JP6680449B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine provided with a main control means for controlling the progress of a game and a sub control means for controlling the output of effects, and for transmitting a command from the main control means to the sub control means.

  The conventional slot machine includes a main control means for controlling the progress of the game and a sub control means for controlling the output of the effect. The main control means sends a command to the sub control means, and the sub control means receives the command. There is a known slot machine that controls the output of effects according to the command (see Patent Document 1).

JP, 2009-077952, A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to prevent generated commands from overflowing the buffer area for command transmission without increasing the capacity of the memory used for the buffer area for command transmission.

The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by the following solving means. Note that the corresponding embodiments are shown in parentheses.
The invention of claim 1 is
A main control means (50) for controlling the progress of the game,
And sub control means (80) for controlling the output of the effect,
The main control means,
Means for determining whether or not an error has occurred (main side error detection means 71),
Command generating means (73) for generating a command,
A buffer area (74) for storing the generated command,
Command transmitting means (75) for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area to the sub-control means,
As the command generated by the command generation means, at least a setting value command indicating a setting value that determines the degree of advantage for the player,
The main control means,
The main process for the progress of the game can be repeatedly executed according to the operation of the player, and the interrupt process is executed every predetermined time (2.235 ms),
The main process has a command concentration section in which the command generation unit generates a plurality of commands including the setting value command, and the command generation unit does not generate a command during or after the command concentration section. A waiting time for the command transmitting means to transmit the command stored in the buffer area ,
In the previous SL interrupt process, regardless of whether it is in the waiting time, based on the predetermined error is determined to have occurred, said command generating means corresponding to said predetermined error command (error display command ) Is generated .

  According to the present invention, a waiting time is provided during or after the command concentration section, and during the waiting time, the command stored in the buffer area is transmitted without generating a command, so that it is used for the buffer area. It is possible to prevent generated commands from overflowing the buffer area without increasing the memory capacity.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an outline of control of the slot machine. It is a flow chart which shows a flow of processing at the time of power-on. It is a flow chart which shows a flow of interruption processing. It is a flow chart which shows the flow of main processing. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of an error handling process. It is the flowchart which shows the flow of game progress processing. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of light emission control processing.

(First embodiment)
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings and the like.
Note that the slot machine 10 of the following embodiments uses medals as game media, but needless to say, it may be game balls or the like without being limited to medals.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of control of the slot machine 10 in the present embodiment. The slot machine 10 includes main control means 50 and sub control means 80.

  The main control means 50 controls the lottery of winning combinations, the drive (rotation and stop) control of the reels 31, and the progress of the game such as payout at the time of winning. The main control means 50 is provided on a main control board (not shown), and a CPU that performs calculations and the like, a ROM that stores programs and the like necessary for the progress of a game, and the CPU perform various controls. It is provided with a RAM or the like for temporarily storing the data or the like taken in at times.

  Further, the sub-control means 80 controls selection / output of effects during the game and the game standby. The sub-control unit 80 is provided on a sub-control board (not shown), and a CPU for performing calculations and the like, a ROM for storing effect data and the like (effect pattern, etc.), and a CPU for effecting various effects. It is provided with a RAM or the like for temporarily storing the data taken in when outputting.

  The sub control board is a control board that belongs to a lower level of the main control board. The main control unit 50 and the sub control unit 80 are electrically connected to each other, and the main control unit 50 sends the sub control unit 80 a signal and information (command) necessary to output the performance in one direction. Is formed.

As shown in FIG. 1, on the input side (the left side in FIG. 1) of the main control means 50, a bet switch 40, a start switch 41, and three switches which are operation switches operated by the player to progress the game. The stop switches 42 (left, middle, right) are electrically connected.
Further, on the input side of the main control means 50, a medal selector 43a, a first insertion detection sensor 43b, a second insertion detection sensor 43c, a payout detection sensor 44, a setting key switch 45, a setting change switch 46, a reset switch 47, a door. The open / close detection sensor 48 and the cover open / close detection sensor 49 are electrically connected.

The bet switch 40 is a switch operated when the player inserts a stored medal for the game. In the present embodiment, it is set to play a game by inserting three medals in any game state. Therefore, when the bet switch 40 is operated, a process of electrically inserting three stored medals and subtracting “3” from the number of stored medals (the number of credits) is performed. The number of inserted medals is not limited to this, and may be one or two. Then, a bet switch for one bet or two bets may be provided.

The medal insertion slot 43 is a portion through which a player inserts an actual medal, and is provided on the front side (player side) of the front mask section (front door).
Further, a medal selector 43a for selecting medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 is provided on the rear surface side (rear surface side) of the front mask portion.
The medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 reach the medal selector 43a. Further, the medal selector 43a switches the path of the medal depending on whether the inserted medal is a legitimate one or not and whether or not the medal inserting operation is valid.

Specifically, the medal selector 43a guides the medal to the hopper 33a if the medal insertion operation is valid and the inserted medal is valid.
On the other hand, if the medal insertion operation is invalid, the medal selector 43a returns the medal to the player regardless of whether or not the inserted medal is a legitimate one. Guide to the saucer.
Further, the medal selector 43a guides the medal to the medal tray in order to return the medal to the player regardless of whether or not the medal insertion operation is valid if the inserted medal is not a proper medal. .

Further, a first insertion detection sensor 43b and a second insertion detection sensor 43c are provided in order from the upstream side in the middle of the medal passage that passes through the medal selector 43a toward the hopper 33a.
Each of the first closing detection sensor 43b and the second closing detection sensor 43c has a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and detects the light emitted from the light emitting element by the light receiving element. Then, the medal passing through the passage passes between the light emitting element and the light receiving element. At this time, the light incident on the light receiving element is blocked for a moment, thereby detecting the passage of the medal.

When the passage of medals is detected in the order of the first insertion detection sensor 43b and the second insertion detection sensor 43c, it is determined that a medal has been inserted.
On the other hand, when the passage of medals is detected in the order of the second insertion detection sensor 43c and the first insertion detection sensor 43b, it is determined that an error (backflow of medals) has occurred.
If the light blocking of the first loading detection sensor 43b and / or the second loading detection sensor 43c continues for a certain time or longer, it is determined that an error (medal clogging) has occurred.

Then, inserting a medal from the medal insertion slot 43 has the same role as operating the bet switch 40.
Further, in the present specification, “inserting a medal” is meant to include both inserting an actual medal into the medal insertion slot 43 and operating the bet switch 40.

Furthermore, the start switch 41 is a switch operated by the player when starting the reels 31 (all left, middle, and right).
Furthermore, three (left, center, right) stop switches 42 are provided corresponding to the three (left, center, right) reels 31, and a switch operated by the player when stopping the corresponding reels 31. Is.

The power supply unit is provided inside the housing of the slot machine 10, and includes a power supply board that supplies electric power to the main control board, the sub control board, and the like, and a power supply box that houses the power supply board.
Further, on the front surface of the power supply box, there are provided a power switch for switching the power on / off and a setting key insertion opening into which a setting key is inserted, and an openable / closable switch cover for covering them. Has been.

When the switch cover is opened, the power switch can be operated and the setting key can be inserted into the setting key insertion opening.
When the setting key is inserted into the setting key insertion slot and the setting key is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the setting key switch 45 is turned on, and when the setting key is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from this state. The setting key switch 45 is turned off.

Furthermore, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the power is off and the power is turned on in this state, the setting change mode in which the set value can be changed is entered.
Further, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the power is on, the setting confirmation mode in which the set value can be confirmed is entered.

  The cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is a sensor that detects opening / closing of the switch cover. For example, the switch cover is arranged so that it is turned on when the switch cover is open, and turned off when the switch cover is closed.

The setting change switch 46 is a switch operated when changing / setting the set value of the slot machine 10. In this embodiment, six levels from setting 1 to setting 6 are provided as setting values. The higher the set value, the more advantageous the player.
The setting change switch 46 is not operated by the player, but is operated by the store (hall) side of the slot machine 10. Therefore, the setting change switch 46 is arranged inside the housing of the slot machine 10 so that the player cannot operate it.

  The reset switch 47 is a switch operated when releasing an error or the like. The reset switch 47, like the setting change switch 46, is not operated by the player, but is operated by the shop where the slot machine 10 is installed. Therefore, the reset switch 47 is arranged inside the housing of the slot machine 10 so that the player cannot operate it.

  The reset switch 47 may be provided with a switch dedicated to the reset switch 47, or may be combined with another switch. For example, one switch can be shared by the setting change switch 46 and the reset switch 47. In this case, one switch can function as the setting change switch 46 in the setting change mode, and can function as the reset switch 47 in other cases.

  The door opening / closing detection sensor 48 is a sensor that detects opening / closing of the front mask portion (front door). For example, it is arranged so that it is turned on when the front mask portion is in the open state and is turned off when the front mask portion is in the closed state.

The output side (the right side in FIG. 1) of the main control means 50 is electrically connected to the three motors 32 and the payout driving unit 33b of the medal payout device 33.
The motor 32 is for rotating the reel 31, is connected to the center of rotation of each reel 31, and is controlled by the reel control means 64 described later.
Here, the reel 31 includes a left reel 31, a middle reel 31, and a right reel 31, and a stop switch 42 operated when stopping the left reel 31 is a left stop switch 42, and when the middle reel 31 is stopped. The stop switch 42 operated is the middle stop switch 42, and the stop switch 42 operated when stopping the right reel 31 is the right stop switch 42.

  The reel 31 has a ring shape, and a reel tape having a plurality of types of symbols (symbols forming a combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination) printed thereon is attached to the outer peripheral surface thereof. In the present embodiment, 21 symbol display areas (frames) are arranged at equal intervals for each reel 31, and a predetermined symbol is displayed in each symbol display area (frame).

The medal payout device 33 is provided inside the housing of the slot machine 10, and has a hopper 33a that stores medals, a payout drive unit 33b that pays out the medals stored in the hopper 33a, and a payout drive unit 33b. The payout detection sensor 44 for detecting the paid-out medal is provided.
The payout detection sensor 44 has a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and detects the light emitted from the light emitting element by the light receiving element. Then, the medals paid out from the payout driving unit 33b pass between the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the payout detection sensor 44. At this time, the light incident on the light receiving element is interrupted for a moment, thereby detecting that the medals have been paid out.

Further, when the payout detection sensor 44 is kept shielded for a certain period of time or longer, it is determined that an error (medal clogging) has occurred.
Furthermore, if the payout detection sensor 44 does not detect that the medals have been paid out despite the fact that the payout driving unit 33b is driven, it is determined that an error (the medals in the hopper 33a have disappeared) has occurred. To do.

Further, the slot machine 10 includes a housing having an opening on the front surface, and a front mask portion (front door) that is openably and closably mounted so as to cover the front surface of the housing.
A display window (transparent window) is provided substantially in the center of the front mask portion. In this embodiment, three reels 31 (left reel 31, middle reel 31, and right reel 31) are provided in parallel in the lateral direction. Further, each reel 31 is arranged so that three symbols that are vertically continuous can be seen from the display window. Therefore, it is arranged so that a total of 3 × 3 = 9 symbols can be seen from the display window of the slot machine 10. Then, the combination (arrangement) of 3 × 3 = 9 symbols that is visible from the display window is referred to as a “stop result”.

Further, a symbol combination line is provided in a portion including the display window of the slot machine 10.
Here, the "symbol combination line" is a line of symbols arranged when the reel 31 is stopped and is a line for forming a symbol combination.
Then, the symbol combination line has a valid line and an invalid line.

Here, the "effective line" is a line that wins a winning combination when a combination of symbols corresponding to any winning combination stops on that line.
On the other hand, the "invalid line" is a line that is not set as a valid line in the symbol combination line, and even if the symbol combination corresponding to any of the winning combinations is stopped on that line, It is a line that does not give a corresponding profit (payout of medals, etc.). That is, the invalid line is a line that is not the target of the establishment of the symbol combination in the first place.

In this embodiment, five symbol combination lines are provided. Then, while always inserting three medals and playing a game, five symbol combination lines are always set as effective lines.
The valid line and the invalid line may be set according to the number of inserted medals, the game state, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 1, on the output side (the right side in FIG. 1) of the sub-control unit 80, there are a production lamp 21, a speaker 22, an image display device 23, and a bet LED 24 and a stop LED 25 as light emitting bodies. It is electrically connected.

  The effect lamp 21 is an effect lamp of the slot machine 10, and lights up in a predetermined pattern when a predetermined condition is satisfied. In the production lamp 21, a back lamp (not shown) that is arranged on the inner peripheral side of each reel 31 and illuminates the symbols displayed on the reels 31 (three symbols that are vertically continuous from the display window) from behind. No.), and an upper lamp and a side lamp (not shown) which are arranged on the front surface of the housing of the slot machine 10 and blink at the time of winning a winning combination.

Further, the speaker 22 outputs a predetermined sound when a predetermined condition is satisfied in order to perform various effects during the game.
Furthermore, the image display device 23 displays effect images, game information (for example, the number of stored medals, the number of paid-out medals, the number of remaining games in the special game and the number of remaining payouts, the pressing order of the stop switch 42, etc.), the game result, etc. Is displayed. Examples of the image display device 23 include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, an organic electroluminescence (organic EL) display, a dot display, and the like. In this embodiment, the image display device 23 is composed of a liquid crystal display.

Further, the light-emitting body is provided corresponding to each operation switch, and indicates to the player whether the operation of each operation switch is valid or invalid.
In this embodiment, the light emitter is composed of a color LED.
Further, as the light emitters, the bet LED 24 provided corresponding to the bet switch 40 and the three (left, middle, right) stop switches 42 provided respectively corresponding to the three (left, middle). , Right) stop LED 25.

  Furthermore, the bet LED 24 emits red light when the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid, and turns off when the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid. As a result, the player is informed of whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid.

  Further, the stop LED 25 emits blue light when the operation of the stop switch 42 is valid, and emits red light when the operation of the stop switch 42 is invalid. This indicates to the player whether the operation of the stop switch 42 is valid or invalid.

In the present embodiment, the winning combination is roughly classified into a special winning combination, a replay, and a small winning combination.
Then, the combination of symbols corresponding to each winning combination, the number of payouts at the time of winning the prize, and the like are determined. As a result, when all the reels 31 are stopped and a combination of symbols corresponding to one of the winning combinations stops on the activated line, that winning combination is won, and the payout or automatic insertion of the number of medals corresponding to that winning combination is performed. (However, special roles are excluded.)
In the present specification, for convenience of explanation, "a combination of symbols corresponding to any combination stops at any activated line" is referred to as "the combination" wins ".

In the role, first, the special role is a role that shifts from the normal game to the special game.
In the present embodiment, 1BB (first type big bonus) and RB (regular bonus) are provided as special roles.
When 1BB is won, there is no payout of medals in the game, but the next game shifts to the 1BB game which is one of the special games. The case where the RB wins is the same as when the 1BB wins.

Further, the replay is a re-game role, and is a role that can perform a re-game while maintaining the number of medals inserted in the game (automatically inserting medals).
Furthermore, the small winning combination is a winning combination in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out.

Here, an outline of the progress of the game in the slot machine 10 is shown.
At the start of the game, the player operates the bet switch 40 to insert a previously stored medal, or inserts a medal from the medal insertion slot 43 and operates (turns on) the start switch 41.
When the start switch 41 is operated, the signal generated at that time is input to the main control means 50.

Upon receiving this signal, the main control means 50 (specifically, a reel control means 64 to be described later) drives and controls all the motors 32 and controls all the reels 31 to rotate.
As the reel 31 is thus rotated by the motor 32, the symbols on the reel 31 are moved and displayed in the vertical direction in the display window at a predetermined speed.

Then, the player pushes the stop switch 42 to stop the rotation of the reel 31 corresponding to the stop switch 42 (for example, the left reel 31 corresponding to the left stop switch 42).
When the stop switch 42 is operated, the signal generated at that time is input to the main control means 50.

When the main control means 50 (specifically, a reel control means 64 described later) receives this signal, the main control means 50 drives and controls the motor 32 corresponding to the stop switch 42 to stop the reel 31 according to the motor 32. I do.
Then, when all the reels 31 are stopped, when a combination of symbols corresponding to one of the winning combinations is stopped on the activated line (that is, when the winning combination of the winning combination is achieved), the payout of the medal corresponding to the winning combination is performed. And so on.

In this way, the game on the slot machine 10 progresses.
Further, the main control means 50 repeatedly executes the main processing for the progress of the game, and in parallel with the main processing, executes the interrupt processing at every predetermined time shorter than the time required for one main processing.

Here, the main process starts when the game starts and ends when the game ends. Therefore, the main process is executed once for each game.
In addition, in the present embodiment, the timer interrupt is set every 2.235 ms. Therefore, the interrupt process is executed every 2.235 ms.

Further, in the present embodiment, 1 is added to the count value for each interrupt, 1 is added to the count value for each interrupt, and 1 is added to the count value for each interrupt, and 10 interrupts are added for each interrupt. And a second interrupt counter 52 whose count value makes a round.
Specifically, the first interrupt counter 51 starts counting from 0, adds 1 to the count value each time the timer interrupt is performed, and when the count value reaches 7, then the count value is reset to 0. It is something to return.

The second interrupt counter 52 starts counting from 0, adds 1 to the count value each time a timer interrupt is performed, and when the count value reaches 9, the count value is reset to 0 next time. is there.
Then, the main control means 50 makes various decisions in the main process and the interrupt process based on the count values of the first interrupt counter 51 and the second interrupt counter 52.

  Further, the main control means 50 controls whether to enable or disable the operation of the operation switches, that is, the above-described bet switch 44, start switch 41, and stop switch 42 according to the progress of the game.

  Specifically, before the start of the game (when all reels 31 are stopped), the main control means 50 validates the bet switch 40 operation or the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43, and The operation of the start switch 41 and the operation of the stop switch 42 are controlled to be invalid.

  Then, when the bet switch 40 is operated or three medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 43, the main control means 50 operates the bet switch 40 and the medals from the medal insertion slot 43 thereafter. Controls to invalidate the input operation of.

For example, even if the bet switch 40 is operated in a state where three medals have been inserted, the main control means 50 does not permit the insertion of any more medals and invalidates the operation of the bet switch 40.
However, when it is possible to insert one or two medals, a bet switch for one bet or two bets is provided so that the number of inserted medals can be changed even after three medals have been inserted. For, continue to enable the operation.

  When the medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 with three medals inserted, if the number of stored medals is less than 50, the main control means 50 selects the inserted medals as the medal selector 43a. When the number of stored medals reaches 50, the medals are guided to the hopper 33a and stored therein, and the inserted medals are guided to the medal tray by the medal selector 43a and returned to the player.

  Further, when a medal is inserted, the main control means 50 validates the operation of the start switch 41, operates the bet switch 40, inserts a medal from the medal insertion slot 43, and operates the stop switch 42. Control to disable.

  Then, when the start switch 41 is operated and the reel 31 rotates, the main control means 50 enables the operation of the stop switch 42, operates the bet switch 40, inserts medals from the medal insertion slot 43, and Control is performed so that the operation of the start switch 41 is invalidated.

  At this time, even if the start switch 41 is operated again, the main control means 50 invalidates the operation of the start switch 41. Further, even if the bet switch 40 is operated while the reel 31 is rotating, the main control means 50 invalidates the operation of the bet switch 40. Furthermore, even if a medal is inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 while the reel 31 is rotating, the main control means 50 invalidates the insertion of the medal and guides the inserted medal to the medal tray by the medal selector 43a. And return it to the player.

Further, when the stop switch 42 is operated while the operation of the stop switch 42 is enabled, the reel control means 64, which will be described later, stops and controls the reel 31 corresponding to the stop switch 42, and the main control means. The control unit 50 controls the operation of the stop switch 42 to be invalid. As a result, the stop switch 42 that has been operated once is invalidated even if it is operated again during the game.

When all reels 31 are stopped and the medals are paid out when the winning combination is won, the main control means 50 enables the operation of the bet switch 40 or the operation of inserting the medals from the medal insertion slot 43. To control.
It should be noted that at the time of a replay winning, the main control means 50 controls the operation of the start switch 41 to be valid without validating the operation of the bet switch 40 or the medal insertion operation from the medal insertion slot 43.

  Further, the main control means 50 controls so as to accept only the operation of any one operation switch regardless of the valid / invalid state of the operation. That is, when the plurality of operation switches are simultaneously operated, the main control means 50 controls not to accept the operation switches regardless of the valid / invalid state of the operation.

  Specifically, for example, when the operation of the start switch 41 is disabled and the operation of the stop switch 42 is enabled, the main control means 50 operates the stop switch 42 while the start switch 41 is operated. When this is done, control is performed so that the operation of the stop switch 42 is not accepted.

  Further, the main control means 50 operates the middle stop switch 42 while the left stop switch 42 is operated, for example, when the operation of the three (left, middle, right) stop switches 42 is enabled. In this case, the operation of the left stop switch 42 is accepted, but the operation of the middle stop switch 42 is not accepted.

  When the freeze is executed, the main controller 50 operates the bet switch 40, inserts medals from the medal insertion slot 43, operates the start switch 41, and operates the stop switch 42 until the freeze ends. Control to invalidate the operation.

  When the freeze is executed after all the reels 31 are stopped, the main control means 50 operates the bet switch 40 or inserts a medal from the medal insertion slot 43 even while the freeze is being executed. When the bet switch 40 is operated or the medals are inserted through the medal insertion slot 43, the control may be made to be valid, and the freeze being executed may be canceled at that time. .

As described above, the main control unit 50 enables the operation of the operation switch when the freeze being executed can be canceled, and controls the operation freeze to be canceled when the operation switch is operated at this time. May be.
Further, for example, the main control means 50 validates the operation of the operation switch during execution of the freeze, and if the operation switch is operated at this time, terminates the freeze being executed and executes another freeze. You may control. That is, the freeze may be changed.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the main game state controlled by the main control means 50 side includes a normal game and a special game, a normal game includes an RT game and a non-RT game, and a special game includes a 1BB game and an RB game. Equipped with.
Furthermore, as a sub game state controlled by the sub control means 80 side, an AT game and a non-AT game are provided.

Further, the "RT (replay time) game" means a main game state in which the difference number per game is larger than that of the non-RT game by setting the replay winning probability higher than that of the non-RT game. In other words, if a player wins or wins a replay, the number of medals in the game is automatically inserted and the replay can be performed, so that the number of medals consumed is reduced accordingly. Therefore, the RT game is a game more advantageous to the player than the non-RT game.

The main game state in which the winning probability of replay is different from the non-RT game may be referred to as the RT game. In addition, the sum of the winning probabilities of a plurality of types of replays is the same in "the winning probability of replay is different", but the way of distributing the winning probabilities of each replay is different, or the type of replay that is drawn is different. Including cases. Further, the probability of winning the replay in the non-RT game may be set higher than that in the RT game. In this case, the non-RT game is more advantageous to the player than the RT game.
Thus, the RT game, in a narrow sense, means a main game state in which the winning probability of replay is set higher than that of the non-RT game, and in a broad sense, the main game has a winning probability of replay different from that of the non-RT game. Means a state.

In addition, "AT (assist time) game" is provided with or without displaying a game result that is advantageous to the player depending on the operation content (pushing order and / or operation timing) of the stop switch 42. During the AT game, the game result that is advantageous to the player is displayed only by accident, but during the AT game, the operation content of the stop switch 42 for displaying the game result that is advantageous to the player is notified. The player can obtain the most advantageous game result by operating the stop switch 42 according to the notification (for example, the combination of the most advantageous symbols can be stopped on the activated line, or the winning combination). Can be stopped on the effective line surely) game.
When the AT game is executed during the RT game, it becomes the RT game and the AT game (ART game).

Next, a specific configuration of the main control means 50 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, the main control means 50 includes the following set value changing means 60 and the like.
The following respective means in the present embodiment are examples, and the main control means 50 is not limited to the means shown in the present embodiment.

The set value changing means 60 is for changing / determining a set value that determines the degree of advantage for the player.
In the present embodiment, six levels of setting 1 to setting 6 are provided as setting values.
Then, the higher the set value, the higher the winning probability of the winning combination (particularly the special winning combination), and the higher the degree of advantage for the player.
Further, the higher the set value, the higher the probability of shifting to the AT game, and the higher the advantage for the player.

Instead of increasing the probability of moving to the AT game, or increasing the probability of moving to the AT game, for example, increasing the probability of adding the number of games during the AT game or the number of payouts, or the AT game. You may raise the probability which continues.
Further, the higher the set value, the higher the expected value of the number of coins to be won (the number of coins to be paid out) with respect to the number of bets on the coin (the number of coins to be inserted), which may increase the advantage for the player.

In the present embodiment, with the front mask part (front door) and the switch cover of the power supply unit open, the power supply is turned off once, and then the setting key is inserted into the setting key insertion opening and rotated 90 degrees clockwise. Then, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on and then the power is turned on again, the setting change mode in which the set value can be changed is entered. In this case, the startup process is not performed.
It is also possible to insert a setting key into the setting key insertion port, rotate the setting key 90 degrees clockwise to turn on the setting key switch 45, turn off the power supply once in this state, and then turn it on again.

In the setting change mode, the set value changing means 60 displays the current set value on a predetermined display unit (for example, a 7-segment display not shown).
Further, the set value changing means 60 displays the set value every time the setting change switch 46 is operated, ... → “1” → “2” → “3” → “4” → “5”. ”→“ 6 ”→“ 1 ”→“ 2 ”→ ...

Further, when the start switch 41 is turned on, the set value changing means 60 fixes the set value with the numerical value displayed on the display unit at this time, and also sets “0” indicating that the set value has been fixed. Display on the display.
The set value changing unit 60 includes a set value storage unit 60a (memory such as RAM) for storing the set value, and stores the confirmed set value in the set value storage unit 60a.

Next, when the setting key is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise to turn off the setting key switch 45, the setting change mode ends, and the startup process is performed with the changed set value.
If the power is turned on while the setting key switch 45 is off, the startup process may be performed with the changed set value.

In this way, when changing the set value, the setting change mode is set and then the setting change switch 46 is operated. Then, with the desired set value displayed on the display unit, the start switch 41 is turned on to finalize the set value. After that, when the setting key switch 45 is turned off, the setting change mode ends, and the startup process is performed with the changed set value.
On the side of the main control means 50, when the setting change mode ends, a set value command indicating the set value stored in the set value storage means 60a is generated and transmitted to the sub control means 80.
Then, on the side of the sub control means 80, the set value is set based on the received set value command, and the AT game is executed with a probability according to this.

  The role lottery means 61 is for performing lottery of a combination (the above-mentioned special combination, small combination and replay). The role lottery means 61 is based on, for example, a random number generating means (hardware random number) for the role lottery, a random number extracting means for extracting a random number generated by this random number generating means, and a random number value extracted by the random number extracting means. , And a determination means for determining whether or not a winning combination is won and a winning combination.

  The random number generation means generates a random number in a predetermined area (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal). The random number is, for example, a random number that counts once in 200 n (nano) sec and continues counting in a range of 0 to 65535 as one cycle, and keeps counting the random number while the slot machine 10 is powered on. .

  The random number extraction means extracts the random number generated by the random number generation means at a predetermined time, in the present embodiment, when the player operates (turns on) the start switch 41. The determination means determines the winning combination corresponding to the area to which the random value belongs by collating the random number value extracted by the random number extracting means with the winning combination lottery table 62 described later. For example, if the extracted random number value belongs to the winning area of 1BB, it is determined to be the winning area of 1BB, and if it belongs to the non-winning area, it is determined to be unwinned.

The winning combination lottery table 62 defines the types of winning combinations (winning result of winning combinations) and the winning probability of each winning combination.
Here, in the winning combination lottery table 62, a plurality of winning combinations may be assigned to one winning area. Then, when the extracted random number value belongs to a winning area to which a plurality of winning combinations are assigned, it is determined that the winning combination is a multiple winning combination. That is, a plurality of winning combinations are simultaneously won in the game.
In this embodiment, it is set such that there are times when multiple wins are won for a plurality of small wins and times when multiple wins are won for a plurality of replays.

  The role lottery table 62 is provided for each main gaming state. In addition, the role lottery table 62 has a lottery area within a predetermined range, and the lottery area is divided into a winning area and a non-winning area of each role, and a winning role is preset. The winning percentage is set to a predetermined ratio.

The winning flag control means 63 controls ON / OFF of the winning flag 63a corresponding to each winning combination, based on the winning combination lottery result of the winning combination lottery means 61.
In the present embodiment, each winning flag 63a of a special winning combination, a small winning combination, and a replay is provided. Then, when a winning combination is won by the winning combination drawing means 61, the winning flag 63a of the corresponding winning combination is turned on (the winning flag 63a is set).
In addition, when the winning flag control means 63 simultaneously wins a plurality of winning combinations in the game, the winning flags 63a of the corresponding plurality of winning combinations are simultaneously turned on.

  When the reel control means 64 receives a rotation start command for the reel 31, particularly when the start switch 41 is operated (when a signal indicating that the start switch 41 is operated) is received in the present embodiment, all ( It is controlled to start the rotation of the three reels 31.

  If the time from the start of rotation of the reel 31 in the previous game to the time the start switch 41 in the game is operated does not exceed 4.1 seconds, the start switch 41 is operated to play a role. Although the lottery is performed, the reel 31 does not start rotating immediately after the start switch 41 is operated (immediately after), but the reel 31 starts rotating after 4.1 seconds. In this way, the time from when the start switch 41 is operated to when the rotation of the reel 31 is started is referred to as “wait time”.

  Further, the reel control means 64 refers to the on / off of the winning flag 63a in the game after the winning lottery means 61 has performed the lottery of the winning combination, and refers to the stop position determination table corresponding to the on / off of the winning flag 63a. 65 is selected, and when the stop switch 42 is operated, the stop position of the reel 31 corresponding to the stop switch 42 is determined based on the timing when the stop switch 42 is operated, and the motor 32 is operated. The drive is controlled so that the reel 31 is stopped at the determined position.

  For example, in the game in which at least one winning flag 63a is on, the reel control means 64 has a symbol corresponding to a winning combination (a winning combination with the winning flag 63a turned on) within the range of the reel 31 stop control. The reel 31 is stopped and controlled so that the combination can be stopped on the activated line, and the reel 31 is prevented from stopping on the activated line a combination of symbols corresponding to a combination other than the winning combination (a combination in which the winning flag 63a is off). Stop control.

  Here, "within the stop control range of the reel 31" means the time from the moment the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 actually stops, or the amount of rotation of the reel 31 (the number of moving frames (symbols)). Means within the range.

  In this embodiment, the time from the moment the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 is stopped is set within 190 ms. As a result, in the present embodiment, the maximum number of moving frames from the symbol at the moment the stop switch 42 is operated to when the reel 31 is stopped is four frames (five frames including the symbol at the moment the stop switch 42 is operated). Becomes

  Then, at the moment when the operation of the stop switch 42 is detected, when any of the symbols within the stop control range of the reel 31 is a symbol to be stopped on a predetermined effective line, when the stop switch 42 is operated Then, the design is controlled so as to stop at a predetermined effective line.

  That is, when the reel 31 is immediately stopped at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated at the time of winning the winning combination, when the symbol of the winning combination does not stop on a predetermined effective line, before the reel 31 is stopped, By controlling the rotational movement of the reel 31 within the range of the stop control of the reel 31, the symbols related to the winning combination are controlled to be stopped on a predetermined effective line as much as possible (pull-in stop control).

  On the contrary, if the reel 31 is immediately stopped at the moment when the stop switch 42 is operated, when the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination is stopped on any of the activated lines, the reel 31 is stopped. At times, by controlling the rotational movement of the reel 31 within the range of the stop control of the reel 31, it is controlled so that the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination is not stopped on the activated line (kicking stop control).

Further, the reel control means 64 includes a push order detection means 64a for detecting the push order (operation order) of the stop switch 42. When the player operates the stop switch 42, the pressing order detection means 64a detects which of the left, middle, and right stop switches 42 has been operated.
When the stop switch 42 is operated, a signal indicating that the stop switch 42 has been operated is input to the push order detection means 64a. By discriminating this signal, the push order detecting means 64a detects which stop switch 42 has been operated.

Here, in the present embodiment, the stop switch 42 is pushed in six ways: left-middle-right, left-right-middle, middle-left-right, middle-right-left, right-left-middle, and right-middle-left.
The left-middle-right pressing order is called "forward pressing", the left-right-middle pressing order is called "order sandwiching", the right-middle-left pressing order is called "reverse pressing", and the right-left-middle pressing order is " It is called “reverse sandwich”.

Further, the pushing order (left middle right, left and right middle) where the left stop switch 42 is operated first is referred to as “left first stop”, and the pushing order where the middle stop switch 42 is first operated (middle left and right, and The middle right and left) is referred to as "middle first stop", and the pushing order (right left middle and right middle left) at which the right stop switch 42 is operated first is referred to as "right first stop".
Further, the pressing order in which the switches other than the left stop switch 42 are operated first (middle left / right, middle right left, right left middle, and right middle left) is referred to as “irregular pressing”.

  The stop position determination table 65 is provided corresponding to each ON / OFF state of the winning flag 63a, that is, each lottery result of the winning combination by the winning combination lottery means 61, and the reel 31 at the moment the stop switch 42 is operated. The stop position of the reel 31 with respect to the position is determined. And each stop position determination table 65, for example, when the stop switch 42 is operated at the moment when the first symbol passes through the upper stage (the middle stage or the lower stage is also possible), only the number of symbols is controlled to move, and The stop position is set in advance such that the symbol is stopped in the upper stage.

  The stop position determination table 65 used at the time of single winning of one of the winning combinations, within the range of the stop control of the reel 31, stops the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination on the activated line, and also corresponds to the winning combination. When the combination of No. cannot be stopped on the effective line, the stop position of the reel 31 is determined so that the combination of symbols corresponding to any winning combination is not stopped on the effective line.

Even if the stop switch 42 is operated at any moment the reel 31 is located, the target symbol can be stopped at a desired effective line within the range of the stop control of the reel 31 (the prize can always be won). ) Is referred to as “pull-in rate (PB) = 1”.
On the other hand, the fact that the target symbol cannot be stopped on the activated line without being pushed by the player (which cannot necessarily win the prize) is referred to as “PB ≠ 1”.

The stop position determination table 65 used when a plurality of replays are won, for example, always gives Replay A (PB = 1) at the left or middle first stop, and Replay B (PB = 1) at the right first stop. The stop position of the reel 31 is set so that the prize is always won.
In this way, when a plurality of replays are won, the type of replay to be won differs depending on the pressing order of the stop switch 42.
Further, when a plurality of replays are won, the replay can be performed regardless of which replay wins.

The stop position determination table 65 used when a plurality of small wins are repeatedly won is, for example, the small win A (PB = 1, payout of 9 medals at the time of winning) is always won at the first stop on the left, and when the irregular press is made. The stop position of the reel 31 is set so that the small winning combination B (PB ≠ 1, payout of three medals at the time of winning) is won within the range of the stop control of the reel 31.
In this way, when a plurality of small winning combinations are won, the type of small winning combination drawn into the activated line, the withdrawal rate, and the number of medals paid out at the time of winning are different depending on the pressing order of the stop switch 42. That is, depending on the operation of the stop switch 42, the game result in which the amount of profit given to the player is different is displayed.

It should be noted that the pressing order in which a game result with a large profit to be given to the player is displayed (a winning combination with a large number of payouts) is called a "correct answer pressing order", and a pressing order other than the correct answer pressing order is "incorrect answer Push order ".
When multiple replays are won, for example, the push order in which a replay that shifts (promotes) to a game state that is advantageous to the player wins, or a replay that gives a privilege (sub-bonus) to the player wins The pushing order to be performed is called "correct answer pushing order", and the pushing order to which the replay that shifts (falls) to a game state which is disadvantageous to the player wins is called "incorrect answer pushing order".

Further, operating the stop switch 42 in the correct pressing order is referred to as “press order correct answer” or “correcting in pressing order”, and operating the stop switch 42 in incorrect pressing order is referred to as “incorrect pressing order”.
Then, the reel control means 64 controls the reels 31 to be stopped so that a game result that gives a larger profit to the player when the correct press order is displayed than when the correct press order is displayed.

When all the winning flags 63a are off, the non-winning table is used.
The non-winning table is used when all the winning flags 63a are off, and defines the combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped so that the combination of symbols corresponding to any winning combination does not stop on the activated line. .

When the reel 31 is stopped, the stop symbol judging means 66 judges whether or not the symbol combination of the reels 31 stopped on the activated line matches the symbol combination corresponding to any of the winning combinations. The stop symbol judging means 66 judges the symbol on the activated line by detecting the angle when the motor 32 is stopped or the number of steps.
However, the stop symbol judging means 66 judges the stop symbol regardless of whether or not the reel 31 has stopped when the stop switch 42 is operated and the stop position is determined using the stop position determination table 65. It is possible.

  In the payout means 67, when the stop symbol judging means 66 judges that the combination of the symbols stopped on the activated line when the reel 31 is stopped coincides with the combination of the symbols corresponding to any winning combination, and the winning of the winning combination is achieved. In addition, according to the winning combination, a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player, or processing such as addition of credits is performed. Further, at the time of winning the replay, the number of medals (three) inserted in the game is automatically inserted without paying out medals.

The special game control means 68 controls the start of the special game, the progress of the game during the special game, and the end of the special game.
When the combination of symbols corresponding to 1BB is stopped on the activated line, the winning of 1BB is achieved, and the special game control means 68 controls to start the 1BB game from the next game.
In the 1BB game, the winning probability of a small win is significantly increased.

Further, the ending condition of the 1BB game is set so that the number of medals paid out during the 1BB game is equal to or more than a predetermined number (for example, 300).
Therefore, in the 1BB game, the special game control means 68 keeps counting the number of paid-out medals, and when it judges that the count value has reached the above value, it controls the 1BB game to end with the game.

Similarly, when the combination of symbols corresponding to RB is stopped on the activated line, the winning of RB is achieved, and the special game control means 68 controls to start the RB game from the next game.
In the RB game, the winning probability of a small win is significantly increased.

Further, the ending condition of the RB game is set to have consumed a predetermined number of games (for example, 8 games) during the RB game.
Therefore, in the RB game, the special game control means 68 keeps counting the number of digestive games, and when it determines that the count value has reached the above value, it controls the RB game to end with the game.

In this embodiment, the main game state includes a normal game and a special game, the normal game includes an RT game and a non-RT game, and the special game includes a 1BB game and an RB game.
Then, the main game state control means 69 displays a predetermined stop result, wins a predetermined replay, consumes a predetermined number of games, wins a special role, wins a special role, pays out the number of medals during the special game, or plays. Based on the number of times and the like, control is performed to shift the main game state.

The main control means 50 includes a freeze control means 70.
The freeze control means 70 controls the operation of the operation switch (including the acceptance of medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 43) for the execution and termination of the freeze which is not accepted for a predetermined time, and also the execution of the pseudo game during the freeze. To do. That is, the freeze control means 70 includes control during the pseudo game.

Here, "freeze (also referred to as a freezing effect or a freezing operation)" generally means that the function of the operation switch of the gaming machine (slot machine 10) is in a suspended state (or is controlled as such). Period).
Furthermore, "to put the function of the operation switch into a suspended state" means that "at least one function of the operation switch is not effective for advancing the game to obtain a game result" or "operation. When the switch is operated, the detection process of the operation or the process based on the operation is not started for a predetermined time, that is, the process corresponding to the operation is delayed for a predetermined time (after the lapse of the predetermined time). " Etc.

"Progressing a game" means operating a bet switch 40 to insert a medal, operating a start switch 41 to perform a lottery of winning combinations, starting rotation of the reel 31, and operating a stop switch 42. This means that the game operation of stopping the spinning reel 31 is proceeded by the player's intention.
Therefore, the operation of the bet switch 40, the start switch 41, and the stop switch 42 is an operation necessary for advancing the game.

The “game result” refers to a combination of symbols that are stopped when all reels 31 are stopped, symbols stopped on the activated line (whether or not there is a winning combination of the winning combination, and the type of winning combination).
The game result is determined by the lottery result of the winning combination, the operation of the stop switch 42, and the combination of the symbols when the reel 31 is stopped. Therefore, the bet switch 40 and the start switch 41 for obtaining the lottery result of the winning combination, In addition, the operation of the stop switch 42 to obtain a combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped is an operation necessary to obtain a game result.

Therefore, as a mode of freeze, for example,
a) temporarily suspending the operation of the bet switch 40 for accepting the game medium inserted from the medal insertion slot 43 or determining the number of inserted (betting) the pre-credited game medium,
b) Putting the operation of the start switch 41 for starting the game into a pause state,
c) The operation of the stop switch 42 (stop operation of the reel 31) may be temporarily stopped.

  In addition, as a mode in which the function of the operation switch is temporarily stopped, a signal based on the operation of the player (for example, a signal from a sensor that detects insertion of a game medium, a bet switch 40, a start switch 41, or a stop switch 42). It is possible to not accept the signal transmitted from the operation switch based on the operation for a predetermined period. In this case, when a signal transmitted based on the operation of the player is received within a predetermined period, control processing for invalidating the received signal is performed or transmission is performed based on the operation of the player within the predetermined period. The reception process itself may not be performed even when the received signal is detected.

Furthermore, when the signal transmitted based on the operation of the player is received within a predetermined period, the signal based on the operation of the player is accepted, but the control processing of the operation switch performed based on the received signal. It is possible to start the control process based on the received signal after the lapse of the predetermined period without executing the above for the predetermined period.
Further, regarding the freeze of the start switch 41, even if the start switch 41 is operated, the rotation of the reel 31 based on the acceptance of the operation of the start switch 41 is not started, or the role lottery is not started for a predetermined period. Can be mentioned.

Further, as the freeze ending condition, it is possible to lapse a predetermined time, but even before the lapse of the predetermined time, the freeze is canceled midway by various operation signals input to the main control means 50. It is also possible to do it.
In this case, it is possible to cancel the freeze simply by accepting the operation input of the start switch 41, or a predetermined operation procedure (for example, "operate the start switch 41 five times", "stop switch 42"). It is also possible to cancel the freeze on the condition that "is operated in the order of middle, right, left", "operate the bet switch 40 at a predetermined timing", etc.).

In the present embodiment, when the start switch 41 is operated, the winning combination lottery means 61 carries out a winning combination lottery. Next, the freeze control means 70 carries out a lottery as to whether or not to execute freezes and simulated games. The freeze and the pseudo game lottery may be executed regardless of the lottery result of the winning combination, but in the present embodiment, when the rare small winning combination whose winning probability is set lower than other small winning combinations is won, the freeze and A lottery for simulated games is conducted.

Here, "one game" and the type of game will be described.
First, "one game" is a combination of symbols in which all reels 31 are stopped (displaying a game result) from the time of operating the start switch 41, and the combination of symbols stopped on the activated line corresponds to any combination. When it is, it indicates until the payout or the like corresponding to the combination of the symbols is completed.

It should be noted that at the time of winning the replay, one game is until the time when it is determined that the replay has won, and after the one game, medals based on the winning of the replay are automatically inserted. Whether or not the medal is automatically inserted, or the time from the automatic insertion of the medal to the operation of the start switch 41 is included in the next game is arbitrary.
Further, in the case where the replay is not won in the previous game, the period from when the bet switch 40 is operated to when the start switch 41 is operated may or may not be included in “one game”.

Further, as the type of game, there are a main game and a pseudo game.
The "main game" is the original function of the operation switch (the bet switch 40 is a function of inserting a medal to start the game, the start switch 41 is a function of starting the rotation of the reel 31 to start the game, and a stop. The switch 42 has a function of stopping the rotating reel 31 within the range of the maximum number of moving frames based on the lottery result of the winning combination), which is effective as a game progressing game to obtain a game result. Point to.

  In this game, when the bet switch 40 is operated, a medal is inserted, when the start switch 41 is operated, the reel 31 is started to rotate, and when the stop switch 42 is operated, the role lottery means described later. The reel 31 is stopped based on the lottery result of the winning combination by 61, and the game result in the game is displayed by the combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped.

  Specifically, the bet switch 40 is a switch operated by the player when inserting a medal, the start switch 41 is a switch operated by the player when starting the rotation of the reel 31, and a stop switch. Reference numeral 42 is a switch operated by the player when stopping the reel 31 that is rotating. The game result is obtained by a combination of symbols when the reel 31 is stopped (stopped on the activated line), and in order to stop the reel 31, it is necessary to stop the reel 31 by operating the stop switch 42. is there.

  Further, in order to stop the reel 31, it is necessary to start the rotation of the reel 31. Therefore, the operation of the start switch 41 is an operation of the player necessary to obtain the game result. Furthermore, the operation of the bet switch 40 is an operation necessary when a medal (game medium) is inserted to start a game on the premise of obtaining a game result, except when a replay is won in the previous game.

On the other hand, operating the bet switch 40 to insert a medal, operating the start switch 41 to start the rotation of the reel 31, and operating the stop switch 42 to stop the spinning reel 31 Also, this is an operation necessary for advancing this game.
Therefore, all of the above operations are necessary for advancing the present game and obtaining a game result.

Therefore, even if the bet switch 40 is operated, no medals are inserted.
The rotation of the reel 31 does not start even if 1 is operated, the reel 31 does not display the game result even if the stop switch 42 is operated (the reel 31 does not stop), the function of the operation switch advances the game. And it means that the game is not being frozen as a result for obtaining the game result in this game.

  The "pseudo game" is a game executed during this freeze, and unlike the present game, the function of at least one operation switch is to obtain the game result by advancing the game. As a game that is not valid.

The pseudo game is always executed during the freeze. Therefore, during the pseudo game, the game is always frozen. On the other hand, during the freeze, the simulated game is not always performed. There are a case where a part of the period during freezing is a pseudo game and a case where “during freezing = during pseudo game”.
When executing the pseudo game in one game, it is executed before the game result of the main game is obtained, and after the end of the pseudo game, the main game for obtaining the game result is restarted.

  More specifically, the winning combination lottery means 61 performs a lottery of winning combinations at the moment the start switch 41 is operated, but at this point, it is still the main game. After the role lottery, decide whether or not to execute the pseudo game (during this game), and if you decide to execute the pseudo game, at this moment (at this point) interrupt this game, Start the game. In addition, from the moment the start switch 41 is operated (at the start of this game), a lottery of the winning combination is performed, it is determined to execute the pseudo game, and the rotation of the reel 31 for starting the pseudo game is started. The interval is about several ms to several tens of ms.

Similarly, when it is decided to execute the pseudo game before the previous game, similarly, in the case where it is determined whether or not to execute the pseudo game in the lottery of the winning combination associated with the operation of the start switch 41. The game is up to the time of the determination, and then the game is interrupted and the pseudo game is started based on the determination up to the previous game.
Then, the rotation of the reel 31 is started. Therefore, at the start of rotation of the reel 31 when executing the pseudo game, the pseudo game is being performed.

In the pseudo game, for example, the reel 31 can be rotated in the reverse direction.
Further, in the pseudo game, there is no limitation that the time from the moment the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 is stopped is set within 190 ms. Therefore, in the pseudo game, for example, while the three (left, middle, right) reels 31 are rotating, even if the left stop switch 42 is operated first and the middle stop switch 42 is operated later, first. The middle reel 31 can be stopped and the left reel 31 can be stopped later.

  In addition, the freeze control means 70 ends the pseudo game and ends the freeze when the end condition of the pseudo game is satisfied. After that, the main control means 50 starts the main game, and the reel control means 64 starts the rotation of the three (left, middle, right) reels 31 as the main game. When the rotation of the three reels 31 reaches the constant speed state, the main control means 50 enables the operation of the operation switches (left, middle, right stop switch 42).

The main-side error detection means 71 is for detecting an error on the main control means 50 side.
In the present specification, "abnormal" means not normal or abnormal (different) from normal, and "incorrect" means incorrect or contrary to justice. The term "error" is used to include both abnormalities and frauds.

  The main-side error detection means 71 detects opening / closing of the front mask portion depending on the ON / OFF state of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48. Specifically, when the door open / close detection sensor 48 is on, it is detected that the front mask portion is open, and when the door open / close detection sensor 48 is off, the front mask portion is closed. To detect.

  Further, the main-side error detection means 71 detects opening / closing of the switch cover depending on the ON / OFF state of the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49. Specifically, when the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is on, it is detected that the switch cover is open, and when the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is off, it is detected that the switch cover is closed. To do.

Further, the main side error detection means 71 causes an error (insertion) when the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c is shielded from light when the operation of inserting the medal from the medal insertion slot 43 is invalid. (Sensor abnormality) is detected.
Furthermore, when the main-side error detection means 71 detects passage of medals in the order of the second insertion detection sensor 43c and the first insertion detection sensor 43b, it determines that an error (backflow of medals) has occurred.

Further, the main-side error detection means 71 determines that an error (clogging of medals) is detected when the light blocking of the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c continues for a certain time or longer. Hereinafter, the clogging of medals detected by the first insertion detection sensor 43b and / or the second insertion detection sensor 43c is referred to as "insertion medal clogging".
Further, the main-side error detection means 71 detects an error (payout sensor abnormality) if the payout detection sensor 44 is shielded from light when the medal payout process is not being performed (the payout driving section 33b is not driven). I judge that I did.

Furthermore, the main-side error detection means 71 determines that an error (medal clogging) is detected when the payout detection sensor 44 has been shielded from light for a certain period of time or longer. Hereinafter, the clogging of medals detected by the payout detection sensor 44 will be referred to as “paying medal clogging”.
Further, when the payout detection sensor 44 does not detect that the medals have been paid out, the main-side error detection means 71 outputs an error (the medals in the hopper 33a are It has disappeared). Hereinafter, the disappearance of medals in the hopper 33a is referred to as "medal out".

  Further, the error canceling unit 72 uses turning off the power of the slot machine 10 and then turning it on again or operating the reset switch 47 as a canceling operation. When an error is detected, the canceling operation is performed. The error is canceled on the condition that it has been performed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the main control means 50 side is provided with a main side error detection means 71 for detecting an abnormality or fraud, and the sub control means 80 side is provided with a sub side error detection means 86. . Then, when the error is detected by the main-side error detecting means 71 and when the error is detected by the sub-side error detecting means 86, the error canceling means 72 cancels the error. The sub-side error detection means 86 will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 1, the main control means 50 sends a command generation means 73 for generating a command, a buffer area 74 for storing the generated command, and a command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80. The sub-control unit 80 includes a command receiving unit 84 for receiving the transmitted command.
Then, various information is transmitted from the main control means 50 to the sub control means 80 by the command generation means 73, the buffer area 74, the command transmission means 75, and the command reception means 84.

Here, when it is decided to generate a command in the main process or the interrupt process, the command generating means 73 generates a command according to the determination.
Further, the buffer area 74 stores the commands generated by the command generating means 73 in the order of generation.

Further, the command transmitting means 75 transmits the commands stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80 in the order in which they are stored.
In this way, the generated commands are stored in the buffer area 74 in the order in which they are generated, and the commands stored in the buffer area 74 are transmitted to the sub-control unit 80 in the order in which they are stored. Therefore, the generated commands are transmitted to the sub control means 80 in the order of generation.

  Further, the command transmitting means 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80 by serial communication. Therefore, in order to ensure the transmission of the command from the main control means 50 to the sub control means 80, the command transmission means 75 sends the same command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80 twice. Send.

  Specifically, the command transmitting means 75 transmits the command stored in the buffer area 74 once to the sub control means 80 each time a timer interrupt is made. That is, the command transmitting means 75 transmits the command once for each interrupt (2.235 ms).

  Further, when the same command stored in the buffer area 74 is transmitted twice, the command transmitting means 75 determines that the transmission of the command is completed and erases the command from the buffer area 74. Therefore, the command transmitting unit 75 requires two interrupts (4.47 ms) to transmit one command stored in the buffer area 74. Therefore, one command is erased from the buffer area 74 for every two interrupts.

Furthermore, when the command receiving means 84 receives the same command twice within 50 ms, it determines that the command has been correctly received. In this case, the sub-control unit 80 side controls so as to perform processing according to the command.
On the other hand, when the command receiving means 84 does not receive the same command twice within 50 ms, it determines that the command has not been correctly received. In this case, the sub control means 80 side controls so as not to perform the processing according to the command.

The buffer area 74 is provided on the RAM of the main control board and can store up to 32 commands.
Specifically, the buffer area 74 has, as command storage areas, 32 storage areas from the first storage area to the 32nd storage area. Then, when the command is generated by the command generating means 73, the buffer area 74 stores the generated commands in order from the first storage area, and the first storage area is free after the 32nd storage area. On the condition that it is stored, it is controlled to store again in the first storage area.

  Further, for example, when the command stored in the first storage area of the buffer area 74 is transmitted twice, the command transmitting means 75 erases the command from the first storage area of the buffer area 74. At this time, even if there is a command stored in the second storage area, it is not moved to the first storage area. That is, the command stored in the 32nd storage area is not moved or rewritten from the 1st storage area. Therefore, all the storage areas from the first storage area to the 32nd storage area are sequentially and repeatedly used.

Here, as the command generated by the command generation unit 73, for example, setting 1 to setting 6
A set value command indicating the set value, game state commands 1 to 3 indicating the main game state, a stop reel command indicating the stopped reel 31, a stop symbol command indicating a combination of symbols when all reels 31 are stopped, and an error occurs. An error display command indicating what has been done and the type of error that has occurred, a first state command indicating the on / off state of various sensors connected to the input side of the main control means 50, and a connection to the input side of the main control means 50 A second state command indicating the valid / invalid state of the operation of each of the various switches, a third state command indicating the on / off state of the various switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50, and the like. .

  Then, among these, the setting value command, the game state commands 1 to 3, the stop reel command, the stop symbol command, and the error display command are determined to be generated in the main processing, and the first state command, the first state command, It is decided to generate the 2-state command and the third-state command in the interrupt processing.

  In addition, a command concentration section is provided at the beginning of the main processing, and in this command concentration section, from the main control means 50 every time a game is executed including the set value command and the game state commands 1 to 3. It is decided to generate a plurality of commands to be transmitted to the sub control means 80. Then, the command generating means 73 generates a plurality of commands including the set value command and the game state commands 1 to 3 in this command concentration section.

  Further, after the command concentration section has elapsed, there is a waiting time for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area 74 without determining whether to generate the command in the main process. This waiting time prevents the buffer area 74 from overflowing with commands.

Specifically, a waiting time of 32 interrupts (71.52 ms) is provided after the lapse of the command concentration section, and during that time, the command generation is not decided in the main processing.
Then, the command transmitting means 75 transmits one command in two interrupts (4.47 ms), and therefore transmits a maximum of 16 commands during the waiting time of 32 interrupts (71.52 ms). Is possible.

Further, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71 during the main processing, and during the interrupt processing, by the main-side error detection means 71 separately from the main processing. Determine whether an error has been detected.
Furthermore, in the interrupt processing, whether or not to generate a command is determined regardless of whether or not the main processing is waiting.

  Further, regarding the first state command and the second state command, whether or not the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed each time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts). When it is determined that there is a change in either of the two, it is determined to generate both the first state command and the second state command.

Here, the command transmitting means 75 requires two interrupts (4.47 ms) to transmit one command.
Further, it is normally necessary for the various switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50 to be at least 25 ms from a state of being off to a state of being turned on and then returning to an off state when operated by a person. Similarly, regarding various sensors connected to the input side of the main control means 50, normally, when a person operates the detection target, it takes at least 25 ms from an off state to an on state and then to an off state. .

Therefore, in the interrupt processing, it is determined every 8 interrupts (17.88 ms) whether or not there is a change in the information included in the first state command and the second state command. When it is determined that there is a change, the command is issued. Decide to generate.
As a result, it is possible to detect the change in the on / off state of various sensors and switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50 without failing to be detected, and the command generation cycle rather than the command transmission cycle. Is made longer to prevent the buffer area 74 from overflowing with commands.

  Further, when the information included in the first state command does not change, but the information included in the second state command also changes, the information included in the second state command does not change, but the information included in the first state command does not change. When there is a change in both, it is decided to generate both the first state command and the second state command.

  Specifically, for example, it is assumed that it is determined whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid, and the result is different from the determination result of the previous time (before 8 interrupts). In this case, of the information included in the first state command and the second state command, both the first state command and the second state command are irrespective of the determination result of information other than the valid / invalid of the operation of the bet switch 40. Decide to generate.

  Thus, in the interrupt process, when it is determined that any of the information included in the first state command and the information included in the second state command has changed, it is determined to generate both the first state command and the second state command. To do. In this case, the command generating means 73 generates two commands in the order of the first state command and the second state command.

Further, the command generating means 73 does not generate only one of the first state command and the second state command, and always sets two commands in the order of the first state command and the second state command. Generate as.
On the other hand, when it is determined in the interrupt processing that neither the information included in the first state command nor the information included in the second state command has changed, it is determined that neither the first state command nor the second state command is generated. To do. In this case, the command generating means 73 does not generate either the first state command or the second state command.

  Regarding the third state command, in the interrupt process, every time the count value of the second interrupt counter 52 becomes “9” (every 10 interrupts), it is determined whether or not the information included in this has changed, and the change is made. If it is determined that the third state command is generated, it is determined to generate the third state command.

As described above, the command transmission unit 75 requires two interrupts (4.47 ms) to transmit one command, and various sensors and switches connected to the input side of the main control unit 50 , It takes at least 25 ms from the off state to the on state and back to the off state.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the information contained in the first state command and the second state command is more important in controlling the slot machine 10 than the information contained in the third state command. There is.

  Therefore, in the interrupt processing, it is determined every 10 interrupts (22.35 ms) whether or not the information included in the third state command has changed, and when it is determined that the information has changed, the third state command is generated. Decide to.

Thereby, it is detected that the ON / OFF states of various sensors and switches connected to the input side of the main control means 50 are changed while giving priority to the generation of the first state command and the second state command. The command generation period is made longer than the command transmission period to prevent the buffer area 74 from being overflowed with commands.

Specifically, for example, it is assumed that it is determined whether the bet switch 40 is in the on state or the off state, and the result is different from the determination result of the previous time (before 10 interrupts). In this case, it is determined to generate the third state command regardless of the determination result of information other than the ON / OFF of the bet switch 40 among the information included in the third state command.
Thus, in the interrupt process, when it is determined that the information included in the third state command has changed, it is determined to generate the third state command. Then, the command generating means 73 generates the third state command.

  Further, in the present embodiment, each command generated by the command generating means 73 is composed of information of 2 bytes (16 bits), the upper 1 byte (8 bits) indicates the type of the command, and the lower 1 byte ( 8 bits) indicates the contents of the command such as the on / off state of various sensors and switches.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the 7th bit of the upper 1 byte of each command is always set to "1", and the 7th bit of the lower 1 byte of each command is always set to "0". This ensures that even if a command is transmitted from the main control unit 50 to the sub control unit 80 by serial communication, the upper 1 byte and the lower 1 byte of each command can be distinguished.

The upper 1 byte of the first state command is set to "10011010" in binary ("9A" in hexadecimal).
Furthermore, regarding the lower 1 byte of the first state command, the 0th bit indicates the on / off state of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48, and the 1st bit indicates the on / off state of the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49. The bit indicates the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, and the third bit indicates the on / off state of the setting change switch 46 (also used as the reset switch 47). The 4th to 6th bits also indicate the on / off state of a predetermined sensor or switch. The 7th bit is always set to "0" to distinguish it from the upper 1 byte.

Further, when the 0th bit of the lower 1 byte of the first state command is "1", it indicates that the door opening / closing detection sensor 48 is in the on state (the state that the front mask portion is open), and "0". Indicates that it is in the off state (the front mask portion is closed).
When the first bit of the lower 1 byte of the first status command is "1", it indicates that the cover open / close detection sensor 49 is in the on state (the switch cover is open), and it is "0". Indicates that the switch is off (the switch cover is closed).

Furthermore, when the second bit of the lower 1 byte of the first status command is "1", it indicates that the setting key switch 45 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off. Show.
Further, when the third bit of the lower 1 byte of the first state command is "1", it indicates that the setting change switch 46 (also used as the reset switch 47) is on, and when it is "0", it is off. Indicates the state of.

The upper 1 byte of the second status command is set to "10011011" in binary ("9B" in hexadecimal).
Furthermore, regarding the lower 1 byte of the second state command, the 0th bit indicates the valid / invalid state of the operation of the bet switch 40. The first bit shows the valid / invalid state of the operation of the left stop switch 42, the second bit shows the valid / invalid state of the operation of the middle stop switch 42, and the third bit the valid operation of the right stop switch 42. / Indicates an invalid state. The 4th bit indicates whether or not the insertion sensor abnormality is detected, the 5th bit indicates whether or not the payout sensor abnormality is detected, and the 6th bit indicates whether or not the insertion medal clogging is detected. The 7th bit is always set to "0" to distinguish it from the upper 1 byte.

Furthermore, when the 0th bit of the lower 1 byte of the second state command is "1", it indicates that the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is invalid. Show.
Further, when the first bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is "1", it indicates that the operation of the left stop switch 42 is valid, and when it is "0", it is invalid. Indicates.

Furthermore, when the second bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is "1", it indicates that the operation of the middle stop switch 42 is valid, and when it is "0", it is invalid. Indicates that.
Further, when the third bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is "1", it indicates that the operation of the right stop switch 42 is valid, and when it is "0", it is invalid. Indicates.

Further, when the 4th bit of the lower 1 byte of the second state command is "1", it indicates that a closing sensor abnormality is detected, and when it is "0", it is not detected.
Furthermore, when the 5th bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command is "1", it indicates that the dispensing sensor abnormality is detected, and when it is "0", it is not detected.

  Further, when the 6th bit of the lower 1 byte of the second state command is "1", it indicates that the clogging of inserted medals is detected, and when it is "0", it is not detected.

For example, the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid, the operations of the three (left, middle, right) stop switches 42 are valid, and the insertion sensor abnormality, the payout sensor abnormality, and the insertion medal jamming occur. It is assumed that neither of the above is detected.
In this case, the second state command is “1001101100001110” in binary and “9B0E” in hexadecimal.

The upper 1 byte of the third state command is set to binary "10011100" or "10011101" (hexadecimal "9C" or "9D").
Furthermore, regarding the lower 1 byte of the third state command, the 0th bit indicates the on / off state of the bet switch 40, and the 1st bit indicates the on / off state of the start switch 41. The second bit shows the on / off state of the left stop switch 42, the third bit shows the on / off state of the middle stop switch 42, and the fourth bit shows the on / off state of the right stop switch 42. . The fifth to sixth bits also indicate the on / off state of a predetermined switch. The 7th bit is always set to "0" to distinguish it from the upper 1 byte.

Further, when the 0th bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is "1", it indicates that the bet switch 40 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off.
Further, when the first bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is "1", it indicates that the start switch 41 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off.

Furthermore, when the second bit of the lower 1 byte of the third status command is "1", it indicates that the left stop switch 42 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off. Show.
Further, when the third bit of the lower 1 byte of the third state command is "1", it indicates that the middle stop switch 42 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off. .
Further, when the 4th bit of the lower 1 byte of the third status command is "1", it indicates that the right stop switch 42 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off. .

  Here, the command transmitting means 75 transmits the same command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80 twice. Further, when the same command is received twice within 50 ms, the command receiving means 84 determines that the command is correctly received, and when the same command is not received twice within 50 ms, the command is received. It is judged that the message was not received correctly.

Further, here, the command generating means 73 always generates the first state command and the second state command as one set. Then, the command transmitting unit 75 always transmits the first state command twice and then transmits the second state command twice.
Therefore, for example, it is assumed that the bits forming the command are broken by noise during the transmission of the first state command, and the command receiving unit 84 receives the first state command only once. In this case, the command receiving unit 84 can determine that the reception of the first state command has failed at the time of receiving the second state command.

On the other hand, the command generating means 73 does not generate the third state command in combination with other commands.
Therefore, for example, it is assumed that the command generation unit 73 continuously generates the third state command twice, and the command transmission unit 75 transmits each of them twice. Then, it is assumed that the previous third state command is broken during transmission and the command receiving unit 84 receives the previous third state command only once. In this case, if the upper 1 byte of the previous third state command and the upper 1 byte of the subsequent third state command are the same, the command receiving means 84 has failed to receive the previous third state command. Cannot be determined at the time when the subsequent third state command is received.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, as the high-order 1 byte of the third state command, there are two binary numbers "10011100" (hexadecimal number "9C") and binary number "10011101" (hexadecimal number "9D"). Each time the command generating means 73 generates a third state command, the command generating means 73 alternately switches the two types of high-order 1 byte.

For example, when the command generation unit 73 generated the third state command of “10011100 *******” (hexadecimal “9C ##”) in binary last time, this time in binary A third state command "10011101 *******" (hexadecimal "9D ##") is generated, and the next time, again, binary "10011100 *********" (16 A third status command "9C ##" in decimal is generated.
Note that "*" means any value of "0" or "1", and "#" means any value of "0" to "F".

  As a result, when the command generating means 73 continuously generates the third state command twice and the command transmitting means 75 transmits each of these twice, the command receiving means 84 causes the command receiving means 84 to generate the third state command. When the command is received only once, it is possible to determine that the reception of the previous third state command has failed at the time when the subsequent third state command is received.

The upper 1 byte of the error display command is set to "10011110" in binary ("9E" in hexadecimal).
Furthermore, the lower 1 byte of the error display command is set so as to include information indicating that an error such as a throw-in sensor error, throw-in medal clogging, medal backflow, pay-out sensor abnormality, pay-out medal clogging, or medal run-out has been detected. Has been done.

As described above, the main control unit 50 executes the main process and concurrently executes the interrupt process.
Further, in the main processing, it is determined whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, and regarding a specific error (insertion sensor abnormality, payout sensor abnormality, or insertion coin clogging) among a plurality of types of errors, In the interrupt processing, it is determined whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, separately from the main processing.
Even if it is determined whether an error is detected in the interrupt process, the process corresponding to the error detection is executed in the main process.

Here, in the main processing, during the waiting time or during the rotation of the reel 31, it is not judged whether or not an error is detected by the main-side error detecting means 71, and it is always during the waiting time or during the rotation of the reel 31. Then, it is determined whether or not the main side error detection means 71 has detected an error.
Then, in the main processing, when it is determined that the main-side error detection means 71 has detected an error, it is determined that the processing corresponding to the detection of the error is executed and the error display command is generated. Specifically, when it is determined that a throw-in sensor abnormality has been detected, the progress of the game is stopped, an error code corresponding to the throw-in sensor abnormality is displayed on the 7-segment display, and the throw-in sensor abnormality is detected. Decide to generate an error display command containing the information in.

On the other hand, in the interrupt processing, the main interrupt is performed every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts), regardless of whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating. It is determined whether or not the side error detecting means 71 has detected an error.
Then, in the interrupt process, when it is determined that the main-side error detection unit 71 has detected an error, it is determined to generate the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected. Specifically, when it is determined that the closing sensor abnormality is detected, it is determined to generate the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the closing sensor abnormality is detected.

  Therefore, due to the relationship between the timing of error detection by the main-side error detection means 71 and the timing at which the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7”, an error display command is generated first for a specific error. There is a possibility that the case where the first state command and the second state command are generated later and the case where the first state command and the second state command are generated first and the error display command is generated later are mixed. is there. This causes confusion in the processing on the sub control means 80 side.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when it is determined that an error has been detected by the main-side error detection unit 71 in the interrupt processing, the first state command and the second state command including information indicating that the specific error has been detected are immediately issued. When it is determined that the error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 in the main processing, the error display command is generated after waiting for the generation of the first state command and the second state command. Decide to.

Specifically, in the interrupt processing, each time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes "7", it is determined whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71, and it is determined that an error has been detected. If so, it is immediately decided to generate the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected.
On the other hand, in the main processing, when it is determined that the error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, when the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “0”, the error detection is dealt with. It decides to execute the process and generate an error display command.

As described above, the first interrupt counter 51 starts counting from 0, adds 1 to the count value each time the timer interrupt is performed, and when the count value reaches 7, then the count value is reset to 0. It is something to return.
Therefore, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71, it is determined in the interrupt processing to generate the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected, and after the first interrupt. In addition, in the main process, it is decided to execute the process corresponding to the detection of the error and generate the error display command.

As a result, when the main-side error detection means 71 detects an error, the command generation means 73 always generates commands in the order of the first status command, the second status command, and the error display command, and the command transmission means 75 The commands are always transmitted to the sub control means 80 in the order of the first status command, the second status command, and the error display command.
Therefore, the sub-control unit 80 always receives commands in the order of the first status command, the second status command, and the error display command, so that processing can be prevented from being confused.

  Further, in the main process, when an error is detected by the main side error detection means 71 at the start of the game, it is decided to generate an error display command, and the progress of the game is stopped until the error is released. In addition, the main control means 50 continuously controls that an error has occurred (for example, an error code is displayed on a 7-segment display (not shown)).

  Furthermore, in the main process, during the waiting time or during the rotation of the reel 31, even if an error is detected by the main-side error detecting means 71, it is not decided to generate an error display command, and the game progresses. It is controlled not to stop and not to notify that an error has occurred. That is, control is performed so that processing corresponding to error detection is not executed.

  Furthermore, in the main processing, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 after the waiting time has elapsed or after all reels 31 have stopped, an error display command is generated, as at the start of the game. Along with the determination, the progress of the game is stopped until the error is released, and the main control means 50 side continuously controls to inform that the error has occurred.

  When it is decided to generate an error display command in the main processing, the command generation means 73 generates an error display command and stores it in the buffer area 74, and the command transmission means 75 stores it in the buffer area 74. The generated error display command is transmitted to the sub control means 80.

  On the other hand, in the interrupt process, regardless of whether the waiting time or the rotation of the reel 31 is being performed, when the main-side error detecting unit 71 detects an error, it includes information indicating that the specific error is detected. It is decided to generate the first state command and the second state command. Further, according to this determination, the command generating means 73 generates the first state command and the second state command and stores them in the buffer area 74, and the command transmitting means 75 stores them in the buffer area 74. The first state command and the second state command are transmitted to the sub control means 80.

  Then, on the side of the sub-control unit 80, when the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected are received, whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating is received. Instead, it notifies that an error has been detected. After that, when the error display command is received, the notification that the error is detected is switched to the notification that the error has occurred.

  In particular, when an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 during the rotation of the reel 31, the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected are immediately generated. Although transmitted, the error display command is generated and transmitted after all reels 31 have been stopped. For this reason, the sub-control unit 80 informs that an error has been detected while the reels 31 are rotating, and informs that an error has occurred from the notification that an error has been detected after all reels 31 have stopped. Will be switched to.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the reel 31 is stopped in any of the main game and the pseudo game, the command generating means 73 generates a stop reel command indicating which reel 31 has stopped, and Is stored in the buffer area 74, and the command transmitting means 75 transmits the stop reel command stored in the buffer area 74 to the sub control means 80.

  As described above, in the pseudo game, there is no limitation that the time from the moment the stop switch 42 is operated until the reel 31 is stopped is set within 190 ms. Therefore, in the pseudo game, for example, while the three (left, middle, right) reels 31 are rotating, even if the left stop switch 42 is operated first and the middle stop switch 42 is operated later, first. The middle reel 31 may be stopped and the left reel 31 may be stopped later.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the reel 31 is stopped, not only the reel 31 is stopped but also a stop reel command indicating which reel 31 is stopped is generated, and this is generated by the sub-control unit 80. Send to. As a result, it is possible for the sub-control unit 80 side to determine which reel 31 has stopped, and it is possible to output an appropriate effect according to the stopped reel 31.

Next, the flow of processing when the power is turned on will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S11 of FIG. 2, the main control means 50 sets the first interrupt counter 51 to "0". Then, the process proceeds to the next step S12.

In step S12, the command generating means 73 generates the first state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S13.
In step S13, the command generating means 73 generates the second state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process according to this flowchart ends.
When the power is turned on, the first state command and the second state command are sequentially generated regardless of whether the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed.

Next, the flow of interrupt processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S21 of FIG. 3, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 (loop from "0" to "7") is less than "7".
Here, when it is determined that it is less than “7”, the process proceeds to step S22, and the main control means 50 adds “1” to the first interrupt counter 51. Then, the process proceeds to step S27.
On the other hand, if it is determined to be "7", the process proceeds to step S23, and the main control means 50 sets the first interrupt counter 51 to "0". Then, the process proceeds to step S24.

In step S24, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the information included in the first state command and the second state command has changed. For example, it is determined whether the valid / invalid state of the operation of the bet switch 40 is different from the previous state (before 8 interruptions).
Here, when it is determined that there is a change (different from the previous time), the process proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no change (same as the previous time), the process proceeds to step S27.

In step S25, the command generating means 73 generates the first state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S26.
In step S26, the command generating means 73 generates the second state command and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S27.

  As described above, by the processing of steps S21 to S26, in the interrupt processing, information included in the first state command and the second state command every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every eight interrupts). Whether or not there is a change, and when it is determined that there is a change in either, both the first state command and the second state command are generated.

In step S27, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the count value of the second interrupt counter 52 (loop from "0" to "9") is less than "9".
If it is determined that the number is less than "9", the process proceeds to step S28, and the main control means 50 adds "1" to the second interrupt counter 52. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.
On the other hand, if it is determined to be "9", the process proceeds to step S29, and the main control means 50 sets the second interrupt counter 52 to "0". Then, the process proceeds to step S30.

In step S30, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the information included in the third state command has changed. For example, it is determined whether the on / off state of the bet switch 40 is different from the last time (before 10 interrupts).
Here, when it is determined that there is a change (different from the previous time), the process proceeds to step S31. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no change (same as the previous time), the process according to this flowchart is ended.

In step S31, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the upper byte switching flag (“0” or “1”) is “0”.
Here, when it is determined that the upper byte switching flag is "0", the process proceeds to step S32, and the command generating unit 73 generates the third state command in which the upper 1 byte is hexadecimal "9C", and Are stored in the buffer area 74. Then, in step S33, the main control means 50 sets "1" to the upper byte switching flag. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the upper byte switching flag is not "0" (it is "1"), the process proceeds to step S34, and the command generating means 73 causes the upper 1 byte to be the third hexadecimal "9D" A status command is generated and stored in the buffer area 74. Then, in step S35, the main control means 50 sets "0" to the upper byte switching flag. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.

  As described above, by the processing of steps S27 to S35, in the interrupt processing, every time the count value of the second interrupt counter 52 becomes “9” (every 10 interrupts), whether the information included in the third state command has changed or not is determined. If it is determined that there is a change, a third state command is generated. Also, every time the third state command is generated, the upper 1 byte is switched alternately.

Next, the flow of main processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
Steps S41 to S44 in FIG. 4 are command concentration sections, and the command generation unit 73 sends a set value command in step S41, a game state command 1 in the next step S42, and a game state command 2 in the next step S43. In the next step S44, the game state command 3 is sequentially generated, and these are stored in the buffer area 74 in the generation order. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S45.

In step S45, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not the waiting time of 32 interrupts (71.52 ms) has elapsed. When it is determined that the waiting time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step S46.
In step S46, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the main-side error detection means 71 has detected an error.

Here, when it is determined that an error is detected, the process proceeds to step S47, and the main control means 50 executes an error handling process. The error handling process will be described later. When the error handling process ends, the process proceeds to step S48.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the error is not detected, the process proceeds to step S48 without executing the error handling process.

In step S48, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the start switch 41 has been operated.
Here, when it is determined that the start switch 41 is operated, the process proceeds to step S49, and the main control means 50 executes the game progressing process. The game progress processing will be described later. Then, when the game progress processing ends, the process proceeds to step S50.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the start switch 41 is not operated, the process returns to step S46.

In step S50, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the main-side error detection means 71 has detected an error.
Here, when it is determined that an error is detected, the process proceeds to step S51, and the main control means 50 executes an error handling process. Then, when the error handling process ends, the process proceeds to step S52.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the error is not detected, the process proceeds to step S52 without executing the error handling process.

In step S52, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the winning combination has been won.
If it is determined that the winning combination has been won, the process proceeds to step S53, and the main control means 50 pays out medals according to the winning combination. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the winning combination has not been won, the process according to this flowchart is ended without paying out medals.

Next, the flow of error handling processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S61 of FIG. 5, the main control means 50 determines whether or not a specific error (discharging sensor abnormality, throwing medal clogging, or throwing sensor abnormality) is detected. Here, when it is determined that the specific error is not detected, the process proceeds to step S62. On the other hand, when it is determined that the specific error is detected, the process proceeds to step S64.

In step S62, the main control means 50 displays an error code corresponding to the detected error on the 7-segment display, and in the next step S63, the command generating means 73 generates an error display command corresponding to the detected error. Then, this is stored in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S64, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether the first interrupt counter 51 is "0". Then, when the first interrupt counter 51 reaches "0", the process proceeds to step S65, and the main control means 50 determines whether or not the payout sensor abnormality is detected.

Here, when it is determined that the dispensing sensor abnormality is detected, the process proceeds to step S66, the main control means 50 displays an error code indicating that the dispensing sensor abnormality is detected on the 7-segment display, and in the next step S67. The command generating means 73 generates an error display command including information indicating that the dispensing sensor abnormality is detected, and stores this in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the dispensing sensor abnormality is not detected, the process proceeds to step S68.

In step S68, the main control means 50 determines whether or not the inserted medal clogging is detected.
Here, when it is determined that the inserted medal jam is detected, the process proceeds to step S69, the main control means 50 displays an error code indicating that the inserted medal jam is detected on the 7-segment display, and in the next step S70. The command generation means 73 generates an error display command including information indicating that the inserted medal clogging is detected, and stores the error display command in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the clogging of inserted medals is not detected, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, the main control means 50 displays an error code indicating that the closing sensor abnormality has been detected on the 7-segment display, and in the next step 72, the command generating means 73 indicates that the closing sensor abnormality has been detected. An error display command including information is generated and stored in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S73, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not the release operation has been performed. As a result, the progress of the game is stopped and the notification that the error has occurred is continued until the error is released. When it is determined that the cancel operation has been performed, the process proceeds to the next step S74, and the main control means 50 cancels the error. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.

  As described above, by generating the error display command when the first interrupt counter 51 reaches “0” in step S64, the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected are displayed. After the generation, the error display command is generated, and the command is always generated in the order of the first state command, the second state command, and the error display command.

  For errors other than the specific error (backflow of medals, clogging of paid-out medals, or out of medals), corresponding information is not included in the first state command and the second state command. Therefore, when an error other than the specific error is detected, the error display command is generated without determining whether the first interrupt counter 51 has reached “0”.

Next, the flow of game progress processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
In step S81 of FIG. 6, the winning combination lottery means 61 carries out a winning combination drawing. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S82.
In step S82, the reel control means 64 starts rotation of all reels 31. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S83.

  In step S83, the main control means 50 continues to determine whether or not the stop switch 42 has been turned on. When the stop switch 42 is turned on, the process proceeds to the next step S84, and the reel control means 64 stops and controls the reel 31 corresponding to the turned-on stop switch 42. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S85.

In step S85, the command generating means 73 generates a stop reel command indicating the stopped reel 31 and stores it in the buffer area 74. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S86.
In step S86, the main control means 50 determines whether or not all reels 31 have stopped.

Here, when it is determined that all reels 31 have stopped, the process proceeds to the next step S87, and the command generation means 73 generates a stop symbol command indicating a combination of symbols when all reels 31 are stopped, and this is executed. It is stored in the buffer area 74. Then, the process is ended according to this flowchart.
On the other hand, when it is determined that there is the spinning reel 31, the process returns to step S83.

  In this way, in the game progress process during the main process, even if an error is detected while the reel 31 is rotating, the progress of the game is not stopped and the fact that an error has occurred is not notified. That is, the process corresponding to the error detection is not executed. Then, after stopping all the reels 31, the process proceeds to step S50 of FIG. 4, and if an error is detected at this time, the progress of the game is stopped and the fact that the error has occurred is notified.

As shown in FIG. 1, the sub control means 80 includes a sub game state control means 81 and a notification control means 82.
As described above, in the present embodiment, as the sub game state, AT game (notification game), and non-AT game (non-notification game) is provided.
Here, the AT game is a stop switch for displaying a game result that is advantageous to the player in a game in which a plurality of small wins have been won (stops a combination of symbols in which the player receives a large profit). It is a game that informs the pressing order of 42 (correct pressing order).

On the other hand, the non-AT game is the order in which the stop switch 42 is pressed (correct answer order) to display the game result that is advantageous to the player, even if the game is won in multiple wins. A game that does not notify.
Then, the sub game state control means 81 controls the transition between the sub game states (AT game and non-AT game), and the notification control means 82 controls the notification of the pressing order of the stop switch 42.

  In this embodiment, the sub game state control means 81 executes an AT game in which a predetermined number of games (50 games) is set as one set. Also, when a predetermined addition condition is satisfied, a predetermined number of times of game is added (added) to the number of remaining games of the AT game, and when a predetermined continuation condition is satisfied, the next AT immediately after the AT game is exhausted. Continue playing the game. Then, when it is determined that the AT game end condition is satisfied, control is performed to shift from the next game to the non-AT game.

Here, the sub game state control means 81 is a rare small win (small win whose winning probability is set lower than other small wins) or rare replay (winning probability is other) in the winning lottery means 61 during the non-AT game. When the replay is set lower than the replay of), the AT lottery for determining whether or not to grant the AT game execution right is performed. When the AT lottery is won, the sub game state control means 81 grants the AT game execution right.

  Further, when the sub game state control means 81 grants the AT game execution right, it judges that the AT game execution condition is satisfied, and starts the AT game after the predetermined number of games (10 games) have been exhausted. Then, when the predetermined number of games (50 games) is exhausted during the AT game, the sub game state control means 81 determines that the AT game end condition is satisfied, and shifts from the next game to the non-AT game. To control.

Further, in the present embodiment, the sub game state control means 81 includes an execution right counter that counts the number of AT game execution rights. When the AT game execution right is granted, the AT game execution right A numerical value according to the grant is added to the count value of the execution right counter.
Then, when the AT game is executed, the sub game state control means 81 subtracts a numerical value according to the execution of the AT game from the count value of the execution right counter.

Specifically, the sub game state control means 81, for example, when one AT game execution right is given, adds "1" to the count value of the execution right counter, and three AT game execution rights. When granted, "3" is added to the count value of the execution right counter.
Thereby, the execution right of the AT game can be stored (stock), and when the execution right of the AT game is given, if the execution right of the AT game already stored is stored, the execution right of the AT game is stored. The number (stock number) can be added (added).

Further, the sub game state control means 81 executes the AT game when the count value of the execution right counter is "1" or more, and subtracts "1" from the count value of the execution right counter at the start of the AT game. To do.
Then, the sub game state control means 81 repeatedly executes the AT game until the count value of the execution right counter becomes "0".
That is, when the AT game execution right is stored (stock), the AT game is continued (continuous) until the stored number (stock number) becomes zero. At this time, the sub game state control means 81 once ends one AT game and then starts the next AT game.

  Further, the sub game state control means 81 determines whether or not to add the number of remaining games of the AT game and the number of additions when the rare small combination or the rare replay is won by the role lottery means 61 during the AT game. Draw lots. Then, when winning in the additional lottery, the sub game state control means 81 adds (adds) the additional number determined in the additional lottery to the number of remaining games in the AT game.

  Furthermore, when the number of remaining games of the AT game reaches a predetermined number of games (5 games), the sub game state control means 81 carries out a continuous lottery for deciding whether or not to continue the AT game. When it is decided to continue the AT game, the next AT game is continuously executed immediately after the remaining number of games of the AT game is exhausted. On the other hand, when it is decided not to continue the AT game, the AT game is ended when the remaining number of games of the AT game is exhausted.

Further, the sub game state control means 81 has three stages of 10%, 30% and 50% as the winning probability of the AT lottery, and three stages of 30%, 50% and 70% as the winning probability of the additional lottery. The winning probability of the continuous lottery has three stages of 50%, 70% and 90%.
In addition, the sub game state control means 81, when winning the rare small combination or rare replay by the role lottery means 61, determines whether or not to increase the winning probability of the AT lottery, the additional lottery, and the continuous lottery. I do.

On the other hand, when the winning combination lottery means 61 wins the replay, the sub game state control means 81 carries out a mode down lottery for deciding whether or not to lower the winning probability of the AT lottery, the additional lottery and the continuous lottery.
Then, the sub game state control means 81 sets the winning probability of the AT lottery, the additional lottery and the continuous lottery according to the result of the mode up lottery or the mode down lottery.

As shown in FIG. 1, the sub control unit 80 includes an effect control unit 83.
The effect control unit 83 controls the output of the effect from the effect lamp 21, the speaker 22, and the image display device 23 described above.

The effect control unit 83 controls the output of the effect according to the received command (for example, the third state command including information indicating whether the operation switch is in the on state or the off state).
Further, the effect control means 83 selects an effect for each game by lottery using software random numbers based on the lottery result of the winning combination by the winning combination lottery means 61 at the time of starting the game.
Specifically, as the game progresses, at what timing (when the start switch 41 is operated, when each stop switch 42 is operated, etc.), what kind of effect is to be output (what effect lamp 21 should be used). Whether to turn on, blink or turn off, what kind of sound is output from the speaker 22, what kind of image is displayed on the image display device 23, etc.). Then, according to this selection, the effect is output.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, an effect switch 20 used for effect is electrically connected to the input side of the sub-control unit 80.
Then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, the number of additions is determined), the effect control unit 83 operates a predetermined image (for example, an image showing the determined number of additions) when the effect switch 20 is operated. Is displayed on the image display device 23.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, the sub control unit 80 includes a light emission control unit 85.
The light emission control means 85 controls the outputs of the betting LED 24 and the three (left, middle, right) stop LEDs 25 as light emitting bodies in response to a command received from the main control means 50 side.

Specifically, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in a valid state, the light emission control means 85 causes the betting LED 24 to emit red light. When a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid is received, the bet LED 24 is controlled to be turned off.
As a result, the player is informed of whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid.

  Further, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (first state command) including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the operation of the bet switch 40 is in the valid state or the invalid state. The betting LED 24 is controlled to emit blue light regardless of whether or not a command (second state command) including information indicating that is received.

  That is, the light emission control means 85 indicates that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in the valid state when receiving the command (first state command) including the information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state. Even when the command including the information (second state command) is received, the betting LED 24 is controlled not to emit red light but to emit blue light.

That is, the operation of the bet switch 40 is in the valid state, and the bet LED is originally required.
When 24 emits red light, it emits blue light. When the bet switch 40 is operated in this state, three stored medals are electrically thrown in, and "3" is subtracted from the number of credits.
After that, since the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalidated, the second state command including the information to that effect is transmitted from the main control means 50 side, but even if this is received by the sub control means 80 side, the setting key If the switch 45 remains in the ON state, the light emission control means 85 controls not to turn off the betting LED 24 but to continuously emit blue light.

Further, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (first state command) including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, it indicates that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in the invalid state. Even when the command including the information (second state command) is received, the bet LED 24 is controlled not to be turned off but to be emitted in blue.
Therefore, when the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state, the betting LED 24 always emits blue light, which means that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state. You can inform the (hall) side.

  Further, the light emission control means 85 is information indicating whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid when a rare replay (a replay whose winning probability is set lower than other replays) is won. The betting LED 24 is controlled to emit light in a rainbow color regardless of whether or not a command (second state command) including “1” is received.

Here, at the time of winning the replay, since the number of medals inserted in the game is automatically inserted, the bet switch 40 is normally turned off.
However, as described above, in the present embodiment, the AT lottery is performed when the rare replay is won. Therefore, when the rare replay is won, the bet LED 24 is caused to emit a rainbow color to increase the player's expectation for the AT game.

  When the rare replay is won, an AT lottery is performed, and when the AT lottery is won, the light emission control means 85 includes a command (second command) including information indicating whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid. The betting LED 24 may be controlled to emit a rainbow color regardless of whether or not the state command) is received.

Further, the light emission control means 85 may control to turn off the bet LED 24 and return it to the original state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the bet LED 24 was made to emit light in the rainbow color.
Further, the light emission control means 85, after emitting the bet LED 24 in the rainbow color, receives the third state command including the information indicating that the bet switch 40 or the start switch 41 is in the on state, and sets the bet state. The control LED 24 may be turned off and the control may be returned to the original state.

  However, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (first state command) including information indicating that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, regardless of whether or not the rare replay is won, Regardless of whether or not the AT lottery is won, the betting LED 24 is controlled to emit blue light.

  That is, the light emission control means 85 gives top priority to making the betting LED 24 emit blue light when the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, and then, when the rare replay is won or the AT lottery is won, the betting LED 24 is turned on. Priority is given to emitting light in rainbow colors. Then, the betting LED 24 is set to have the lowest priority in emitting red light or turning off the light in accordance with the valid / invalid state of the operation of the bet switch 40.

  Further, when the light emission control means 85 receives a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the stop switch 42 is in a valid state, it controls the stop LED 25 to emit blue light, When a command (second state command) including information indicating that the operation of the stop switch 42 is in an invalid state is received, the stop LED 25 is controlled to emit red light.

  In the present embodiment, three (left, middle, right) stop switches 42 are provided, and three (left, middle, right) stop LEDs 25 are provided corresponding to these, respectively, but the command generation means 73 Generates a second state command so as to include information indicating whether the operation is valid or invalid for each of the three stop switches 42.

Then, the light emission control means 85 controls each of the three stop LEDs 25 to emit blue or red light in response to the received second state command.
As a result, the player is informed of whether the operation of each of the three stop switches 42 is valid or invalid.

Next, the flow of light emission control processing will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 7.
In step S91 of FIG. 7, the light emission control means 85 determines whether the setting key switch 45 is in the on state.
Here, when it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S92, and the light emission control means 85 causes the betting LED 24 to emit blue light. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is not in the on state (is in the off state), the process proceeds to step S93.

In step S93, the light emission control means 85 determines whether or not a rare replay has won.
Here, when it is determined that the rare replay has won, the process proceeds to step S94, and the light emission control unit 85 causes the betting LED 24 to emit a rainbow color. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the rare replay has not won, the process proceeds to step S95.

In step S95, the light emission control means 85 determines whether or not the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid.
Here, when it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid, the process proceeds to step S96, and the light emission control means 85 causes the bet LED 24 to emit red light. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is not in the valid state (invalid state), the process proceeds to step S97, and the light emission control means 85 turns off the bet LED 24. Then, the processing according to this flowchart is ended.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the sub-control unit 80 includes a sub-side error detection unit 86 and an error notification unit 87.
The sub-side error detection means 86 detects an error on the side of the sub-control means 80 based on the command received from the main control means 50 side, and the error notification means 87 notifies the fact when an error is detected. It is a notification.

In the present embodiment, the sub-side error detection means 86 detects an error based on the information included in the received first state command.
As described above, in the lower 1 byte of the first state command, the 0th bit indicates the on / off state of the door opening / closing detection sensor 48, and the 1st bit indicates the on / off state of the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49. The second bit shows the on / off state of the setting key switch 45, and the third bit shows the on / off state of the setting change switch 46.

Further, when the 0th bit is "1", it indicates that the door open / close detection sensor 48 is on (the front mask portion is open), and when it is "0", it is off (the front mask). (Part is closed).
Furthermore, when the first bit is "1", it indicates that the cover opening / closing detection sensor 49 is in the on state (the switch cover is open), and when it is "0", it is in the off state (switch cover). Indicates a closed state).

Further, when the second bit is "1", it indicates that the setting key switch 45 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off.
When the third bit is "1", it indicates that the setting change switch 46 is on, and when it is "0", it indicates that it is off.

Here, the front mask portion is opened (0th bit is “1”), the switch cover is opened (1st bit is “1”), and the setting key switch 45 is turned on. Is normal (the second bit is “1”), it is normal.
However, the front mask portion is closed (0th bit is “0”), the switch cover is open (1st bit is “1”), and the setting key switch 45 is on. When the second bit is "1", it is not normal (abnormal).

Further, the front mask portion is open (0th bit is “1”), the switch cover is closed (1st bit is “0”), and the setting key switch 45 is on. (2nd bit is "1"), it is not normal.
Further, the front mask portion is closed (0th bit is “0”), the switch cover is closed (1st bit is “0”), and the setting key switch 45 is on ( Even when the second bit is "1"), it is not normal.

Therefore, the sub-side error detection means 86 detects an error when the 0th bit is “0”, the 1st bit is “1”, and the 2nd bit is “1” for the lower 1 byte of the received first state command. Is determined to have been detected. Similarly, when the 0th bit is “1”, the 1st bit is “0”, the 2nd bit is “1”, and the 0th bit is “0”, the 1st bit is “0”, the 2nd bit is Even when it is “1”, it is determined that an error has been detected.
When the sub-side error detecting means 86 detects an error, the error notifying means 87 notifies the fact by displaying the fact on the image display device 23.

  In addition, when the error notification unit 87 receives the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected, the error notification unit 87 detects the error regardless of whether the reel 31 is rotating. Notify that you have done it. After that, when the error display command is received, the error notification means 87 switches from the notification that the error has been detected to the notification that the error has occurred.

Here, it is assumed that an error is detected by the main-side error detection means 71 while the reel 31 is rotating. In this case, the first state command and the second state command including the information indicating that the specific error is detected are immediately generated and transmitted by the interrupt process even while the reel 31 is rotating. However, by the main processing, the error display command is generated and transmitted, and the progress of the game is stopped after all the reels 31 are stopped.
Therefore, the error notifying unit 87 notifies that an error has been detected while the reels 31 are rotating, and after stopping all the reels 31, the error notifying unit 87 notifies that an error has occurred. It will be switched.

(Second embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the bet LED 24 as the light emitting body is electrically connected to the output side of the sub control means 80, and the light emission control means 85 for controlling the output of the light emitting body is provided on the sub control means 80 side. .
On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the betting LED 24 as the light emitting body is electrically connected to the output side of the main control means 50, and the light emission control means 85 for controlling the output of the light emitting body is the main control means 50. It is provided on the side.

Then, the light emission control means 85 determines whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid, and when it is determined that the bet switch 40 is valid, controls the betting LED 24 to emit red light. When it is determined that the bet LED 24 is in the invalid state, the bet LED 24 is controlled to be turned off.
As a result, the player is informed of whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or invalid.

  Further, the light emission control means 85 determines whether the setting key switch 45 is in the on state or the off state. When it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, whether the operation of the bet switch 40 is valid or Regardless of the invalid state, the bet LED 24 is controlled to emit blue light.

That is, when it is determined that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state, the light emission control means 85 causes the betting LED 24 to emit red light even when it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is in the valid state. Instead, control is performed so that blue light is emitted.
Further, when the light emission control means 85 determines that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state, it does not turn off the bet LED 24 even if it is determined that the operation of the bet switch 40 is invalid. , Control to emit blue light.

That is, the light emission control means 85 gives priority to making the bet LED 24 emit light in blue when the setting key switch 45 is in the on state, and when the setting key switch 45 is in the off state, the bet switch 40. The bet LED 24 is controlled to emit red light or turn off depending on whether the operation is valid or invalid.
Therefore, when the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state, the betting LED 24 always emits blue light, which means that the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state. You can inform the (hall) side.

When the setting key switch 45 is turned on while the bet switch 40 is valid, the bet switch 40 is invalid, the setting confirmation mode is entered, and the betting LED 24 emits blue light. To do.
Furthermore, when the power is turned on while the setting key switch 45 is on, the operation of the bet switch 40 is disabled, the setting change mode is entered, and the betting LED 24 emits blue light.

  Further, when the setting key switch 45 is turned on with the operation of the bet switch 40 being invalid, the operation of the bet switch 40 is maintained in the invalid state, and neither the setting change mode nor the setting confirmation mode is entered. The betting LED 24 emits blue light.

  Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications such as the following are possible.

(1) In the above embodiment, the main-side error detecting means 71 and the sub-side error detecting means 86 are provided. That is, the main control means 50 side and the sub control means 80 side are respectively provided with error detecting means.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the error detection means may be provided only on the main control means 50 side or only on the sub control means 80 side, for example.

(2) In the above embodiment, the error canceling means 72 is provided only on the main control means 50 side.
However, the invention is not limited to this, and the error canceling means may be provided only on the side of the sub-control means 80, like the error detecting means, or separately on the side of the main control means 50 and the side of the sub-control means 80. You may be prepared for.
However, since the command is transmitted from the main control means 50 to the sub control means 80 in one direction, for example, when the error detection means is provided on the main control means 50 side, the error canceling means must also be provided on the main control means 50 side. There is.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the main-side error detecting means 71 and the sub-side error detecting means 86 detect an error based on the combination of ON / OFF of various sensors and switches, the duration of the ON / OFF state, and the like. That is, the error detecting means is composed of software.
However, the invention is not limited to this, and the error detection means may be configured by hardware, for example.

(4) In the above embodiment, the timer interrupt is set every 2.235 ms. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the timer interrupt cycle can be set as appropriate.
Further, in the above embodiment, the first state command and the second state command are generated for every eight interrupts, and the third state command is generated for every ten interrupts. However, not limited to this, how many interrupts these commands are generated should be appropriately set within a range that does not impair on / off of various sensors and switches and does not overflow the buffer area 74. You can

  (5) In the above-described embodiment, the first to third status commands are generated every 8 interrupts or 10 interrupts on condition that the information included therein has changed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first to third status commands may always be generated every predetermined time (for example, 8 interrupts or 10 interrupts) regardless of whether or not the information included therein changes. .

(6) In the above embodiment, the command generating means 73 transmits the same command twice, and the command receiving means 84 correctly receives the same command if the same command is not received twice within a predetermined time. I judged that I did not receive it. However, the number of times the same command is transmitted is not limited to this, and can be appropriately set as long as it is two or more times. Similarly, how many times the same command is received to determine that the command has been correctly received can be appropriately set as long as the command is received twice or more.
The command may be transmitted only once.

  (7) In the above embodiment, the information indicating whether the setting key switch 45 is in the on state or the off state is included in the first state command, and the operation of the bet switch 40 (operation switch) is in the valid state or invalid. The information indicating whether or not the state is included is included in the second state command.

However, not limited to this, information indicating whether the setting key switch 45 is in the ON state or the OFF state and information indicating whether the operation of the operation switch is in the valid state or the invalid state are included in one command. You may choose not to. Then, according to the information included in this one command, the bet LED 24 (light-emitting body) is controlled to emit blue light, red light, or turn off so that the operation of the operation switch is in a valid state. Alternatively, the setting key switch 45 may be in an invalid state or the setting key switch 45 may be in an on state.

  (8) In the above embodiment, a color LED is provided as a light emitting body, and the color LED is made to emit light in red, blue or rainbow colors. However, if it is possible to indicate whether the operation of the operation switch is valid or invalid according to the output of the light emitter, or to indicate that the setting key switch 45 is on, the light emitter is a color LED. Not limited to red, blue, and rainbow colors.

  (9) In the above embodiment, the output of the light emitter (blue light emission) indicates that the setting key switch 45 is on. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the fact that the front mask portion is open, the switch cover is open, and the setting change switch 45 is on indicate that It may be indicated by the output.

(10) In the above embodiment, the waiting time for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area 74 is set after the command concentration section has elapsed. However, not limited to this, a waiting time may be provided in the middle of the command concentration section.
Further, in the above embodiment, the waiting time is set to 32 interrupts (71.52 ms), but the waiting time is not limited to this and can be set as appropriate.
Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the set value command and the game state commands 1 to 3 are generated in the command concentration section. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the type and number of commands generated in the command concentration section can be set appropriately according to the model of the slot machine 10.

  (11) In the above embodiment, the waiting time is set longer than the time required to transmit the command generated from the start of the command concentration section to the start of the waiting section. It may be set to be shorter than the time required to transmit the command generated from the time until the start of the waiting time.

Further, the waiting time may be controlled until all the commands stored in the buffer area 74 are transmitted (erased), that is, until the buffer area 74 becomes empty.
Further, the waiting time may be controlled until the number of commands stored in the buffer area 74 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined number.
That is, the waiting time is not limited to being fixed to a fixed time, and may be changed according to the number of commands stored in the buffer area 74.

  (12) For example, a light-emitting body (for example, a start LED) corresponding to the start switch 41 may be provided, and this may be electrically connected to the output side of the sub control means 80. Further, the command transmitted from the main control means 50 side to the sub control means 80 side may include information indicating the valid / invalid state of the operation of the start switch 41. Then, on the side of the sub-control unit 80, the output of the start LED may be controlled based on the information indicating the valid / invalid state of the operation of the start switch 41 included in the received command.

(13) In the above embodiment, in the interrupt processing, every time the count value of the first interrupt counter 51 becomes “7” (every 8 interrupts), regardless of whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating. The main-side error detection means 71 determines whether or not an error has been detected.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, in interrupt processing, whether or not an error has been detected by the main-side error detection means 71 is determined for each interrupt regardless of whether the waiting time or the reel 31 is rotating. You may. Then, on condition that an error is detected, the first and second status commands including the information indicating that the specific error is detected may be generated (decision to generate) every eight interrupts.
Even in this case, in the interrupt processing, the first and second state commands can be generated every eight interrupts on the condition that the information included therein has changed.

(14) The commands shown in the above embodiment are merely examples, and the type and number of commands to be generated and the information included in each command can be set as appropriate according to the model of the slot machine 10.
Note that the above modifications (1) to (14) are not limited to the case where they are applied individually, and they may be applied in an appropriate combination.

<Appendix>
The problems to be solved by the claimed invention (original invention) of the original application of the present application, the means for solving the problems related to the originally claimed invention, and the effects of the originally claimed invention are as follows.
(A) Problem to be Solved by the Initial Invention The initial invention relates to a slot machine that notifies an error when an error is detected.
In a conventional slot machine, when an error is detected, there is known a slot machine that stops the progress of the game and notifies that fact (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-120714).

However, in the conventional slot machine described above, when an error is detected, the progress of the game is uniformly stopped, and the progress of the game can be controlled according to the progress of the game when the error is detected. There wasn't.
Therefore, the problem to be solved by the invention at the beginning is to control the progress of the game according to the progress of the game at the time of detecting the error while promptly notifying the error when the error is detected.

(B) Means for solving the problem relating to the original invention (note that the corresponding embodiment is shown in parentheses).
The first solution is
A main control means (50) for controlling the progress of the game,
A sub control means (80) for controlling the output of the effect,
An error detecting means (main side error detecting means 71) for detecting an error,
The main control means,
Command generating means (73) for generating a command,
Command transmitting means (75) for transmitting the generated commands to the sub-control means in the order of generation,
The main control means,
While the main process for the progress of the game is repeatedly executed, in parallel with the main process, the interrupt process is executed every predetermined time (2.235 ms) shorter than the time required for one time of the main process,
During the main processing, it is determined whether or not an error is detected by the error detecting means, and whether or not an error is detected by the error detecting means, separately from the main processing, during the interrupt processing. Judge,
The command generating means,
When an error is detected by the error detecting means during the interrupt processing, a command C1 including information indicating that the error is detected is generated,
When an error is detected by the error detection means during the main processing, the command C2 including information indicating that the error has occurred is generated after waiting for the generation of the command C1.
The sub-control means notifies that an error is detected when the command C1 is received, and notifies that an error has occurred when the command C2 is received.

The second solution is the first solution,
The main control means,
In the main processing, when an error is detected by the error detecting means while the reel (31) is rotating, the processing corresponding to the error detection is not executed, and the error detecting means makes an error after stopping all the reels. When is detected, control is performed to continue executing the process corresponding to the error detection until the error is cleared,
In the interrupt processing, it is determined whether or not an error is detected regardless of whether or not the reel is rotating,
When receiving the command C1, the sub-control means notifies that an error has been detected even while the reel is rotating, and then when receiving the command C2, notifies that the error has been detected. It is characterized in that it is controlled so as to switch to notification that an error has occurred.

A third solution is the second solution,
The main control means stops the progress of the game as a process corresponding to the detection of the error.
A fourth solution is the second or third solution,
The main control means may notify that an error has occurred as a process corresponding to the detection of the error.

(Action)
In the initial invention, the main process for the progress of the game is repeatedly executed, and in parallel with the main process, the interrupt process is executed at predetermined time intervals shorter than the time required for one main process.
In addition, it is determined whether or not an error is detected during the main processing, and whether or not an error is detected during the interrupt processing, separately from the main processing.

Further, when it is determined that the error is detected in the interrupt processing, the command C1 including the information indicating that the error is detected is generated, and when it is determined that the error is detected in the main processing, the generation of the command C1 is waited for. Then, the command C2 including the information indicating that the error has occurred is generated, and these are transmitted to the sub control means in the generation order.
Then, the sub control means notifies that an error has been detected when receiving the command C1, and notifies that an error has occurred when receiving the command C2.
Therefore, the interrupt processing makes it possible to detect an error and promptly notify that fact, regardless of the progress of the game.

Further, in the main process, the progress of the game can be controlled according to the progress of the game at the time of error detection.
Therefore, when an error is detected, regardless of the progress of the game, while promptly informing that fact, for example, if the reels are rotating, the progress of the game is not immediately stopped, but all reels are stopped. The game is continued until is stopped, and if all reels are stopped, the progress of the game can be immediately stopped.

When an error is detected in the main process, the command C2 is generated after waiting for the generation of the command C1 based on the error detection in the interrupt process.
Therefore, although the error is detected in the main process and the error is also detected in the interrupt process separately from the main process, the command transmitting means always transmits the command to the sub control means in the order of command C1 and command C2. To do.
Therefore, the sub control means side always receives the commands in the order of the command C1 and the command C2, so that the processing on the sub control means side can be prevented from being confused.

(Relationship between original invention and embodiment)
The “command C1” corresponds to the “second state command” in the embodiment.
For example, the 4th bit of the lower 1 byte of the second status command indicates whether or not a closing sensor abnormality is detected. When it is "1", it indicates that a closing sensor abnormality is detected, and when it is "0". Is set to indicate that it has not been detected.

The “command C2” corresponds to the “error display command” in the embodiment.
The lower 1 byte of the error display command is set to indicate that an error such as a throw-in sensor error, throw-in medal clogging, medal backflow, pay-out sensor abnormality, pay-out medal clogging, or medal run-out has been detected.
It should be noted that "notifying that an error has been detected" and "notifying that an error has occurred" are not limited to the sub-control unit, and include, for example, the error notifying unit 87 in the embodiment and other sub-control units. Other means provided in the means may be used.

(C) Effects of the Initial Invention According to the initial invention, when an error is detected, regardless of the progress of the game, promptly notifying that fact, and if the reels are rotating, all reels stop. It is possible to control the progress of the game in accordance with the progress of the game at the time of error detection, such as continuing the game until or after stopping all reels.

10 Slot Machine 11 Display Window 20 Performance Switch 21 Performance Lamp 22 Speaker 23 Image Display Device 24 Bet LED
25 Stop LED
31 reel 32 motor 33 medal payout device 33a hopper 33b payout drive unit 40 bet switch 41 start switch 42 stop switch 43 medal insertion slot 43a medal selector 43b first insertion detection sensor 43c second insertion detection sensor 44 payout detection sensor 45 setting key switch 46 setting change switch 47 reset switch 48 door open / close detection sensor 49 cover open / close detection sensor 50 main control means 51 first interrupt counter 52 second interrupt counter 60 set value changing means 60a set value storage means 61 role lottery means 62 role lottery table 63 Winning flag control means 63a Winning flag 64 Reel control means 64a Pushing order detection means 65 Stop position determination table 66 Stop symbol determination means 67 Dispensing means 68 Special game control Step 69 Main game state control means 70 Freeze control means 71 Main side error detection means 72 Error release means 73 Command generation means 74 Buffer area 75 Command transmission means 80 Sub control means 81 Sub game state control means 82 Notification control means 83 Production control means 84 command receiving means 85 light emission controlling means 86 sub-side error detecting means 87 error notifying means

Claims (1)

Main control means for controlling the progress of the game,
And a sub control means for controlling the output of the effect,
The main control means,
Means for determining whether an error has occurred,
Command generating means for generating a command,
A buffer area to store the generated commands,
A command transmission unit for transmitting the command stored in the buffer area to the sub-control unit,
As the command generated by the command generation means, at least a setting value command indicating a setting value that determines the degree of advantage for the player,
The main control means,
The main process for the progress of the game can be repeatedly executed according to the operation of the player, and the interrupt process is executed every predetermined time,
The main process has a command concentration section in which the command generation unit generates a plurality of commands including the setting value command, and the command generation unit does not generate a command during or after the command concentration section. A waiting time for the command transmitting means to transmit the command stored in the buffer area ,
In the previous SL interrupt process, regardless of whether it is in the waiting time, based on the predetermined error is determined to have occurred, if the command generating means generates a command corresponding to the predetermined error A slot machine having:

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