing in the timer interrupt processing. That is, if a timer interrupt occurs during the processing of steps S18a and S18b and the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number or the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be lost. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of steps S18a and S18b.

  When the interrupt permission state is set in step S19, a state in which a timer interrupt or an interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 511 is permitted until the processing in step S17 is executed next and the interrupt is prohibited. . Then, when a timer interrupt occurs while being set in the interrupt permission state, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes a timer interrupt process described later. Also, when an interrupt request is generated from the serial communication circuit 511 while the interrupt control is enabled, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes each interrupt processing (communication error interrupt processing, reception time interrupt, etc.). Interrupt processing, transmission completion interrupt processing). Further, in the present embodiment, by executing step S15b before the loop processing from step S17 to step S19, the priority of the interrupt processing is set before the state in which the timer interrupt or the interrupt request is set is enabled. A process for setting or changing the order is performed.

  Next, the timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt processing. During the execution of the main process, specifically, when a timer interrupt occurs during the period in which the interrupt is permitted during the execution of the loop process of steps S17 to S19, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 A timer interrupt process started in response to occurrence of a timer interrupt is executed. In the timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether or not the power-on signal has been turned on) (step S20). Then, the CPU 56 receives the detection signals of the switches of the gate switch 32a, the starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a via the switch circuit 58, and detects the input of each switch (switch). Processing: Step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a display control process for controlling the display of the special symbol display 8, the ordinary symbol display 10, the special symbol storage storage display 18, and the ordinary symbol storage display 41 (step S22). With respect to the special symbol display 8 and the ordinary symbol display 10, control is performed to output a drive signal to each display in accordance with the contents of the output buffer set in steps S36 and S37.

  Next, the CPU 56 detects that a game ball has won the large winning opening at a time other than the regular time, or that the CPU 56 has detected that a game ball has won the starting winning opening 14 at a time other than the regular time. When an abnormality is detected in any of the switches, an abnormal winning determination process for notifying an abnormal winning is performed (step S23).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a sensor error determination process for performing a magnet sensor error notification or a radio sensor error notification based on the input of the detection signal from the magnet sensor 62 or the radio wave sensor 61 (step S24).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a normal symbol hit determination random number used for game control (determination random number update process: step S25). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the random number for the initial value (initial value random number updating process: step S26). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (display random number update process: step S27).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process (step S28). In the special symbol process process, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to a gaming state. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each processing according to the gaming state. Further, a normal symbol process is performed (step S29). In the normal symbol process process, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting to the effect control microcomputer 100 an effect control command relating to the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol (effect symbol command control process: step S30). In addition, that the fluctuation of the effect symbol is synchronized with the fluctuation of the special symbol means that the fluctuation time (variable display period) is the same.

  Next, the CPU 56 outputs data such as a symbol determination frequency 1 signal, a start opening signal, a jackpot 1 to 3 signals, a time saving signal, a winning signal, a security signal, a high accuracy middle signal, etc., which are supplied to the hall management computer, for example. An information output process is performed (step S31).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a process of transmitting / receiving (input / output) a signal to / from the payout control microcomputer 370 via the serial communication circuit 511. Then, prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the winning opening switches 29a and 30a and the like is executed (step S32).

  In addition, a test terminal process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be checked outside the gaming machine is executed (step S33). Further, in this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. Is output to the output port (step S34: output processing). Then, the CPU 56 executes a storage process for checking an increase or decrease in the number of reserved storages (step S35).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol display control process for setting special symbol display control data for performing a special symbol effect display according to the value of the special symbol process flag in an output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data ( Step S36). Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting the ordinary symbol display control data for performing the effect display of the ordinary symbol in the output buffer for setting the ordinary symbol display control data according to the value of the ordinary symbol process flag ( Step S37).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a status display lamp display process of setting status display control data for displaying each status display lamp in an output buffer for setting status display control data (step S38). In this case, when the gaming state is the time saving state, the state display control data for displaying the state indicator lamp indicating the time saving state is set in the output buffer. When the gaming state is controlled also in a high probability state (for example, a probable change state), state display control data for displaying a state indicator light indicating the high probability state is set in the output buffer. You may do so.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a frame state output process of transmitting a frame state display command in which information indicating the error state of the gaming machine or the like is set to display the error state or the like of the gaming machine to the effect control microcomputer 100. Execute (step S39).

  Thereafter, an interrupt permission state is set (step S40), and the process ends.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a program for a special symbol process (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 or the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process processing, the CPU 56 determines that the starting port switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the starting winning port 14 is on, that is, if the starting winning port 14 has been started. Then, the starting port switch passing process is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the starting port switch 14a has not been turned on, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processing in steps S300 to S310 is as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 0. When the microcomputer 560 for game control enters a state in which the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the microcomputer 560 checks the number of stored numerical data (number of stored holds) stored in the number-of-holded-storage buffer. The number of stored numeric data stored in the reserved storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved storage number counter. If the count value of the reserved storage number counter is not 0, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a big hit determination process to determine whether or not the display result of the variable display of the special symbol is a big hit. When a big hit is set, a big hit flag is set. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The big hit flag is reset when the big hit game ends.

  Variation pattern setting processing (step S301): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. In addition, a fluctuation pattern is determined, and the fluctuation time (variable display time: the time from the start of the variable display to the derivation display (stop display) of the display result) in the fluctuation pattern is defined as the fluctuation time of the variable display of the special symbol. Decide to do so. Also, a fluctuation time timer for measuring the fluctuation time of the special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission processing (step S302): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol change processing (step S303): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern selected in the fluctuation pattern setting process has elapsed (the fluctuation time timer set in step S301 has timed out, that is, the value of the fluctuation time timer has become 0), the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control for transmitting the designated command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop processing (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300. In this embodiment, the special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process of step S36 is based on the value of the special symbol process flag having become 4. The special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer for setting data, and in the display control process of step S22, the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed in accordance with the setting content of the output buffer.

  Big winning opening pre-processing (step S305): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the special winning opening opening pre-processing, control for opening the special winning opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter for counting the number of game balls entering the special winning opening) and the like are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. The execution time of the special winning opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to step S306. Note that the pre-winning opening process is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process is also a process of starting a big hit game.

  Big winning opening processing (step S306): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. Control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit game state to the effect control microcomputer 100, processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening, and the like are performed. The “close condition of the special winning opening” is such that the number of game balls won to the special winning opening detected by the count switch 23 on the upstream side of the special winning opening reaches a predetermined number (10 in this example). It is established based on what has been done. If the closing condition of the special winning opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all rounds have been completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (7 in this example) corresponding to step S307.

  Big hit end processing (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. In addition, a process of setting a flag indicating a game state (for example, a probability change flag or a time saving flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit opening pre-processing (step S308): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the small hit opening pre-processing, control for opening the big winning opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter for counting the number of game balls entering the special winning opening) and the like are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. The execution time of the special winning opening process is set by a timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (9 in this example) corresponding to step S309. The small hit opening pre-processing is executed every time the big winning opening during the small hit game is opened. However, when the first opening during the small hit game is started, the small hit opening pre-processing is performed for the small hit game. It is also a process to start.

  Small hit opening processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening is performed. The “close condition of the special winning opening” is such that the number of game balls won to the special winning opening detected by the count switch 23 on the upstream side of the special winning opening reaches a predetermined number (10 in this example). It is established based on what has been done. If the closing condition of the special winning opening is satisfied and the number of opening of the special winning opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. When all rounds have been completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (10 (decimal number) in this example) corresponding to step S310.

  Small hit end processing (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hitting game state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Next, the ordinary symbol process (step S29) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the ordinary symbol process process. In the normal symbol process process, upon detecting that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a has been turned on (step S111), the CPU 56 executes a gate switch passage process (step S112). Then, the CPU 56 executes any one of the processes shown in steps S100 to S103 according to the value of the ordinary symbol process flag.

  Gate switch passage processing (step S112): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value (the number of gate passage storages) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value (“4” in this example). If the maximum value has not been reached, the count value of the gate passage storage counter is incremented by one. In addition, the LED of the ordinary symbol hold storage display 41 is turned on according to the value of the gate passage storage counter. Then, the CPU 56 performs a process of extracting the value of the random number (random 4) for normal symbol determination and storing the same in a storage area (normal symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of gate passage storages.

  Ordinary symbol normal processing (step S100): The CPU 56 is in a state where the variation of the ordinary symbol can be started (for example, when the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is a value indicating step S100, specifically, the ordinary symbol When the display of the ordinary symbol is not displayed on the display 10 and the opening and closing operation of the variable prize ball device 15 based on the fact that the symbol has been derived and displayed on the ordinary symbol display 10 is not passing through the gate. Check the value of the number of storage. Specifically, the count value of the gate passage storage number counter is confirmed. If the number of stored gate passages is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not a stop symbol of a normal symbol is a hit symbol). Then, the fluctuation time of the ordinary symbol is set in the ordinary symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “1”) indicating the ordinary symbol variation process (step S101).

  Normal symbol variation process (step S101): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the ordinary symbol process timer has timed out. The symbol stop symbol display time is set, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “2”) indicating the ordinary symbol stop processing (step S102).

  Normal symbol stop processing (step S102): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, checks whether or not the stopped symbol of the normal symbol is a hit symbol. If it is not a hit symbol (if it is a lost symbol), the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the ordinary symbol normal processing (step S100). On the other hand, if the stopped symbol of the ordinary symbol is a hit symbol, the ordinary electric processable object operating time is set in the ordinary symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Also, it is checked whether or not the current gaming state is the high base state, and if the current base state is the high base state, the opening pattern of the ordinary electric auditors (variable winning ball device 15) in the high base state is selected. If it is the low base state, the release pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) in the low base state is selected, and the selected release pattern is set. Then, the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “3”) indicating the ordinary electric auditors product operation process (step S103).

  Normal electric accessory actuation process (step S103): The CPU 56 sets the number of game balls won to the ordinary electric auditors (variable winning ball device 15) (start winning port) on condition that the ordinary symbol process timer has not timed out. 14) to execute a normal electric auditors prize counting process for counting the number of prizes (winning number 14), and to open the ordinary electric auditors in a set opening pattern (to execute the opening and closing operation of the variable prize ball device 15). The electric accessory release pattern processing is executed. Then, when the ordinary symbol process timer times out, the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the ordinary symbol normal process (step S100).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the abnormal winning determination processing in step S23. In the abnormal winning determination processing, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (step S250). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (Y in step S250), it is in a state of a big hit game or a small hit game. In such a state, there is a possibility that a game ball may win in the special winning opening, and therefore, the processing shifts to the processing in step S255 without performing the processing for confirming the abnormal winning in the special winning opening.

  The state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 is a state where neither the big hit game nor the small hit game is performed. In such a state, if there is a winning of a game ball in the big winning opening, it can be determined that the winning is an abnormal winning. Therefore, the following confirmation processing of the abnormal winning in the special winning opening is performed.

  That is, if the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5 (N in step S250), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 0 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 0) into the register (step S251). . Then, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the loaded contents of the switch-on buffer 0 and the count switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 7) (step S252). When the content of the switch-on buffer 0 is 01 (H), that is, when the count switch 23 is on, the result of the AND operation is 01 (H). When the count switch 23 is not turned on, the result of the AND operation is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S253), that is, if the count switch 23 is on, the CPU 56 determines that an abnormal winning has occurred in the special winning opening, and an error has occurred. Is incremented by 1 (step S254). In this embodiment, based on the fact that 1 has been added to the signal output number counter in step S254, the information output process (see S31) is executed to detect an abnormal winning in the special winning opening. The security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example).

  In step S255, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is 3 (step S255). The state in which the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is 3 is a state in which the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is determined to be open (when the variable winning ball device 15 is physically open). And a state in which the variable winning ball device 15 is physically closed and a predetermined interval period elapses). In such a state (Y in step S255), there is a possibility that the game ball will win in the starting winning opening 14, so that the process proceeds to step S259a without performing the processing for confirming the abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14. I do.

  The state in which the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 3 (N in step S255) is a state in which the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is determined to be in a state other than the open state. If there is a winning of a game ball in the starting winning opening 14 in such a state, the winning may be an abnormal winning. Accordingly, a process of confirming an abnormal winning in the starting winning port 14 as described below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is not 3 (N in step S255), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 2 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2) into the register (step S256). Then, the CPU 56 calculates the logical product of the loaded contents of the switch-on buffer 2 and the starting port switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 7) (step S257). When the content of the switch-on buffer 2 is 01 (H), that is, when the starting port switch 14a is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the starting port switch 14a is not turned on, the operation result of the logical product is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S258), that is, if the starting port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 determines that an abnormal winning in the starting winning port 14 has occurred, and outputs a signal. The number counter is incremented by 1 (step S259), and the process proceeds to step S259a. In this embodiment, when the information output process (see S31) is executed based on the fact that 1 has been added to the signal output number counter in step S259, when an abnormal winning in the starting winning port 14 is detected. Then, a security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example).

  According to the above processing, when the count switch 23 is turned on in a state where neither the big hit game nor the small hit game is performed, it is determined that the abnormal winning in the big winning opening has occurred, and the information output processing (step S31) ), The security signal is externally output. In addition, even when the starting port switch 14a is turned on in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is not opening and closing (a state where the starting winning port 14 is other than the open state), it is determined that an abnormal winning in the starting winning port 14 has occurred. It is determined that the security signal is externally output in the information output process (see step S31).

  In the process of step S250, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning in the special winning opening has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one piece of data, so that the determination process can be simplified. In addition, as described above, the big hit ending process or the small hit ending process is executed for a predetermined time after the special variable winning prize ball device 20 is closed. It is prevented that the game ball is detected by the count switch 23 after the value of the special symbol process flag returns to 0, and a security signal is externally output or an error is notified in spite of a regular prize. There is no such thing as.

  In the process of step S255, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 has occurred based on the value of the ordinary symbol process flag. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one piece of data, so that the determination process can be simplified. As described above, as a method of delaying the timing of judging abnormal winning from the timing of closing the variable winning ball device 15, the variable winning ball device 15 is usually set a predetermined time before the value of the symbol process flag changes from 3 to 0. Is closed, and when the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is changed from 3 to 0, the abnormal winning is determined. Therefore, the game ball which has won the starting winning opening 14 immediately before the variable winning ball device 15 is closed. However, it is usually prevented that the start process switch 14a detects the value after the value of the symbol process flag returns to 0, and a security signal is externally output or an error is notified even though the winning is a regular prize. There is no such thing.

  At the same time that the variable winning ball device 15 is closed, the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0, and the determination of the abnormal winning is made after a lapse of a predetermined time after the value of the ordinary symbol process flag is switched from 3 to 0. You may. Also, in the determination of the abnormal winning in the special winning opening, the timing of determining the abnormal winning in the same manner may be delayed from the timing of closing the special winning opening (special variable winning ball device 20).

  In step S259a, the CPU 56 performs a starting port switch determination process of determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the starting port switch 14a. Thereafter, the CPU 56 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the winning opening switches 29a and 30a (step S259b), and counts whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the count switch 23. A switch determination process (step S259c) and a gate switch switch determination process (step S259d) for determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the gate switch 32a are performed. When the processing of steps S259a to 259d ends, the abnormal winning determination processing ends. Note that the processing in steps S259a to S259d is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 13, and may be executed in any order. Further, the invention is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 13, and any one or a plurality of the processes in steps S259a to S259d may be executed.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the starting port switch determination processing in step S259a. Note that the winning opening switch determination processing (step S259b), the count switch determination processing (step S259c), and the gate switch determination processing (step S259d) are processings for confirming the starting opening switch in the starting opening switch determination processing. This is realized by replacing the process with the process of confirming the above, and the description is omitted. Further, in this embodiment, when it is determined that another error has newly occurred during the period when the security signal is being output in the information output process described later (for example, it is determined in another switch determination process). In this case, a signal output number counter indicating the number of times that it is determined that an error has occurred is commonly used in order to output a security signal based on a newly generated error. The signal output number counter is incremented by one when it is determined that an error has occurred, and decremented by one when a security signal is output based on the determination result. However, a start-up port monitoring timer, a continuous detection timer, and a re-detection counter, which will be described later, are provided for each switch.

  In the startup port switch determination processing, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the startup port switch 14a is on (step S2501). In this process, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 2 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 2) into the register, and loads the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 2 and the starting port switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 7), and when the result of the AND operation is 01 (H), it is determined that the starting port switch 14a is on. When the result of the AND operation is 0 (00 (H)), it is determined that the starting port switch 14a is not turned on.

  If it is determined that the starting port switch 14a is not on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the period during which the starting port switch 14a is on has reached a predetermined specific period (for example, 2 seconds). The continuous detection timer for making a determination is reset (step S2515). The continuous detection timer is used to determine whether or not the starting port switch 14a is on for a specific period (for example, 2 seconds) (that is, the starting port is clogged with a ball). The continuous detection timer is set to a specific period (for example, 2 seconds) when it is determined that the continuous opening timer is on in the previous start port switch determination process and is also determined to be on this time (step S2502 described later). S2506), which is decremented when the ON state is continued (steps S2502 and S2503 described later). The continuous detection timer is reset when it is determined in the start-up switch determination processing that the switch is on (steps S2501 and S2515) or when a timeout occurs (steps S2504 to S2504a).

  Further, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the starting port monitoring timer for determining whether or not the starting port switch 14a is turned on again before the predetermined monitoring time elapses from when the starting port switch 14a is turned on (step S2516). ). The starting port monitoring timer is used to determine whether the number of times that the starting port switch 14a is turned on during a predetermined period reaches a predetermined number (whether or not an abnormal prize due to an improper act described later has occurred). That is, the starting port switch 14a is not in a state of being continuously turned on, but is in a state in which the number of detections within a predetermined period exceeds a predetermined number (that is, a time interval longer than the interval at which a normal game ball can pass through the starting port). (Passing at short intervals). If it is determined that the starting port switch is in the ON state in the starting port switch determination process, the starting port monitoring timer is set to a monitoring time determined for the starting port switch 14a (step S2510 described later), and is in the OFF state. Is subtracted when it is determined. If the start-up monitoring timer has not been set (ie, if no winning has been made (start-up switch 14a has not been turned on)), the processing of step S2516 is omitted.

  In this embodiment, different monitoring times are determined according to the type of switch. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram illustrating monitoring times determined for each switch type. As shown in FIG. 15, the monitoring time is determined to be 0.03 seconds for the gate switch 32a, the monitoring time is determined to be 0.05 seconds for the starting port switch 14a, and the winning port switches 29a and 30a are determined. Thus, the monitoring time is determined to be 0.04 seconds, and the monitoring time for the count switch 23 is determined to be 0.06 seconds. In this embodiment, the state in which the number of detections within the monitoring time exceeds a predetermined number (that is, the state in which a normal game ball passes at an interval shorter than the interval at which a winning ball can pass) is illegal. It is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred due to the action. As shown in FIG. 15, by setting different monitoring times according to the switch types, it is possible to cope with a case where the intervals at which the normal game balls can pass differ depending on the shape of the winning opening and the like. That is, by setting a different monitoring time according to the shape of the winning opening or the like, it is possible to prevent an erroneous winning from being determined erroneously even if no wrongdoing is performed.

  If the CPU 56 determines that the starting port switch 14a is ON, the CPU 56 determines whether the value of the starting port monitoring timer is a monitoring time (0.05 seconds in the example of FIG. 15) determined for the starting port switch. It is determined whether or not it is (step S2502). That is, when the starting port switch 14a is determined to be ON last time, the starting port monitoring timer set in step S2510 described later determines that the starting port switch 14a is not ON thereafter (N in step S2501). In S2516, it is determined whether or not the subtraction has been performed. That is, in step S2502, after the start port switch 14a was previously determined to be on, it is determined whether or not the start port switch 14a has been determined to be on again without being determined to be off. It is checked whether or not the mouth switch 14a remains on. The invention is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 14. For example, a specific flag is set when it is determined that the starting port switch is on, and the specific flag is reset when it is determined that the starting port switch is off. For example, by checking the state of the specific flag, it is possible to check whether or not the starting port switch 14a is kept on.

  If it is determined in step S2502 that the value of the start-up port monitoring timer is the monitoring time set for the start-up port switch (that is, if the start-up port switch 14a is kept on), the CPU 56 Subtracts 1 from the continuous detection timer (step S2503), and determines whether or not the continuous detection timer has timed out (step S2504). That is, it is determined whether or not the period during which the starting port switch 14a is on has reached a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds). When determining that the continuous detection timer has timed out (Y in step S2504), the CPU 56 resets the continuous detection timer (step S2504a), determines that ball clogging has occurred, and sets the signal output number counter. Is incremented by 1 (step S2505). On the other hand, when it is determined in step S2502 that the value of the start-up port monitoring timer is not the monitoring time set for the start-up port switch (that is, the start-up port switch 14a is not kept on and is turned off once. In the case where the power is turned on after the power is turned on), the CPU 56 sets the continuous detection timer again (for example, for 2 seconds), and proceeds to step S2507. As described above, in this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S2502 to S2505, when the start-up switch 14a is on for a specific period (for example, 2 seconds), an abnormal winning (ball jam) is generated. By judging that the occurrence has occurred and adding 1 to the signal output number counter, a security signal can be output in the information output process. Therefore, the manager can detect the occurrence of the ball clogging in the winning area based on the security signal.

  In step S2507, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the startup port monitoring timer has timed out (step S2508). If a timeout has occurred, the CPU 56 counts the number of times that the start port switch 14a has been turned on again from the time the start port switch 14a was turned on until the monitoring time (0.04 seconds shown in FIG. 15) has elapsed. The re-detection counter is incremented by 1 (step S2508), and if the timeout has not occurred, the re-detection counter is reset (step S2509). Thereafter, the CPU 56 sets the monitoring time (0.04 seconds shown in FIG. 15) determined for the starting port switch 14a in the starting port monitoring timer (step S2510). If the starting port monitoring timer is not set in step S2508 (that is, at the time of the first winning), control is performed so as to shift to step S2509. Further, in this embodiment, if the start-up port monitoring timer has timed out, the re-detection counter is reset. May be counted.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the value of the re-detection number counter is equal to or more than a predetermined value (for example, 50 times) (step S2511). Is determined to have been performed, and the signal output number counter is incremented by 1 (step S2512). In step S2511, it is checked whether or not the number of times that the start port switch 14a has been turned on again from the time the start port switch 14a was turned on until the monitoring time has elapsed has reached a predetermined number. That is, although the starting port switch 14a is not continuously turned on, the number of detections in the predetermined period exceeds the predetermined number (that is, shorter than the interval at which the normal game ball can pass through the starting port). Inappropriate operation of the game ball winning the starting opening (for example, operating the same game ball to pass the starting opening many times repeatedly), It is determined that an abnormal prize has occurred due to an illegal act of outputting a signal to be output when a game ball is detected by radiating radio waves from and causing a switch to malfunction. As described above, in the present embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S2511 to S2514, the number of times that the start port switch 14a is turned on again from the time when the starting port switch 14a is turned on until the monitoring time elapses becomes the predetermined number of times. When it has reached, it is determined that an abnormal prize has occurred due to an illegal act of illegally operating a game ball entering the starting opening or an illegal act of irradiating radio waves from the outside, and incrementing the signal output counter by one. Thus, a security signal can be output in the information output process. Therefore, the administrator can detect the occurrence of the abnormal winning in the winning area based on the security signal.

  After that, the CPU 56 resets the re-detection number counter (step S2513), performs control to transmit an error notification designation command for executing the error notification to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2514), and starts the opening switch. The determination processing ends.

  As described above, the winning opening switch determination processing (Step S259b), the count switch determination processing (Step S259c), and the gate switch determination processing (Step S259d) determine the processing for confirming the starting opening switch in the starting opening switch determination processing. This is realized by replacing the process with a process of confirming the target switch. Specifically, the signal output number counter is commonly used in the determination processing of each switch, but the start-up port monitoring timer, the continuous detection timer, and the re-detection number counter are provided for each switch, and similar to the flow of FIG. Control such as timer monitoring, counting of the number of times of re-detection, and output of an error information designation command is performed. Although it is determined that an error has occurred when the number of times of re-detection has reached the predetermined value (step S2511), the predetermined value used in the determination processing of each switch may be the same. , May be different for each switch, but it is desirable to set a value according to the winning opening and the board surface design.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the sensor error determination process in step S24. In the sensor error determination process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) checks whether a magnet sensor signal from the magnet sensor 62 has been input (step S260). Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 1 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 1) into the register, and loads the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 1 and the magnet sensor signal input bit determination value (20 ( H), and FIG. 7), and if the result of the AND operation is 20 (H), it is determined that a magnet sensor signal has been input.

  If a magnet sensor signal is input (that is, if magnetism is detected by the magnet sensor 62), the CPU 56 determines that a magnetic abnormality has occurred, and sets a magnetic abnormality flag indicating that the magnetic abnormality has been detected. (Step S261). In this embodiment, based on the fact that the magnetic abnormality flag has been set in step S261, the information output process (see S31) is executed, so that when a magnetic abnormality is detected, a security signal is sent to the gaming machine. Are output to the outside until the power is turned on again and the initialization processing is executed.

  Further, the CPU 56 turns on the error notification LED 31A to notify that a magnetic abnormality has occurred (step S262), and also produces an error notification designation command for designating that an error (magnetic abnormality) has occurred. Control for transmitting to the control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S263). In this embodiment, the error notification designation command is transmitted irrespective of the type of error. However, a different command is transmitted for each type of error so that the effect control microcomputer 100 performs different notification. You may. For example, when it is specified to notify that a magnetic abnormality has occurred, a magnetic error notification designation command may be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a radio wave sensor signal from the radio wave sensor 61 has been input (step S264). Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer 1 (the switch-on buffer corresponding to the input port 1) into the register, and loads the contents of the loaded switch-on buffer 1 and the radio sensor signal input bit determination value (10 ( H) and FIG. 7), and if the result of the AND operation is 10 (H), it is determined that the radio wave sensor signal has been input.

  If the radio wave sensor signal is input (that is, if the radio wave is detected by the radio wave sensor 61), the CPU 56 determines that the radio wave abnormality has occurred, and adds 1 to the signal output number counter (step S265). In this embodiment, the information output process (see S31) is executed based on the fact that 1 has been added to the signal output number counter in step S265, so that when a radio wave abnormality is detected, a security signal is set to a predetermined value. It is externally output for a time (0.2 seconds in this example).

  FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing various signals output to the terminal board 160. As shown in FIG. 17, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31 sends a symbol determination frequency 1 signal, a start opening signal, a big hit 1 signal, a big hit to the terminal board 160. The two signals, the three big hits, the time reduction signal, the winning signal, the security signal, and the high accuracy signal are output by the information output processing (see step S31) on the game control microcomputer 560 side. In this embodiment, the payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 transmits the prize ball information to the terminal board 160 via the main board 31 and the payout control microcomputer 37. It is output by the information output process on the 370 side.

  The symbol determination number 1 signal is a signal for notifying the number of times the special symbol has changed. The starting port signal is a signal for notifying the winning number to the starting winning port 14. The big hit 1 signal is a signal for notifying that a big hit game is being played (the special variable winning prize ball device is operating). The big hit 2 signal is a signal for notifying that a big hit game is being played (during the operation of the special variable winning prize ball device) or that the special symbol fluctuation time reduction function is being operated (during a time saving state). The big hit 3 signal is a signal for notifying that a big hit game of 15 rounds is being played. The time-saving signal is a signal for notifying that the special symbol fluctuation time reducing function is operating (during the time-saving state).

  As described above, the winning signal indicates that a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) of prize balls has been established (starting winning port 14, large winnings). Mouth, the normal winning opening 29, 30. Winning of the prize ball has not been performed.Specifically, proximity switches (winning opening switches 29a, 30a, count switch 23, starting opening switch 14a) ) Is a signal indicating that a predetermined payout condition has been determined to be satisfied, on condition that the detection signal from) is input.)

  The security signal is a signal indicating a security state of the gaming machine. Specifically, when it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the magnet sensor 62, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer until the power is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. Is output. When it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 61, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds). Also, when an abnormal winning in the special winning opening or the starting winning opening 14 is detected, or when an abnormality is detected in various switches, the security signal is output for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) of the hall computer or the like. Output to external device. Further, also when the power to the gaming machine is turned on and the initialization process is executed, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds).

  The high probability middle signal is a signal indicating that the gaming state is controlled to a high probability state (probable change state). In this embodiment, the high-probability middle signal is externally output via the terminal board 160 until a predetermined condition is satisfied after the power failure is restored (specifically, until the first big hit occurs).

  As described above, the prize ball information is a signal that is output each time a specific number (10 in this example) of prize ball payouts is detected. In this embodiment, a predetermined payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls (in this embodiment, 10 prize balls) is satisfied (starting winning opening 14, large winning opening, normal winning). A prize is generated in the mouths 29 and 30. Specifically, on the condition that a detection signal is input from the proximity switches (the prize opening switches 29a and 30a, the count switch 23, and the starting port switch 14a), A winning signal is externally output based on the determination that the payout condition is satisfied.), And the number of winning balls can be grasped on the hall side based on the winning signal. Therefore, the award ball information may be configured not to be externally output.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the information output process in step S31. In the example shown in FIG. 18, a part of the processing executed in the information output processing for outputting the security signal to the outside is shown, and other processing is omitted. In the process, in addition to the process shown in FIG. 18, a process of externally outputting a symbol determination number 1 signal, a start opening signal, a big hit 1 signal, a big hit 2 signal, a big hit 3 signal, a time saving signal, a winning signal, and a high accuracy middle signal. Is also executed.

  In the information output process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the magnetic abnormality flag is set (Step S1001). If the magnetic abnormality flag is set (that is, if the occurrence of the magnetic abnormality is detected), the CPU 56 clears the value of the security signal information timer if the magnetic abnormality flag is set (step S1002), and the security of the information buffer is cleared. A signal output bit position (bit 7 of output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 6) is set (step S1003). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in the subsequent step S1014, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1015. Output (turned on).

  When a magnetic abnormality is detected by the processing in steps S1001 to S1003 described above, a security signal based on the magnetic abnormality is output until the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and the initialization processing is executed.

  As described above, the magnetic abnormality flag is stored in the backup RAM and is retained even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. When the recovery process (see steps S91 and S92) is executed, the processes in steps S1001 to S1003 are executed based on the fact that the magnetic abnormality flag is held, so that the security based on the magnetic abnormality again after the restoration of the power failure. The external output of the signal will be restarted. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the magnetic abnormality flag is reset based on the execution of the initialization process (see step S10), and the external output of the security signal based on the magnetic abnormality ends. (However, in this case, the external output of the security signal based on the execution of the initialization processing is executed for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) by executing the processing of steps S1004 to S1015 described later. Will be.)

  If the magnetic abnormality flag is not set (N in step S1001), the CPU 56 determines whether the security signal information timer has timed out (step S1004). Specifically, the CPU 56 loads the security signal information timer, reflects the state of the security signal information timer in the flag register, and determines whether the security signal information timer has timed out. In this embodiment, when the variable winning prize ball device 15 is not in the open state, the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 14 is detected, or when the big hit is not being played, the winning of the gaming ball to the big winning opening is detected. In this case, when an abnormality occurs in various switches, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, and the signal output number counter is incremented by one. In this embodiment, the signal output number counter is also incremented by one when an abnormal radio wave is detected. Then, a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer based on the signal output number counter (step S1013 described later), and if the predetermined time has not elapsed, the security signal information timer Is determined to have not timed out, and when the predetermined time has elapsed (when the value of the security signal information timer is 0), it is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  Further, in this embodiment, a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer even when the power supply to the gaming machine is started and the initialization process is executed (main time). If the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined that the security signal information timer has not timed out, and if the predetermined time has elapsed (when the value of the security signal information timer is 0) (see step S14a in the processing). Then, it is determined that the security signal information timer has timed out.

  If the security signal information timer has not timed out (N in step S1004), the security signal information timer is decremented by 1 and the operation result is stored in the security signal information timer (step S1005). Then, the security signal output bit position of the information buffer (bit 7 of output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 6) is set (step S1006). When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in the subsequent step S1014, and the output value is output to the output port 1 in step S1015. Output (turned on). If the security signal information timer times out (Y in step S10064), the processing in step S1006 is not performed, and as a result, the security signal is turned off.

  When the security signal output bit position of the information buffer is set in step S1006, the CPU 56 determines whether the security signal information timer has timed out and the signal output number counter is greater than 0 (step S1007). If the information timer has timed out and the signal output number counter> 0, a standby period timer for temporarily stopping the output of the security signal is set (step S1008). In step S1007, when the output period of the security signal ends, it is determined whether an error has occurred by checking whether or not the signal output number counter is equal to or greater than 0, but the security signal has not been transmitted yet. The number is confirmed. That is, it is confirmed whether or not it has been determined that a new error has occurred during the output period (or the standby period) of the security signal. Note that if the signal output number counter is not greater than 0 after the security signal output period ends and the signal output number counter is greater than 0 at the next interrupt processing, a standby period may not be provided. Regardless of whether it is 0 or not, the standby period timer may be set.

  If the security signal information timer has timed out (Y in step S1004), the CPU 56 checks whether the standby period timer has timed out (step S1009), and if not, decrements the standby period timer by one. Then (step S1010), the process proceeds to step S1014. If the waiting period timer has timed out, the CPU 56 decrements the signal output number counter by one (step S1012), and sets a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) in the security signal information timer (step S1012). S1013), and proceeds to step S1014.

  By the processing of steps S1004 to S1006 described above, it is assumed that 0.2 seconds elapse after the abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 or the large winning opening is detected and 0.2 seconds have elapsed after the abnormal winning is detected in the various switches. Until two seconds elapse, until 0.2 seconds elapse after the initialization process is performed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine, or until 0.2 seconds elapse after the radio wave abnormality is detected, the terminal The security signal is output using the common connector CN8 of the board 160.

  In addition, according to the processing in steps S1007 to S1010 described above, a standby period is provided after the output of the security signal is completed. If it is determined that a new error has occurred, the output of the security signal is performed after the standby period has elapsed. Done. Also, when it is determined that a new error has occurred during the output period (standby period) of the security signal by the processing of steps S1012 to S1013 described above, the security signal is completely output based on the determination result. can do.

  In addition, after starting to output the security signal based on the detection of the abnormal winning, the detection of the radio wave abnormality, and the execution of the initialization processing, the magnetic abnormality is detected while the security signal is still being output. In this case, the output control of the security signal based on the detection of the abnormal winning, the detection of the radio wave abnormality, and the execution of the initialization process is switched to the output control of the security signal based on the magnetic abnormality. More specifically, since the security signal information timer is set based on the detection of the abnormal winning, the detection of the radio wave abnormality, and the execution of the initialization processing, the processing of steps S1004 to S1013 is executed, and the security signal is externally output. When a magnetic abnormality is detected during the operation, the magnetic abnormality flag is set in the sensor error determination process (see steps S260 and S261). After that, since the magnetic anomaly flag is set, the process is switched to steps S1001 to S1003, the security signal information timer is cleared (see step S1002), and the magnetic anomaly flag is reset in the initialization process. Until the magnetic abnormality flag is set, the security signal is externally output (see step S1003). When a magnetic abnormality is detected, a security signal may be output only for a predetermined period in the same manner as when an abnormal prize or radio wave or more is detected, or an output period of a security signal based on another error determination. Is performed, the security signal may be output after the output period has elapsed and the standby period has elapsed.

  In this embodiment, the output bit position of the corresponding signal in the information output processing shown in FIG. 18 is set for each timer interrupt (see steps S1003 and S1009), and steps S1014 and S1015 are executed to output the output port. An example is shown in which processing is performed from 1 to an external output (however, in this embodiment, the high-probability middle signal is externally output from the output port 0. See FIG. 6). Does not change unless the value of the bit changes from the previous setting. For example, if the value of the corresponding output bit is set to "1", the signal will continue to be output while it is set.

  Next, the output timing of the security signal will be described. 19 and 20 are explanatory diagrams showing the output timing of the security signal. In this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed at the start of power supply to the gaming machine (see steps S10 to S14), a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer. Based on this (see step S14a), the processes of steps S1004 to S1008, S1014, and S1015 are executed in the information output process (see step S31), and as shown in FIG. A security signal is output from the CN 8 to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example).

  When it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in the special winning opening (see steps S250 to S253) or when it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in the starting winning opening 14 (see steps S255 to S258), When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in any of the switches (steps S259a to S259d), the information output process (see steps S254, S259, S2505, and S2512) is performed based on the fact that 1 has been added to the signal output number counter (see steps S254, S259, S2505, and S2512). In steps S1004 to S1013, S1014, and S1015 are executed in step S31), a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer (see step S1013), and FIG. ), The hole computer is connected from the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160. (In this example, 0.2 seconds) the predetermined time to an external device such as a data security signal is output.

  Also, when it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred (see step S264), based on the fact that 1 has been added to the signal output number counter (see step S265), the information output process (see step S31) performs step S1004. Through S1013, S1014, and S1015 are executed, a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example) is set in the security signal information timer, and as shown in FIG. Thus, a security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example).

  Also, when it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred (see step S260), based on the magnetic abnormality flag being set (see step S261), the information output process (see step S31) performs steps S1001 to S1003. , S1014, S1015 are executed, and as shown in FIG. 19 (B), the hole is transferred from the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 until the game machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed. A security signal is output to an external device such as a computer.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed at the time of starting the power supply to the gaming machine, the abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 or the large winning opening or the abnormal winning in the various switches is detected. The security signal is externally output from the common connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 at the time, when the radio wave abnormality is detected, and when the magnetic abnormality is detected.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a magnetic abnormality is newly detected while a security signal is being externally output, execution of initialization processing, detection of an abnormal winning, and detection of a security signal based on detection of a radio abnormality are performed. Switching from output control to security signal output control based on the detection of magnetic anomalies. For example, based on the case where the output of the security signal is started based on the execution of the initialization process when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, or based on the detection of the abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 or the big winning opening. When the output of the security signal is started, and when the output of the security signal is started based on the detection of the radio wave abnormality, as shown in FIG. The output of the signal should continue. However, as shown in FIG. 19C, even before the lapse of 0.2 seconds, there is a possibility that the magnet sensor signal is input from the magnet sensor 62 and it is determined that a magnetic abnormality has occurred. is there. In this case, when the occurrence of a magnetic abnormality is detected and the magnetic abnormality flag is set (see steps S260 and S261), the information output processing (see step S31) shifts from the processing of steps S1004 to S1013 to the processing of steps S1001 to S1003. After the switching, as shown in FIG. 19 (C), the output of the security signal is continued until the game machine is turned on again and the initialization process is executed.

  In this embodiment, when the initialization process is executed at the time of starting the power supply to the gaming machine, when the abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected, or when the radio wave abnormality is detected, Although the case where the security signal is output for 0.2 seconds has been described, the output time of the security signal is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the security signal is output for 0.2 seconds when the initialization process is executed, and the security signal is output when an abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 or the big winning opening or an abnormal winning in various switches is detected. Output for 0.5 seconds, or output a security signal for 1 second when a radio wave abnormality is detected. You may be comprised so that it can recognize whether it is the case where the abnormal winning in the winning opening 14 or the big winning opening is detected or the case where the radio wave abnormality is detected.

  Further, the output period of the security signal may be different depending on whether an abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 is detected, an abnormal winning in the large winning opening is detected, or an abnormal winning in various switches is detected. For example, when an abnormal winning in the starting winning opening 14 is detected, a security signal is output for 0.4 seconds, and when an abnormal winning in the special winning opening is detected, a security signal is output for 0.5 seconds. When an abnormal winning in the switch is detected, a security signal may be output for 0.6 seconds. Also, during the standby period, the type of error (for example, radio wave abnormality, magnetic abnormality, abnormal winning, etc.) that caused the security information being output and / or a new security information during the period during which the security information is output are newly added. It may be made different depending on the type of error that has occurred.

  Next, the timing of newly outputting a security signal based on the determination that another error has occurred during the output period (standby period) for outputting the security signal will be described. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing the output timing of the security signal. In this embodiment, when it is determined that the first abnormal winning has occurred in the start-up switch, 1 is added to the signal output number counter, and the security signal information timer is provided to the security signal information timer in the information output process for a predetermined time (in this example, , 0.2 seconds), and as shown in FIG. 20 (A), security from the connector CN8 of the terminal board 160 to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined time (0.2 seconds in this example). A signal is output. Here, if it is determined that the second abnormal winning has occurred in the winning opening switch during the output period, 1 is added to the signal output number counter, and the first abnormal winning occurs in the information output processing. The output of the security signal based on the occurrence of the second abnormal winning is performed after the end of the output of the security signal based on the completion of the standby period (0.1 seconds in this example). Further, as shown in FIG. 20 (B), it is determined that the radio wave abnormality has occurred during the output period in which the security signal is output based on the determination that the abnormal winning has occurred in the predetermined switch. In this case, the output of the security signal based on the determination that an abnormal winning has occurred has been completed, and after a standby period (0.1 seconds in this example) has elapsed, it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred. The security signal is output based on the fact. Further, as shown in FIG. 20 (C), it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in a predetermined switch during the output period in which the security signal is output based on the determination that the radio wave abnormality has occurred. In this case, the output of the security signal based on the determination that the radio wave abnormality has occurred is terminated, and it is determined that the abnormal winning has occurred after a further waiting period (0.1 seconds in this example) has elapsed. The security signal is output based on the fact. Therefore, even when a new error occurs while the security signal is being output, the security signal based on the occurrence of the new error can be output using the common output unit.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts execution of the main processing when the power is turned on. In the main process, first, an initialization process for clearing a RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining an activation interval (for example, 2 ms) of effect control is performed (step S701). .

  In this embodiment, error notification is set by setting an error notification prohibition flag in a RAM area in an error notification restriction setting process (see step S704) described later (in this example, notification of a magnetic abnormality or various switches). It is possible to set to prohibit the execution of the abnormal winning prize), but the RAM mounted on the effect control microcomputer 100 is not backed up and the RAM area is cleared by the processing of step S701. Even if the setting for prohibiting the execution of the error notification is made, the error notification prohibition flag is always cleared when the power is turned on, and the setting for prohibiting the execution of the error notification is always reset once when the power is turned on.

  The RAM mounted on the effect control microcomputer 100 is also configured to back up the power, and the initialization process is executed based on the operation of the clear switch when the power is turned on. If the clear switch is not operated, the backup is performed. The effect state before the power failure may be restored based on the contents stored in the RAM. Even if the RAM is configured to back up the power, the process for resetting the error notification prohibition flag is always performed when the power is turned on, and the setting for prohibiting the execution of the error notification is always set when the power is turned on. What is necessary is just to reset once.

  When the RAM mounted on the effect control microcomputer 100 is also configured to back up the power as described above, if the restriction of the execution of the error notification is set when the power is turned on, the error notification prohibition flag is reset. The error notification restriction release processing is executed, and even if the power supply is turned on, if the error notification execution restriction is not set, the error notification restriction release processing is skipped without executing the error notification restriction release processing. You may.

  Next, effect control CPU 101 sets the set value of the volume of the notification sound output from speaker 27 in error notification (hereinafter, referred to as an error volume setting value) to the maximum value (step S702). In this embodiment, the volume of the notification sound in the error notification is large, medium, and small, and in step S702, the value indicating the large volume is set as the error volume setting value as an initial value. And For example, when the value indicating the low volume is “0”, the value indicating the medium volume is “1”, and the value indicating the high volume is “2”, the error volume setting value is set to “2”. In this embodiment, the error volume setting value is stored in the RAM.

  As described above, by executing the processing of steps S701 and S702, the error notification prohibition flag is cleared, and the error sound volume setting value is set to the maximum value. Is done.

  In this embodiment, the case where the error volume setting value is set to the maximum value in step S702 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and for example, a default value other than the maximum value (for example, (Medium volume).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display device 9 to display an error notification restriction release screen (see FIG. 24 (1) described later) indicating that the restriction of the error notification execution has been released (step S703). ).

  Next, effect control CPU 101 executes error notification restriction setting processing for setting a restriction on error notification execution (step S704).

  Next, effect control CPU 101 shifts to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S705). When a timer interrupt occurs, effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt processing. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S706) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, first, effect control CPU 101 analyzes the received effect control command, and executes a process of setting a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S707). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect control process (step S708). In the effect control process process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from among the processes corresponding to the control state, and the display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. The effect control CPU 101 executes an error notification process for executing error notification (in this example, notification of a magnetic abnormality or notification of an abnormal winning in various switches) (step S709). The effect control CPU 101 also executes a random number updating process for updating a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol) (step S710). After that, the procedure moves to step S705.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the error notification restriction setting process (step S704) in the main process shown in FIG. In the error notification restriction setting process, effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not an operation signal has been input from operation button 120 (step S750). If an operation signal has not been input from the operation button 120, the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of a measurement timer for measuring the elapse of an error notification restriction settable period in which the restriction of error notification execution can be set ( Along with step S751), it is checked whether the value of the measurement timer after the addition is equal to or more than a predetermined value (for example, a value corresponding to 10 seconds) (step S752). If the value of the measurement timer is not equal to or more than the predetermined value (that is, if the error notification restriction settable period has not elapsed), the process proceeds to step S750. If the value of the measurement timer is equal to or greater than the predetermined value (that is, if the error notification restriction settable period has elapsed), the error notification restriction setting process ends.

  If an operation signal has been input from the operation button 120 (Y in step S750), the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display device 9 to display an error notification restriction setting screen for setting a restriction on error notification execution. Is performed (step S753). For example, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display a setting screen (see FIG. 24 (3) described later) including options such as no error notification, error volume, and low error volume as an error notification restriction setting screen.

  Note that the error notification restriction setting screen may not be displayed, and the error notification execution restriction may be set as it is based on the detection of the operation by the operation button 120. In this case, for example, without displaying the error notification restriction setting screen, based on the detection of the operation by the operation button 120, an error notification prohibition flag described later is set as it is, and the setting to prohibit the execution of the error notification is performed. It may be performed.

  Next, effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an error notification prohibition operation designating prohibition of error notification execution has been detected (step S754). For example, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not an option without error notification has been selected from the error notification restriction setting screen based on an operation signal from the operation button 120. For example, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the option without error notification is selected based on the input of the rotation operation signal due to the rotation operation of the jog dial of the operation button 120 being performed. If the option without error notification has been selected, it is determined that the option without error notification has been selected based on the input of the pressing operation signal due to the next pressing operation of the operation button 120. When the error notification prohibition operation is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets an error notification prohibition flag indicating prohibition of error notification execution (step S755), and performs setting to prohibit error notification execution.

  If the error notification prohibition operation has not been detected, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an error volume setting operation for designating the volume of the notification sound in the error notification has been detected (step S756). For example, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not an error volume middle or error volume low option is selected from the error notification restriction setting screen based on an operation signal from the operation button 120. For example, whether or not the effect control CPU 101 is in a state in which the error volume is low or the error volume is low based on the input of the rotation operation signal due to the rotation of the jog dial of the operation button 120 being performed. It is determined whether or not the error volume is low or the error volume is low, and if the option of the error volume is low is selected based on the input of the pressing operation signal due to the next pressing of the operation button 120, the error volume or the error volume is determined. It is determined that the error volume low option is selected. If an error volume setting operation is detected, effect control CPU 101 sets an error volume setting value in accordance with the operation (step S757). For example, the effect control CPU 101 sets the error volume setting value to “0” when detecting an operation for specifying a low error volume, and sets the error volume setting value for an error volume setting value when detecting an operation for specifying a medium error volume. Is set to "1".

  By performing the above-described error notification restriction processing, if an operation from the operation button 120 is detected within the error notification restriction settable period, the error notification is set not to be executed at all, or the error notification is disabled. By setting the volume of the notification sound to a volume lower or lower than the maximum value, the execution of the error notification is restricted. In addition, error notification limit settings (setting of error notification and setting of notification sound volume) can be set collectively regardless of the type of error, and can be set for each type of error (radio wave abnormality or winning error) It may be. For example, by setting an error notification when it is determined that a radio wave abnormality has occurred, and not performing an error notification when it has been determined that a prize abnormality has occurred, the execution of the error notification for the prize abnormality is limited. Is done.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an error notification process (step S709) in the main process shown in FIG. In the error notification process, first, effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an error notification designation command has been received (step S3001). If the error notification designation command is received (that is, if a magnetic abnormality or abnormal winning in various switches is detected), the effect control CPU 101 turns on the error notification LED 80A to notify that an error has occurred. A notification is issued (step S3002). When a different error notification designation command is transmitted between when a magnetic abnormality is detected and when an abnormal prize in various switches is detected, a different notification LED is turned on according to the type of the error notification designation command. You may make it do.

  Next, effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an error notification prohibition flag is set (step S3003). If the error notification prohibition flag is set (that is, if error notification execution prohibition is set), the error notification process is terminated as it is, and control is performed so that the notification processes of steps S3004 and S3005 are not executed.

  If the error notification prohibition flag is not set (that is, if the error notification execution prohibition is not set), the effect control CPU 101 causes the effect display device 9 to display the screen displayed at that time. A command to superimpose and display an error notification screen (for example, a screen displaying a character string such as “magnetic abnormality” or “abnormal prize” according to the type of the error notification command) is output to the VDP 109 (step S3004). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays an error notification screen on the effect display device 9 according to the command. The effect control CPU 101 outputs sound data indicating a sound output corresponding to the error notification to the sound output board 70 (step S3005). In this case, the effect control CPU 101 outputs sound data for performing sound output at a sound volume corresponding to the error sound volume setting value to the sound output board 70. For example, when a value indicating high volume is set in the error volume setting value (that is, when no error notification execution restriction is set), sound data for performing sound output at high volume is output as audio data. Output to the output board 70. Further, for example, when a value indicating that the sound volume is medium is set as the error sound volume setting value, sound data for performing sound output during the sound volume is output to the sound output board 70. Further, for example, when a value indicating a low volume is set as the error volume setting value, the sound data for outputting the sound at the low volume is output to the audio output board 70. The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input voice data from the voice data ROM 704, and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 according to the read data. Therefore, thereafter, the sound output corresponding to the error notification is performed, and the error notification screen is superimposed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, the process of turning on the error notification LED 80A in step S3002 is always executed regardless of the presence or absence of the error notification prohibition flag and the setting state of the error volume setting value. With such a configuration, in this embodiment, regardless of the setting of the error notification execution restriction, at least the lighting state of the error notification LED 80A of the effect control board 80 is checked, so that a game store clerk or the like can detect a magnetic abnormality or various Since abnormal winning of the switch can be recognized, fraudulent acts can be prevented.

  Further, in this embodiment, since the error notification is not particularly restricted on the game control microcomputer 560 side, regardless of the setting of the error notification execution restriction on the effect control microcomputer 100 side, at least the game By checking the lighting state of the error notification LED 31A of the control board (main board) 31 (see step S262), and by checking whether or not the security signal is externally output (S1001 to S1003, S1004 to S1013). , S1014 to S1015), a game clerk or the like can recognize a magnetic abnormality or an abnormal prize of various switches, thereby preventing fraud.

  Next, display examples of the error notification restriction release screen and the error notification restriction setting screen will be described. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram for describing a display example of an error notification restriction release screen and an error notification restriction setting screen. When the power to the gaming machine is turned on, the initialization process (see step S701) is executed, and the error volume setting value is set to the maximum value (see step S702), all restrictions on the execution of the error notification are once released. And the effect display device 9 displays an error notification restriction release screen. For example, as shown in FIG. 24A, a character string such as "initialization" indicating that the RAM has been initialized and a restriction on the execution of error notification such as "error notification restriction has been released" are released. A character string indicating that the operation has been performed is displayed. In addition, for example, as shown in FIG. 24A, on the error notification restriction release screen, a character string urging the user to set an error notification execution restriction, such as "Please operate the button when resetting." Is also displayed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 24 (2), when the operation button 120 is operated within the error notification restriction settable period (for example, 10 seconds), as shown in FIG. 24 (3), the effect display device 9 , An error notification restriction setting screen is displayed (see steps S750 to S753). In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 24 (3), a setting screen including options such as no error notification, error volume, and low error volume is displayed as the error notification restriction setting screen.

  Then, for example, when the jog dial of the operation button 120 is rotated to select an option without error notification and the operation button 120 is pressed, an error notification prohibition operation is performed, and the error notification execution is completely prohibited. Is set (see steps S754 and S755). Also, for example, when the jog dial of the operation button 120 is rotated to select an error volume low or error volume option, and the operation button 120 is pressed, an error volume setting operation is performed, and the notification sound in the error notification is issued. Is set to be low or medium (see steps S756 and S757).

  In this embodiment, the security signal is output over a common period when any abnormal winning or radio wave abnormality occurs. However, the present invention is not limited to this. (E.g., radio wave abnormalities, magnetic abnormalities, abnormal winnings, etc.), or by changing the output period of the security signal based on some types of errors, the error type can be identified by the security signal, and a specific abnormality occurs Then, a security signal indicating that fact may be preferentially output. For example, FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a modified example of the starting port switch determination processing. In the example shown in FIG. 25, if it is determined in step S2504 that the continuous detection timer has timed out (that is, ball clogging has occurred), the priority signal output flag is set in step S2505a. The example shown in FIG. 25 is a modification in which a security signal indicating the clogging is preferentially output when the clogging occurs. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a radio wave abnormality is detected, a priority signal output flag is set. May be set to output the security signal with priority.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a modification of the information output process. In the example shown in FIG. 26, steps S1001a to S1001c are added, and if the magnetic abnormality flag is not set (step S1001), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the priority signal output flag is set (S1001a). If it is set, the priority signal output flag is reset (S1001b), the security signal information timer is set to the priority signal time (for example, 1 second) (step S1001c), and the routine goes to step S1014. By this processing, the security signal being output is stopped, and the security signal is output over the priority signal time in the next information output processing. In the example of FIG. 26, when the priority is not output, the security signal information timer is set to the normal signal time (for example, 0.2 seconds) (step S1013a). By doing so, errors can be identified based on the output period of the security signal, and when a specific abnormality has occurred, a security signal indicating that fact can be preferentially output.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the first detection means (for example, the start-up switch 14a) for detecting that the game medium has passed through the first winning area (for example, the start-up opening) is provided. A second detecting means (for example, a counter switch 23) for detecting that the game medium has passed through a second winning area (for example, a special winning opening), and whether an error has occurred in the first detecting means. First error determining means for determining whether an error has occurred, second error determining means for determining whether or not an error has occurred in the second detecting means, and an error for outputting a security signal when it is determined that an error has occurred. Information output means, wherein the error information output means uses a common output means for a predetermined output period regardless of which error determination means has determined that an error has occurred. If the second error determination unit determines that an error has occurred during the output period in which the security signal is output based on the determination of the first error determination unit, the output period is determined. After a lapse of a predetermined waiting period, the security signal is output over a predetermined output period using a common output unit. Therefore, even when a new error occurs while the security signal is being output, the security signal based on the occurrence of the new error can be output using the common output unit. Further, in this embodiment, the security signal is output using a common output unit using a common output unit in any case of an error, so that the processing can be shared.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the detecting means (for example, a start-up switch) is provided for each of the winning regions (for example, the starting opening), but a plurality of winning regions (for example, the first starting opening and the second starting opening) are provided. The same detection means may detect passage of the winning area with respect to the starting port.

  Further, according to this embodiment, a radio wave sensor capable of detecting a radio wave and a radio wave abnormality determining means for determining that a radio wave abnormality has occurred when the radio wave sensor detects the radio wave are provided. A security signal is output over a predetermined output period using a common output means based on the determination that an abnormality has occurred. Therefore, even when a radio wave abnormality occurs while the security signal based on the abnormal winning is output, the security signal based on the occurrence of the radio wave abnormality can be output using the common output unit.

  In addition, the production control means (the production control microcomputer 100 in this example) detects an abnormality (in this example, an abnormal winning or magnetic abnormality) related to the game by the detection means (various switches, the magnet sensor 62). Using the effect means (in this example, the effect display device 9 and the speaker 27), error notification (in this example, abnormal winning or magnetic abnormality notification) is executed. The effect control unit sets whether or not to limit the execution of the error notification. In this case, the effect control means restricts the execution of the error notification when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation means (the operation button 120 in this example) (in this example, the error notification execution is prohibited, Or limit the volume of the notification sound in the notification). On the other hand, the effect control means does not limit the execution of the error notification when the power supply to the gaming machine is started (in this example, the setting of prohibition of the error notification execution is cleared, To the maximum value). Therefore, even if the user forgets to set the execution of the error notification, the user can be prevented from overlooking the wrongdoing.

  For example, in general, some amusement stores are located in an environment that is susceptible to the influence of radio waves or magnetism because the store is under an overpass or near a steel tower. If an error detection using a radio sensor or a magnet sensor is performed in such a store as usual, an error is often reported due to an erroneous detection, which may cause a player to feel uncomfortable more than necessary. There is. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the execution of the error notification can be restricted according to the situation of the game store by configuring so that the restriction of the execution of the error notification can be set. Therefore, for example, in a situation that is susceptible to radio waves or magnetism, error notification may be performed even if no fraud is performed (for example, a loud notification sound is output, It is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable by emitting strong light from the light emitting body of the LED or the lamp.

  However, if the execution of the error notification is simply restricted so that the execution of the error notification is once restricted, the restriction is not released until the initialization operation is performed. Therefore, if the game store side sets to restrict the execution of the error notification and then forgets to set to restrict the execution of the error notification, there is a possibility that the wrongdoing may be overlooked. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the restriction on the execution of the error notification is once released, so that the gaming shop is set to limit the execution of the error notification. Even if you have forgotten, you can prevent the wrongdoing from being overlooked.

  In this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 is configured to be able to execute the abnormal prize notification and the magnetic anomaly notification, and whether to limit the execution of the abnormal prize information and the magnetic anomaly notification collectively or individually. Is set, but the error notification that can be executed on the effect control microcomputer 100 side is not limited to the abnormal winning notification or the magnetic abnormality notification. For example, the effect control microcomputer 100 may be configured to execute the radio wave abnormality notification, and may be configured to be able to set whether or not to limit the execution of the radio wave abnormality notification. In this case, for example, control may be performed to transmit a radio wave abnormality notification designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 when Y is determined and radio wave abnormality is determined in step S264 of the sensor error determination process. . Then, based on the reception of the radio wave abnormality notification designation command, effect control microcomputer 100 may perform the same process as steps S3001 to S3005 of the abnormality notification process to execute the radio wave abnormality notification. Also, for the radio wave abnormality notification, the same processing as in steps S701 to S704 may be executed, and the execution restriction may be set.

  Further, as described above, in a case where a plurality of error notifications such as a radio wave abnormality notification can be executed in addition to the abnormal winning notification and the magnetic abnormality notification, the execution restriction of the error notification can be set individually for each type of the error notification. It may be configured as follows. In addition, the abnormal prize notification is based on the type of abnormal prize (based on the processing of steps S250 to S254 and the processing of steps S255 to S259). The number of times the pass of the game ball has been detected again, or the case where the winning of the game ball has been detected has continued for a predetermined period of time, etc.). It may be configured such that the presence or absence of error notification and the volume of the notification sound can be set for each winning opening (switch).

  In this embodiment, a security signal is output for a predetermined period (for example, 0.2 seconds) for radio wave abnormalities or abnormal winnings, and for magnetic abnormalities, the power to the gaming machine is turned on again and initialization processing is executed. Although the output of the security signal is continued until the security signal is output, the output period of the security signal is not limited to that described in this embodiment. For example, the output of the security signal may be continued until the power supply to the gaming machine is turned on again for the radio wave abnormality or the abnormal winning and the initialization process is executed, or the security signal may be output for the magnetic abnormality for a predetermined period (for example, (For 0.2 seconds). Further, for example, the predetermined period for outputting the security signal may be a period other than 0.2 seconds (for example, 0.5 seconds or 1 second). In addition, the security signal based on the radio wave abnormality may be output without providing a standby period, similarly to the output of the security signal based on the magnetic abnormality, or may be given priority even if another security signal is output. You may make it output.

  Further, for example, when the radio wave abnormality and the magnetic abnormality are determined to be Y in steps S260 and S264 of the sensor error determination processing and the radio wave abnormality and the magnetic abnormality are determined, respectively, the error notification command is executed in the same processing as step S263. , And the process of setting 0.2 seconds to the security signal information timer in the same process as step S265, or only one of them. May be.

  Further, in this embodiment, as a specific example of the error notification, an error notification screen (in this example, an abnormal winning notification screen or a magnetic abnormality notification screen) is displayed and a notification sound is output as a sound. The method is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the error notification may be performed by executing only one of the display of the error notification screen and the output of the notification sound. Further, for example, error notification may be executed by lighting or blinking each of the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, 28c in a predetermined notification pattern. Further, display of an error notification screen and sound output of a notification sound may be performed. The error notification may be performed by executing all or any combination of any two of the lighting and blinking of each of the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c.

  Further, in this embodiment, as a method of restricting the execution of the error notification, a case where the error notification is prohibited so as not to be performed at all or the volume of the notification sound is limited to be smaller than the maximum value has been described. The present invention is not limited to those shown in the embodiments. For example, it may be configured to prohibit execution of error notification at all and to limit only one of the volume of the notification sound to be smaller than the maximum value.

  Further, for example, as described above, when the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c can be turned on / off as error notification, the brightness of each lamp 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c in error notification is limited. May be set as follows. In this case, for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the error luminance setting value for setting the luminance of each of the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c in the error notification in step S702 of the main process to the maximum value. In steps S756 and S757 of the error notification restriction process, a value of luminance smaller than the maximum value may be set as the error luminance setting value according to the error luminance setting operation. Then, in step S3005 of the error notification process, the error notification may be performed by lighting or blinking each of the lamps 25, 28a, 28b, and 28c at a luminance corresponding to the error luminance set value.

  In this embodiment, not only the setting for completely prohibiting the execution of the error notification is performed but also the volume of the notification sound can be limited or each lamp 25 can be controlled without completely prohibiting the execution of the error notification. , 28a, 28b, and 28c, the execution of error notification can be limited. Therefore, it is possible to detect a fraudulent activity while preventing the player from feeling uncomfortable due to false notification to some extent.

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where the restriction of the execution of the error notification is set based on the operation of the operation button 120 having the jog dial as the operation means, but the operation means used for setting the restriction is It is not limited to the form shown. For example, when the gaming machine has a stick controller or a cross key as an operation means, any of the error notification restriction setting screens shown in FIG. It is also possible to determine whether or not one of the options has been selected and set a limit according to the operation. Further, for example, the restriction on the execution of the abnormality notification may be set based on an operation from an operation unit that can be operated only by a game clerk, such as a switch provided on the back surface of the gaming machine.

  Further, according to this embodiment, regardless of the setting state of whether or not the execution of the abnormality notification is restricted, the abnormality related to the game (the magnetic abnormality in the present example) is detected by the detection unit (the magnet sensor 62 in the present example). Is detected, an external output signal (in this example, a security signal) is output to an external device (in this example, a hall computer). Therefore, regardless of whether the execution of the error notification is set to be restricted or not, the external device can recognize the abnormality, thereby preventing the illegal act. That is, even if the execution of the error notification in the gaming machine is restricted, the abnormality can be confirmed in the external device (in this example, the hall computer), so that the player who has committed the misconduct notices the error notification in the gaming machine. It is possible to monitor the occurrence of an abnormality while preventing the user from escaping.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the game control board (main board) 31 and the effect control board 80 are provided with a notification means (in this example, error notification LEDs 31A and 80A) for performing predetermined notification. When an abnormality related to the game (in this example, magnetic abnormality) is detected by the detection means (in this example, the magnet sensor 62), a predetermined notification is made using the notification means (in this example, the error notification LEDs 31A and 80A are turned on). Execute In this case, regardless of the setting state of whether or not to limit the execution of the error notification, the predetermined notification is executed when the detection unit detects an abnormality related to the game. Therefore, regardless of whether the execution of the error notification is set to be restricted or not, it is possible to recognize the abnormality by checking the game control board (main board) 31 or the effect control board 80. Can be prevented.

  In this embodiment, the case where the error notification LEDs 31A and 80A are mounted on both the game control board (main board) 31 and the effect control board 80 has been described. However, the game control board (main board) 31 or the effect control The error notification LED 31 may be mounted on only one of the substrates 80.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the specific notification is made on condition that the execution of the error notification is not restricted (in this example, FIG. ), An error notification restriction release screen is displayed). Therefore, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, it is possible to recognize that the execution of the error notification is not limited.

  In this embodiment, the case where the error notification restriction release screen is displayed as the specific notification has been described, but the specific notification mode is not limited to that described in this embodiment. For example, the lamp 25, 28a, 28b, 28c may be lit or blinked in a predetermined pattern to notify that the setting of the restriction on the execution of the error notification has been released. Alternatively, for example, a predetermined notification sound may be output from the speaker 27 to notify that the restriction on the execution of the error notification has been released.

  In the above embodiment, the effect control board 80, the sound output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as boards on which circuits for controlling the effect devices are mounted. It may be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted, and a first effect control board on which a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamp, LED, speaker 27, etc.) are mounted. Two boards including two effect control boards may be provided.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a command directly to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 may use another board (for example, FIG. 3). (A sound / lamp board having a function provided by the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 and a function provided by the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). The control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 in the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or a control unit such as a microcomputer is mounted on the audio output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board, and the control unit receives the command. In response to this, control relating to voice control and lamp control is executed, and furthermore, the effect control microcomputer 100 that controls the effect display device 9 by changing the received command as it is or, for example, to a simplified command. May be transmitted. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed according to a command received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above-described embodiment, the pachinko machine is used as an example of the gaming machine. However, the present invention is applied to a case where a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types of gaming machines are operated in accordance with the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped in response to the operation of the stop button by the player and the combination of the stopped symbols becomes a specific symbol combination, the present invention is applied to a slot machine in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player. It is also possible.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which a game medium is used as a game machine is described as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as prizes. The present invention can also be applied to a sealed-type gaming machine in which a score is given when a condition for giving a prize is satisfied by enclosing a game medium such as.

The specific game state (big hit state) is a special winning combination after a predetermined time (symbol fixed stop time + big hit start production time) elapses after a specific symbol combination (solo pattern of the same symbol) is displayed on the variable display device. Is opened and a specific game state is started. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is provided in the game area after a specific symbol combination (the same pattern of the same symbol) is displayed on the variable display device. The specific game state may be started by passing the ball through a specific area (a specific passing gate sensor or a winning sensor). This allows the player to control the timing of the occurrence of the jackpot, so that even if the ball has run out before the start of the jackpot, the player has time to lend a ball and refill the ball.
Furthermore, a plurality of specific regions may be provided, and the number of rounds per jackpot may be changed depending on which specific region is passed. Further, a lottery of the number of jackpot rounds may be performed by passing through a specific area. Further, in this case, if there are a plurality of specific regions, the lottery ratio of the number of rounds may be changed depending on which specific region is passed.

  The present invention can be suitably applied to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and slot machines.

Reference Signs List 1 Pachinko game machine 9 Effect display device 14 Starting winning opening 14 a Starting opening switch 15 Variable winning prize ball device 23 Count switch 29 Winning opening (normal winning opening)
29a prize port switch 30 prize port (normal prize port)
30a Winner switch 31 Game control board (main board)
37 Dispensing control board 56 CPU
Reference Signs List 61 radio wave sensor 62 magnet sensor 80 effect control board 100 effect control microcomputer 101 effect control CPU
120 operation buttons 160 terminal board 560 game control microcomputer

Claims (1)

A gaming machine having a first winning area and a second winning area,
First detection means provided in the first winning area for detecting that a game medium has passed through the first winning area;
Second detecting means provided in the second winning area for detecting that a game medium has passed through the second winning area;
First counting means for counting the number of times the first detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium again from the time when the first detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium to the lapse of the first monitoring period;
A second counting unit that counts the number of times the second detection unit detects the passage of the game medium again from the time when the second detection unit detects the passage of the game medium until the second monitoring period elapses;
A first error determining unit that determines that an error has occurred when the number of times counted by the first counting unit has reached a predetermined number;
A second error determining unit that determines that an error has occurred when the number of times counted by the second counting unit has reached a predetermined number;
A radio sensor for detecting radio waves,
When a radio wave is detected by the radio wave sensor, a radio wave sensor error determination unit that determines that a radio wave sensor error has occurred,
A case where it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the first error determination unit and the second error determination unit, and a case where it is determined that a radio sensor error has occurred by the radio sensor error determination unit. And error information output means for outputting predetermined error information,
The error information output means,
When it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the first error determination unit and the second error determination unit, error information is output over a predetermined output period using a common output unit,
Outputting error information over different output periods when outputting error information based on the determination of the first error determining unit and outputting error information based on the determination of the second error determining unit;
If it is determined that an error has occurred by the second error determining means in the output period of outputting the error information based on the determination of the first error determining means elapses output period, further predetermined Using the common output unit after the elapse of the standby period, outputting error information over an output period corresponding to a case where it is determined that an error has occurred by the second error determination unit,
It said first counting means, when the number of times counted error by said based on that a predetermined number of times the first error determining means is determined to have occurred, and initializes the number of times counted,
A first continuous detection error determination unit that determines that a continuous detection error has occurred each time the state in which the first detection unit detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period;
A second continuous detection error determining unit that determines that a continuous detection error has occurred each time the state in which the second detection unit detects the passage of the game medium continues for a predetermined period;
Each time at least one of the first continuation detection error determination unit and the second continuation detection error determination unit determines that a continuation detection error has occurred, the continuation detection error is detected over a specific period using the common output unit. Continuous detection error information output means for outputting information ;
When it is determined that an error has occurred by at least one of the first error determination unit and the second error determination unit, or if the first continuous detection error determination unit and the second continuous detection error determination unit When it is determined that a continuous detection error has occurred by at least one of them, further comprising a notification effect execution means capable of executing an information effect ,
The continuity detection error information output means outputs continuity detection error information based on the determination by the first continuity detection error determination means and continuity detection error information based on the determination by the second continuation detection error determination means. Output continuous detection error information over different specific periods
The output period during which the error information is output by the error information output unit and the output period during which the continuous detection error information is output by the continuous detection error information output unit are different,
During the first output period in which the error information output means outputs error information using the common output means, at least one of the first continuous detection error determination means and the second continuous detection error determination means when the continuous detection error is judged to have occurred by the continuous error detection information output means, it elapses the first output period, the common output unit used after a lapse of further first waiting period To output continuous detection error information ,
Within the second output period in which the continuous detection error information output means outputs the continuous detection error information using the common output means, at least one of the first error determination means and the second error determination means When it is determined that an error has occurred, the error information output unit uses the common output unit after the second output period has elapsed and a second standby period different from the first standby period has elapsed. To output error information,
The notification effect execution means,
It is possible to limit the execution of the notification effect,
Does not limit the execution of the notification effect when power supply to the gaming machine is started,
A gaming machine characterized by that: