JP5319466B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which can properly control movements of movable body when a trouble occurs in the movable body. <P>SOLUTION: During period of controlling the movements of each of the movable bodies 121 and 131, a CPU 323 of a performance control board 320 carries out processing for determining a position of the movable body each time the movable body is expected to return to its reference position when the movable bodies are operated normally. When determining that the movable body does not exist at the reference position in the movable-body-position determination processing, it carries out processing for returning the movable body, and thereafter, the movable-body-position determination processing is carried out again. When determining that the movable body does not exist at the reference position in the movable-body-position determination processing, the CPU 323 shifts the movable body state to an error state. Meanwhile, when the movable-body state is in the error state, the CPU 323 controls the movements of each of the movable bodies 121 and 131 without performing the movable-body-position determination processing or the movable-body returning processing. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a swivel-type gaming machine that produces a game by operating a movable body according to the game situation.

  In general, a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a swivel-type gaming machine is provided with a plurality of presentation means for performing various presentations according to the game situation. Examples of such production means include an image display device that displays an image, an electrical display unit that lights and displays a plurality of display lamps, a speaker unit that outputs sound, and a movable body that is operated by a motor or a solenoid. . In particular, the effect by the movable body can produce a large effect as with the image effect. These effect means are controlled by the CPU (effect control means) of the effect control board. That is, the effect control means selects the effect contents to be executed by each effect means by lottery, and controls each effect means based on the selected effect contents.

  In particular, recently, after controlling the movable body to operate in a predetermined production pattern, when the movable body detection sensor does not detect that the movable body has returned to the predetermined reference position, a retry operation is performed and the movable body is still movable. If the movable body detection sensor does not detect that the body has returned to the reference position, the effect control means recognizes that a defect has occurred in the movable body, and thereafter proposes a gaming machine that controls so that the movable body is not operated. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1). Thereby, when a malfunction occurs in the movable body, it is possible to avoid adversely affecting the progress of the game and the execution of the effect by continuing the operation of the movable body.

JP 2007-268038 A

  By the way, as a cause of the trouble that occurs in the movable body, when the movable body falls due to its own weight and cannot return to the reference position, the movable body is moved away from the reference position, so that the movable body is displaced from the reference position. If the position cannot be reached, there is a defect in the production pattern data. Therefore, if the movable body cannot return to the reference position, the assembly position of the movable body detection sensor is shifted, and the movable body is moved to the reference position. A case where the movable body detection sensor cannot detect that the movable body is present at the reference position in spite of returning. In fact, the most common cause among these causes is the displacement of the assembly position of the movable body detection sensor. With such a displacement of the assembly position of the movable body detection sensor, there is no problem with the movable body itself. In this case, even if the position of the movable body is slightly shifted, there should be no problem even if the movable body is operated. In consideration of this point, when a failure occurs in the movable body as in the above-described prior art, it is assumed that the movable body will not be operated thereafter regardless of the cause. The function of the production cannot be fully utilized, and it is unnecessary. In addition, since the movable body only performs a production operation, even if a malfunction occurs in the movable body and the movable body performs an unnatural operation, the game machine exhibits its original function of playing a game. If it can be obtained, it is considered that the defect of the movable body is not a big problem for the player.

  The present invention has been made based on the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that can appropriately control the operation of the movable body when a malfunction occurs in the movable body.

  A gaming machine according to the present invention for achieving the above object is provided with one or a plurality of movable bodies that perform a game-related effect by performing a predetermined operation, and corresponding to each of the movable bodies, One or a plurality of movable body detecting means for detecting the presence of the movable body at a predetermined reference position and outputting a detection signal thereof, and the content of the effect to be executed by each of the movable bodies are determined, and the determined content of the production is determined. Effect control means for controlling the operation of the movable body according to the determined effect data. Then, the production control means is expected to return the movable body to the reference position based on the contents of the production data during a period in which the operation of each movable body is controlled according to predetermined production data. In addition, based on the detection signal from the movable body detection means corresponding to the movable body, a movable body position determination process is performed to determine whether the movable body actually exists at the reference position. When it is determined that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the control of the movable body is stopped according to the effect data, and the operation of the movable body is controlled so that the movable body moves to the reference position. After performing the body return process, it is determined whether the movable body is present at the reference position by performing the movable body position determination process, and the movable body return process and the subsequent movable body position determination process are performed. If it is determined that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even after a predetermined number of times, the movable body position determination process and the movable body return process are performed when the contents of the effect to be executed by each of the movable bodies are determined thereafter. The operation of the movable body is controlled in accordance with effect data that defines the content of the effect without performing it.

  With the above configuration, the effect control means determines that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even if the movable body return process and the subsequent movable body position determination process are performed a predetermined number of times (or once). Thereafter, when the contents of the effect to be executed by each of the movable bodies are determined, the operation of the movable body is controlled according to the effect data that defines the contents of the effect without performing the movable body position determination process and the movable body return process. . Thereby, when a malfunction occurs in the movable body, the production control means controls the operation of the movable body based on the production data without stopping the operation control of the movable body. Can be made incomprehensible to the player, and the player can continue to play the game.

  Further, the effect control means includes a normal state in which the state of the one or more movable bodies performing the effect relating to the game can normally operate the one or more movable bodies and the one or more movable bodies. Which is in an error state in which at least one of the movable bodies cannot be normally operated for control purposes, and the state of one or more movable bodies is in a normal state. In some cases, each time the movable body is expected to return to the reference position based on the contents of the effect data during the period in which the operation of each of the movable bodies is controlled according to predetermined effect data, When the movable body position determination process is performed and it is determined in the movable body position determination process that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the movable body is controlled according to the effect data. Then, after performing the movable body return process, it is determined whether the movable body is present at the reference position by performing the movable body position determination process, and the movable body return process and the subsequent movable body position determination process are performed a predetermined number of times. When it is determined that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even if the operation is performed, the state of one or more movable bodies shifts from the normal state to the error state, while the state of one or more movable bodies is an error. In the case of the state, when the contents of the effect to be executed by each of the movable bodies are determined, the movable body position determination process and the movable body return process are performed without performing the movable body position determination process and the movable body return process according to the effect data defining the effect contents It is desirable to control the operation. Thereby, the production control means can easily recognize the control contents of the movable body based on the state of the one or more movable bodies.

  Further, when the effect control means determines that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even if the movable body return process and the subsequent movable body position determination process are performed a predetermined number of times, the effect control means operates the movable body normally in terms of control. It is desirable to notify a predetermined error notification means that it cannot be performed. Thereby, an employee of the game hall can easily know that a malfunction has occurred in the movable body by recognizing the notification content by the error notification means.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, when a malfunction occurs in the movable body, the production control means controls the operation of the movable body based on the production data without stopping the motion control of the movable body. It is possible to make it difficult for the player to know that a problem has occurred in the body, and to allow the player to continue playing the game.

FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the gaming board of the gaming machine. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the operation of various movable bodies provided in the effect unit of the gaming machine. FIG. 4 is a schematic control block diagram of the gaming machine. FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the main control board, the effect control board, and each effect means of the gaming machine. FIG. 6 is a view for explaining an operation mechanism unit of the first movable effect unit in the gaming machine. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an operation mechanism unit of the second movable effect unit in the gaming machine. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the contents of data stored in the ROM of the effect control board in the gaming machine. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining state transition of two movable bodies. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processing performed by the CPU of the main control board in the gaming machine of the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processing performed by the CPU of the effect control board in the gaming machine. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a movable body error determination process performed by the CPU of the effect control board in the gaming machine.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a gaming board of the gaming machine, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic control block diagram of the gaming machine, and FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the main control board, the presentation control board, and each presentation means of the gaming machine. Here, a case where the gaming machine is a pachinko machine will be described. The pachinko machine is a model connected to the CR unit, that is, a so-called CR machine.

  As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the pachinko machine of the present embodiment includes a glass frame unit 10, a tray unit 20, a cylinder lock 30, a grip unit 40, a game board 50, and a game status display. Unit 60, frame illumination display unit 70, speaker unit 80, corner illumination display unit 90, presentation unit 100, start gate sensor 211, normal winning opening sensor 212, and starting winning opening sensor 213 , A prize winning port sensor 214, a solenoid 221 for a normal electric accessory, a solenoid 222 for a special electric accessory, a payout device 231, a payout control board 232, a launch solenoid 241, a fire control board 242, and a saucer relay. Terminal board 251, CR board 261, CR unit connection terminal board 262, ball rental button operation detection sensor 271, return button operation detection sensor 272, and board It includes a part terminal plate 281, a frame for the external terminal board 282, a glass frame unit opening detection sensor 291, the burn out detection sensor 292, a main control board 310, and a performance control board 320.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the glass frame unit 10 is attached to the upper front part of the pachinko machine, and the tray unit 20 is attached to the lower part of the front surface of the pachinko machine and below the glass frame unit 10. Each of the glass frame unit 10 and the tray unit 20 is pivotally supported at its left end, and is configured to be openable and closable.

  The cylinder lock 30 is provided at the right end of the tray unit 20. For example, when a manager of a game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 30 and twists the cylinder lock 30 clockwise, the glass frame unit 10 and the tray unit 20 become openable, while the cylinder lock When 30 is twisted counterclockwise, only the glass frame unit 10 can be opened. The glass frame unit open detection sensor 291 detects that the glass plate unit 10 is in an open state. A detection signal from the glass frame unit open detection sensor 291 is sent to the main control board 310.

  A vertically long elliptical window 11 is formed at the center of the glass frame unit 10, and a glass unit 12 is mounted in the window 11. The glass unit 12 is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 11. On the other hand, behind the glass frame unit 10, a game board 50 is detachably installed. The player can visually recognize the game board 50 from the front side through the glass unit 12 mounted in the window 11. When the glass frame unit 10 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit 12 and the game board 50.

  The saucer unit 20 is formed in a shape projecting to the front side as a whole, and has an upper dish 21 and a lower dish 22. The upper plate 21 is for storing game balls (rental balls) lent to players and game balls (prize balls) acquired by winning a prize. The lower tray 22 is provided on the lower side of the upper tray 21, and is for storing game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 21 is full.

  A ball lending button 24 and a return button 25 are provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 20. When a player presses the ball lending button 24 once with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted into the CR unit, it corresponds to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). A number of game balls (for example, 125) are lent out. Also, when the player presses the return button 25, if the frequency remains in the input valuable medium, the valuable medium is returned.

  Further, an upper dish ball removal lever 28 is provided on the front surface of the tray unit 20 and in front of the upper dish 21, and a lower dish ball removal button 29 is provided in the center of the front surface of the lower dish 22. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 21 to flow down to the lower plate 22 by sliding the upper plate ball removing lever 28 to the left, for example. In addition, when the player presses the lower tray ball removal button 29, the game balls stored in the lower tray 22 can be dropped downward and discharged to the outside. Here, the discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A grip unit (launching operation handle) 40 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 20. The grip unit 40 is for instructing the game board 50 to fire a game ball and adjusting the launch force of the game ball.

  The game board 50 is provided behind the glass frame unit 10 and at a position corresponding to the glass unit 12. As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 50 includes a start gate 51, a normal winning opening 52, a starting winning opening 53, an electric tulip (ordinary electric accessory) 54, and a large winning opening (special electric accessory). ) 55 and an out port 56 are provided. In addition, the production unit 100 is arranged in a wide area from the center portion of the game board 50 to the right side portion. A game status display section 60 is provided at the lower right corner of the effect unit 100. The gaming status display unit 60 includes a normal symbol display 61, a normal symbol hold indicator 62, a special symbol indicator 63, a special symbol hold indicator 64, and a game status indicator 65. . The left and lower areas of the effect unit 100 in the game board 50 constitute a game area in which a game ball can move. The start gate 51, the normal winning port 52, the starting winning port 53, the electric tulip 54, the big winning port 55, and the out port 56 are arranged in this game area.

  The effect unit 100 executes various effects, and as shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, the image display device 110, the first movable effect unit 120, the second movable effect unit 130, The panel surface illumination display unit 140, a first movable body detection sensor 150, and two second movable body detection sensors 160a and 160b are provided.

  The image display device (image display means) 110 performs an effect related to the game by displaying an image, and is provided in the left portion of the effect unit 100 as shown in FIG. Here, a liquid crystal display device is used as the image display device 110. As shown in FIG. 5, the image display device 110 includes a liquid crystal panel 111 and a liquid crystal control board 112 that controls the liquid crystal panel 111. Here, the liquid crystal control board 112 includes a display control CPU that performs overall control, a VDP (Video Display Processor) that is a display processor, an image ROM that stores image data, and a VRAM that is used as a frame buffer. I have. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the image display device 110 can individually and variably display identification information composed of figures and characters in each of the three display areas. The identification information displayed on the image display device 110 is usually called “special symbol”. After the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, when the variable display is stopped, if the symbols displayed in the three display areas, for example, “7”-“7”-“7”, match, the pachinko machine Transition to jackpot gaming state. The control of the image display device 110 is performed by the effect control board 320 based on a command from the main control board 310. Further, the image display device 110 displays various effect images in addition to displaying the special symbols in a variable manner or stopping the fluctuation display.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an effect switching button 26 is provided at a central portion of the tray unit 20 and in front of the upper plate 21. The player operates the effect switching button 26 to switch the content of the effect on the image display device 110, or, for example, while the special symbol is being changed or displayed in the jackpot game state, the image display device 110 performs a predetermined operation. Can be produced.

  Each of the first movable effect unit 120 and the second movable effect unit 130 is a movable effect means for performing an effect related to a game by operating a predetermined movable body. The control of each of the movable effect units 120 and 130 is performed by the effect control board 320 based on a command from the main control board 310.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the first movable effect unit 120 includes a first movable body 121, a first movable body motor 122 that is a driving source of the first movable body 121, And an operation mechanism unit 123 that causes the movable body 121 to perform a predetermined operation. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first movable body 121 is a cameo with a relief (not shown) of a portrait of a character on the surface, and is provided on the right side of the image display device 110. The first movable body 121 normally stands still in an upright state. However, as shown in FIG. 3, the first movable body 121 can move to the left and tilt to the left with its bottom as the center. The operation of the first movable body 121 is performed by the production control board 320 driving the first movable body motor 122. Here, a stepping motor is used as the first movable body motor 122.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation mechanism unit 123 of the first movable effect unit 120. As shown in FIG. 6, the operation mechanism 123 of the first movable effect unit 120 includes a movable plate 123a, an idler gear 123b, a motor pinion gear 123c, an inclined crank 123d, a horizontal groove 123e, and an inclined groove 123f. It has. The movable plate portion 123a is provided on the back side of the first movable body 121, and the movable plate portion 123a can rotate around the protrusion at the bottom when the first movable body 121 is in an upright state. It is attached to become. Teeth are formed on the bottom surface of the movable plate portion 123a. Further, the movable plate portion 123a is engaged with the horizontal groove portion 123e by a pin (not shown) on the back side thereof. Here, each of the horizontal groove portion 123e and the inclined groove portion 123f is formed at a predetermined portion of the effect unit 100 located behind the movable plate portion 123a. The motor pinion gear 123 c is attached to the rotation shaft of the first movable body motor 122. The motor pinion gear 123c and the idler gear 123b mesh with each other, and the idler gear 123b meshes with the teeth formed on the bottom surface of the movable plate portion 123a. The inclined crank 123d is for adjusting the inclination angle of the first movable body 121. The left end portion of the inclined crank 123d is rotatably attached to the movable plate portion 123a while being engaged with a rod-like portion 121a formed on the bottom protrusion of the first movable body 121, while its right end portion is The pin is engaged with the inclined groove 123f by a pin (not shown). With this configuration, when the first movable body motor 122 rotates, the motor pinion gear 123c rotates, and the rotational force is transmitted to the bottom of the movable plate portion 123a via the idler gear 123b. 123a moves along the horizontal groove 123e. As the movable plate portion 123a moves, the right end portion of the inclined crank 123d moves along the inclined groove portion 123f, so that the inclination angle of the inclined crank 123d changes, and the inclination angle of the first movable body 121 accordingly. Changes.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the second movable effect unit 130 includes a second movable body 131 and two second movable body motors 132 and 133 that are driving sources of the second movable body 131. The second movable body 131 includes two motion mechanism portions 134 and 135 that perform a predetermined motion. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the second movable body 131 is a panel on which a logo (not shown) related to the character is written, and is provided on the upper side of the image display device 110. The second movable body 131 is normally stationary in a horizontal state on the upper side of the image display device 110. However, as shown in FIG. A covering operation can be performed. The operation of the second movable body 131 is performed when the effect control board 320 drives the two second movable body motors 132 and 133. Here, stepping motors are used as the second movable body motors 132 and 133.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the operation mechanism units 134 and 135 of the second movable effect unit 130. With respect to the second movable body 131, the second movable body 131 is controlled by individually driving and controlling the two second movable body motors 132 and 133 to operate the left end portion and the right end portion of the second movable body 131. The whole thing is going to work. That is, the operation mechanism unit 134 receives the driving force of the second movable body motor 132 and operates the left end portion of the second movable body 131, while the operation mechanism unit 135 is the second movable body motor. The right end portion of the second movable body 131 is operated by receiving the driving force of 133.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the operation mechanism unit 134 of the second movable effect unit 130 includes an arm 134a, a gear crank 134b, a connecting gear 134c, an idler gear 134d, and a motor pinion gear 134e. The arm 134a is configured to be rotatable around its central portion. One end of the arm 134a is attached to the left end of the second movable body 131, and the other end is connected to one end of the gear crank 134b. The other end of the gear crank 134b is coupled to the coupling gear 134c. The motor pinion gear 134e is attached to the rotation shaft of the second movable body motor 132. The motor pinion gear 134e and the idler gear 134d mesh with each other, and the idler gear 134d and the coupling gear 134c mesh with each other. With this configuration, when the second movable body motor 132 rotates, the motor pinion gear 134e rotates, and the rotational force is transmitted to the connecting gear 134c via the idler gear 134d, so that the gear crank 134b moves up and down. Moving. As the gear crank 134b moves, the arm 134a rotates around its central portion, so that the left end portion of the second movable body 131 moves up and down in an oblique direction.

  In addition, the right end portion of the second movable body 131 moves up and down in an oblique direction by the operation mechanism unit 135 of the second movable effect unit 130. The operation mechanism unit 135 has the same components as the operation mechanism unit 134, but the operation of the right end portion of the second movable body 131 is changed to the operation of the left end portion of the second movable body 131 by the operation mechanism unit 134. In order to follow smoothly, a long hole is provided in the gear crank or the like in the operation mechanism unit 135 to make play. Here, a detailed description of the operation mechanism unit 135 is omitted. In the present embodiment, the effect control board 320 controls driving of the two second movable body motors 132 and 133 so that the second movable body 131 moves while maintaining a horizontal state.

  The first movable body detection sensor 150 detects that the first movable body 121 is present at a predetermined reference position. As the first movable body detection sensor 150, a photosensor including a light emitting element and a light receiving element that receives light emitted from the light emitting element is used. In the present embodiment, the reference position of the first movable body 121 is set to the rightmost position where the first movable body 121 is in an upright state within the movable range. A plate-like portion (not shown) is formed at a predetermined portion of the first movable body 121. When the first movable body 121 moves to the reference position, the plate-like portion of the first movable body 121 enters between the light emitting element and the light receiving element in the first movable body detection sensor 150, and the first movable body detection sensor. By making 150 the light-shielding state, it is detected that the first movable body 121 is present at the reference position. A detection signal from the first movable body detection sensor 150 is output to the effect control board 320. The effect control board 320 confirms the position of the first movable body 121 based on the detection signal from the first movable body detection sensor 150 in a predetermined case.

  The two second movable body detection sensors 160a and 160b are for detecting that the second movable body 131 is present at a predetermined reference position. As described above, with respect to the second movable body 131, the two second movable body motors 132 and 133 are individually driven and controlled, and the left and right end portions of the second movable body 131 are operated, so that The entire two movable bodies 131 are operated. Therefore, two second movable body detection sensors 160a and 160b are provided, and the second movable body detection sensor 160a detects that the left end portion of the second movable body 131 exists at the reference position, and the second The movable body detection sensor 160b detects that the right end portion of the second movable body 131 is present at the reference position. Then, when both of the two second movable body detection sensors 160a and 160b detect that the part of the second movable body 131 exists at the reference position, it is determined that the second movable body 131 exists at the reference position as a whole. be able to. As the second movable body detection sensors 160a and 160b, photo sensors each including a light emitting element and a light receiving element that receives light emitted from the light emitting element are used. In the present embodiment, the reference position of the second movable body 131 is set to the uppermost position in the movable range. A predetermined light shielding plate (not shown) is provided at each position of the effect stage 100 corresponding to the left end and the right end of the second movable body 131 when the second movable body 131 is present at the reference position. When the second movable body 131 moves to the reference position, the left end of the second movable body 131 pushes up one end of the shielding plate, and the other end of the shielding plate is the light emitting element in the second movable body detection sensor 160a. It enters between the light receiving elements. Thereby, the second movable body detection sensor 160a is set in a light-shielding state, and it is detected that the left end portion of the second movable body 131 is present at the reference position. The position detection of the right end portion of the second movable body 131 by the second movable body detection sensor 160b is similarly performed. Detection signals from the respective second movable body detection sensors 160 a and 160 b are output to the effect control board 320. The effect control board 320 confirms the position of the second movable body 131 based on detection signals from the second movable body detection sensors 160a and 160b in a predetermined case.

  The panel illumination display unit 140 is an illumination display means for performing an effect related to a game by lighting a plurality of display lamps (display elements). In the present embodiment, a light-emitting diode (hereinafter also referred to as “LED”) is used as a display lamp. Control of the panel illumination display unit 140 is performed by the effect control board 320 based on a command from the main control board 310. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the panel surface decoration display unit 140 is provided on the back side of the effect unit 100 and in the periphery thereof. The panel illumination display unit 140 includes a plurality of LEDs and a substrate on which the LEDs are mounted.

  The game area on the left side of the effect unit 100 is an area to be a flow path for game balls, and as shown in FIG. 2, a start gate 51 is provided at a predetermined position in this area. A start gate sensor 211 is provided on the back side of the start gate 51. The start gate sensor 211 detects that the game ball has passed through the start gate 51. A detection signal from the start gate sensor 211 is sent to the main control board 310. When the main control board 310 receives the detection signal, the main control board 310 performs a normal symbol lottery. This normal symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric tulip 54. The result of the normal symbol lottery is notified by the normal symbol display 61. Specifically, the normal symbol display 61 is composed of two LEDs, and the on / off state of each LED is referred to as a “normal symbol”. The normal symbol display 61 stops the normal symbol variation display after performing the normal symbol variation display by, for example, alternately turning on two LEDs. When the result of the normal symbol lottery is winning, both the two LEDs are stopped and displayed in a lit state. On the other hand, when the result of the normal symbol lottery is out, either one of the LEDs is lit and stopped and the other LED is lit and stopped. The normal symbol display 61 is controlled by the main control board 310.

  On the left side of the normal symbol display 61, a normal symbol holding display 62 is provided. The normal symbol hold indicator 62 displays the number of times that the normal symbol variation display based on the passing of the game ball to the start gate 51 has not yet started (the number of holds). The normal symbol hold display 62 is composed of two LEDs, and displays the number of holds depending on the lighting, extinguishing, and blinking states of these LEDs. For example, when both of the two LEDs are turned off, it means that the number of holdings of the normal symbol fluctuation display is “0”, and the left LED is turned on and the right LED is turned off. Indicates that the number of holdings of the normal symbol variation display is “1”, and when both LEDs are lit, the number of holdings of the normal symbol variation display is “2”. . And when the left LED is lit and the right LED is blinking, it means that the number of normal symbols that are fluctuating is “3”, and when both LEDs are blinking. Indicates that the number of hold of the variable symbol display is “4”. As described above, the maximum number of normal symbols for variable display is “4”.

  The electric tulip 54 is provided at the start winning opening 53. The electric tulip 54 is a pair of left and right movable pieces attached to the entrance portion of the start winning opening 53 so as to be separated from each other. The electric tulip 54 is opened for a predetermined time, for example, when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner. When this electric tulip 54 is opened, it becomes easier for a game ball to enter the start winning opening 53. The opening and closing of the electric tulip 54 is performed by the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 221 based on a signal from the main control board 310.

  The normal winning opening 52 is located below the start gate 51. When a game ball enters the normal winning opening 52, the game ball wins. An ordinary winning opening sensor 212 is provided inside the ordinary winning opening 52. The normal winning opening sensor 212 detects that a game ball has entered the normal winning opening 52. A detection signal from the normal winning opening sensor 212 is sent to the main control board 310. When the main control board 310 receives the detection signal, the main control board 310 transmits to the payout control board 232 a prize ball instruction command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls. Thereby, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out.

  The start winning opening 53 is located below the effect unit 100. When the game ball enters the start winning opening 53, the game ball wins. A start winning port sensor 213 is provided inside the start winning port 53. The start winning port sensor 213 detects that a game ball has entered the start winning port 53. A detection signal from the start winning port sensor 213 is sent to the main control board 310. When the main control board 310 receives the detection signal, the main control board 310 transmits to the payout control board 232 a prize ball instruction command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls. Thereby, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out.

  The main control board 310 performs a special symbol lottery when the game ball enters the start winning opening 53 and receives a detection signal from the start winning opening sensor 213. This special symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to shift the pachinko machine to the jackpot gaming state, that is, whether or not it is a jackpot. The result of the special symbol lottery is notified in the image display device 110 and the special symbol display 63. As described above, the image display apparatus 110 displays the special symbol in a variable manner, and then stops the variable display. If the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, the three special symbols displayed by the image display device 110 are stopped and displayed in a predetermined jackpot mode. The special symbol display 63 is composed of two 7-segment displays. Such two 7-segment displays can also display the display symbols (identification information) in a variable manner. Then, after the two display symbols displayed by the special symbol display unit 63 are variably displayed, when the two display symbols are stopped and displayed in a predetermined jackpot when the variability display is stopped, the result of the special symbol lottery Is a big hit. The special symbol display 63 is controlled by the main control board 310. Although the display symbol displayed by the special symbol display unit 63 is different from the special symbol displayed by the image display device 110, it plays the same role in displaying the result of the special symbol lottery. Hereinafter, the display symbol displayed by the special symbol indicator 63 is also referred to as “special symbol”.

  On the upper side of the special symbol display 63, a special symbol holding display 64 is provided. The special symbol hold indicator 64 displays the number of times (the number of holds) that the game ball has won by entering the start winning opening 53, but the display of the special symbol based on the winning has not yet started. The special symbol hold indicator 64 is composed of four LEDs arranged in a horizontal row, and displays the number of holds based on the number of LEDs that are lit. As described above, the maximum number of reserved special symbols for variable display is “4”.

  A large winning opening 55 is provided below the start winning opening 53. The special winning opening 55 is normally closed, but opens and closes in a predetermined pattern when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big win mode, that is, when the pachinko machine is in the big win game state. Specifically, after the big winning opening 55 is opened, if a predetermined number of game balls wins or a predetermined time elapses, the open state is temporarily closed and closed. This opening / closing operation is performed a predetermined number of times. Here, the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 55 is referred to as “round”. The special winning opening 55 is opened and closed by the special electric accessory solenoid 222 based on a signal from the main control board 310. Naturally, since the big winning opening 55 is also a winning opening, when the gaming ball enters the big winning opening 55, the gaming ball wins. Inside the big prize opening 55, a big prize opening sensor 214 is provided. The special prize opening sensor 214 detects that a game ball has entered the special prize opening 55. A detection signal from the big prize opening sensor 214 is sent to the main control board 310. When the main control board 310 receives the detection signal, the main control board 310 transmits to the payout control board 232 a prize ball instruction command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls. Thereby, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out. Further, the main control board 310 can recognize the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening 55 based on the detection signal. A game in which the pachinko machine is in a jackpot game state and the winning prize opening 55 repeats opening and closing operations is called “jackpot game”, and the player can acquire a large amount of game balls by this jackpot game. is there.

  In the present embodiment, as the types of jackpots, for example, a total of three types of “15 rounds probability variation jackpots”, “15 rounds non-probability variation jackpots”, and “3 rounds probability variation jackpots” are set. In the case of winning 15 rounds probable jackpot by special symbol lottery, the jackpot 55 is opened and closed a total of 15 times in the jackpot game, and the probability that the pachinko machine will win a jackpot after the jackpot game state ends. The privilege of shifting to a so-called probability variation gaming state that is higher than usual is given. If a 15-round non-probable jackpot is won by a special symbol lottery, a bonus is given that the opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning port 55 is performed a total of 15 times in the jackpot game, but after the pachinko machine has finished the jackpot game state The privilege of shifting to the probability variation gaming state is not given. In addition, when winning a three-round probability change jackpot by a special symbol lottery, the jackpot 55 is opened and closed a total of three times in the jackpot game, and the probability change gaming state after the pachinko machine finishes the jackpot gaming state. The privilege to move to is given.

  Also, according to the type of jackpot, the special symbol jackpot mode (jackpot symbol) in the image display device 110 is determined in advance. For example, when the type of jackpot is a 15-round probability variable jackpot, the image display device 110 has three special symbols representing the same odd number such as “7”-“7”-“7”. Is stopped and displayed (see FIG. 2). On the other hand, when the type of jackpot is a 15-round non-probable bonus jackpot, the image display device 110 has three special symbols representing the same even number such as “2”-“2”-“2”. The display is stopped in a manner. When the type of jackpot is a 3-round probability variable jackpot, the image display device 110 has special symbols representing odd numbers in a predetermined combination, such as “1”-“3”-“5”. Is stopped and displayed.

  The gaming state display 65 is provided above the normal symbol display 61 and the normal symbol hold display 62. The gaming state indicator 65 has one short time state display lamp arranged at the left end and three jackpot type display lamps arranged on the right side of the short time state display lamp. Each of these lamps is composed of LEDs. The three jackpot type display lamps notify the jackpot type. When the pachinko machine shifts to the jackpot gaming state, among the three jackpot type display lamps, a lamp corresponding to the jackpot type is turned on. Further, in the present embodiment, when the jackpot game ends, the pachinko machine shifts from the jackpot game state to a time-short game state where a time-short game is performed. The short-time game is a game in a game state in which the time for performing the normal symbol variation display is shorter than usual and the opening time of the electric tulip 54 is extended when the result of the normal symbol lottery is a win. . At this time, the short game state continues until, for example, the normal symbol lottery is performed 50 times. The short-time state display lamp notifies that the pachinko machine is in the short-time gaming state. While the pachinko machine is in the short-time gaming state, the short-time state display lamp is lit.

  An out port 56 is provided at the bottom of the game area, and game balls that have not won a prize are collected through the out port 56. In the game area, a plurality of nails for causing the game ball to bounce back in an unexpected direction, a windmill for changing the direction of the game ball in an unexpected direction, and the like are also attached.

  The upper edge portion of the effect unit 100 functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball. Further, a ball guide passage 101 is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 100, and a rolling stage 102 is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 101 guides the flowing game ball to the rolling stage 102 when a game ball flowing down in the game area flows into the ball guide passage 101 through the opening 101a at the upper left end of the ball guide passage 101. Is. The upper surface of the rolling stage 102 is formed to be a smooth curved surface. The game ball can freely roll in the left-right direction on the rolling stage 102 and eventually flows down from the rolling stage 102 to a lower game area. A ball discharge path 103 is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 102. The ball discharge path 103 is located immediately above the start winning opening 53, and when the game ball flows down from the rolling stage 102 to the ball discharge path 103, the game ball easily flows into the start winning opening 53. . Thus, the portion of the effect unit 100 in which the ball guide path 101, the rolling stage 102, and the ball discharge path 103 are formed also constitutes a game area in which the game ball can move.

  The frame lighting display unit 70 is lighting display means for performing effects related to a game by lighting a plurality of display lamps. In the present embodiment, LEDs are used as display lamps. The control of the frame illumination display unit 70 is performed by the effect control board 320 based on a command from the main control board 310. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the frame illumination display unit 70 includes a top lamp unit 71, a left side lamp unit 72, a right side lamp unit 73, and a saucer lamp unit 74. Each of the lamp units 71, 72, 73, 74 is composed of a plurality of LEDs and a board on which the LEDs are mounted.

  The top lamp unit 71 is provided on the back side of the glass frame unit 10 and in the upper part thereof. The left side lamp unit 72 is provided on the back side of the glass frame unit 10 and on the left side thereof, and the right side lamp unit 73 is provided on the back side of the glass frame unit 10 and on the right side thereof. The saucer lamp unit 74 is provided on the back side of the saucer unit 20 so as to surround the upper dish 21 and the lower dish 22. The top lamp unit 71, the left side lamp unit 72, the right side lamp unit 73, and the tray lamp unit 74 are externally designed as if they are connected together on the front surface of the pachinko machine.

  The speaker unit 80 is a sound output unit that produces effects related to games by outputting sound effects, BGM, voice, and the like. The control of the speaker unit 80 is performed by the effect control board 320 based on a command from the main control board 310. As shown in FIG. 1, the speaker unit 80 includes a pair of glass frame speakers 81 a and 81 b, a glass frame speaker 82, and a saucer speaker 83. The pair of speakers 81a and 81b on the glass frame is built in the upper part of the glass frame unit 10 at the left end and the right end, respectively. Built in. The saucer speaker 83 is built in the upper part of the lower tray 22 of the saucer unit 20.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the corner illumination display unit 90 includes a pair of triple LEDs 91a and 91b. The pair of triple LEDs 91a and 91b are respectively provided on the back side of the glass frame unit 10 and at the upper left corner and the right corner. Here, as the pair of triple LEDs 91a and 91b, those capable of full color lighting display are used. The corner illumination display unit 90 performs an effect of notifying that an error has occurred mainly in the pachinko machine by lighting the pair of triple LEDs 91a and 91b. Examples of errors that may occur in the pachinko machine include that the glass plate unit 10 is in an open state and the dispensing device 231 is in a ball-out state. That the glass plate unit 10 is in the open state is detected by the glass frame unit open detection sensor 291. Further, the ball breakage detection sensor 292 detects that the payout device 231 is in a ball breakage state. Detection signals from these detection sensors 291 and 292 are sent to the main control board 310. When the main control board 310 receives a detection signal from the glass plate unit open detection sensor 291 or the ball breakage detection sensor 292, the main control board 310 sends a command indicating the error content to the effect control board 320. And the production | presentation control board 320 controls the corner | angular part illumination display part 90 to alert | report the said error content based on the command. Furthermore, as will be described later, in the effect control board 320, the two movable bodies 121 and 131 are in a normal state in which all of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 can be operated normally in control and the two movable bodies. It manages which state is an error state in which at least one movable body among 121 and 131 cannot be normally operated for control. That the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state is also a kind of error that has occurred in the pachinko machine. The effect control board 320 controls the corner illumination display unit 90 to notify the error content even when the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state.

  Moreover, the corner | angular part illumination display part 90 alert | reports the content of an error with the lighting color of LED. Specifically, when the glass frame unit 10 is in the open state, the corner illumination display unit 90 is lit in red, and when the dispensing device 231 is in the out-of-ball state, the corner illumination display unit 90 is lit in white. And when the state about the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state, the corner | angular part illumination display part 90 lights in purple. When various errors occur in duplicate, the corner illumination display unit 90 notifies only the content of the error with the highest priority and does not notify the content of other errors. In the present embodiment, the error priority is set as follows. That is, the error that the glass frame unit 10 is in the open state has the highest priority, the error that the dispensing device 231 is in the out-of-ball state has the next highest priority, and the two movable bodies 121 and 131 have the same priority. The error that the state is an error state has the lowest priority. The priority is determined according to the degree of seriousness of the error content. In addition, as described above, the corner illumination display unit 90 performs an effect of notifying the content of the error when an error occurs, but when no error has occurred, the frame illumination display unit 70 is displayed. As in the case of the panel illumination display unit 140, a normal effect related to the game is performed. The control of the corner illumination display unit 90 when performing a normal effect is performed by the effect control board 320 based on a command from the main control board 310.

  In addition, the image display device 110, the first movable effect unit 120, the second movable effect unit 130, the panel illumination display unit 140, the frame illumination display unit 70, the speaker unit 80, and the corner illumination display unit 90 are all This is an effect related to a game, and is hereinafter also referred to as “direction means”.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine, there are a payout device 231, a payout control board 232, a launch solenoid 241, a fire control board 242, a tray relay terminal board 251, a CR board 261, a CR unit connection terminal board 262, a panel external terminal board 281, a frame An external terminal board 282, a main control board 310, an effect control board 320, and the like are installed. Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the main control board 310 is connected to the payout control board 232 and the effect control board 320 via a communication cable line. The payout control board 232 is connected to the launch control board 242 and the CR unit connection terminal plate 262 via a communication cable line. The launch control board 242 is connected to the saucer relay terminal board 251 via a communication cable line. The tray relay terminal plate 251 is connected to the CR board 261 and the CR unit connection terminal plate 262 via a communication cable line. The panel external terminal board 281 is connected to the main control board 310, and the frame external terminal board 282 is connected to the payout control board 232.

  The payout device 231 is for receiving a prize ball or a rental ball to the tray unit 20. The operation of the payout device 231 is controlled by the payout control board 232. Specifically, when a game ball enters each of the winning holes 52, 53, 55, the main control board 310 sends a predetermined prize ball instruction command to the payout control board 232, and the payout control board 232 receives the prize ball instruction command. Based on this, the operation of the payout device 231 is controlled so as to pay out the required number of prize balls. Here, in general, the number of winning balls differs for each winning opening. The ball break detection sensor 292 detects that the payout device 231 is in a ball break state. A detection signal from the ball break detection sensor 292 is sent to the main control board 310.

  The firing solenoid 241 strikes a game ball sent to a predetermined launch position and launches it toward the game area. The firing control board 242 controls the operation of the firing solenoid 241. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the grip unit 40 is provided with a firing lever volume 41 and a touch sensor 42. The launch lever volume 41 generates and outputs an analog signal proportional to the amount of operation (rotation amount) of the grip unit 40 by the player. The touch sensor 42 detects that the player's body is touching the grip unit 40 based on the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal thereof. A saucer relay terminal plate 251 is provided in the saucer unit 20, and signals from the launch lever volume 41 and the touch sensor 42 are sent to the launch control board 242 via the saucer relay terminal plate 251. The launch control board 242 adjusts the strength with which the game ball is launched by driving the launch solenoid 241 based on signals from the launch lever volume 41 and the touch sensor 42.

  A CR unit is connected to the CR unit connection terminal plate 262. The CR board 261 has a signal from the ball lending button operation detection sensor 271 that detects that the ball lending button 24 has been pressed, and a return button operation detection sensor 272 that detects that the return button 25 has been pressed. A signal is input. These signals are transmitted from the CR board 261 to the CR unit via the tray relay terminal plate 251 and the CR unit connection terminal plate 262. Upon receipt of the signal from the ball lending button operation detection sensor 271, the CR unit subtracts the frequency required for paying out a predetermined number of balls from the frequency currently stored in the valuable medium, and the predetermined number of lending. A ball rental instruction command for paying out a ball is sent to the payout control board 232 via the CR unit connection terminal board 262. The payout control board 232 controls the operation of the payout device 231 to pay out a predetermined number of balls based on the ball rental instruction command. Further, when the CR unit receives a signal from the return button operation detection sensor 272, the CR unit returns the valuable medium having the remaining frequency.

  The board external terminal board 281 and the frame external terminal board 282 are connected to a hall computer that manages the entire game arcade. The main control board 310 transmits information indicating the progress of the game to the hall computer via the board external terminal board 281, and the payout control board 232 pays out to the hall computer via the frame external terminal board 282. Send information.

  The main control board 310 mainly controls and manages game contents and game ball payout. As shown in FIG. 5, the main control board 310 includes a ROM 311, a RAM 312, and a CPU (game control means) 313. The ROM 311 stores various programs relating to game content control and the like. The RAM 312 is a working memory that temporarily stores data. The main control board 310 is provided with a plurality of counters (not shown). Among these counters, there are many random number generation counters for generating random numbers used in the lottery process. As the random number generation counter, not only a hardware counter but also a software counter that generates a random number on a program is used.

  The CPU 313 executes a program stored in the ROM 311 to control game contents, controls the payout control board 232 to control the payout of prize balls, and controls the effect control board 320. To control the production. Specifically, the processing related to the control of game content performed by the CPU 313 includes input event processing, normal symbol game processing, special symbol game processing, jackpot game processing, and the like.

  First, input event processing will be described. The input event processing is performed during the game based on signals from the start gate sensor 211, the normal winning port sensor 212, the starting winning port sensor 213, the big winning port sensor 214, the glass frame unit open detection sensor 291, and the ball break detection sensor 292. This is a process for recognizing an event that has occurred and executing a process according to the event that has occurred. Specifically, when the CPU 313 receives a signal from the start gate sensor 211, the CPU 313 recognizes that the game ball has passed through the start gate 51. Then, one numerical value is acquired as a random number value at a predetermined timing from numerical values within a predetermined range that are sequentially generated by a predetermined random number generation counter, and the acquired random number value is stored in the RAM 312 as a random number value for normal symbol lottery. To do. Here, up to four random numbers for normal symbol lottery are stored. Further, when the CPU 313 receives signals from the winning opening sensors 212, 213, and 214, the CPU 313 recognizes that a game ball has won the winning opening. The number of game balls won in each winning opening is stored in the RAM 312 and managed. Information on the number of game balls won for each winning opening stored in the RAM 312 will be referred to as “winning memory”. In particular, when the CPU 313 receives a signal from the starting prize opening sensor 213, the CPU 313 acquires one numerical value as a random number value at a predetermined timing from a predetermined range of numerical values that are sequentially generated by a predetermined random number generation counter. The obtained random number value is stored in the RAM 312 as a special symbol lottery random value. Here, a maximum of four random numbers for special symbol lottery are stored. Further, upon receiving the detection signal from the glass frame unit open detection sensor 291, the CPU 313 recognizes that an error has occurred that the glass frame unit 10 is in the open state, and stores the content of the error that has occurred in the RAM 312. . Upon receiving the detection signal from the ball break detection sensor 292, the CPU 313 recognizes that an error has occurred that the payout device 231 is in a ball break state, and stores the content of the error that has occurred in the RAM 312.

  Next, the normal symbol game process will be described. The normal symbol game process is a process of performing the normal symbol lottery and controlling the normal symbol display 61 and the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 221 in accordance with the result of the lottery. Specifically, the CPU 313 reads one normal symbol lottery value stored in the RAM 312 and determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery random value falls within a predetermined hit range. When the random number value for normal symbol lottery corresponds to a numerical value within the hit range, that is, when the result of the normal symbol lottery is win, the CPU 313 controls the normal symbol display unit 61 to display the normal symbol display unit 61. After the normal symbol variation display is performed, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner. Thereafter, the CPU 313 sends a signal to the solenoid 221 for an ordinary electric accessory to open the electric tulip 54 for a predetermined time. On the other hand, when the random number value for normal symbol lottery does not fall within the numerical value within the hit range, that is, when the result of the normal symbol lottery is out of the range, the CPU 313 controls the normal symbol display unit 61 to control the normal symbol display unit. After letting 61 display the change of the normal symbol, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in an out-of-phase manner. In addition, when the normal symbol lottery process is performed on the normal symbol lottery random value stored in the RAM 312, the CPU 313 deletes the normal symbol lottery random value from the RAM 312. Further, the CPU 313 controls the normal symbol hold display device 62 based on the number of random numbers for normal symbol lottery currently stored in the RAM 312, and sets the normal symbol hold display device 62 to display the normal symbol change display hold number. Display.

  Next, the special symbol game process will be described. The special symbol game process is a process of performing a special symbol lottery and controlling the special symbol display 63, the special electric accessory solenoid 222, and the like according to the lottery result. Specifically, the CPU 313 reads one special symbol lottery random value stored in the RAM 312 and determines whether or not the special symbol lottery random value falls within a predetermined jackpot range, that is, the special symbol lottery. It is determined whether or not the result is a jackpot. Here, the result of the special symbol lottery is stored in the RAM 312. When the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win, the CPU 313 controls the special symbol display unit 63 to cause the special symbol display unit 63 to display the variation of the special symbol, and then stops the special symbol in a big win mode. Display. Thereafter, the CPU 313 sends a signal to the special electric accessory solenoid 222 to open the special winning opening 55. On the other hand, when the result of the special symbol lottery is out, the CPU 313 controls the special symbol display unit 63 to cause the special symbol display unit 63 to display the variation of the special symbol, and then removes the special symbol. Press to stop display. In addition, when the special symbol lottery processing is performed on the special symbol lottery random value stored in the RAM 312, the CPU 313 deletes the special symbol lottery random value from the RAM 312. Further, the CPU 313 controls the special symbol hold display unit 64 based on the number of random numbers for special symbol lottery currently stored in the RAM 312, and sets the special symbol hold display unit 64 to display the variable symbol hold display number. Display.

  In addition, when the special symbol lottery is performed, the CPU 313 determines by lottery information necessary for controlling the notification effect for displaying the result of the special symbol lottery. The notification effect of the special symbol lottery result is performed by each effect means such as the image display device 110. For example, in the image display device 110, as described above, after the variable display effect for variably displaying the special symbol is performed, the stop display effect for stopping and displaying the special symbol is performed, and the special symbol is displayed depending on the content of the stop display effect. The result of the lottery will be notified. At this time, a reach state may occur in the variable display effect. The reach state is a state in which only two special symbols out of the three special symbols are stopped, and if the remaining one special symbol in the variable display is stopped and displayed in a predetermined manner, it may be a big hit It is a state where exists. Information necessary for controlling the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result includes the presence / absence of the reach state, the time for executing the variable display effect (variable display time), the time for maintaining the stop display effect (stop display time), and In the case where the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, a special symbol stop display mode in the stop display effect, that is, a jackpot symbol or the like can be mentioned. When the CPU 313 determines information necessary for controlling the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result, the CPU 313 stores the content of the determined information in the RAM 312.

  Next, the jackpot game process will be described. The jackpot game process is a process of executing a jackpot game when the pachinko machine is in the jackpot game state. Specifically, when the pachinko machine enters the jackpot gaming state, the CPU 313 turns on the lamp corresponding to the jackpot type display lamp among the three jackpot type display lamps, and determines the maximum number of rounds according to the jackpot type. Set the counter. Here, the value of this counter is decremented by 1 each time the special winning opening 55 is opened. That is, the value of this counter indicates the number of remaining rounds. Further, every time the special winning opening 55 is opened, the CPU 313 counts an elapsed time from the opening with a predetermined timer. The CPU 313 determines whether or not the number of game balls won in the big prize opening 55 in the round has reached a predetermined number based on the winning memory won in the big prize opening 55 after the big prize opening 55 is opened. Then, it is determined whether or not the value of the timer indicates a predetermined time. When the CPU 313 determines that a predetermined number of game balls have won the big prize opening 55 or a predetermined time has passed in the round, the CPU 313 sends a signal to the special electric accessory solenoid 222. The special winning opening 55 is closed. Thereafter, if the remaining number of rounds is not zero, the CPU 313 sends a signal to the special electric accessory solenoid 222 to open the special winning opening 55 again. On the other hand, if the remaining number of rounds is zero, the CPU 313 ends the jackpot game, turns off the jackpot type display lamp, and turns on the time reduction state display lamp.

  Further, the CPU 313 performs a prize ball payout process for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls when a game ball enters each of the winning holes 52, 53, 55. Specifically, the CPU 313 determines whether or not the RAM 312 has a winning memory for each winning opening. When determining that there is a winning memory, the CPU 313 outputs a winning ball instruction command to the payout control board 232 to pay out the number of winning balls corresponding to the winning opening. Thereafter, the CPU 313 deletes the winning memory corresponding to the outputted prize ball instruction command. The CPU 313 repeats such processing until no winning memory is stored.

  Further, the CPU 313 performs effect control output processing for outputting various commands to the effect control board 320. Here, the various commands output to the effect control board 320 include, for example, an error command indicating the content of an error that has occurred in the pachinko machine, and a command related to information necessary for the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result. The error command includes, for example, an open error command indicating that the glass frame unit 10 is in an open state, and a ball break error command indicating that the dispensing device 231 is in a ball cut state. When the error content is stored in the RAM 312, the CPU 313 creates an error command based on the error content and outputs the error command to the effect control board 320. The effect control board 320 determines specific contents regarding the error notification effect based on the error command. In addition, commands related to information necessary for the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result include a special symbol lottery result command indicating the result of the special symbol lottery, a reach state generation command indicating whether or not to generate a reach state during the variable display effect, A variation pattern command indicating a display time and a stop display time, a jackpot symbol command indicating a jackpot symbol when the result of the special symbol lottery is a jackpot, and the like are included. The CPU 313 creates a command related to information necessary for the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result based on the information stored in the RAM 312, and outputs the command to the effect control board 320. The effect control board 320 selects specific contents about the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result based on the command.

  The CPU 313 manages the gaming state of the pachinko machine. In the pachinko machine of the present embodiment, as described above, various gaming states such as a jackpot gaming state, a probability variation gaming state, and a short-time gaming state are set as the gaming state. The CPU 313 controls the transition of the game state according to the game situation. The management of the gaming state is performed using, for example, a flag. The CPU 313 also outputs a gaming state command indicating the gaming state of the pachinko machine to the effect control board 320.

  Next, the effect control board 320 will be described. The production control board 320 mainly controls production accompanying the progress of the game. As shown in FIG. 5, the effect control board 320 includes a ROM 321, a RAM 322, a CPU (effect control means) 323, a movable body drive circuit 324, a lamp drive circuit 325, and a speaker drive circuit 326. The ROM 321 stores various programs related to game effects and the like. The RAM 322 is a working memory that temporarily stores data. In the RAM 322, for example, commands sent from the main control board 310 are temporarily stored.

  The CPU 323 determines the contents of effects to be executed by each of the rendering means 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, 90 by performing the effect lottery, and each rendering means 110, 120, 130 according to the determined contents. , 140, 70, 80, 90 are controlled. The effect control board 320 is provided with a plurality of counters (not shown). These counters include a random number generation counter for generating random numbers used in the effect lottery process.

  Further, the CPU 323 recognizes the content of the error currently occurring in the pachinko machine based on the error command sent from the main control board 310. The contents of the error that has occurred are stored and managed in the RAM 322 as error information. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the CPU 323 also manages the states of the two movable bodies 121 and 131. As the states of the two movable bodies 121 and 131, a “normal state” and an “error state” are defined. The normal state is a state in which all of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 can be normally operated for control, and the error state is a control of at least one movable body of the two movable bodies 121 and 131. It is a state where it cannot be operated normally. The fact that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state is also a kind of error that has occurred in the pachinko machine, and the CPU 323 determines that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state. The contents to that effect are included in the error information and stored in the RAM 322. Note that priorities as described above are defined for various errors.

  The movable body driving circuit 324 is provided with a driving IC and the like. The driving IC controls the driving of the first movable body motor 122 and the second movable body motors 132 and 133 based on a drive signal from the CPU 323. The lamp driving circuit 325 includes a lamp control IC, a switching element, and the like. This lamp control IC drives and controls the lighting of the plurality of LEDs included in the electrical display units 140, 70, 90 based on the lighting command signal from the CPU 323. Furthermore, the speaker drive circuit 326 includes an acoustic control IC, a sound ROM, an amplifier, and the like. A plurality of sound source data is stored in the sound ROM, and the sound control IC drives and controls the speaker unit 80 based on a command from the CPU 323. That is, the speaker drive circuit 326 is a sound generator.

  In addition to the program, the ROM 321 stores various data such as effect pattern data. Next, the contents of data stored in the ROM 321 will be described in detail. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the contents of data stored in the ROM 321 of the effect control board 320. As shown in FIG. 8, the data storage area of the ROM 321 includes an image effect pattern data storage area 321a, a first movable object effect pattern data storage area 321b, a second movable object effect pattern data storage area 321c, and a panel illumination effect pattern. There are a data storage area 321d, a frame lighting effect pattern data storage area 321e, an acoustic effect pattern data storage area 321f, a corner lighting effect pattern data storage area 321g, and the like.

  In the image effect pattern data storage area 321a, a plurality of image effect pattern data defining the contents of effects to be executed by the image display device 110 are stored. In the first movable body effect pattern data storage area 321b, a plurality of first movable body effect pattern data defining the contents of effects to be executed by the first movable effect unit 120 are stored, and the second movable body effect pattern data storage area 321c stores a plurality of second movable body effect pattern data that defines the contents of effects to be executed by the second movable effect unit 130. In addition, a plurality of panel illumination effect pattern data defining the contents of the effect to be executed by the panel illumination display unit 140 are stored in the panel illumination effect pattern data storage area 321d, and the frame illumination effect pattern data storage area 321e. Stores a plurality of frame lighting effect pattern data that define the contents of the effect to be executed by the frame lighting display unit 70. In the sound effect pattern data storage area 321f, a plurality of sound effect pattern data defining effect contents to be executed by the speaker unit 80 are stored. Furthermore, a plurality of corner illumination design pattern data defining the contents of the effect to be executed by the corner illumination display unit 90 are stored in the corner illumination design pattern data storage area 321g. Here, the plurality of corner illumination design pattern data includes the contents defining the error notification effect to be executed by the corner illumination display section 90 and the contents defining the contents of the normal effect related to the game. It is.

  Now, the contents of the first movable body effect pattern data and the second movable body effect pattern data will be described in particular. Each movable body 121, 131 mainly performs a notification effect of a special symbol lottery result. In the present embodiment, in the first movable body effect pattern data and the second movable body effect pattern data that define the content of the notification effect, the movement of the movable body is displayed once in a special pattern on the image display device 110. The content is determined that the movable body returns to the reference position when the special symbol variation display is completed. Specifically, each first movable body effect pattern data is obtained by inclining the first movable body 121 to the left while moving the first movable body 121 by a predetermined distance in the left direction from the reference position, and then moving the first movable body 121 at the position for a predetermined time. The contents of the operation of moving the first movable body 121 to the reference position by moving the first movable body 121 rightward from the position and how many times to repeat the operation contents are determined. In addition, each second movable body effect pattern data is obtained by moving the second movable body 131 in a diagonally downward left direction from the reference position by a predetermined distance, and then keeping the second movable body 131 stationary at the position for a predetermined time. Then, the contents of the operation of translating the second movable body 131 diagonally right upward from the position and returning it to the reference position, and the number of times to repeat the operation contents are defined. As can be seen from the contents of such effect pattern data, the first movable body 121 and the second movable body 131 are not only at the end of the variation display of the special symbol when performing the notification effect of the special symbol lottery result, Even during the variation display, it may exist at the reference position. Here, in the actual effect pattern data, each operation content is determined by designating the number of steps of the stepping motor, the operation speed, the rotation direction, and the like.

  The plurality of first movable body effect pattern data includes effect pattern data for return operation with respect to the first movable body 121, and the plurality of second movable body effect pattern data includes the second movable body effect pattern data. Production pattern data for a return operation with respect to the body 131 is included. In the effect pattern data for the return operation, the contents that the movable body is first moved by a certain distance in the direction away from the reference position, and then moved by the maximum movable distance of the movable body and returned to the reference position are determined. It has been. The effect pattern data for the return operation is used in the movable body return process described later.

  The CPU 323 determines the specific contents to be executed by each effect means 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, 90. Specifically, the CPU 323 first determines each command based on various commands (special symbol lottery result command, reach state generation command, variation pattern command, jackpot symbol command, gaming state command, etc.) sent from the main control board 310. The contents of effects to be executed by the effect means 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, 90 are selected by lottery. Next, the CPU 323 determines whether an error has occurred in the pachinko machine based on the error information stored in the RAM 322. If it is determined that no error has occurred, the CPU 323 decides to use the production content selected in the lottery as it is as the production content actually executed by the production means 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, 90. To do. On the other hand, if the CPU 323 determines that an error has occurred, the CPU 323 uses the effect lighting units 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, and 90 as the effect contents that are actually executed. It is decided to use an error notification effect for notifying an error with the highest priority among currently occurring errors, and each of the effect means 110, 120, 130, other than the corner illumination display unit 90 For 140, 70, and 80, it is determined that the content of the effect selected by the lottery is used as it is.

  Next, the CPU 323 controls each effect means according to the determined effect content. Specifically, the control of each rendering means is performed as follows. When controlling the image display device 110, the CPU 323 reads out the image effect pattern data corresponding to the effect content for the determined image display device 110 from the ROM 321 and sends it to the liquid crystal control board 112. Thereby, the liquid crystal control board 112 controls the display of an image based on the image effect pattern data. Moreover, when controlling the 1st movable effect part 120, CPU323 reads the 1st movable body effect pattern data corresponding to the effect content about the determined 1st movable effect part 120 from ROM321, and the read 1st movable effect | action is read. A drive signal is generated based on the body effect pattern data. Then, when the CPU 323 sends the generated drive signal to the movable body drive circuit 324, the movable body drive circuit 324 drives the first movable body motor 122 in accordance with the drive signal, whereby the first movable body 121 operates. To do. In the case of controlling the second movable effect unit 130, the CPU 323 reads out the second movable object effect pattern data corresponding to the effect content about the determined second movable effect unit 130 from the ROM 321, and the read second movable item. A drive signal is generated based on the body effect pattern data. Then, when the CPU 323 sends the generated drive signal to the movable body drive circuit 324, the movable body drive circuit 324 drives the second movable body motors 132 and 133 according to the drive signal, thereby the second movable body 131. Works.

  Further, when controlling the panel illumination display unit 140, the CPU 323 reads the panel illumination design pattern data corresponding to the effect content about the determined panel illumination display unit 140 from the ROM 321, and the read panel illumination production is read. A lighting command signal is generated based on the pattern data. When the CPU 323 sends the generated lighting command signal to the lamp driving circuit 325, the lamp driving circuit 325 controls the panel illumination display unit 140 according to the lighting command signal. In the case of controlling the frame illumination display unit 70, the CPU 323 reads out the frame illumination effect pattern data corresponding to the effect content of the determined frame illumination display unit 70 from the ROM 321, and the read frame illumination effect. A lighting command signal is generated based on the pattern data. Then, when the CPU 323 sends the generated lighting command signal to the lamp driving circuit 325, the lamp driving circuit 325 controls the frame illumination display unit 70 according to the lighting command signal. When controlling the corner electrical decoration display unit 90, the CPU 323 reads the corner electrical decoration effect pattern data corresponding to the effect content about the determined corner electrical decoration display unit 90 from the ROM 321, and the read corner A lighting command signal is generated based on the part illumination design pattern data. Then, when the CPU 323 sends the created lighting command signal to the lamp driving circuit 325, the lamp driving circuit 325 controls the corner illumination display unit 90 according to the lighting command signal. Further, when controlling the speaker unit 80, the CPU 323 reads out the sound effect pattern data corresponding to the effect content of the determined speaker unit 80 from the ROM 321 and sends it to the speaker drive circuit 326. Thereby, the speaker drive circuit 326 controls the output of sound from the speaker unit 80 based on the sound effect pattern data.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, when the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is the normal state, the CPU 323 controls each of the movable bodies 121 and 131 while controlling the movable effect units 120 and 130. And whether or not the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is to be shifted from the normal state to the error state is determined. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining state transition of the two movable bodies 121 and 131. When the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is the normal state A, the CPU 323 performs the effect pattern during the period in which the effect operation of each of the movable bodies 121 and 131 is controlled according to predetermined effect pattern data. Each time the movable body is expected to return to the reference position based on the contents of the data, the movable body actually exists at the reference position based on the detection signal from the movable body detection sensor corresponding to the movable body. A movable body position determination process is performed to determine whether or not. Specifically, the determination in the movable body position determination process is performed from when the movable body is expected to return to the reference position until a predetermined time elapses. Then, when a signal indicating that the movable body is present at the reference position is not transmitted from the movable body detection sensor even though the predetermined time has elapsed, the CPU 323 indicates that the movable body is present at the reference position. Recognize that it is not. In consideration of the time during which the CPU 323 performs the movable body position determination process, each of the effect pattern data for the movable effect units 120 and 130 includes the movable body from the reference position until the predetermined time elapses. The contents are determined so as not to be moved to another position.

  If the CPU 323 determines that the movable body is present at the reference position in the movable body position determination process, the CPU 323 maintains the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 in the normal state A, and the movable according to the effect pattern data. Continue body movement control. By the way, normally, in order to cause the movable body to perform a desired operation, the number of steps, the operation speed, and the rotation direction of the stepping motor may be controlled in accordance with the contents of the effect pattern data. In this embodiment, since the movable body detection sensor for detecting that the movable body is present at the predetermined reference position is provided, not only the operation of the movable body is controlled by the control of the stepping motor, but also from the movable body detection sensor. It is possible to control the operation of the movable body while confirming the position of the movable body from the detection signal. For example, when it is detected that the movable body is present at the reference position, the control content of the stepping motor can be controlled using the detection as a trigger. By performing such control, it is possible to prevent the movable body from remaining in a protruding state after the production operation or to collide with each other, and to prevent the production by the movable body from being performed unnaturally. be able to.

  On the other hand, when determining that the movable body does not exist at the reference position in the movable body position determination process, the CPU 323 stops the control of the movable body according to the effect pattern data, and the movable body moves to the reference position. Thus, a movable body return process for controlling the operation of the movable body is performed. Here, in the movable body return process, the CPU 323 controls the operation of the movable body according to the effect pattern data for the return operation for the movable body. That is, the movable body is caused to perform a return operation in which the movable body is moved by a certain distance in a direction away from the reference position, and then moved back by the maximum movable distance of the movable body to the reference position. As a result, if the movable body is not out of order, the movable body can be reliably returned to the reference position wherever it exists within the movable range. The CPU 323 determines whether or not the movable body is present at the reference position by performing a movable body position determination process after performing the movable body return process.

  When the CPU 323 determines that the movable body is present at the reference position in the movable body position determination process after the movable body return process, the CPU 323 maintains the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 in the normal state A. On the other hand, when the CPU 323 determines that the movable body does not exist at the reference position in the movable body position determination process after the movable body return process, the CPU 323 cannot operate the movable body normally in terms of control, that is, the movable body error Recognizing the occurrence, the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is shifted from the normal state A to the error state B. Then, the CPU 323 stores the content that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is the error state B in the error information and stores it in the RAM 322.

  Further, when the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is the error state B, the CPU 323 determines the contents to be executed by each of the movable bodies 121 and 131, and the movable body position determination process and the movable body return. The operation of the movable body is controlled in accordance with effect pattern data that defines the content of the effect without performing processing. That is, even when each of the movable bodies 121 and 131 is controlled in accordance with predetermined performance pattern data, the movable body is expected to return to the reference position based on the contents of the performance pattern data. The CPU 323 does not determine whether the movable body actually exists at the reference position based on the detection signal from the movable body detection sensor corresponding to the movable body.

  Thus, in this embodiment, even if the state about the two movable bodies 121 and 131 becomes an error state, the control of the movable rendering units 120 and 130 is not stopped. This is due to the following reason. In other words, the reason why the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 becomes an error state is that when the movable body falls due to its own weight and cannot return to the reference position, the assembly position of the movable body is shifted. If the movable body cannot reach the reference position, there is a defect in the production pattern data. Therefore, if the movable body cannot return to the reference position, the assembly position of the movable body detection sensor is shifted. Thus, there can be mentioned a case where the movable body detection sensor cannot detect that the movable body is present at the reference position even though the movable body has returned to the reference position. In fact, the most common cause among these causes is the displacement of the assembly position of the movable body detection sensor. Due to the displacement of the assembly position of the movable body detection sensor, there is no problem with the movable body itself. In addition, the movable body only performs a production operation, and even if a malfunction occurs in the movable body, the malfunction of the movable body is so large as long as the game machine can perform its original function of playing a game. It doesn't matter. In the present embodiment, in consideration of these points, even when the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state, each movable effect is performed without stopping the control of each of the movable effect units 120 and 130. Control based on the production pattern data is performed on the units 120 and 130. Thereby, when the state about the two movable bodies 121 and 131 becomes an error state, this can be made difficult for the player to understand, and the player can continue to play the game.

  In the present embodiment, when the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 shifts to the error state, the error state is maintained until the power of the pachinko machine is turned on again or the contents of the RAM 322 are cleared. It will not be released.

  Next, a process procedure performed by the CPU 313 of the main control board 310 in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processing performed by the CPU 313 of the main control board 310.

  An interrupt signal is repeatedly input to the CPU 313 of the main control board 310 at a constant cycle. Then, every time an interrupt signal is sent, the CPU 313 performs each process shown in the processing flow in FIG. 10, that is, an input event process, a normal symbol game process, a special symbol game process, a jackpot game process, a prize ball payout process, and an effect. The control output process is repeated in this order. Each processing is an independent processing module (subroutine). Further, the period is divided into a plurality of times, and the divided times are assigned to the processes described above. Thereby, each process is repeatedly executed for each of the above-described periods by the interrupt signal. The detailed contents of each process shown in FIG. 10 are as described above.

  Next, a process procedure performed by the CPU 323 of the effect control board 320 in the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure of processing performed by the CPU 323 of the effect control board 320.

  Similarly to the CPU 313 of the main control board 310, the CPU 323 of the effect control board 320 also performs each process shown in the processing flow of FIG. 11, that is, a command reception process, an effect lottery process, and an effect each time an interrupt signal is sent. The content determination process, the image effect display output process, the movable body driving process, the lamp driving process, and the speaker driving process are repeatedly executed in this order.

  First, the CPU 323 performs command reception processing (S11). In this command reception process, the CPU 323 receives various commands transmitted from the main control board 310. The CPU 323 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the RAM 322 according to type. Here, the commands transmitted from the main control board 310 include a special symbol lottery result command, a reach state generation command, a variation pattern command, a jackpot symbol command, a gaming state command, an error command, and the like.

  Next, the CPU 323 performs an effect lottery process (S12). In this effect lottery process, the CPU 323 performs each effect means 110, 120 based on the special symbol lottery result command, reach state generation command, variation pattern command, jackpot symbol command, game state command, etc. transmitted from the main control board 310. , 130, 140, 70, 80, 90 are selected by lottery.

  Thereafter, the CPU 323 performs effect content determination processing (S13). Specifically, the CPU 323 determines whether an error has occurred in the pachinko machine based on the error information stored in the RAM 322. If it is determined that no error has occurred, the CPU 323 decides to use the production content selected in the lottery as it is as the production content actually executed by the production means 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, 90. To do. On the other hand, if the CPU 323 determines that an error has occurred, the CPU 323 uses the effect lighting units 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, and 90 as the effect contents that are actually executed. It is decided to use an error notification effect for notifying an error with the highest priority among currently occurring errors, and each of the effect means 110, 120, 130, other than the corner illumination display unit 90 For 140, 70, and 80, it is determined that the content of the effect selected by the lottery is used as it is. Thereafter, the CPU 323 reads out the production pattern data defining the production contents of the production means 110, 120, 130, 140, 70, 80, 90 determined in this way from the ROM 321 and temporarily stores it in the RAM 322.

  Next, the CPU 323 performs an image effect display output process (S14). In this image effect display output process, the CPU 323 outputs information about the effect contents to the image display device 110. Specifically, the CPU 323 sends the image effect pattern data stored in the RAM 322 by the effect content determination process to the liquid crystal control board 112. Thereby, the liquid crystal control board 112 controls the display of an image based on the image effect pattern data.

  Next, the CPU 323 performs a movable body driving process (S15). In this movable body driving process, the CPU 323 controls the operations of the first movable body 121 and the second movable body 131 by controlling the movable body driving circuit 324. Specifically, the CPU 323 drives the first movable body motor 122 based on the first movable body rendering pattern data corresponding to the rendering content of the first movable rendering section 120 stored in the RAM 322 by the rendering content determination process. Drive signal for driving the second movable body motors 132 and 133 based on the second movable body presentation pattern data corresponding to the presentation contents of the second movable presentation section 130 stored in the RAM 322. Is generated. When the CPU 323 sends a drive signal for the first movable body motor 122 to the movable body drive circuit 324, the movable body drive circuit 324 controls the drive of the first movable body motor 122 according to the drive signal, thereby One movable body 121 operates. When the CPU 323 sends a drive signal for the second movable body motors 132 and 133 to the movable body drive circuit 324, the movable body drive circuit 324 controls the driving of the second movable body motors 132 and 133 according to the drive signal. As a result, the second movable body 131 operates.

  Further, the CPU 323 performs a movable body error determination process for determining whether or not to shift the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 from the normal state to the error state during the above-described movable body driving process. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the movable body error determination process performed by the CPU 323. In the movable body driving process in step S15 of FIG. 11, the CPU 323 controls the operation of each of the movable bodies 121 and 131 according to predetermined effect pattern data. During the control period, the CPU 323 controls the operation pattern data. Each time the movable body is expected to return to the reference position based on the contents, the movable body error determination process shown in FIG. 12 is started.

  Specifically, the CPU 323 first determines whether the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state based on the error information stored in the RAM 322 according to the processing flow of FIG. (S51). When the CPU 323 determines that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state, the movable body error determination process ends. That is, when the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state, the movable body error determination process is not substantially performed. On the other hand, when the CPU 323 determines that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is the normal state, the movable body is actually set to the reference position based on the detection signal from the movable body detection sensor corresponding to the movable body. It is determined whether or not it exists (S52).

  If the CPU 323 determines in step S52 that the movable body is present at the reference position, the current movable body error determination process ends. On the other hand, when determining that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the CPU 323 stops the control of the movable body according to the effect pattern data, and performs a movable body return process (S53). In this movable body return process, the movable body is moved by a certain distance in a direction away from the reference position, and then the movable body is moved by the maximum movable distance of the movable body and returned to the reference position. After performing the movable body return process, the CPU 323 determines whether or not the movable body is present at the reference position (S54).

  If the CPU 323 determines in step S54 that the movable body is present at the reference position, the current movable body error determination process ends. On the other hand, when determining that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the CPU 323 determines to shift the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 from the normal state to the error state (S55). Then, the CPU 323 stores in the RAM 322 the error information indicating that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state. Thereby, a movable body error determination process is complete | finished.

  Next, the CPU 323 performs a lamp driving process (S16). In this lamp driving process, the CPU 323 controls the lamp driving circuit 325 to control lighting of the panel illumination display unit 140, the frame illumination display unit 70, and the corner illumination display unit 90. Specifically, the CPU 323 changes the illumination display units 140, 70, 90 based on the production pattern data corresponding to the production contents of the electrical display units 140, 70, 90 stored in the RAM 322 by the production content determination process. A lighting command signal for lighting is generated. When the CPU 323 sends a lighting command signal for the panel illumination display unit 140 to the lamp drive circuit 325, the lamp drive circuit 325 controls the panel illumination display unit 140 according to the drive signal. When the CPU 323 sends a lighting command signal for the frame illumination display unit 70 to the lamp drive circuit 325, the lamp drive circuit 325 controls the frame illumination display unit 70 according to the drive signal. Further, when the CPU 323 sends a lighting command signal for the corner illumination display unit 90 to the lamp drive circuit 325, the lamp drive circuit 325 controls the corner illumination display unit 90 according to the drive signal.

  Here, when an error has occurred in the pachinko machine at present, the corner illumination display unit 90 displays an error notification effect on the error having the highest priority among the generated errors. I do. In the error notification effect, lighting display is performed in a predetermined color according to the type of error. In particular, if only the movable body error that the state of the two movable bodies 121 and 131 is an error state has occurred, the corner illumination display unit 90 performs a lit display in purple. By recognizing that the lighting color of the corner lighting display unit 90 is purple, a game hall employee or the like can easily know that a movable body error has occurred in the pachinko machine. Thereby, for example, the employee or the like requests the manufacturer to repair the movable effect section where the movable body error has occurred.

  Thereafter, the CPU 323 performs speaker driving processing (S17). In this speaker driving process, the CPU 323 controls the speaker unit 80 by controlling the speaker driving circuit 326. Specifically, the CPU 323 sends the sound effect pattern data stored in the RAM 322 by the effect content determination process to the speaker drive circuit 326. Thereby, the speaker drive circuit 326 controls the output of sound from the speaker unit 80 based on the sound effect pattern data.

  In the pachinko machine of the present embodiment, when the state of the two movable bodies is an error state, when the CPU of the production control board determines the production contents to be executed by each of the movable bodies, the movable body position determination process and The operation of the movable body is controlled according to the effect pattern data that defines the effect contents without performing the movable body return process. Thereby, when a malfunction occurs in the movable body, the CPU of the production control board controls the operation of the movable body based on the production pattern data without stopping the operation control of the movable body. It is possible to make it difficult for the player to understand what has occurred, and to allow the player to continue playing the game.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to said embodiment, A various deformation | transformation is possible within the range of the summary.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the CPU of the effect control board controls the operation of each movable body according to predetermined effect pattern data, and the movable body is based on the contents of the effect pattern data. Each time it is expected to return to the reference position, a movable body position determination process is performed. When it is determined in the movable body position determination process that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the movable body position determination process is performed again after the movable body return process is performed. In the above embodiment, the case where the state of the two movable bodies is shifted from the normal state to the error state when it is determined in the second movable body position determination process that the movable body does not exist at the reference position has been described. . However, the CPU of the effect control board not only performs the movable body return processing and the subsequent movable body position determination processing once, but also performs the movable body return processing and the subsequent movable body position determination processing a predetermined number of times twice or more. If it is determined that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even if the operation is performed, the state of the two movable bodies may be shifted from the normal state to the error state. Thereby, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not a defect has occurred in the movable body.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the reference position of the first movable body is set to the rightmost position where the first movable body is in an upright state within the movable range, and the reference position of the second movable body is set. Although the case where the uppermost position in the movable range is set has been described, the reference position of each movable body can be set to any position within the movable range. In this case, as a matter of course, each movable body detection sensor is installed at a position where it can be detected that the movable body is present at the reference position.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, priority has been given to various errors, and the corner illumination display unit has been described as performing an error notification effect for an error to which the highest priority is given. In particular, since the lowest priority is given to the movable body error that the state of the two movable bodies is an error state, the corner illumination display section is only when the movable body error occurs. Then, an error notification effect about the movable body error is performed. However, when a movable body error occurs, for example, by giving the highest priority to the movable body error or providing a dedicated error notification means for notifying the movable body error, the movable body always You may make it perform the error alerting | reporting effect about an error. As a result, it is possible to immediately notify an employee of the game hall that a movable body error has occurred.

  Moreover, although said embodiment demonstrated the case where a pachinko machine was provided with two movable production | presentation parts, you may provide one or three or more movable production | presentation parts. In addition, the structure of the pachinko machine, the configuration of the game board, and the like are not limited to those described in the above embodiment, and may be anything.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine has been described. However, the present invention may be applied to a spinning-type game machine including a plurality of spinning reels.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, when the state of one or more movable bodies is in an error state, the production control means determines the contents of the production to be executed by each of the movable bodies. Then, the operation of the movable body is controlled according to the effect data defining the content of the effect without performing the movable body position determination process and the movable body return process. Thereby, when a malfunction occurs in the movable body, the production control means controls the operation of the movable body based on the production data without stopping the operation control of the movable body. Can be made incomprehensible to the player, and the player can continue to play the game. Therefore, the present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a revolving type gaming machine that performs a game effect by operating a movable body according to the game situation.

10 glass frame unit 11 window 12 glass unit 20 saucer unit 21 upper plate 22 lower plate 24 ball lending button 25 return button 26 effect switching button 28 upper plate ball release lever 29 lower plate ball release button 30 cylinder lock 40 grip unit 50 game board 51 Start Gate 52 Normal Winning Port 53 Start Winning Port 54 Electric Tulip (Normal Electric Tool)
55 Grand prize opening
56 Out Port 60 Game Status Display Unit 61 Normal Symbol Display Unit 62 Normal Symbol Retention Display Unit 63 Special Symbol Display Unit 64 Special Symbol Retention Display Unit 65 Game State Display Unit 70 Frame Illumination Display Unit 71 Top Lamp Unit 72 Left Side Lamp Unit 73 Right side lamp unit 74 Dish lamp unit 80 Speaker units 81a and 81b Speakers on glass frame 82 Speakers in glass frame 83 Dish speaker 90 Corner lighting display unit (error notification means)
91a, 91b triple LED
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Effect unit 101 Ball guide path 102 Rolling stage 103 Ball discharge path 110 Image display device 111 Liquid crystal panel 112 Liquid crystal control board 120 First movable effect part 121 First movable body 122 First movable body motor 123 Operation mechanism part 130 Second movable effect section 131 Second movable body 132, 133 Second movable body motors 134, 135 Operation mechanism section 140 Panel surface illumination display section 150 First movable body detection sensor (movable body detection means)
160a, 160b Second movable body detection sensor (movable body detection means)
211 Start Gate Sensor 212 Normal Winning Port Sensor 213 Start Winning Port Sensor 214 Large Winning Port Sensor 221 Normal Electric Appliance Solenoid 222 Special Electric Appliance Solenoid 231 Discharge Device 232 Discharge Control Board 241 Discharge Solenoid 242 Discharge Control Board 251 Receptacle Relay Terminal board 261 CR board 262 CR unit connection terminal board 271 Ball lending button operation detection sensor 272 Return button operation detection sensor 281 Panel external terminal board 282 Frame external terminal board 291 Glass frame unit open detection sensor 292 Ball break detection sensor 310 Main Control board 311 ROM
312 RAM
313 CPU (game control means)
320 Production control board 321 ROM
322 RAM
323 CPU (production control means)
324 Movable body drive circuit 325 Lamp drive circuit 326 Speaker drive circuit

Claims (3)

One or a plurality of movable bodies that perform a game-related effect by performing a predetermined operation;
One or a plurality of movable body detection means provided corresponding to each of the movable bodies, detecting that the movable body is present at a predetermined reference position and outputting a detection signal thereof;
Production control means for determining the production content to be executed by each of the movable bodies, and controlling the operation of the movable body according to production data defining the decided production content;
With
The production control means is expected to return the movable body to the reference position based on the contents of the production data during a period in which the operation of each of the movable bodies is controlled according to predetermined production data. Each time, a movable body position determination process is performed to determine whether or not the movable body actually exists at the reference position based on a detection signal from the movable body detection means corresponding to the movable body. When it is determined in the determination process that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the control of the movable body according to the effect data is stopped, and the movable body is moved to the reference position so that the movable body moves to the reference position. It is determined whether the movable body exists at the reference position by performing the movable body position determination process after performing the movable body return process for controlling the operation, and the movable body return process If it is determined that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even if the subsequent movable body position determination process is performed a predetermined number of times, after that, the contents of the effect to be executed by each of the movable bodies are determined. A game machine that controls the operation of the movable body according to effect data that defines the content of the effect without performing the movable body position determination process and the movable body return process.   The effect control means includes a normal state in which the state of the one or more movable bodies performing the effect relating to the game can normally operate the one or more movable bodies and the one or more movable bodies. It manages which state is an error state in which at least one of the movable bodies cannot be normally operated for control purposes, and the state of the one or more movable bodies is the normal state If it is, during the period in which the operation of each of the movable bodies is controlled according to predetermined presentation data, the movable body is expected to return to the reference position based on the contents of the presentation data. Each time the movable body position determination process is performed, and it is determined in the movable body position determination process that the movable body does not exist at the reference position, the effect data is used. The control of the movable body is stopped, the movable body return determination process is performed, and then the movable body position determination process is performed to determine whether the movable body is present at the reference position. When it is determined that the movable body does not exist at the reference position even if the subsequent movable body position determination process is performed a predetermined number of times, the state of the one or more movable bodies is changed from the normal state to the error state. On the other hand, when the state of the one or more movable bodies is the error state, when the contents of the effect to be executed by each of the movable bodies are determined, the movable body position determination process and the movable body are determined. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation of the movable body is controlled in accordance with effect data that defines the content of the effect without performing body recovery processing.   When the effect control means determines that the movable body does not exist in the reference position even if the movable body return process and the subsequent movable body position determination process are performed a predetermined number of times, the movable body is controlled normally. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a predetermined error notification means is notified that it cannot be operated.

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