JP6753494B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine.

As a pachinko gaming machine which is a kind of gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine equipped with a main control device (main control means) and a payout control device (payout control means) is known. The main control device determines whether or not the game ball has entered the ball entry section provided in the game area, and when the game ball enters the entry section related to the payout of the game ball, The prize ball command (payout command information) is output from the main control device to the payout control device. The payout control device drives and controls the payout device based on the prize ball command input from the main control device to execute the payout of the game ball.

For example, in the pachinko gaming machine shown in Patent Document 1, the main control device outputs a prize ball command to the payout control device each time the game ball enters the entry portion related to the payout of the game ball. Based on the input of the prize ball command from the main control device, the payout control device drives and controls the payout device so as to pay out the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command.

JP-A-2007-167431

However, when the prize ball command is output, the prize ball command may be rewritten due to factors such as noise.

The above problems are not limited to pachinko gaming machines, and are the same for other gaming machines in which the main control device and the payout control device pay out the game medium. Further, this problem applies not only to a game ball as a game medium but also to a game machine that uses, for example, a game medal as a game medium.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-exemplified circumstances and the like, and provides a game machine capable of satisfactorily paying out the game medium in the game machine in which the payout of the game medium is executed. It is the purpose.

The present invention is
The main control means that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content,
A payout control means that controls the payout means so that a game medium having a payout number corresponding to the payout command information is paid out based on the input of the payout command information.
In a game machine equipped with
Payout command information is set for each of multiple types of payouts.
The payout control means
An information determination means for determining whether or not the input payout command information is normal, and
When it is determined by the information determination means that the input payout command information is normal, the information on the number of payouts of the game medium corresponding to the payout command information or the information corresponding to the payout order information is stored as the payout number information. With the means of storing the number of payouts,
A payout drive control means for driving and controlling the payout means to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout number storage means.
With
Each of the plurality of types of payout command information consists of a plurality of predetermined bits.
The information determination means is
Using the multi-bit information possessed by one payout command information, if the input payout command information is normal, any of the payout command information is set so as to have the same specific result. A first determination means for executing an arithmetic process and performing a first determination process for determining that the input payout command information is normal when the arithmetic result is the specific result.
The input when the number of game media paid out corresponding to the input payout command information is less than or equal to the number of game media paid out by inputting the largest number of payouts among the plurality of types of the payout command information. A second determination means for executing a second determination process for determining that the payout command information is normal, and
If it is determined that the input payout command information is not normal, a correction process is executed in which the information on the number of payouts for correction, which is predetermined as the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information, is stored in the payout number storage means. Means and
With
The correction means executes the correction process when it is determined by the first determination process by the first determination means that the input payout command information is not normal.
The second determination means is after the input payout command information is determined to be normal by the first determination process by the first determination means, or after the correction process is performed by the correction means. The second determination process is executed.
The correction payout number is the same as the payout number of the game medium set in the payout command information having the largest payout number of the game media among the plurality of types of payout command information.

According to the present invention, in a gaming machine in which the payout of the game medium is executed, the payout of the game medium can be satisfactorily performed.

It is a front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the main structure of a pachinko machine in development. It is a perspective view which shows the main structure of a pachinko machine in development. It is a rear view which shows the structure of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view which shows the structure of the front door frame. It is a front view which shows the structure of the main body frame. It is a front view which shows the structure of the game board. It is a rear view which shows the structure of the main body frame. It is a perspective view which shows the back structure of the game board. It is a rear view which shows the state which the main control device unit was removed from a game board. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the main controller unit. It is a front view which shows the structure of the back pack unit. It is an exploded perspective view which shows the structure of the back pack unit. It is a vertical cross-sectional view which shows the passage structure formed in the payout device. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a pachinko machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display content of a symbol display device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline of various counters used for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the NMI interrupt processing by the CPU of the main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing. It is a flowchart which shows the start winning process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal process. It is a block diagram which shows the electric structure about payout of a game ball. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the configuration of the 1st input port. (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining a prize ball counter area, and (b) is an explanatory diagram for explaining a command storage area. (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the prize ball number storage area, (b) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the ball rental number storage area, and (c) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the payout number counter area. (D) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the prize ball table storage area. It is a flowchart which shows the reading process by the CPU of the main control board. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the processing content of the reading process. It is a flowchart which shows the information determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the input state monitoring process. It is a flowchart which shows the front door frame opening signal monitoring processing. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball permission signal monitoring processing. It is a flowchart which shows the output process for payout. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball command output processing. It is a flowchart which shows the main processing by the CPU of the payout control board. It is a flowchart which shows interrupt processing at the time of input. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interrupt processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process for full tank. It is a flowchart which shows the ball useless processing. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the ball rental setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the payout quantity setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the payout control process. It is a flowchart which shows the payout state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball permission signal setting process. It is a time chart for explaining the state of the output of the prize ball command with respect to the prize ball permission signal. It is a time chart for explaining the state of output of the prize ball permission signal with respect to a predetermined restriction situation. It is a time chart for explaining the handling of prize ball information when the power is turned on when the lower plate is full. It is a time chart for explaining the handling of prize ball information when the power is turned on when the tank is in a ballless state. This is a time chart for explaining the handling of prize ball information when the power is turned on with the front door frame open. It is a flowchart which shows the main processing by the CPU of the main control board in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the information determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball permission signal monitoring processing. It is a flowchart which shows the reading process by the CPU of the main control board in 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the processing content of the reading process. It is a flowchart which shows the reading process by the CPU of the main control board in 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the processing content of the reading process. It is a flowchart which shows the addition mask processing by the CPU of the payout control board in 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the mask processing at the time of payout setting by the CPU of the payout control board in 6th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline of various counters used for game control in 7th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the start winning process in 7th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the electric accessory opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the electric accessory opening and closing process. (A) It is a schematic diagram which shows the state which the electric accessory is controlled to the closed state. (B) It is a schematic diagram which shows the state which the electric accessory is controlled to the open state. It is a flowchart which shows the reading process in 7th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball information storage number confirmation processing. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball permission signal setting process in 7th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows another example of a prize ball setting process.

First, an invention that can be extracted from the present embodiment will be described while showing effects and the like as necessary.

Means 1. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the game medium is paid out based on the input of the payout command information.
In a game machine equipped with
The payout control means
Information determining means for determining whether or not the input payout command information is normal (a function of executing the processes of steps S1804 and S1808 in the prize ball setting process of the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322) and
When it is determined by the information determination means that the input payout command information is normal, the information on the number of payouts of the game medium corresponding to the payout command information or the information corresponding to the payout order information is stored as the payout number information. Payout number storage means (payout side RAM333) and
A payout drive control means (a function of executing the payout information setting process in the CPU 331) that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout number storage means.
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means 1, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the game content has become the payout game content. The payout control means controls the payout means so that the game medium is paid out based on the input of the payout command information. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content.

In addition, noise may be generated in the game machine, and the payout command information may be rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like. In this case, a large amount of game media is paid out to the player due to the rewriting of the payout command information, which may cause a great disadvantage in the game hall where the game machine is installed. On the other hand, according to this means, when the payout command information is normal, the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information is stored. Then, the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information is paid out. With this configuration, it is possible to deal with the payout command information that has been rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a great disadvantage in the game hall. Therefore, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern.

Means 2. In means 1, a plurality of types of payout command information in which the number of payouts of the corresponding game media is different are set.
Each payout command information consists of a plurality of predetermined bits.
The information determination means is
It is provided with a calculation means (a function of executing the process of step S1802 of the prize ball setting process by the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322) that performs a predetermined calculation process using the information of a plurality of bits possessed by one payout command information.
Further, when the calculation result by the calculation means becomes a predetermined specific result, it is determined that the input payout command information is normal.
The calculation means performs the calculation processing on any of the payment command information among the plurality of types of payout command information.
A gaming machine characterized in that the calculation result by the calculation means is the same for any of the payout command information when the input payout command information is normal.

According to the means 2, the calculation means performs the calculation using the information of a plurality of bits, and when the calculation result becomes a specific result, it is specified that the payout command information is normal. In addition, calculation processing is performed for any of the payout command information among the plurality of set payout game contents, and in the case of normal payout command information, the calculation result is the same for all payout command information. It becomes. If the specific results determined to be normal are different in the plurality of set payout command information, the input payout command information is which payout command information to determine whether the calculation result is normal. It is necessary to determine whether or not, and it is conceivable that the processing load on the information determination means will increase. On the other hand, according to this means, it can be specified that the payout command information is normal if the calculation result becomes a specific result when the calculation process is performed regardless of the payout command information. Therefore, it is possible to specify whether or not the payout command information is normal only by determining whether or not the calculation results are the same, and further, the specific result corresponding to each payout command information. You don't have to remember.

Means 3. In the means 2, each payout command information is
The first specific information, which is composed of a predetermined number of bits and is common to all payout command information,
The second specific information, which is composed of a predetermined number of bits and corresponds to the payout number information, and
A third specific information for making the calculation result the same result when the calculation is performed by the calculation means, which is composed of a predetermined number of bits.
Have and
The payout control means identifies the payout command information by referring to the first specific information, and further specifies the payout number information by referring to the second specific information. Yes,
A gaming machine characterized in that the calculation means performs the calculation process using the first specific information, the second specific information, and the third specific information.

According to the means 3, each payout command information has the first specific information common to all the payout command information and the second specific information corresponding to the payout number information. As a result, only the first specific information needs to be referred to in order to specify whether or not the information is the payout command information, and all the specific information is referred to in order to specify that the information is the payout command information. You don't have to. Further, it is only necessary to refer to the second specific information to specify the payout number information, and it is not necessary to refer to all the specific information to specify the payout number information.

Further, when the calculation by the calculation means is performed, it has the third specific information for making the calculation result the same result, and uses the first specific information, the second specific information, and the third specific information. It is possible to specify whether or not the payout command information is normal or not by performing the calculation. Thereby, using the information for identifying the payout command information and the information for specifying the number of payouts of the game medium, it is possible to specify whether or not the payout command information is normal. However, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

Means 4. In any one of means 1 to 3, the payout command information is composed of a plurality of specific information (upper information, lower information) composed of a predetermined number of bits.
The information determination means uses the plurality of specific information to perform a predetermined arithmetic operation among the four arithmetic operations, and when the arithmetic result becomes a predetermined specific result, the input payout command information is input. A gaming machine characterized in that it is determined to be normal.

According to the means 4, when a predetermined arithmetic operation among the four arithmetic operations is performed using a plurality of specific information and the result of the arithmetic operation becomes a predetermined specific result, the formal payout command information is used. It is determined that there is.

By performing the arithmetic processing in this way, it was determined whether or not the payout command information was normal. If it is specified by a logical operation whether or not the payout command information is normal, even if one piece of information is rewritten due to the occurrence of noise, the result of the logical operation will be a specific result. It is conceivable that the payout command information is determined to be normal.

For example, a game machine in which "1" and "0" are set as a plurality of specific information, and when the logical sum is performed and becomes "1", it is determined that the payout command information is normal. In this case, even if the "0" part is rewritten to "1" due to the influence of noise or the like, the result of the logical sum is "1", and the payout command information has been rewritten. Nevertheless, the payout command information is determined to be normal.

On the other hand, according to this means, it is determined whether or not the payout command information is normal based on the result of the arithmetic processing. If any bit is rewritten due to the influence of noise, the result of the arithmetic processing will be different. In this way, since the payout command information is specified whether or not it is normal by using the arithmetic processing, it is compared with the game machine which determines whether or not the payout command information is normal by using the logical operation. Then, it becomes easy to discover that the payout command information has been rewritten.

The number of bits of each specific information may be the same, or may be different depending on each specific information.

Means 5. In any one of means 1 to 4, the payout command information is composed of a plurality of specific information (upper information, lower information) composed of a predetermined number of bits.
The information determination means performs a predetermined addition process using the plurality of specific information, and when the result of the addition process is a predetermined specific result, the input payout command information is normal. A game machine characterized in that it is determined to be.

According to the means 5, the addition process is performed using a plurality of specific information, and when the result of the addition process is a predetermined specific result, it is determined that the payment command information is formal.

By performing the addition process in this way, it was determined whether or not the payout command information was normal. If it is specified by a logical operation whether or not the payout command information is normal, even if one piece of information is rewritten due to the occurrence of noise, the result of the logical operation will be a specific result. It is conceivable that the payout command information is determined to be normal.

For example, a game machine in which "1" and "0" are set as a plurality of specific information, and when the logical sum is performed and becomes "1", it is determined that the payout command information is normal. In this case, even if the "0" part is rewritten to "1" due to the influence of noise or the like, the result of the logical sum is "1", and the payout command information has been rewritten. Nevertheless, the payout command information is determined to be normal.

On the other hand, according to this means, it is determined whether or not the payout command information is normal based on the result of the addition process. If any of the bits is rewritten due to the influence of noise, the result of the addition process will be different. In this way, since the payout command information is specified whether or not it is normal by using the addition process, it is compared with the game machine that determines whether or not the payout command information is normal by using a logical operation. Then, it becomes easy to discover that the payout command information has been rewritten.

Means 6. In any one of means 1 to 5, the payout command information is composed of a plurality of specific information (upper information, lower information) composed of a predetermined number of bits.
The information determination means performs a predetermined logical operation using the plurality of specific information, and when the result of the logical operation is a predetermined specific result, the input payout command information is normal. A game machine characterized in that it is determined to be.

According to the means 6, when the result of the logical operation is a specific result, it is determined that the input payout command information is normal. According to this means, since the logical operation is used, the operation processing can be performed only by comparing the operation processing bit by bit. In addition, compared to a game machine that performs predetermined four arithmetic operations and confirms whether the result of the operation is a specific result, it is necessary to perform bit shift processing because the logical operation is used in this embodiment. It becomes possible to improve the processing speed for identifying whether or not the payout command information is normal.

Means 7. In any one of the means 1 to the means 6, the information determination means normalizes the payout command information when the number of payouts of the game medium corresponding to the input payout command information is equal to or less than a predetermined number. A game machine characterized in that it is determined to be.

According to the means 7, when the number of game media to be paid out corresponding to the payout command information is equal to or less than a predetermined number, it is determined that the payout command information is normal. As a result, it is no longer determined that the payout command information corresponding to a predetermined number or more is normal, and when one payout command information is input, the game medium having a predetermined number or more It is possible to suppress the payout. Therefore, the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise, etc., and a large amount of game media is paid out by one payout command information, causing a great deal of damage in the game hall where the game machine is installed. Can be suppressed.

Means 8. In any one of means 1 to 7, a plurality of types of payout command information in which the number of payouts of the corresponding game media is different are set.
The information determination means is used when the number of game media to be paid out corresponding to the input payout command information is equal to or less than the maximum number of game media to be paid out by one of the plurality of set payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that the payout command information is determined to be normal.

According to the means 8, when a plurality of types of payout command information in which the number of corresponding game media to be paid out is different is set and is equal to or less than the maximum number of game media to be paid out by one payout command information, the input is made. It is determined that the issued payout command information is normal. As a result, it is possible to suppress the payout of more game media than the maximum number due to the input of one payout command information. Therefore, the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise, etc., and a large amount of game media is paid out by one payout command information, causing great damage in the game hall where the game machine is installed. It is possible to suppress this.

Means 9. In any one of means 1 to 3, a plurality of types of payout command information in which the number of payouts of the corresponding game media is different are set.
Each payout command information consists of a plurality of specific information (upper information, lower information) composed of a predetermined number of bits.
The information determination means uses a plurality of specific information to perform a predetermined arithmetic operation among the four arithmetic operations, and when the arithmetic result becomes a predetermined specific result, and corresponds to the input payout command information. When the number of payouts of the game media is less than or equal to the maximum number of game media to be paid out by one of the set payout command information, the payout command information is specified as normal. A game machine featuring.

According to the means 9, the result of the predetermined arithmetic processing using the four arithmetic operations is the specific result, and the number of game media to be paid out corresponding to the payout command information is the maximum number of game media to be paid out by one payout command information. If it is as follows, it is judged as normal payout command information.

As described above, when the number of payouts of the game media corresponding to the payout command information is larger than the maximum number of payouts of the game media corresponding to one payout command information, it is determined that the payout command information is not normal. When the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise, etc., a larger amount of game media than the maximum number of game media payout corresponding to one payout command information is paid out, and a game machine is installed. It is possible to prevent a great deal of damage from occurring in the game hall. However, in this case, if the payout command information is rewritten within the range within the maximum number of payouts of the game medium corresponding to one payout command information, it is determined that the payout command information is normal. It is conceivable that the game medium will not be paid out normally.

In addition, if the arithmetic processing is executed and the execution result is not a predetermined one, it is not determined as normal payout command information. If any bit is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the result of the arithmetic processing will be different. As a result, even if the payout command information is rewritten within the range of the maximum number or less due to the influence of noise or the like, it is possible to determine that the payout command information has been rewritten. However, if the bits in the payout command information are rewritten in multiple places due to the influence of noise or the like, the result of the arithmetic processing is accidentally specified as a specific result even though the payout command information is not normal. It is conceivable that the command information is determined to be normal.

On the other hand, in this means, it is determined whether or not the payout command information is normal based on the execution of the arithmetic processing using the four arithmetic operations and the number of payouts of the game medium corresponding to the payout command information. As a result, the payout command information is affected by noise or the like, as compared with the game machine that specifies whether or not the payout command information is normal by either arithmetic processing or determination of the number of payouts of the game medium. When it is rewritten, it can be satisfactorily discovered that the payout command information has been rewritten.

Means 10. In any one of means 1 to 9, when the information determining means does not determine normal payout command information, the payout control means stores the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information. A game machine characterized in that it is not stored in the means.

According to the means 10, if it is not determined that the input payout command information is normal, the game medium is not paid out based on the payout command information. As a result, the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise, etc., and even if the payout command information corresponding to a large number of payouts is output, a large amount of game media is used in the game hall where the game machine is installed. Is paid out and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of damage.

Means 11. In any one of means 1 to 9, a plurality of types of payout command information having different numbers of payouts of the corresponding game media are set.
When the information determination means does not determine normal payout command information, the payout control means stores a predetermined number of payouts for correction as payout number information corresponding to the payout command information in the payout number storage means. A game machine characterized by being memorized.

According to the means 11, even if the payout command information is not specified to be normal, a predetermined number of payouts for correction is paid out. As a result, even if the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it is possible to prevent the game medium from being paid out to the player at all.

It should be noted that the "number of payouts for correction" may be defined as only one type or a plurality of types in one game machine.

Means 12. In the means 11, the number of payouts for correction is the same as the number of payouts of the game medium set in the payout command information having the smallest number of payouts of the game medium among the plurality of types of payout command information. Machine.

According to the means 12, when it is not determined that the input payout command information is normal, the same number of game media as the payout command information with the smallest number of game media payouts among the plurality of types of payout command information is paid out. .. As a result, when the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it is possible to provide the player with the minimum compensation.

Means 13. The gaming machine according to means 11, wherein the correction payout number is the same as the average value of the payout numbers of the game media set in the plurality of types of payout command information.

According to the means 13, when it is not determined that the input payout command information is normal, the same number of game media as the average value of the payout numbers of the game media set in the plurality of types of payout command information is paid out. .. As a result, when the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it is possible to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the average value before the rewrite. Therefore, even if the payout command information is rewritten, the game medium is completely paid out to the player, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a disadvantage to the player.

Means 14. In the means 11, the number of payouts for correction is the same as the number of payouts of the game medium set in the payout command information having the largest number of payouts of the game medium among the plurality of types of payout command information. Machine.

According to the means 14, when it is not determined that the input payout command information is normal, the same number of game media as the payout command information with the largest number of game media payouts among the plurality of types of payout command information is paid out. .. As a result, when the payout command information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it is possible to provide the player with the minimum compensation.

Means 15. In any one of the means 1 to 14, a power supply means (power supply unit 321c for power failure) for supplying power at the time of power failure in a power failure state in which power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source is provided.
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content has been obtained, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and the information is stored while power is being supplied to itself. A main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means includes the payout number storage means, and the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information or the corresponding information (the prize ball in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). It has a function to execute number identification processing).
The payout number storage means stores payout number information as information on the number of payouts specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or information corresponding thereto, and further stores information while power is supplied to itself. A gaming machine characterized in that it can be held and does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state.

According to the means 15, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means at the time of power failure. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

The basic configurations of various gaming machines to which the above means can be applied are shown below.

Pachinko game machine: An operating means operated by the player (game ball launching handle 41), a game ball launching means for launching a game ball based on the operation of the operating means (game ball launching mechanism 110), and the launching thereof. It is provided with ball passages (inner and outer rail portions 101 and 102) that guide the game ball to a predetermined game area, and each game component arranged in the game area, and a predetermined passing portion (various sensors) of each of the game parts is provided. A gaming machine that gives a privilege to a player when a gaming ball passes through 152 to 155).

Rotating game machines such as slot machines: Equipped with a picture display device that variably displays a plurality of pictures, the variable display of the plurality of pictures is started due to the operation of the start operation means, and is caused by the operation of the stop operation means. A gaming machine in which the variable display of the plurality of symbols is stopped after a lapse of a predetermined time, and a privilege is given to the player according to the symbols after the stop.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter, referred to as a “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the main configurations of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 4 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10. In FIG. 2, for convenience, the configuration of the pachinko machine 10 in the game area is omitted.

The pachinko machine 10 has an outer frame 11 that forms the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a game machine main portion 12 that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 11 in the forward direction. The outer frame 11 is formed by connecting wooden plates on all four sides and has a rectangular frame shape. The pachinko machine 10 is installed in the game hall by attaching and fixing the outer frame 11 to the island equipment.

As shown in FIG. 1, a ball lending device (for example, a CR unit) Y is provided on the side of the outer frame 11. A card insertion slot H is provided on the front side of the ball lending device Y so that a number of game balls corresponding to the amount stored in the card can be rented by inserting the card into the card insertion slot H. It has become. It should be noted that what is inserted into the ball lending device Y when receiving a loan of a game ball is not limited to a card, and may be cash or a coin in which cash information is stored.

The game machine main unit 12 includes a main body frame 13, a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the main body frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 arranged behind the main body frame 13. The main body frame 13 of the game machine main portion 12 is rotatably supported with respect to the outer frame 11. Specifically, the main body frame 13 can rotate forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side in front view.

As shown in FIG. 2, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported on the main body frame 13, and can be rotated forward with the left side as the rotation base end side and the right side as the rotation tip side in front view. It is said that. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported on the main body frame 13, and the left side is the rotation base end side and the right side is the rotation tip side when viewed from the front. It is supposed to be movable.

Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. In the following description, FIGS. 1 to 3 will be referred to, and FIG. 5 will be referred to for the configuration of the back surface of the front door frame 14. FIG. 5 is a rear view of the front door frame 14.

The front door frame 14 is provided so as to cover the entire front surface side of the main body frame 13. The front door frame 14 is formed with a window portion 21 so that almost the entire area of the game area, which will be described later, can be visually recognized from the front. The window portion 21 has a substantially elliptical shape and is fitted with transparent glass 22. Light emitting means such as various lamps are provided around the window portion 21. For example, an annular illumination unit 23 incorporating a light emitting means such as an LED is provided along the peripheral edge of the window unit 21. The annular illumination unit 23 lights up or blinks according to a change in the gaming state at the time of a big hit or a predetermined reach. In addition, an error display lamp unit 24 that lights up when a predetermined error occurs is provided at the center of the annular illumination unit 23 and at the top of the pachinko machine 10, and a prize that lights up during the payout of the prize ball is provided on the left and right sides thereof. A ball lamp portion 25 is provided. Further, a speaker unit 26 for outputting a sound effect or the like according to the game state is provided at a position close to the left and right prize ball lamp units 25.

Below the window portion 21 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 31 and a lower bulging portion 32 bulging toward the front side are arranged vertically. An upper plate 33 that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 31, and a lower plate 34 that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 32. The upper plate 33 has a function of temporarily storing the game balls paid out from the payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launch mechanism side described later while arranging them in a row. Further, the lower plate 34 has a function of storing the surplus game balls in the upper plate 33.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, the window portion 21, the upper plate 33, and the lower plate 34 are integrated with the front door frame 14. In the conventional pachinko machine, at least the window portion and the lower plate are provided as separate units, and the window portion can rotate independently of the lower plate. Therefore, the front portion of the pachinko machine There was a boundary between each of the above units. In this case, fraudulent acts such as inserting a fraudulent jig from the boundary are assumed. Further, although it is possible to provide a fraud suppression structure for the boundary between each unit in order to suppress such fraudulent activity, this causes the configuration to become complicated. Further, it is not preferable in terms of design that a boundary is generated at the front portion of the pachinko machine. On the other hand, as described above, since the window portion 21, the upper plate 33 and the lower plate 34 are integrated with the front door frame 14, a boundary may occur between the window portion 21 and the lower plate 34. The above inconvenience is suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 1, a ball lending operation device 36 is provided on the upper bulging portion 31. The ball lending operation device 36 is provided with a ball lending button 37, a return button 38, and a frequency display unit 39. With the card or the like inserted in the ball lending device Y, the ball lending operation device 36 can perform a ball lending operation, a card return operation, and a confirmation of the card frequency. That is, the ball lending button 37 is operated to obtain a lending ball based on the information recorded on the card or the like (recording medium), and the lending ball is paid out as long as the remaining amount exists on the card or the like. The return button 38 is operated when requesting the return of the card or the like inserted in the ball lending device Y. The frequency display unit 39 displays the balance information of the card or the like.

A game ball launching handle 41 is provided on the right side of the lower bulging portion 32 so as to project toward the front side. By operating the game ball launch handle 41, the game ball is launched from the game ball launch mechanism described later.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, a passage forming unit 50 is attached to the back surface of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 50 is formed of synthetic resin, and a front door side upper plate passage 51 leading to the upper plate 33 and a front door side lower plate passage 52 leading to the lower plate 34 are formed. In the passage forming unit 50, a receiving portion 53 that protrudes rearward and is opened upward is formed in the upper corner portion thereof, and the front door side upper plate is formed by partitioning the receiving portion 53 to the left and right by a partition wall 54. The passage 51 and the entrance portion of the lower plate passage 52 on the front door side are formed. The front door side upper plate passage 51 and the front door side lower plate passage 52 are connected to the game ball distribution section described later on the upstream side, and the game balls entering the front door side upper plate passage 51 are guided to the upper plate 33 and front. The game ball that has entered the door-side lower plate passage 52 is guided to the lower plate 34.

As shown in FIG. 5, the passage forming unit 50 is provided with a full tank detection sensor 59 so as to detect a game ball passing through the lower plate passage 52 on the front door side. The full tank detection sensor 59 is composed of a magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and detects a change in the magnetic field when the game ball passes within the detection range and outputs it as an electric signal. The full tank detection sensor 59 is not limited to the magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and is arbitrary as long as it can detect the game ball. For example, a photo sensor or a limit sensor may be used. ..

The full tank detection sensor 59 outputs an electric signal to the payout control device 242 described later. Specifically, the LOW level signal is output when the game ball is not detected, and the HI level signal is output when the game ball is detected. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this, and the HI level signal may be output when the game ball is not detected, and the LOW level signal may be output when the game ball is detected. The electric signal may be output only in the state where the above is detected.

The payout control device 242 specifies whether or not the lower plate 214 is in the full tank state based on the detection result of the full tank detection sensor 59. Specifically, when the detection state of the game ball by the full tank detection sensor 59 is continued until a predetermined period elapses, the lower plate 214 is specified to be in the full tank state. When the payout control device 242 identifies that the lower plate 214 is full, the payout device 224 stops paying out the game balls. As a result, when the lower plate 214 is full and the game balls are connected to the position of the full tank detection sensor 59 in the lower plate passage 52 on the front door side, the payout of more game balls is stopped. The suspension of such payout is released based on the fact that the full tank state of the lower plate 214 is released and the game ball is no longer detected by the full tank detection sensor 59. Further, when the payout control device 242 specifies that the lower plate 214 is in a full tank state, a notification process corresponding to the full tank is executed.

On the rotation base end side (right side in FIG. 5) on the back surface of the front door frame 14, protrusion shafts 61 and 62 are provided at the upper end portion and the lower end portion thereof. These protrusion shafts 61 and 62 form an assembly mechanism for the main body frame 13. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of hook metal fittings 63 extending rearward are arranged side by side in the vertical direction on the rotation tip side (left side in FIG. 5) on the back surface of the front door frame 14. These hook fittings 63 form a locking mechanism for the main body frame 13.

Next, the main body frame 13 will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a front view of the main body frame 13.

The main body frame 13 is mainly composed of a resin base 71 having an outer shape substantially the same as that of the outer frame 11. Support metal fittings 72 and 73 are attached to the upper end and the lower end of the rotation base end side (left side in FIG. 6) on the front surface of the resin base 71. Although not shown, shaft holes are formed in the support metal fittings 72 and 73, and by inserting the protruding shafts 61 and 62 of the front door frame 14 into these shaft holes, the front door with respect to the main body frame 13 is inserted. The frame 14 is rotatably supported.

An insertion hole 74 for inserting a hook metal fitting 63 provided on the back surface of the front door frame 14 is provided on the rotation tip side (right side in FIG. 6) on the front surface of the resin base 71. The pachinko machine 10 is configured such that a locking device for locking the main body frame 13 and the front door frame 14 is hidden behind the main body frame 13. Therefore, when the hook metal fitting 63 is locked to the locking device through the insertion hole 74, the front door frame 14 is locked to the main body frame 13 in an unopenable manner.

A cylinder lock 75 for unlocking the locking device is installed in the lower right corner of the resin base 71. The cylinder lock 75 is integrated with the locking device, and when the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 75 is turned to the right, the front door frame 14 is unlocked with respect to the main body frame 13. When the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 75 is turned counterclockwise, the lock of the main body frame 13 with respect to the outer frame 11 is released.

On the upper part of the resin base 71, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, a front door frame opening switch (front body opening) that detects whether or not the front door frame 14 is open (or closed) is detected. Detection means) 78 is provided. The front door frame opening switch 78 has a pin that can appear and disappear from the front surface of the resin base 71, and when the front door frame 14 is closed with respect to the main body frame 13, the pin is pushed in to close the front door frame 14. Is detected, and when the front door frame 14 is opened with respect to the main body frame 13, the pin returns to the protruding position and the opening of the front door frame 14 is detected.

By the way, the front door frame opening switch 78 outputs a front door frame opening signal to the main control device 162 described later when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, and when the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, the said The output of the front door frame opening signal is stopped. However, the signal output mode is not limited to this, and one of the HI level signal and the LOW level signal is output when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, and the other is output when the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. May be good.

A substantially elliptical window hole 76 is formed in the central portion of the resin base 71. A game board 81 is detachably attached to the resin base 71. The game board 81 is made of plywood, and the game area formed on the front surface of the game board 81 is exposed to the front side of the main body frame 13 through the window hole 76 of the resin base 71.

Here, the configuration of the game board 81 will be described with reference to FIG. The game board 81 is formed with a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the front-rear direction by being subjected to router processing. Each opening is provided with a general winning opening 82, a variable winning device 83, an upper operating port 84a, a lower operating port 84b, a through gate 85, a variable display unit 86, and the like. A total of three general winning openings 82 are provided, two on the left side of the game board 81 and one on the right side of the game board 81. When a game ball enters the general winning opening 82, the variable winning device 83, and the operating ports 84a and 84b, it is detected by a detection sensor described later, and a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out based on the detection result. In addition, an out port 87 is provided at the lowermost portion of the game board 81, and a game ball that does not enter various winning openings or the like is discharged from the game area through the out port 87. Further, in the game board 81, a large number of nails 88 are planted in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game ball, and various members (roles) such as a windmill are arranged.

The variable display unit 86 is provided with a symbol display device 91 that variably displays a symbol triggered by winning a prize in the operating ports 84a and 84b. Further, in the variable display unit 86, a center frame 92 is arranged so as to surround the symbol display device 91. A first specific lamp portion 93 and a second specific lamp portion 94 are provided on the upper portion of the center frame 92. Further, holding lamp portions 95 and 96 are provided on the upper portion and the lower portion of the center frame 92, respectively. The lower hold lamp section 95 corresponds to the symbol display device 91 and the first specific lamp section 93, and the number of times the game ball has passed through the operating port 84 is held up to four times, and the hold lamp section 95 is lit. The number of pending items is displayed. The upper hold lamp section 96 corresponds to the second specific lamp section 94, and the number of times the game ball has passed through the through gate 85 is held up to 4 times, and the number of holds is displayed by lighting the hold lamp section 96. It has become so.

The symbol display device 91 is configured as a liquid crystal display device provided with a liquid crystal display, and the display content is controlled by a display control device described later. On the symbol display device 91, for example, symbols are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right, and these symbols are variably displayed so as to be scrolled in the vertical direction. Then, when a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on the preset effective line, a special gaming state (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot) will occur.

In the first specific lamp unit 93, the emission colors are switched in a predetermined order triggered by winning the operating ports 84a and 84b, and when the stop display is performed in a predetermined color, a big hit occurs. Further, in the second specific lamp unit 94, the emission color is switched in a predetermined order triggered by the winning of the game ball to the through gate 85, and when the stop display is displayed in a predetermined color, the lower operating port The electric accessory 89 attached to the 84b is opened for a predetermined time.

By the way, in the lower operating port (lottery opportunity passing portion or lottery opportunity entry section) 84b, the electric accessory 89 as an opening / closing type entry assisting device (ball entry assisting means) or opening / closing member (opening / closing means) is open ( In the case of the assisted state), the ball can be entered or easily entered, and in the closed state (non-assisted state), the ball cannot be entered or it becomes difficult to enter the ball.

The variable winning device (special ball entry device or special ball entry means) 83 has an opening / closing door as an opening / closing member (opening / closing means) in a closed state in which a game ball cannot normally win (win) or is difficult to win (win). It is possible to switch to a predetermined open state in which the game ball is easy to win (win) at the time of a big hit. As an opening mode of the variable winning device 83, the variable winning device 83 repeats with the passage of a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings as one round and a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) as an upper limit. It is generally open.

An inner rail portion 101 and an outer rail portion 102 are attached to the game board 81, and a guide rail is formed by the inner rail portion 101 and the outer rail portion 102, and is launched from a game ball launch mechanism described later. The game ball is guided to the upper part of the game area.

As shown in FIG. 6, the game ball launching mechanism 110 is attached below the window hole 76 in the resin base 71. The game ball launch mechanism 110 includes an electromagnetic solenoid 111, a launch rail 112, and a ball feed mechanism 113, and the output shaft of the solenoid 111 moves in the expansion / contraction direction by inputting an electric signal to the solenoid 111. , The ball feed mechanism 113 launches the game ball placed on the launch rail 112 toward the game area.

There is a gap at a predetermined interval between the launch rail 112 and the inner and outer rail portions 101 and 102 attached to the game board 81, and below this gap is formed in the passage forming unit 50 of the front door frame 14. A foul ball passage 55 is arranged. Therefore, if the game ball launched from the game ball launch mechanism 110 does not reach the upper part of the game area and reverts to the guide rail composed of the inner and outer rail portions 101 and 102, the foul ball will move back. Enter the foul ball passage 55. The foul ball passage 55 leads to the lower plate passage 52 on the front door side, and the game ball that has entered the foul ball passage 55 is discharged to the lower plate 34.

On the left side of the launch rail 112 in the resin base 71, a passage forming portion 121 is provided so as to penetrate the resin base 71 in the front-rear direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the passage forming portion 121 is formed with a main body side upper plate passage 122 and a main body side lower plate passage 123. The upstream side of the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123 leads to a game ball distribution section described later. Further, the receiving portion 53 of the passage forming unit 50 attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted below the passage forming portion 121, and the front door side upper plate passage 51 is below the main body side upper plate passage 122. The front door side upper plate passage 51 is arranged below the main body side lower plate passage 123.

In the resin base 71, below the passage forming portion 121, an opening / closing member 124 for opening and closing the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123 is attached. The opening / closing member 124 is rotatably supported in the front-rear direction by a support shaft 125 provided at the lower end thereof, and is further urged at a front position for closing the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123. An urging member is provided. Therefore, when the front door frame 14 is opened with respect to the main body frame 13, the opening / closing member 124 rises as shown in the drawing and closes the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the main body side lower plate passage 123. As a result, when the front door frame 14 is opened while the game balls are stored in the main body side upper plate passage 122 or the main body side lower plate passage 123, the inconvenience that the stored balls are spilled can be prevented. On the other hand, when the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 124 is pushed open against the urging force by the receiving portion 53 provided in the passage forming unit 50 of the front door frame 14. In this state, the main body side upper plate passage 122 and the front door side upper plate passage 51 communicate with each other, and the main body side lower plate passage 123 and the front door side lower plate passage 52 communicate with each other.

Next, the back configuration of the main body frame 13 will be described. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the main body frame 13.

A locking device 131 is provided on the rotating tip side (left side in FIG. 8) on the back surface of the resin base 71, and the locking device 131 is interlocked with the key operation on the cylinder lock 75, and the main body frame 13 and the front door The frame 14 is unlocked.

A bearing fitting 132 is attached to the rotation base end side (right side in FIG. 8) on the back surface of the resin base 71. Bearing portions 133 are formed on the bearing fitting 132 so as to be separated from each other in the vertical direction, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the main body frame 13 by these bearing portions 133. Further, on the back surface of the resin base 71, a hole 134 for fastening the back pack unit 15 to the main body frame 13 is provided.

A plurality of locking metal fittings 135 are provided on the back surface of the resin base 71, and the game board 81 is attached to the resin base 71 by these locking metal fittings 135 as described above. Here, the configuration of the back surface of the game board 81 will be described. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the game board 81 as viewed from the rear, and FIG. 10 is a rear view showing a state in which the main controller unit 160 is removed from the game board 81.

The variable display unit 86 arranged in the center of the game board 81 is provided with a synthetic resin frame cover 141 that covers the center frame 92 from behind, and is provided so as to project rearward from the rear side with respect to the frame cover 141. The symbol display device 91 described above is attached, and a display control device for driving the symbol display device is attached (not shown). The symbol display device 91 and the display control device are arranged so as to be stacked in the front-rear direction (the symbol display device is in front and the display control device is in the rear), and the voice lamp control device unit 142 is mounted behind the symbol display device 91 and the display control device. The voice lamp control device unit 142 is configured to include a voice lamp control device 143 and a mounting base 144, and the voice lamp control device 143 is mounted on the mounting base 144.

The voice lamp control device 143 includes a voice lamp control board that controls voice and lamp display and control of the display control device according to instructions from the main control device described later, and the voice lamp control board is made of a transparent resin material or the like. It is housed in a board box 145.

On the back surface of the game board 81, as shown in FIG. 10, a collecting plate unit 150 is provided below the variable display unit 86. The collecting plate unit 150 is provided with a game ball collection mechanism for collecting the game balls that have won in various winning openings, a winning detection mechanism for detecting the winning of the game balls in various winning openings, and the like. ..

Explaining the game ball collection mechanism, the collecting plate unit 150 collects the general winning opening 82, the variable winning device 83, and the operating ports 84a and 84b in one place on the downstream side corresponding to the opening of the game board. Passage 151 is formed. Therefore, all the game balls that have won the general winning opening 82 or the like are gathered below the game board 81 through the collection passage 151. Below the game board 81, there is a discharge passage described later, and the game balls gathered below the game board 81 are led out into the discharge passage by the collection passage 151. The out port 87 is also connected to the discharge passage, and the game ball that has not won any prize is also led out into the discharge passage through the out port 87.

Explaining the winning detection mechanism, the collecting plate unit 150 is provided with winning opening sensors 152a to 152c at positions corresponding to the general winning openings 82 on the front side of the game board 81, respectively. Further, a count sensor 153 is provided at a position corresponding to the variable winning device 83, and operation port sensors 154a and 154b are provided at positions corresponding to the respective operation ports 84a and 84b, respectively. Further, on the right side of the variable display unit 86 outside the collecting plate unit 150, a gate sensor 155 for detecting a game ball passing through the through gate 85 is provided. The winning of the game ball is detected by the sensors 152 to 155 as these ball detection sensors (game medium detection means). These sensors 152 to 155 output an electric signal to the main control device 162 described later. Specifically, the HI level signal is output when the game ball is not detected, and the LOW level signal is output when the game ball is detected. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this, and the LOW level signal may be output when the game ball is not detected, and the HI level signal may be output when the game ball is detected. The electric signal may be output only in the state where the above is detected.

On the back surface of the game board 81, the main control device unit 160 is mounted so as to cover the collecting plate unit 150 from the rear side. The configuration of the main controller unit 160 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the main controller unit 160.

The main control device unit 160 has a mounting base 161 made of synthetic resin, and the main control device 162 is mounted on the mounting base 161. The main control device 162 includes a main control board having a function of controlling the main control of the game (main control circuit) and a function of monitoring the power supply (power failure monitoring circuit), and the main control board is made of a transparent resin material. It is configured to be housed in a substrate box 163 made of the above.

The substrate box 163 includes a box base (front case body) having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and a box cover (back case body) that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are unopenably connected by a sealing portion 164 as a sealing means, whereby the substrate box 163 is sealed. Five sealing portions 164 are provided on the long side portion of the substrate box 163, and at least one of them is used to perform the sealing process.

Any configuration can be applied to the sealing portion 164 as long as the box base and the box cover cannot be opened, but the box base and the box cover can be provided by inserting a locking claw into the elongated hole constituting the sealing portion 164. And are combined so that they cannot be opened. The sealing process by the sealing unit 164 prevents unauthorized opening after the sealing, and makes it possible to detect such a situation early and easily even if the unauthorized opening is performed, and once the seal is opened. Even after this, it is possible to perform the sealing process again. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting the locking claw into at least one elongated hole of the five sealing portions 164. Then, when opening the board box 163 when a defect occurs in the housed main control board or when inspecting the main control board, the connecting portion between the sealing portion into which the locking claw is inserted and another sealing portion is connected. Disconnect. As a result, the box base of the board box 163 and the box cover are separated, and the main control board inside can be taken out. After that, when the sealing process is performed again, the locking claw is inserted into the elongated hole of the other sealing portion. If the history of opening the substrate box 163 is left in the substrate box 163, it can be easily found that the unauthorized opening has been performed by looking at the substrate box 163.

A plurality of coupling pieces 165 are provided on one short side of the substrate box 163 so as to project laterally. These coupling pieces 165 have a one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of bonded pieces 166 formed on the mounting base 161, and the coupling piece 165 and the coupling piece 166 form a one-to-one correspondence between the substrate box 163 and the mounting base 161. Sealing process is performed.

Next, the back pack unit 15 will be described. FIG. 12 is a front view of the back pack unit 15, and FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the back pack unit 15.

The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201, and a payout mechanism unit 202, a discharge passage board 203, and a control device collecting unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201. The back pack 201 is formed of a transparent synthetic resin, and has a base portion 211 to which the payout mechanism portion 202 and the like are attached, and a protective cover portion 212 that protrudes rearward of the pachinko machine 10 and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protective cover portion 212 has a shape in which the left and right side surfaces and the upper surface are closed and only the lower surface is open, and has a size sufficient to surround at least the variable display unit 86.

The base portion 211 is provided with an external terminal board 213 on the upper right portion thereof. Various output terminals are provided on the external terminal board 213, and various signals are output to the management control device on the game hall side through these output terminals.

The base portion 211 is provided with a main body frame opening switch (main body opening detecting means) 217 that detects whether or not the main body frame 13 is open (or closed) outside the external terminal board 213. Has been done. When the main body frame 13 is closed with respect to the outer frame 11, the metal contact of the switch 217 is closed and the closing of the main body frame 13 is detected, and when the main body frame 13 is opened with respect to the outer frame 11, the metal contact is opened. The opening of the main body frame 13 is detected.

By the way, the main body frame opening switch 217 outputs a main body frame opening signal to the main control device 162 described later when the main body frame 13 is in the open state, and when the main body frame 13 is in the closed state, the main body frame opening signal is output. Stops the output of. However, the signal output mode is not limited to this, and one of the HI level signal and the LOW level signal may be output when the main body frame 13 is in the open state, and the other may be output when the main body frame 13 is in the closed state. Good.

Further, the base portion 211 is provided with a pair of upper and lower hooking pins 214 at the right end portion when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and the hooking pins 214 are inserted through the bearing portion 133 provided in the main body frame 13. , The back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported with respect to the main body frame 13. Further, the base portion 211 is provided with a fastener 215 for fastening to the fastened hole 134 provided in the main body frame 13, and the main body is fitted by fitting the fastener 215 into the fastened hole 134. The back pack unit 15 is fixed to the frame 13.

The payout mechanism portion 202 is arranged on the base portion 211 so as to bypass the protective cover portion 212. That is, a tank 221 opened upward is provided at the uppermost portion of the back pack 201, and the tank 221 is sequentially replenished with game balls supplied from the island equipment of the game hall. A tank rail 222 that gently inclines toward the downstream side is connected below the tank 221 and a case rail 223 that extends in the vertical direction is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. Further, a payout device 224 is provided at the most downstream portion of the case rail 223.

As shown in FIG. 12, the case rail 223 is provided with a ball non-detection sensor 223a so as to detect a game ball connected from the tank 221 to the payout device 224 through a passage in the case rail 223. The ball-less detection sensor 223a is composed of a magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and detects a change in the magnetic field when the game ball passes within the detection range and outputs it as an electric signal. The ball non-detection sensor 223a is not limited to the magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and is arbitrary as long as it can detect a game ball. For example, a photo sensor or a limit sensor may be used. ..

The ball non-detection sensor 223a outputs an electric signal to the payout control device 242 described later. Specifically, the LOW level signal is output when the game ball is not detected, and the HI level signal is output when the game ball is detected. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this, and the HI level signal may be output when the game ball is not detected, and the LOW level signal may be output when the game ball is detected. The electric signal may be output only in the state where the above is detected.

The payout control device 242 specifies whether or not the tank 221 is in the ball-free state based on the detection result of the ball-less detection sensor 223a. Specifically, when the non-detection state of the game ball by the ball non-detection sensor 223a continues until a predetermined period elapses, the tank 221 is specified to be in the ball-free state. When the payout control device 242 specifies that the tank 221 is in a ballless state, the payout device 224 stops paying out the game balls. This prevents the payout device 224 from continuing to operate even though the tank 221 is in a ballless state. The stop of the payout operation is released when the ballless state of the tank 221 is released and the game ball is detected by the ball non-detection sensor 223a. Further, when the payout control device 242 identifies that the tank 221 is in a ballless state, the corresponding notification process is executed. In addition, even when the ball is clogged in the tank 221 and the game ball does not flow to the payout device 224 side, it is specified that the ball is in a non-ball state.

Further, the case rail 223 is provided with a ball removal operation switch 223b. For example, when the game balls stored in the tank 221 are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10, the ball removal operation switch 223b is pressed when all the game balls on the case rail 223 are also discharged, and the case rail 223 and its downstream side are pressed. It is possible to discharge the game balls stored in the. The location where the ball removal operation switch 223b is installed is not limited to the case rail 223, and may be installed, for example, in the payout control device 242.

The payout device 224 executes the payout of the game ball. Here, the configuration of the payout device 224 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a passage structure formed inside the payout device 224. In FIG. 14, the game ball flowing down inside the payout device 224 is shown by a two-dot chain line.

The housing 251 of the payout device 224 is formed at the upper end thereof with a game ball inlet 252 for taking in the game ball supplied from the case rail 223, and further, a game in which the ball enters from the game ball inlet 252. A game ball passage 253 for passing the ball is provided.

The game ball passage 253 leads to the game ball outlet 254 formed at the lower end of the housing 251. The game balls entered from the game ball entrance 252 flow down one by one toward the game ball outlet 254. An accommodating portion 255 whose passage width is widened to the left and right is provided in the middle portion of the game ball passage 253, and the rotating body 256 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 255. The center of the rotating body 256 is fixed to the output shaft 257a of the payout motor 257.

The payout motor 257 is composed of a stepping motor, and the output shaft 257a is rotationally driven in a predetermined direction (clockwise or counterclockwise as seen in FIG. 14). The output shaft 257a is set to advance one step by giving a drive signal of one pulse and make one rotation by giving a drive signal of 360 pulses. The payout motor 257 is housed in the housing 251.

On the peripheral edge of the rotating body 256, recesses 256a are formed at two locations at 180 ° intervals. The concave portion 256a has a curved surface shape, and its curvature is about the same as the curvature of the game ball. Further, while the distance between the portion between the recess 256a on the peripheral edge of the rotating body 256 and the passage wall of the accommodating portion 255 is shorter than the diameter dimension of the game ball, the passage between the recess 256a and the accommodating portion 255. The distance to the wall is longer than the diameter of the game ball. As a result, when the game ball flowing down the game ball passage 253 reaches the recess 256a of the rotating body 256, the game ball is led out to the downstream side as the rotating body 256 rotates.

In the game ball passage 253, a payout ball detection sensor 258 having a substantially flat plate shape is installed at a position downstream of the accommodating portion 255. The payout ball detection sensor 258 is composed of a well-known magnetic detection type proximity sensor, and converts a change in the magnetic field due to the passage of the game ball through the through hole into an electric signal and outputs it. The payout ball detection sensor 258 makes it possible to confirm the number of game balls paid out via the payout device 224.

Although the description by illustration is omitted, the game ball passage 253 is formed so that the entrance side is formed in two rows, while the exit side is formed in one row. The rotating bodies 256 are individually provided for the passages on the entrance side of the two rows. In this case, the recesses 256a are formed at intervals of 180 ° for each passage, but the positions of the recesses 256a are formed so as to be offset from each other by 90 ° between the pair of passages. Therefore, even if the entrance side passages are arranged side by side in two rows as described above, one game ball is alternately paid out from each entrance side passage to the exit side passage. The payout cycle of the game balls to be paid out alternately becomes constant according to the driving speed of the payout motor 257. Then, the game balls that are alternately paid out one by one are detected by the payout ball detection sensor 258 provided in the passage on the exit side.

The game balls paid out from the payout device 224 are supplied to the game ball distribution section 225 provided on the base portion 211 of the back pack 201 through a payout passage (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the payout device 224. The game ball distribution unit 225 has a function for distributing the game balls paid out from the payout device 224 to any of the upper plate 33, the lower plate 34, or the discharge passage described later, and the inner opening 226 is described above. The upper plate passage 122 on the main body side and the upper plate passage 51 on the front door side lead to the upper plate 33, and the central opening 227 reaches the lower plate 34 via the lower plate passage 123 on the main body side and the lower plate passage 52 on the front door side. The outer opening 228 is formed so as to lead to the discharge passage.

A back pack substrate 229 is installed in the payout mechanism unit 202. For example, a main power supply of 24 volts AC is supplied to the back pack board 229, and the power is turned on or off by the switching operation of the power switch 229a.

A discharge passage board 203 and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the lower end portion of the base portion 211 so as to sandwich the lower end portion back and forth. The discharge passage board 203 is formed with a discharge passage 231 opened rearward on a surface facing the control device collecting unit 204, and the open portion of the discharge passage 231 is closed by the control device collecting unit 204. The discharge passage 231 is formed so as to discharge the game ball to the island facility or the like of the game hall, and the game ball led out from the above-mentioned collection passage 151 or the like to the discharge passage 231 passes through the discharge passage 231 to pachinko. It is discharged to the outside of the machine 10.

The control device assembly unit 204 has a horizontally long mounting base 241, and the payout control device 242, the power supply and launch control device 243, and the ball rental connection terminal board 249 are mounted on the mounting base 241. In these payout control device 242, power supply and launch control device 243, and ball rental connection terminal board 249, the payout control device 242 and ball rental connection terminal board 249 are behind the pachinko machine 10, and the power supply and launch control device 243 are the pachinko machine 10. They are stacked back and forth so that they are in front.

In the payout control device 242, a payout control board for controlling the payout device 224 is housed in a colorless and transparent board box 244. The signal of the payout command from the payout control device 242 to the payout device 224 is relayed by the back pack substrate 229 described above. Further, the payout control device 242 is provided with a state return switch 245. For example, when the state return switch 245 is pressed when a payout error occurs, such as a ball clogging in the payout device 224, the ball clogging can be cleared. Further, a 7-segment display 242a is mounted on the payout control board, and by opening the main body frame 13 to the outer frame 11, the display contents of the 7-segment display 242a can be visually recognized through the board box 244. ing.

In the power supply and launch control device 243, the power supply and launch control board are housed in the board box 246, and the board generates and outputs predetermined electric power required by various control devices and the like, and further, a game ball by a player. The launch of the game ball is controlled according to the operation of the launch handle 41. Further, the power supply and the emission control device 243 are provided with a RAM erase switch 247. This pachinko machine 10 has a storage and retention function for various data so that it can retain the state at the time of a power failure even in the unlikely event of a power failure, and can return to the state at the time of a power failure when recovering from the power failure. It has become. Therefore, if the power is shut off in the normal procedure, for example, when the game hall is closed, the state before the shutoff is stored in memory, but if the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 247, the RAM data is initialized. It has become like.

The ball rental connection terminal board 249 is electrically connected to the ball rental device Y, the payout control device 242, and the ball rental operation device 36 on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10, and mainly captures the command of the ball rental operation by the player and receives the command. It is output to the payout control device 242.

Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. In FIG. 15, the power supply line is indicated by a double line arrow, and the signal line is indicated by a solid line arrow.

The main control board 301 provided in the main control device 162 includes a main control circuit 302 and a power failure monitoring circuit 303 (power failure monitoring circuit). The CPU 311 is mounted on the main control circuit 302.

The CPU 311 temporarily stores various data and the like when executing a ROM 312 (nonvolatile storage means) that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the CPU 311 and a control program stored in the ROM 312. A RAM 313 (volatile storage means), which is a memory for storing, and various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data input / output circuit are built in. Note that a part or all of the CPU 311, ROM 312, and RAM 313 may be provided as separate chips.

The RAM 313 has a configuration in which storage power is supplied from the power supply and the launch control board 321 provided in the power supply and the launch control device 243 to store and retain the information even after the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off.

The CPU 311 is provided with an input port and an output port, respectively. A power failure monitoring circuit 303 provided on the main control board 301, a payout control board 322 provided on the payout control device 242, and other sensor groups are connected to the input side of the CPU 311. In this case, the power supply and the launch control board 321 are connected to the power failure monitoring circuit 303, and power is supplied to the CPU 311 (main control circuit 302) via the power failure monitoring circuit 303.

On the other hand, the power failure monitoring circuit 303, the payout control board 322, and the relay terminal board 323 are connected to the output side of the CPU 311. Various commands such as a prize ball command are output to the payout control board 322. Various commands and the like are output from the main control circuit 302 to the voice lamp control board 324 provided in the voice lamp control device 143 via the relay terminal board 323.

The power failure monitoring circuit 303 relays between the main control circuit 302 and the power supply and the emission control board 321 and monitors the voltage of DC stable 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply and the emission control board 321. Then, when this voltage becomes less than 22 volts, it is determined that the power supply is cut off, and a power failure signal is transmitted to the main control circuit 302.

The payout control board 322 controls the payout of prize balls and the like by the payout device 224. The CPU 331, which is an arithmetic unit, includes a ROM 332 that stores a control program and fixed value data executed by the CPU 331, and a RAM 333 that is used as a work memory or the like. A part or all of the CPU 331, ROM 332, and RAM 333 may be provided as separate chips.

The CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 is provided with an input / output port. A main control circuit 302, a power supply and emission control board 321 and a back pack board 229 are connected to the input side of the CPU 331. Further, a main control circuit 302 and a back pack board 229 are connected to the output side of the CPU 331.

The power supply and launch control board 321 includes a power supply unit 321a for power-on and a launch control unit 321b. The power supply unit 321a at the time of power-on is connected to, for example, a commercial power supply (external power supply) in a game hall or the like. Then, the operating power required for each of the main control circuit 302, the payout control board 322, etc. is generated based on the external power supplied from the commercial power source, and the generated operating power is indicated by a double-line arrow. It is supplied to the main control circuit 302, the payout control board 322, and the like through the route. As an outline, the power supply unit 321a at the time of power-on takes in the AC 24-volt power supply supplied via the back pack connection board 229, and + 12V power for driving various sensors and motors, and + 5V power for logic. And so on, and supply these + 12V power and + 5V power to the main control circuit 302, the payout control board 322, and the like.

The launch control unit 321b is responsible for launch control of the game ball launch mechanism 110 according to the operation of the game ball launch handle 41 by the player, and the game ball launch mechanism 110 is driven when predetermined launch conditions are met. To.

Further, the power supply and the launch control board 321 are equipped with a power supply unit 321c for power failure. The power supply unit 321c for power interruption is composed of a capacitor, and when the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is ON (when power is supplied from an external power supply), the power supplied from the power supply unit 321a for power supply is used. It will be charged. Further, in a power cut state (when the power supply from the external power supply is cut off) such as when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is OFF or when a power failure occurs in the commercial power supply, the power is discharged from the power supply unit 321c for power failure. The storage holding power is supplied to the RAM 313 of the control board 301. Therefore, even in such a situation, the information stored in the RAM 313 is stored and retained without being erased while the storage and holding power is being supplied from the power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure.

Incidentally, the capacity of the power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure is secured relatively large, and the information stored in the RAM 313 before the power is cut off is retained within a predetermined period (for example, one or two days). Further, the power supply unit for power failure is not limited to the capacitor, and may be a battery, a non-rechargeable battery, or the like. In the case of a non-rechargeable battery, it is not necessary to store electricity in the power supply means for power failure when the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is ON, but it is necessary to replace the battery periodically.

Further, the power supply and the launch control board 321 are provided with a power supply unit for power failure processing, which is different from the power supply unit 321c for power failure. In the power supply and launch control board 321, even after the DC stable 24 volt power supply becomes less than 22 volt, the power is discharged from the power supply unit for power failure processing for a sufficient period of time to execute the power failure processing described later. , It is configured to maintain the output of 5 volts, which is the drive power source of the control system, at a normal value. As a result, the main control circuit 302 and the like can normally execute and complete the power failure processing.

The audio lamp control board 324 controls various lamp units 23 to 25, the speaker unit 26, and the display control device 325. The CPU 341, which is an arithmetic unit, includes a ROM 342 that stores a control program and fixed value data executed by the CPU 341, and a RAM 343 that is used as a work memory or the like.

The CPU 341 of the audio lamp control board 324 is provided with an input / output port. The main control circuit 302 is connected to the input side of the CPU 341 by being relayed to the relay terminal board 323, and based on various commands output from the main control circuit 302, various lamp units 23 to 25, speaker units 26, and The display control device 325 is controlled. The display control device 325 controls the symbol display device 91 based on a display command input from the voice lamp control board 324.

Next, the display contents of the symbol display device 91 will be described with reference to FIG.

Three symbol rows, left, middle, and right, are set in the symbol display device 91. Each symbol sequence is composed of, for example, a main symbol with numbers "0" to "9", and a sub symbol composed of, for example, a diamond-shaped symbol. Each of the main symbol and the sub symbol constitutes the first symbol. In each symbol row, the main symbols are arranged in ascending or descending order of numbers, and sub-symbols are arranged between the main symbols. That is, each symbol row is provided with a total of 20 first symbols, 10 main symbols and 10 sub-symbols. Then, on the symbol display device 91, 20 first symbols for each symbol row are variably displayed so as to scroll from top to bottom with periodicity. On the symbol display device 91, the first symbol in three stages of upper, middle, and lower is displayed for each symbol row. Therefore, the symbol display device 91 displays a total of nine first symbols in three rows × three rows. Further, the symbol display device 91 is set with five effective lines, that is, an upper line L1, a middle line L2, a lower line L3, a right rising line L4, and a left rising line L5. Then, the variable display is stopped in the order of the left symbol row → the right symbol row → the middle symbol row, and at the time of the stop, the jackpot symbol combination (in the present embodiment, the same main symbol combination) is performed on one of the effective lines. If they are aligned, the jackpot video will be displayed as a jackpot.

Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described.

In the present embodiment, the CPU 311 in the main control device 162 uses various counter information during the game to perform a big hit lottery, set the emission color of the first specific lamp unit 93, set the symbol display of the symbol display device 91, and the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the jackpot lottery and the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type such as the probabilistic jackpot or the normal jackpot. The reach random number counter C3 used for the reach lottery when the symbol display device 91 deviates and fluctuates, the random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the fluctuation pattern selection of the symbol display device 91. The first variation type counter CS1 to be used, the second variation type counter CS2 for determining the period for switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 93, and the outliers of the left column, middle column, and right column. The left, middle, and right off-design counters CL, CM, and CR used for the setting are used.

Of these, the counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS1 and CS2 are loop counters in which 1 is added to the previous value each time the counter is updated, and the counter returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Further, the off-symbol counters CL, CM, and CR have a configuration in which register values are added using the R register (refresh register) in the CPU 311 and as a result, the numerical values change randomly. Each counter is updated at short intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter area set in a predetermined area of the RAM 313. The RAM 313 is provided with a holding ball storage area consisting of one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth areas), and in each of these areas, games to the operating ports 84a and 84b are provided. Each value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 is stored in chronological order according to the winning history of the ball.

More specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured to add 1 in order within the range of 0 to 676, and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 676). In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 676). The jackpot random number counter C1 is periodically updated (once for each timer interrupt in this embodiment), and is stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 313 at the timing when the game ball wins the operating ports 84a and 84b.

The jackpot type counter C2 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 49, reach the maximum value (that is, 49), and then return to 0. Then, in the present embodiment, the jackpot type counter C2 determines whether to set the probability change state or the normal state after the jackpot is completed. The jackpot type counter C2 is periodically updated (once for each timer interrupt in this embodiment), and is stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 313 at the timing when the game balls win the operating ports 84a and 84b.

The reach random number counter C3 is configured to be incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 238, and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 238). In the present embodiment, the reach random number counter C3 causes the final stop symbol to be shifted by one before and after the reach symbol to stop, and the final stop symbol after the reach is generated to be the reach symbol. A lottery will be drawn for "reach other than front and back," which stops at other than before and after, and "completely off," where reach does not occur. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated (once for each timer interrupt in the present embodiment), and is stored in the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 313 at the timing when the game ball wins the operating ports 84a and 84b.

The first variation type counter CS1 is configured to be added one by one in order within the range of 0 to 198, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198). The second variation type counter CS2 is, for example, In the range of 0 to 240, 1 is added in order, and after reaching the maximum value (that is, 240), it returns to 0. The display mode of the symbol display device 91 such as the reach type of the first symbol and other rough symbol variation modes such as so-called normal reach, super reach, premium reach, etc. is determined by the first variation type counter CS1, and the display mode of the symbol display device 91 is determined by the second variation type counter CS2. , The switching display time as the period for switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 93 is determined. Further, this switching display time corresponds to the fluctuation time of the symbol of the symbol display device 91. Therefore, from the elapsed time (in other words, the number of variable symbols) until the final stop symbol (middle symbol in the present embodiment) is stopped after the reach is generated in the symbol display device 91 by the second variable type counter CS2. The fine pattern variation mode will also be determined. That is, with respect to the symbol display device 91, by combining these two fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2, it is possible to easily realize a wide variety of fluctuation patterns. Both variable type counters CS1 and CS2 are updated once each time the normal processing described later is executed once, and are repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal processing. Then, the area values of both fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 are acquired when the fluctuation pattern is determined at the start of color switching displayed on the first specific lamp unit 93 and at the start of fluctuation of the first symbol by the symbol display device 91.

The left, middle, and right deviated symbol counters CL, CM, and CR determine the disengagement stop symbol of the left column 1st symbol, the middle column 1st symbol, and the right column 1st symbol when the jackpot lottery is missed. In each column, any one of the 20 first symbols including the main symbol and the sub symbol is displayed, so 20 (0 to 19) counter values are prepared for each. The upper, middle, and lower symbols of the left symbol row are determined by the out-of-symbol counter CL, the upper, middle, and lower symbols of the middle symbol row are determined by the out-of-design counter CM, and the right symbol row is determined by the out-of-symbol counter CR. The upper, middle, and lower symbols are determined.

In the present embodiment, the values of the counters CL, CM, and CR are randomly updated by using the numerical value of the R register built in the CPU 311. That is, when each of the outlier symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is updated, the value of the lower 3 bits of the R register is added to the previous value, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value, 20 is subtracted to determine the current value. To. The out-of-order symbol counters CL, CM, and CR are updated in the normal process so that the update times do not overlap, and the combination of the out-of-order symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is the reach of the RAM 313, which is the front-rear reach symbol area, and the reach other than the front-rear reach. It is stored in either the symbol area or the completely off symbol area. Then, when determining the fluctuation pattern at the start of fluctuation of the first symbol, the area value of any of the front-rear out-of-reach reach symbol area, the non-front-back out-of-reach symbol area, and the completely out-of-order symbol area is acquired according to the value of the reach random number counter C3. Random numbers.

Although not shown, the second specific lamp random number counter is used for the lottery of the second specific lamp unit 94. The second symbol random number counter is configured as a loop counter that is incremented by 1 in order within the range of 0 to 250, reaches the maximum value (that is, 250), and then returns to 0. The second specific lamp random number counter is periodically updated (once for each timer interrupt in the present embodiment), and is acquired when it is detected that the game ball has passed through the through gate 85.

Next, each control process executed by the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 18 to 22 and the like. The processing of the CPU 311 is roughly divided into a main processing that is started when the power is turned on, a timer interrupt processing that is started periodically (at a cycle of 2 msec in this embodiment), and a power failure signal to the NMI terminal (non-maskable terminal). There is an NMI interrupt process that is activated by the input of, and for convenience of explanation, the NMI interrupt process and the timer interrupt process will be described first, and then the main process will be described.

FIG. 18 shows an NMI interrupt process, which is executed when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to a power failure or the like. That is, when the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, a power failure signal is output from the power supply monitoring circuit 303 to the NMI terminal of the CPU 311, and the CPU 311 interrupts the running control and starts the NMI interrupt process. .. In the NMI interrupt process, the power failure flag is stored in the power failure flag storage area provided in the RAM 313 in step S101, and this process ends. After that, by confirming that the power failure flag is stored in the normal processing described later, the power failure processing is executed.

Next, the timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S201, the reading process is executed. In the reading process, signal reading processing from sensors related to winning a game ball, such as winning opening sensors 152a to 152c, count sensor 153, operating opening sensors 154a, 154b, and gate sensor 155, is executed. The details of the signal reading process will be described later.

After that, in step S202, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is added by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value (676 in the present embodiment), it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 313. In the following step S203, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 are updated. Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 are each added by 1, and their counter values reach the maximum values (676, 49, 238, respectively in the present embodiment). Clear each to 0. Then, the updated values of the counters C1 to C3 are stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 313. After that, the start winning process is executed in step S204.

In the start winning process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 20, first, in step S301, the game ball is moved to the operating port 84a by determining whether or not the operating port flag is stored in the operating port flag storage area of the RAM 313. , 84b is determined whether or not a prize (starting prize) has been won. When it is determined that the game balls have won the operating ports 84a and 84b, in the following step S302, the number of operation-holding balls N of the first specific lamp unit 93 and the symbol display device 91 is less than the upper limit value (4 in the present embodiment). Determine if it exists. The process proceeds to step S303 on condition that the operating ports 84a and 84b have been won and the number of operating holding balls N <4, and the number of operating holding balls N is added by 1. After the process of step S303, the operation port flag is cleared. In the following step S304, the values of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2, and the reach random number counter C3 updated in step S203 are stored in the first free storage area of the reserved ball storage area of the RAM 313. Then, after the start winning process, the CPU 311 temporarily ends the timer interrupt process.

Next, the main process started by resetting when the power is turned on will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S401, a start-up process is executed when the power is turned on. Specifically, for example, it waits for about 500 msec to wait for the control board on the slave side (payout control board 322, etc.) to be in an operable state.

In the following step S402, it is determined whether or not 1 sec, which is the permission prohibition period, has elapsed since the start-up process of step S401. If 1 sec has not elapsed, the process of step S402 is executed again. The measurement of this time is performed by counting the number of processes in step S402. For example, if the time required from the negative determination in step S402 to the execution of the process of step S402 again is 0.1 msec, the count value becomes 10,000 times, so that after the start-up process of step S401 It is determined that 1 sec has passed since. The specific configuration of the time measurement is arbitrary, and for example, the time may be measured using a real-time clock. If it is determined in step S402 that 1 sec has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S403.

In step S403, access to the RAM 313 is permitted. After that, in step S404, it is determined whether or not the RAM erase switch 247 provided in the power supply and firing control device 243 is turned on, and in the following step S405, whether or not the power failure flag is stored in the power failure flag storage area of the RAM 313. To judge. Further, in step S406, the RAM determination value is calculated, and in the subsequent step S407, it is determined whether or not the RAM determination value matches the RAM determination value saved when the power is cut off, that is, the validity of the stored data is determined. The RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at the work area address of the RAM 313. It is also possible to determine the validity of the stored data based on whether or not the keywords written in the predetermined area of the RAM 313 are correctly stored.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, when the RAM data is initialized when the power is turned on, for example, when the hall is open for business, the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 247. Therefore, if the RAM erase switch 247 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S408 to S409. Further, when the power cutoff occurrence information is not set, or when an abnormality in the stored data is confirmed by the RAM determination value (checksum value or the like), the process proceeds to steps S408 to S409 in the same manner.

In step S408, the used area of RAM 313 is cleared to 0, and in step S409, the initialization process of RAM 313 is executed. After that, the initial command is output to the payout control board 322 in step S410, interrupt permission is set in step S411, and the process proceeds to the normal process described later. The CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 recognizes that communication with the main control board 301 is normally performed by inputting an initial command from the main control board 301.

On the other hand, when the RAM erase switch 247 is not pressed, the power failure flag is stored in step S412, provided that the power failure flag is stored and the RAM determination value (check sum value, etc.) is normal. Clear the power failure flag stored in the area. After that, the initial command is output in step S410, interrupt enable is set in step S411, and the process proceeds to normal processing described later. As a result, the state before the power is cut off is restored.

Next, the normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, the processes of steps S501 to S509 are executed as periodic processes having a cycle of 4 msec, and the counter update processes of steps S511 and S512 are executed in the remaining time.

In the normal process, in step S501, both variable type counters CS1 and CS2 are updated. Specifically, both variable type counters CS1 and CS2 are added by 1, and when the counter values reach the maximum values (198 and 240 in the present embodiment), they are cleared to 0, respectively. Then, the updated values of both fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 are stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 313. In the following step S502, the left symbol row, the middle symbol row, and the right symbol row are updated with the outlier symbol counters CL, CM, and CR.

In the update processing of the out-of-symbol symbol counters CL, CM, and CR, it is determined whether or not it is the update time of any of the left, middle, and right symbol columns, and the out-of-symbol symbol counters CL, CM, and CR of the symbol strings that have been updated are set. Update. Each of the deviated symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is updated one by one in one normal process without duplication, and one set of deviated symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is displayed every time the normal process is executed three times. It is supposed to be updated. Then, when the combination of the updated out-of-design counters CL, CM, and CR is a combination of out-of-reach symbols that will reach the front-back out, and if it is a combination of reach symbols other than the front-back out, the combination of the completely out-of-line symbols that does not reach will be used. If there is, the combination is stored in the corresponding area. If the combination of the updated out-of-order symbol counters CL, CM, and CR is a combination of jackpot symbols, the update process is terminated as it is.

After the update processing of the off symbol counters CL, CM, and CR, the first specific lamp unit control processing for switching the color displayed on the first specific lamp unit 93 is executed in step S503. In the first specific lamp unit control process, a jackpot determination and on / off control of the light source switch of the LED lamp arranged in the first specific lamp unit 93 are performed. Further, in the first specific lamp unit control process, the symbol display device 91 also sets the variation display of the first symbol.

Specifically, it is determined whether or not it is a jackpot based on the value of the jackpot random number counter C1, and the type of jackpot is determined based on the value of the jackpot type counter C2 (so-called probabilistic jackpot or not is determined). .. At this time, the type of the jackpot symbol in the first symbol and the stop line of the combination of the jackpot symbols are also determined and set as the stop symbol command. Further, when it is determined that the jackpot does not occur, the mode of the combination of the missed symbols in the first symbol is determined based on the value of the reach random number counter C3. In such a case, the combination of symbols updated in the above-mentioned off-symbol counter update process and stored in the area is set as a stop symbol command. Further, based on the value of the second variation type counter CS2, the color switching display time displayed on the first specific lamp unit 93 and the variation display time of the first symbol are determined. Further, the reach type in the first symbol and its rough symbol variation mode are determined based on the value of the first variation type counter CS1 and set as the variation mode command. In addition, every time the on / off control of the first specific lamp unit 93 is started in the first specific lamp unit control process, the operation hold ball number N is subtracted by 1, and when the operation hold ball number N is 0, the on / off control is performed. Does not start.

After the first specific lamp unit control process, the large winning opening opening / closing process is executed in step S504. In the big winning opening opening / closing process, the big winning opening of the variable winning device 83 is opened or closed in the case of a big hit state. That is, the big winning opening is opened for each round in the big hit state, and it is determined whether the maximum opening time of the big winning opening has elapsed or whether a predetermined number of game balls have won in the big winning opening. Judgment as to whether or not the specified number of prizes have been won is made by checking the counter for the large prize opening. Then, when any of these conditions is met, the big prize opening is closed.

After that, in step S505, the second specific lamp unit control process for performing the color switching process displayed on the second specific lamp unit 94 is executed. In the second specific lamp unit control process, switching of the display color in the second specific lamp unit 94 is started on condition that the number of gate holding balls is 1 or more. At this time, the display color switching time is also set. In addition, the color to be stopped and displayed is set based on the value of the second specific lamp random number counter that has already been acquired. When a predetermined color is set as the stop display color, the electric accessory 89 attached to the lower operating port 84b is opened for a predetermined time after the stop display of that color.

By the way, in the pachinko machine 10, as a kind of special gaming state, a frequency improving state in which the frequency of the electric accessory 89 being opened per unit time is set to be high. In the frequency-improved state, winning a prize in the lower operating port 84b is likely to occur. In other words, the electric accessory 89 has a means for increasing the frequency of opening the electric accessory 89 per unit time, and in the state where the frequency is increased by the means, the player wins a prize in the lower operating port 84b. The benefit is that it is more likely to occur.

The specific content of the frequency improvement state is that it continues until a predetermined number of games (the number of times the symbol changes are displayed on the symbol display device 91) after the jackpot state ends or the next jackpot occurs, and the frequency is improved. In the state, the lottery interval for whether or not to open the electric accessory 89 is shorter than that in the normal gaming state (a state in which the frequency is not improved), and when the lottery is won, the electric accessory 89 is set. The number of times the game is opened is larger than that in the normal game state, and the duration when the game is open is longer than in the normal game state. It should be noted that it is not necessary that all of the above conditions are satisfied as the conditions in the frequency improvement state, and any one condition or a predetermined combination of conditions may be satisfied. Further, the probability of winning the open state in the frequency-improved state is set to be the same as the probability in the normal gaming state, but it may be set higher than the probability in the normal gaming state.

After step S505, the game ball launch control process is executed in step S506. In the game ball launch control process, the game ball launch mechanism 110 is once in a predetermined period (for example, 0.6 sec) on condition that a launch permission signal is input from the launch control unit 321b of the power supply and the launch control board 321. The solenoid 111 of the above is excited. As a result, the game ball on the launch rail 112 is launched toward the game area.

After step S506, the input state monitoring process is executed in step S507, and the payout output process is executed in step S508. These processes will be described in detail later. After that, in step S509, it is determined whether or not the power failure flag is stored in the power failure flag storage area provided in the RAM 313. If the power failure flag is not stored, it means that the last processing of the plurality of processes to be repeatedly executed has been completed. Therefore, whether or not the execution timing of the next normal processing has been reached in step S510, that is, the previous normal processing It is determined whether or not a predetermined time (4 msec in the present embodiment) has elapsed from the start of the process. Then, within the remaining time until the execution timing of the next normal process, the random number initial value counters CINI and both variable type counters CS1 and CS2 are repeatedly updated. That is, in step S511, the random number initial value counter CINI is updated. Specifically, the random number initial value counter CINI is added by 1, and when the counter value reaches the maximum value (676 in the present embodiment), it is cleared to 0. Then, the updated value of the random number initial value counter CINI is stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 313. Further, in step S512, both fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 are updated. Specifically, both variable type counters CS1 and CS2 are added by 1, and when the counter values reach the maximum values (198 and 240 in the present embodiment), they are cleared to 0, respectively. Then, the updated values of both fluctuation type counters CS1 and CS2 are stored in the corresponding area of the RAM 313.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S509 that the power failure flag is stored, it means that the power supply is cut off, so the power failure processing after step S513 is executed. That is, in step S513, the occurrence of timer interrupt processing is prohibited, then the RAM determination value is calculated and saved in step S514, the access to RAM 313 is prohibited in step S515, and then the power supply is completely shut off for processing. Continues an infinite loop until it can no longer be executed.

<Electrical configuration for paying out game balls>
Next, the electrical configuration and the processing configuration regarding the payout of the game ball will be described in detail. First, the electrical configuration will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. In FIG. 23, the power supply line is indicated by a double line arrow, and the signal line is indicated by a solid line arrow.

The main control board 301 and the payout control board 322 are electrically connected to each other via electrical wiring (signal lines) such as a harness, and a command as command information is output from the main control board 301 to the payout control board 322. At the same time, various electric signals are output from the payout control board 322 to the main control board 301.

The CPU 311 of the main control board 301 includes a first input port (first input unit) 351 and a second input port (second input unit) 352, and electricity from the payout control board 322 at these input ports 351 and 352. Along with inputting signals, electrical signals from various sensors are input. Here, the configuration of the first input port 351 will be described with reference to FIG. 24. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the first input port 351.

The first input port 351 includes a signal input buffer B for storing each input information. The signal input buffer B is composed of 1 byte and includes 0th bit D to 7th bit D7. A signal path is formed between the 0th bit D to the 7th bit D7 and different signal output sources, and information is stored based on the signals input from these signal output sources.

Specifically, the 0th bit D0 has a signal path formed with the lower actuating port sensor 154b, and the 1st bit D1 has a signal path formed with the upper actuating port sensor 154a. The bit D2 has a signal path formed between it and the count sensor 153, the third bit D3 has a signal path formed between it and the gate sensor 155, and the fourth bit D4 has a signal path with the first winning opening sensor 152a. A signal path is formed between the 5th bit D5 and the 2nd winning opening sensor 152b, and the 6th bit D6 is a signal between the 3rd winning opening sensor 152c and the signal path. A path is formed, and a signal path is formed between the 7th bit D7 and the payout control board 322. A prize ball permission signal output from the payout control board 322 is input to the 7th bit D7. The details of this prize ball permission signal will be described later.

As described above, the lower operating port sensor 154b, the upper operating port sensor 154a, the count sensor 153, the gate sensor 155, and the winning opening sensors 152a to 152c flow down the game area, and the lower operating port 84b, the upper operating port 84a, and the variable The purpose is to detect a game ball that has passed through the winning device 83, the general winning opening 82, and the through gate 85. While the game ball is not detected, the HI level signal is output and while the game ball is being detected. Is configured to output a LOW level signal. However, the main control board 301 has an inverting circuit. Therefore, the information (data 0) of "0" is stored in the 0th bit D to the 6th bit D6 while the HI level signal is output from the corresponding sensors 154b, 154a, 153, 155, 152a to 152c. The information (data 1) of "1" is stored while the LOW level signal is output.

It should be noted that the LOW level signal may be output while the sensors 152 to 155 are not detecting the game ball, and the HI level signal may be output while the sensor 152 to 155 is detecting the game ball. In this case, the inverting circuit is not provided, and further, "0" is stored in the 0th bit D0 to the 6th bit D6 while the LOW level signal is output from the corresponding sensors 152 to 155, and the HI "1" is stored while the level signal is output.

On the other hand, the prize ball permission signal is not the target of the inverting circuit, and “0” is stored in the 7th bit D7 while the LOW level signal is output from the payout control board 322 for the prize ball permission signal. While the HI level signal (which corresponds to the prize ball permission signal in the pachinko machine 10) is output, "1" is stored in the 7th bit D7.

In the CPU 311 of the main control board 301, whether or not a prize is won based on the information stored in each bit D0 to D7 of the first input port 351 (whether or not the game ball has passed through a passing portion provided in the game area and a passage detection target). Or) etc. are judged. Further, although the description by illustration is omitted, the second input port 352 is composed of one byte like the first input port 351, and each bit is connected to the front door frame opening switch 78 and the main body frame opening switch 217. Among the electric signals of the above and the signals output from the payout control board 322, signals other than the above-mentioned prize ball permission signal are input. That is, some signal used for executing the process in the CPU 311 is input to each bit of the second input port 352.

The electric signals output from the front door frame opening switch 78 and the main body frame opening switch 217 are relayed to the power supply and firing control board 321 and the payout control board 322, and then input to the main control board 301. In this case, the payout control board 322 only relays the electric signals from the front door frame open switch 78 and the main body frame open switch 217, and is not input to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. This also applies to the power supply and the launch control board 321. Further, instead of the first input port 351 and the second input port 352, a first input / output port and a second input / output port may be provided, and the input / output may be appropriately changed in the CPU.

Further, the first input port 351 and the second input port 352 may be installed on the main control board 301 as a driver IC separately from the chip of the CPU 311 instead of the CPU 311. In this case, the CPU 311 may be configured to have a single input port or input / output port.

The configuration of the RAM 313 of the main control board 301 will be described. In the following description, FIG. 25 will be referred to as appropriate. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the configuration of the RAM 313.

The RAM 313 of the main control board 301 is provided with a prize ball counter area 361 as a means for individually storing information. As shown in FIG. 25, the counter area 361 for prize balls includes a counter area 361a for 15 prize balls, a counter area 361b for 10 prize balls, a counter area 361c for 4 prize balls, and 3 prize balls. A counter area 361d is provided.

Here, as described above, the pachinko machine 10 has a general winning opening 82, a variable winning device 83, an upper operating port 84a, and a lower operating port 84b as a prize ball entry section (or a prize payout passing section). Is provided, and the number of prize balls (the number of game balls to be paid out) for each prize ball is different for each prize ball entry section. Specifically, the number of prize balls when entering the general winning opening 82 is 10, the number of winning balls when entering the variable winning device 83 is 15, and the number of winning balls is entered into the upper operating opening 84a. The number of prize balls when the ball is inserted is three, and the number of prize balls when the ball enters the lower operating port 84b is four.

In this configuration, the 15-piece prize ball counter area 361a stores how many more 15-piece prize balls are to be played for the variable winning device 83 (15 pieces for the variable winning device 83). The counter area 361b for 10 prize balls memorizes the number of times the prize ball has not been executed. The counter area 361b for 10 prize balls memorizes how many more 10 prize balls are to be played for the ball entering the general prize opening 82 (general). The number of times 10 prize balls have not been executed for entering the winning opening 82 is stored.) The counter area 361c for 4 prize balls has 4 more prize balls for entering the lower operating port 84b. It memorizes whether to do it (it memorizes the number of times the four prize balls have not been executed for entering the lower operating port 84b), and the counter area 361d for the three prize balls enters the upper operating port 84a. It memorizes how many more times the three prize balls are to be performed on the ball (the number of times the three prize balls have not been performed for the ball entering the upper operating port 84a is memorized). Each of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d is composed of 1 byte, and the number of times the prize ball has not been executed can be memorized up to 255 times.

The number of prize balls pattern is an example, and each number is arbitrary. Further, the pattern of the number of prize balls is not limited to the above four types, and may be two types, three types, or five or more types. Further, the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball are not limited to 1 byte, and may be 2 bytes or 3 bytes or more. Furthermore, it is not essential that the maximum number of unexecuted prize balls that can be stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is 255, and if a plurality of times can be stored, it is less than 255 or There may be many.

The CPU 311 of the main control board 301 determines whether or not a prize has been generated based on the information (prize information) stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball, and if it is determined that a prize has occurred, the prize is determined. The prize ball command corresponding to the type of winning is output to the payout control board 322.

Here, the information form of the prize ball command will be described with reference to FIG. 25 (b).

The prize ball command is stored in advance in the command storage area 312a of the ROM 312 of the main control board 301. As the prize ball command, a 15 prize ball command, a 10 prize ball command, a 4 prize ball command, and a 3 prize ball command are set. When a prize ball command is output based on the prize ball information stored in the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls, the 15 prize ball command is output and stored in the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls. When a prize ball command is output based on the existing prize ball information, 10 prize ball commands are output, and a prize ball command is output based on the prize ball information stored in the counter area 361c for 4 prize balls. If this is done, 4 prize ball commands are output, and if a prize ball command is output based on the prize ball information stored in the counter area 361d for 3 prize balls, 3 prize ball commands are output. Will be done.

Each prize ball command consists of 2 bytes. That is, each prize ball command includes upper information and lower information, and each of the information is composed of one byte. That is, the upper information and the lower information are composed of the same number of bits. Of these higher-level information and lower-level information, information for identifying that this command is a prize ball command is set in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 in the upper-level information, and information for specifying that this command is a prize ball command is set in the upper-level information, and information in the lower-level information is set in Information on the number of prize balls of the main prize ball command is set in the CPU 331.

The specific information form of each prize ball command is as shown in FIG. 25 (b). In this case, any one prize ball command has a form of information consisting of 1 byte when the addition process of the upper information and the lower information is executed is "11111111" ("FF" in hexadecimal). Is set to. For example, in detail about the 15 prize ball commands, the upper information is "11110,000" and the lower information is "00001111". Then, when these addition processes are executed, the result is "11111111". Further, in detail about the three prize ball commands, the upper information is "11111100" and the lower information is "000000111". Then, when these addition processes are executed, the result is "11111111". Since the prize ball command has the above information form, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 can determine whether or not the prize ball command input from the main control board 301 is normal. ing.

Further, in the present embodiment, when a command is input, it is specified which command the command corresponds to by referring to some bits of the input information. As described above, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a ring buffer for temporarily storing the command when the command is input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. The ring buffer has a plurality of storage areas, and a read pointer and a read pointer are set. The commands are sequentially read into each storage area based on the read pointer, and the commands stored in each storage area are sequentially read based on the read pointer. Specifically, based on the read pointer, the upper 4 bits in the upper information of the read information are referred to, and when it is "1111", the command is specified as a prize ball command. That is, it is specified that the command is a prize ball command by referring to some bits of the upper information. By specifying which command the input command corresponds to by referring to a part of the information of the command input in this way, all the lower information and the upper information are referred to when the command is input. No need.

In addition, the number of prize balls as the payout number information corresponding to the prize ball command is specified by referring to some bits of the input information. Specifically, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command is specified by referring to the lower 4 bits in the lower information of the input prize ball command. Since the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command can be specified by referring to a part of the information of the prize ball command input in this way, all the upper information and the lower information are referred to in order to specify the number of prize balls. You don't have to.

Specifically, in the case of a three-prize ball command, the command is identified as a prize ball command by the upper four bits "1111" of the upper information "11110000", and the lower four bits of the lower information "000000111". "0011" specifies that the number of prize balls in the prize ball command is three.

Further, the lower 4 bits of the upper information and the upper 4 bits of the lower information each function as information for setting the addition result to "11111111" when the addition process of the upper information and the lower information is executed. There is. That is, it is not necessary to refer to it to specify the command, and it is not necessary to refer to the bit of the upper information corresponding to the part for specifying the prize ball information of the lower information, and it is not necessary to refer to it to specify the number of prize balls. The bit of the lower information corresponding to the part that specifies the command of the information corresponds to the information for setting the result of the addition process to "11111111". As a result, regardless of the prize ball command corresponding to any number of prize balls, when the result of the addition process is "111111111", it is possible to specify that the prize ball command is normal. It will be possible.

Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the RAM 313 of the main control board 301 is provided with the previous area 362 and the previous two-time area 363. These areas 362 and 363 are used when determining whether or not a prize has been won based on the information stored in the first input port 351 in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301.

In addition, the RAM 313 of the main control board 301 is provided with a front door frame counter area 364, a prize ball permission counter area 365, and various flag storage areas 366. The front door frame counter area 364 is used when the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 determines whether or not the front door frame 14 is opened or closed. Further, the prize ball permission counter area 365 is used in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 to execute a process related to the prize ball permission signal. Further, the various flag storage areas 366 are used for executing various control processes in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301.

The payout control board 322 is electrically connected to the payout device 224, and the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 outputs a drive signal to the payout motor 257 and indicates whether or not a game ball is detected by the payout ball detection sensor 258. Input an electrical signal. Further, the payout control board 322 is electrically connected to the ball rental device Y via the ball rental connection terminal board 249, and the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 receives an electric signal from the ball rental device Y. Control of ball lending is executed by outputting.

Further, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 inputs an electric signal from the full tank detection sensor 59 and the ball non-detection sensor 223a to specify whether or not the lower plate 34 is full, and the tank 221 is ballless. Identify whether or not it is in a state. Of the full tank detection sensor 59 and the ball non-detection sensor 223a, the electric signal output from the full tank detection sensor 59 is relayed to the power supply and launch control board 321 and then input to the payout control board 322. The CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 outputs a specific result of whether or not the lower plate 34 is full to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. As a result, the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 can grasp whether or not the lower plate 34 is full.

The configuration of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 will be described. In the following description, FIG. 26 will be referred to as appropriate. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the configuration of the RAM 333.

The RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a full tank counter area 371. The full tank counter area 371 is used in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to specify whether or not the lower plate 34 is in the full tank state. Further, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a ballless counter area 372. The ballless counter area 372 is used in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to identify whether or not the tank 221 is in the ballless state. Further, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a command storage area 373. The command storage area 373 is used to temporarily store the prize ball command input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301.

Further, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a prize ball number storage area 374. As shown in FIG. 26A, the prize ball number storage area 374 is composed of 1 byte in which a plurality of bits (8 bits) are arranged in a row, and each bit is "0" (data 0). Or no information) or "1" (data 1 or information with information) is set. The prize ball number storage area 374 has a function for storing information on the number of prize balls specified by analyzing the prize ball command in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. In this case, the information on the number of prize balls (information on the number of prize balls or the information on the number of prize payouts) has a one-to-one correspondence between the setting pattern of the data 1 of each bit and the number of game media within the range of the predetermined number of game media. Information. Specifically, the order (from the right bit to the left bit) is predetermined from the lower bit (the rightmost bit in FIG. 26A) to the upper bit (the leftmost bit in FIG. 26A). (Toward), each bit is set to "1" (data 1 or information), and the higher the bit is set to "1", the larger the number of corresponding prize balls is. It is the information represented by.

Here, when the information on the number of prize balls is specified from the prize ball command, the prize ball table storage area 332a provided in the ROM 332 of the payout control board 322 is referred to. As shown in FIG. 26D, the prize ball table storage area 332a stores the correspondence between the prize ball command input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 and the number of prize balls.

Further, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a ball rental number storage area 375. As shown in FIG. 26B, the ball lending number storage area 375 is composed of 1 byte, and is used to store the ball lending number information input from the ball lending device Y in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. It has the function of. Further, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a payout number counter area 376. As shown in FIG. 26C, the payout number counter area 376 is composed of 1 byte, and has a function as an execution area for executing the payout of the game ball in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322.

The prize ball number storage area 374, the ball rental number storage area 375, and the payout number counter area 376 are not limited to 1 byte, and may be 2 bytes or 3 bytes or more. Further, each of these areas 374 to 376 does not have to have the same number of bytes.

In addition, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with various flag storage areas 377. The various flag storage areas 377 are used to execute various control processes in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322.

In addition to the above areas 371 to 377, the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is provided with a ring buffer for temporarily storing the command when the command is input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. Has been done. The ring buffer has a plurality of storage areas, and a read pointer and a read pointer are set. The commands are sequentially read into each storage area based on the read pointer, and the commands stored in each storage area are sequentially read based on the read pointer.

Power and power from the power-on power supply unit 321a of the launch control board 321 are supplied to the VCS terminals of the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 and the VCS terminals of the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. In a situation where power is being supplied from an external power source by the power supplied to the VCS terminal, various control processes are executed by each CPU 311, 331, and information is stored and held in each RAM 313, 333. Be told.

Further, the power supply and the electric power from the power supply unit 321c for power failure of the emission control board 321 are supplied to the VBB terminal of the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. That is, the power from the power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure is supplied to the RAM 313 of the main control board 301, but is not supplied to the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. In a situation where the power supply from the external power source is cut off by the power supplied to the VBB terminal, the RAM 313 of the main control board 301 stores and holds the information. As described above, the power supplied from the power-on power supply unit 321a and the power-off power supply unit 321c to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is relayed by the power failure monitoring circuit 303. Further, the VBB terminal (not shown) of the payout control board 331 is grounded or is not connected to any electrical wiring.

<Processing configuration related to payout of game balls and processing configuration in CPU311 of main control board 301>
Next, the processing configuration in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 regarding the payout of the game ball will be described. In the following description, the value of the counter area means a value in which the value of the counter area configured in byte units is virtually expressed in decimal.

<Reading process>
First, the read process executed in step S201 of the timer interrupt process (FIG. 19) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 27 and the explanatory diagram of FIG. 28.

In the reading process, first, in step S601, the process of acquiring the information of the first input port 351 as the input information this time is executed. The process will be described in detail. The CPU 311 is provided with a register for this time (a storage means for this time for calculation) 381 (see FIG. 28). The register 381 for this time has the same number of bits as the first input port 351. That is, the register 381 for this time is composed of 1 byte. In the process of step S601, the information of "0" or "1" stored in the 0th to 7th bits D0 to D7 of the first input port 351 is transferred to the 0th to 7th bits D0 in the register 381 for this time. It is stored in each bit corresponding to ~ D7.

For example, when the lower operating port sensor 154b, the count sensor 153, the second winning opening sensor 152b, and the prize ball permission signal are ON, and the others are OFF, they are stored in the register 381 for this time. As shown in FIG. 28A, the information form of the input information this time is "10100101".

In the following step S602, the mask processing of the input information is executed this time. In this mask processing, the logical product of the input information mask stored in advance in the ROM 312 of the main control board 301 and the current input information stored in the resist 381 for this time is calculated (AND processing), and after the calculation is performed. The information is updated to the register 381 for this time. Specifically, the input information mask is "01111111". That is, the input information mask is a mask for clearing "0" in the bits other than the bit that stores the information on whether or not there is a prize in the input information this time. Therefore, after the process of step S602 is executed, the bit (seventh bit) corresponding to the information of the prize ball permission signal, which is irrelevant to the information of the presence or absence of winning, is cleared to "0".

For example, in the example of FIG. 28, the information form of the input information this time after the processing of step S602 is “00100101” as shown in FIG. 28 (b).

In the following step S603, a process of acquiring the information stored in the previous use area 362 of the RAM 313 as the previous input information and the information stored in the previous use area 363 of the RAM 313 as the previous input information is executed. ..

Here, the previous input information means the information stored in the first input port 351 in the previous read process, and the previous input information is stored in the first input port 351 in the previous read process. It refers to the information that has been provided. However, since the process of step S602 is executed as described above, "0" is cleared for the information that is irrelevant to the information on whether or not there is a prize.

The process of step S603 will be described in detail. In addition to the current register, the CPU 311 is provided with a previous register (previous storage means for calculation) 382 and a pre-previous register (previous storage means for calculation) 383. The previous register 382 has the same number of bits as the previous area 362 of the current register 381 and the RAM 313. That is, the previous register 382 is composed of 1 byte. Further, the pre-previous register 383 is composed of the same number of bits as the pre-previous register 381, the previous register 382, and the RAM 313 pre-previous area 363. That is, the pre-previous register 383 is composed of 1 byte. In the process of step S603, the information of "0" or "1" stored in each bit of the previous area 362 is stored in each corresponding bit in the previous register 382. Further, the information of "0" or "1" stored in each bit of the pre-previous round area 363 is stored in each corresponding bit in the pre-previous round register 383.

For example, in the previous reading process, when the lower operating port sensor 154b, the count sensor 153, the second winning opening sensor 152b, and the third winning opening sensor 152c are turned on, and the others are turned off, As shown in FIG. 28 (c), the information form of the previous input information stored in the previous register 382 is "01100101". Further, when the second winning opening sensor 152b is ON and the other sensors are OFF in the reading process of the previous two times, the information form of the previous two times input information stored in the previous two times register 383 is shown in FIG. As shown in 28 (d), it becomes "00100000".

In the following step S604, the next write process is executed. In the next write process, a process of updating the previous area 362 and the previous two-time area 363 of the RAM 313 is executed for the next read process. That is, the information of the previous area 362 is updated to the information stored in the current register 381, and the information of the previous previous area 363 is updated to the information stored in the previous register 382.

In the following step S605, the inversion process of the input information is executed two times before. Specifically, the value of each bit of the pre-previous register 383 is inverted. For example, when the input information two times before is "0010000" as shown in FIG. 28 (d), the inverted information is "110111111" as shown in FIG. 28 (e).

In the following step S606, AND processing is executed between the information of the pre-previous register 383 inverted in step S605 and the previous input information stored in the previous register 382. That is, the logical product of the information of the pre-previous register 383 inverted in step S605 and the previous input information stored in the previous register 382 is calculated. Then, the information of the calculation result is updated as the information of the previous register 382.

For example, when the inverted information is "11011111" as shown in FIG. 28 (e) and the previous input information is "01100101" as shown in FIG. 28 (c), the AND process is performed in step S606. As shown in FIG. 28 (f), the information of the result is "01000011".

The information of the calculation result may be updated as the information of the register 383 for the previous operation. However, in this case, in the process of step S607, it is necessary to use the information stored in the pre-previous register 383.

In the following step S607, the AND processing of the information of the result of the AND processing in step S606 and the current input information after the mask processing stored in the register 381 for this time is executed. That is, the logical product of the information of the previous register 382 obtained in step S606 and the information of the current register 381 obtained in step S602 is calculated. Then, the result of the calculation is updated as the information of the register 381 for this time.

For example, the information of the previous register 382 obtained in step S606 is “01000101” as shown in FIG. 28 (f), and the information of the current register 381 obtained in step S602 is shown in FIG. 28 (b). In the case of "00100101" as described above, the information of the result of the AND processing in step S607 is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g).

In the following step S608, the information determination process is executed. Here, the information determination process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the information determination process, first, in step S701, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the 0th bit W0 of the register 381 for this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the 0th bit W0. If there is no winning information in the 0th bit W0 (when "0" is stored), the process proceeds to step S703 as it is. If there is winning information in the 0th bit W0 (when "1" is stored), the first storage process is executed in step S702, and then the process proceeds to step S703. In the first storage process, the values of the four prize ball counter areas 361c in the prize ball counter area 361 of the RAM 313 are added by one. The fact that the 0th bit W0 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that the lower operating port 84b has been won.

By the way, in the first storage process, the operation port flag (lottery opportunity information) is stored in the operation port flag storage area (lottery opportunity information storage means) of the RAM 313. This operation port flag is used in determining whether or not a prize has been generated in the lower operation port 84b in the above-mentioned start winning process (FIG. 20). Since the upper operating port 84a and the lower operating port 84b are provided as the operating ports, the operating port flag storage areas are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the respective operating ports 84a and 84b. That is, as the lottery opportunity information storage means, the first lottery opportunity information storage means and the second lottery opportunity information storage means are provided.

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), since "1" is stored in the 0th bit W0, the counter area 361c for four prize balls Add 1 to the value of. It also stores the actuation port flag.

In the following step S703, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the first bit W1 of the register 381 this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the first bit W1. If there is no winning information in the first bit W1 (when "0" is stored), the process proceeds to step S705 as it is. If there is winning information in the first bit W1 (when "1" is stored), the second storage process is executed in step S704, and then the process proceeds to step S705. In the second storage process, the values of the three prize ball counter areas 361d in the prize ball counter area 361 of the RAM 313 are added by one. The fact that the first bit W1 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that the upper operating port 84a has been won. By the way, in the second storage process, the operation port flag is stored in the operation port flag storage area corresponding to the upper operation port 84a in the RAM 313.

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), since "0" is stored in the first bit W1, the counter area 361d for three prize balls The value of is not added. In addition, the operation port flag is not stored.

In the following step S705, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the second bit W2 of the register 381 this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the second bit W2. If there is no winning information in the second bit W2 (when "0" is stored), the process proceeds to step S707 as it is. If there is winning information in the second bit W2 (when "1" is stored), the third storage process is executed in step S706, and then the process proceeds to step S707. In the third storage process, the values of the 15 prize ball counter areas 361a in the prize ball counter area 361 of the RAM 313 are added by 1. The fact that the second bit W2 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that the variable winning device 83 has been won. By the way, in the third storage process, the big prize opening flag (special winning information) is stored in the large winning opening flag storage area (special winning information storage means) provided in the RAM 313. This large winning opening flag is used in determining whether or not a winning is generated in the variable winning opening device 83 in the above-mentioned large winning opening opening / closing process (step S504 in FIG. 22).

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), since "1" is stored in the second bit W2, the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls Add 1 to the value of.

In the following step S707, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the third bit W3 of the register 381 this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the third bit W3. If there is no winning information in the third bit W3 (when "0" is stored), the process proceeds to step S709 as it is. If there is winning information in the third bit W3 (when "1" is stored), the fourth storage process is executed in step S708, and then the process proceeds to step S709. In the fourth storage process, the through flag is stored in the through flag storage area provided in the RAM 313. This through flag is used in determining whether or not the game ball has passed through the through gate 85 in the above-described second specific lamp unit control process (step S505 in FIG. 22). The fact that the third bit W3 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that the game ball has passed through the through gate 85.

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), the through flag is not stored because "0" is stored in the third bit W3.

In the following step S709, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the fourth bit W4 of the register 381 this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the fourth bit W4. If there is no winning information in the 4th bit W4 (when "0" is stored), the process proceeds to step S711 as it is. If there is winning information in the 4th bit W4 (when "1" is stored), the process proceeds to step S711 after executing the fifth storage process in step S710. In the fifth storage process, the values of the 10 prize ball counter areas 361b in the prize ball counter area 361 of the RAM 313 are added by 1. The fact that the 4th bit W4 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that the general winning opening 82 of one of the plurality of general winning openings 82 has been won. Is.

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), since "0" is stored in the fourth bit W4, the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls The value of is not added.

In the following step S711, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the fifth bit W5 of the register 381 this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the fifth bit W5. If there is no winning information in the fifth bit W5 (when "0" is stored), the process proceeds to step S713 as it is. If there is winning information in the fifth bit W5 (when "1" is stored), the process proceeds to step S713 after the fifth storage process is executed in step S712. The fifth storage process has already been described. The fact that the fifth bit W5 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that one of the plurality of general winning openings 82 has won a prize in the general winning opening 82. Is.

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), since "0" is stored in the fifth bit W5, the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls The value of is not added.

In the following step S713, it is determined whether or not there is winning information in the sixth bit W6 of the register 381 this time, that is, whether or not "1" is stored in the sixth bit W6. If there is no winning information in the 6th bit W6 (when "0" is stored), the information determination process is terminated as it is. If there is winning information in the sixth bit W6 (when "1" is stored), the information determination process ends after the fifth storage process is executed in step S714. The fifth storage process has already been described. The fact that the 6th bit W6 of the register 381 for this time has the winning information at the stage of the information determination processing means that the general winning opening 82 of one of the plurality of general winning openings 82 has been won. Is.

For example, when the information of the register 381 for this time is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 28 (g), since "0" is stored in the sixth bit W6, the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls The value of is not added.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, a passing portion (a prize ball entry portion provided in the game area) such as a general winning opening 82, a variable winning device 83, an upper operating port 84a, a lower operating port 84b, and a through gate 85 is used. The first input port 351 is confirmed in the reading process executed in a predetermined cycle (specifically, 2 msec) to determine whether or not a prize has been generated (including the gate portion for the non-prize ball). It is done by.

In this case, the condition for determining that a prize has occurred (hereinafter, also referred to as a prize determination condition) indicates that the game ball is not detected by the ball detection sensor within the range of the reference continuous number of times set as a plurality of times. After it is confirmed that the indicated non-detection information is output, the detection information indicating that the game ball is being detected is output from the ball detection sensor for the number of consecutive winning reference times set as multiple times. It is the case that it is confirmed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, in the pachinko machine 10, the reference continuous number of times is set to 3 times, and the non-detection information is set to the 0th bit of the pre-previous times register 383 in the state before various arithmetic processes. "0" is stored, the detection information "1" is stored in the 0th bit of the previous register 382, and the detection information "1" is stored in the 0th bit of the current register 381. When stored, the winning information "1" is stored in the 0th bit W0 of the register 381 for this time after various arithmetic processes.

By setting the above winning determination conditions, it is possible to accurately grasp the occurrence of winning in the CPU 311. That is, while various sensors 152 to 155 that detect the game ball have a predetermined detection range, the processing execution timing of the CPU 311 is from the start to the end of the sensor 152 to 155 detection of the game ball. It is set to occur many times during. Then, even though it has already been determined that there is a prize for the occurrence of one prize, there is a concern that the CPU 311 will still confirm the detection information to determine that there is a prize again. .. On the other hand, under the above-mentioned winning judgment conditions, it is necessary to confirm the detection information after the non-detection information within the range of the number of judgment criteria, so it is judged once for each winning. After that, it is not judged that the prize has been won again.

Taking the case of FIG. 28 as an example, "1" is stored in all of the 5th bits of the registers 381 to 383 corresponding to the detection result of the second winning opening sensor 152b in the state before various arithmetic processes. ing. In this case, the detection information will be confirmed in the previous time and this time, but since the detection information is confirmed in the time before the previous time, it is not determined that a prize has occurred. By the way, this is realized by a process with a relatively small load of inverting each bit of the input information two times before and then calculating the logical product of each input information.

Further, by setting the winning determination condition that the detection information is continuously confirmed the winning reference number of times, even if the detection information is temporarily stored in the bits D0 to D7 of the first input port 351 due to noise or the like. On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the CPU 311 from determining that there is a prize.

Taking the case of FIG. 28 as an example, "1" is stored in the sixth bit of the previous register 382 corresponding to the detection result of the third winning opening sensor 152c in the state before various arithmetic processes. .. However, "0" is stored in the sixth bit of the register 381 for this time and the register 383 for the previous two times in the state before various arithmetic processes. In this case, "1" is stored in the 6th bit of the previous register 382 due to noise or the like, and the CPU 311 does not determine that there is a prize. By the way, this is realized by a process with a relatively small load of inverting each bit of the input information two times before and then calculating the logical product of each input information.

Further, the first input port 351 and each register 381 to 383 are configured in the same byte unit, and all the information from the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 for winning a prize is input to them. Then, in determining whether or not a prize has been generated, various arithmetic processes are executed for the input information in byte units of each register 381 to 383. As a result, for each of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, it is possible to collectively generate winning information for determining whether or not a winning has occurred. In the pachinko machine 10, a general winning opening 82, a variable winning device 83, an upper operating port 84a, a lower operating port 84b, and a through gate 85 are installed in the same game area, and a large number of game balls are placed in the game area. Since they flow down at the same time, winning prizes may occur at the same time. In this case, if the processing for generating the winning information must be performed individually for each of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, the processing load becomes considerably excessive. Further, for example, assuming a configuration in which a counter for determining a winning is provided and the winning information is generated by counting each time the reading process is executed, the counter is provided individually for each of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155. , It becomes necessary to execute the processing for adding and resetting all the counters every time the reading processing is executed. On the other hand, according to this configuration, since the winning information can be generated collectively, the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained while suppressing the increase in the processing load and the storage capacity of the CPU 311.

Further, not only the signal from the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 but also the prize ball permission signal from the payout control board 322 is input to the first input port 351. In the pachinko machine 10, the number of ball detection sensors 152 to 155 is 7, whereas the first input port 351 is composed of 8 bits. Then, one bit of the first input port 351 can be used as an area other than the winning determination area, and the area can be effectively used by inputting the prize ball permission signal to the bit. .. In this case, since the mask processing of the input information this time is executed in step S602 in the reading process, the information of the prize ball permission signal can be ignored when determining whether or not a prize has been generated.

<Input status monitoring process>
Next, the input state monitoring process executed in step S507 of the normal process (FIG. 22) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the input state monitoring process, first, in step S801, input information is acquired from the second input port 352. Specifically, the input information of the second input port 352 is stored in a 1-byte unit general-purpose register provided in the CPU 311.

In the following step S802, a payout abnormality signal monitoring process for identifying whether or not an abnormality has occurred in paying out the game ball is executed. Specifically, in the payout abnormality signal monitoring process, when the information indicating that the abnormality signal is input from the payout control board 322 is stored in the general-purpose register, the occurrence of the payout abnormality is specified in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. To do. Then, when the occurrence of the payout abnormality is identified, the payout abnormality command (payout abnormality information) is output to the voice lamp control board 324 to execute the abnormality notification. The mode of this abnormality notification is arbitrary, and for example, lighting of the error display lamp unit 24, output of a notification sound from the speaker unit 26, notification display on the display screen of the symbol display device 91, and the like can be considered. Further, an abnormal signal may be output to the management computer (hall computer) of the game hall through the external terminal board 213. The payout abnormality referred to here includes a ballless state of the tank 221 and a failure of the payout device 224.

In the following step S803, a full tank signal monitoring process for identifying whether or not the lower plate 34 is full is executed. Specifically, in the full tank signal monitoring process, the lower plate 34 is mainly in the full tank state when the information indicating that the full tank signal is input from the payout control board 322 is stored in the general-purpose register. It is specified by the CPU 311 of the control board 301. Then, when it is specified that the lower plate 34 is in the full tank state, a full tank status command (full tank status information) is output to the voice lamp control board 324 to execute the full tank notification. The mode of this full tank notification is arbitrary, and for example, lighting of the error display lamp unit 24, output of a notification sound from the speaker unit 26, notification display on the display screen of the symbol display device 91, and the like can be considered. Further, the full tank signal may be output to the management computer (hall computer) of the game hall through the external terminal board 213.

In the following step S804, the main body frame opening signal monitoring process for specifying whether or not the main body frame 13 is in the open state is executed. Specifically, in the main body frame opening signal monitoring process, the main body frame 13 is in the open state when the information indicating that the main body frame opening signal is being input from the main body frame opening switch 217 is stored in the general-purpose register. Is specified in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. Then, when it is specified that the main body frame 13 is in the open state, the main body frame open state command (information for main body open notification) is output to the voice lamp control board 324 to execute the main body open notification. The mode of the main body opening notification is arbitrary, and for example, lighting of the error display lamp unit 24, output of a notification sound from the speaker unit 26, notification display on the display screen of the symbol display device 91, and the like can be considered. Further, the main body opening signal may be output to the management computer (hall computer) of the game hall through the external terminal board 213.

After that, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed in step S805, and the prize ball permission signal monitoring process is executed in step S806, and then the input state monitoring process is terminated.

<Front door frame opening signal monitoring process>
Next, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process in step S805 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

Here, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is (1) processing when the front door frame 14 is specified to be in the closed state and the closed state is continued, and (2) the front door. Processing from the closed state to the open state of the frame 14 until it is specified that the frame 14 is in the open state, and (3) after the front door frame 14 is specified to be in the open state. It is roughly classified into a process when the open state is continued, and (4) a process when the front door frame 14 is changed from the open state to the closed state until the closed state is specified. Therefore, the processing of these situations will be described individually.

First, a process will be described when the front door frame 14 of the above (1) is specified to be in the closed state and the closed state is continued.

First, in step S901, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening information indicating that the front door frame opening signal indicating that the front door frame 14 is in the open state is input is stored in the general-purpose register. Since this time the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, a negative determination is made in step S901, and the process proceeds to step S902.

In step S902, the opening specific reference number of times is stored in the first front door frame counter area (means for grasping the opening specific opportunity) in the front door frame counter area 364 of the RAM 313. Specifically, "3" is stored in the front door frame counter area 364. The first front door frame counter area is a counter used when the CPU 311 identifies that the front door frame 14 is in the open state when the closed front door frame 14 is in the open state.

In the following step S903, it is determined whether or not the second front door frame counter area (means for grasping the closing specific trigger) in the front door frame counter area 364 of the RAM 313 is “0”. The second front door frame counter area is a counter used when the CPU 311 identifies that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state when the front door frame 14 in the open state is closed. The second front door frame counter area is maintained in the "0" state after it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. Therefore, if the closed state is continued after the front door frame 14 is specified to be in the closed state, the second front door frame counter area is "0", and in step S903, the second front door frame counter area is "0". An affirmative judgment is made, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is.

Next, the process from the case where the front door frame 14 of the above (2) is changed from the closed state to the open state until it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the open state will be described.

Since this time the front door frame 14 is in the open state, an affirmative determination is made in step S901, and the process proceeds to step S911. In step S911, the closing specific reference value information is stored in the second front door frame counter area of the RAM 313. Specifically, "250" is stored in the second front door frame counter area.

In the following step S912, it is determined whether or not the first front door frame counter area is "0". This time, since the process is performed from the closed state to the open state of the front door frame 14 until it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the open state, in step S902 when the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. The open specific reference value information stored in the first front door frame counter area is not yet set to "0". Therefore, a negative determination is made in step S912, and the process proceeds to step S913.

In step S913, the value of the first front door frame counter area is subtracted by 1. In the following step S914, it is determined whether or not the value of the first front door frame counter area is "0". That is, until the front door frame 14 is changed from the closed state to the open state and the open state is specified, the first front door frame counter is executed every time the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed. The area value is subtracted by 1. Further, since the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed as a part of the normal process, the execution cycle is about 4 msec. When the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, "3" is stored in the first front door frame counter area in step S902. Therefore, in step S914, whether or not 12 msec has elapsed from the time when the front door frame 14 was opened and changed from the closed state to the open state (when the front door frame opening signal was output from the front door frame opening switch 78). Is being judged.

If the value of the first front door frame counter area is not "0", a negative determination is made in step S914, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the value of the first front door frame counter area is "0", an affirmative determination is made in step S914, and the process proceeds to step S915. In step S915, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the RAM 313. If the front door frame opening flag is stored, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the front door frame opening flag is not stored, the process proceeds to step S916.

In step S916, the front door frame opening flag (front body opening information) is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area (front body opening information storage means). As a result, it is specified in the CPU 311 that the front door frame 14 is in the open state. In the following step S917, the front door frame state change flag is stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the RAM 313. As a result, it is specified that the timing is specified in the CPU 311 that the front door frame 14 is in the open state. In the following step S918, the front door frame opening command is set. The front door frame opening command is output to the payout control board 322 in the payout output process described later, and the front door frame 14 is opened by inputting the front door frame open command in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. Identify that.

After that, in step S910, the subcommand setting process is executed. In the subcommand setting process, the front door frame open state command (front body open notification information) is output to the voice lamp control board 324 to execute the front body open notification. The mode of this front body opening notification is arbitrary, and for example, lighting of the error display lamp unit 24, output of a notification sound from the speaker unit 26, notification display on the display screen of the symbol display device 91, and the like can be considered. Further, the front body opening signal may be output to the management computer (hall computer) of the game hall through the external terminal board 213. After that, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is completed.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, even if the front door frame opening information is stored in the general-purpose register of the CPU 311, it is not immediately determined that the front door frame 14 is in the opened state, and it is performed a plurality of times. The front door frame 14 is in the open state when the front door frame opening information is confirmed continuously for the set opening specific reference number of times, that is, when the front door frame opening information is confirmed over the opening specific reference period. It is determined that As a result, even though the front door frame 14 is not in the open state, when the front door frame open information is stored in the second input port 352 or the general-purpose register due to noise or the like, the front door frame 14 is in the open state in the CPU 311. It is prevented from specifying that it has become.

In the pachinko machine 10, the window portion 21, the upper plate 33, and the lower plate 34 are integrated with the front door frame 14, and when the front door frame 14 is opened, the game ball is paid out. I am trying to stop. This is because if the payout is not stopped, the game balls will be connected from the position of the opening / closing member 124 of the main body frame 13 to the position of the payout device 224, and there is a concern that the payout device 224 may break down. In this case, it is not preferable that the CPU 311 specifies that the front door frame 14 is in the open state even though the front door frame 14 is not actually in the open state. Further, when the front door frame opening command is output to the payout control board 322 due to the influence of noise or the like, the command for releasing the command is not output. In that case, the state in which the payout of the game ball is stopped will continue to be maintained, which may be disadvantageous to the player. On the other hand, according to this configuration, the possibility of such inconvenience occurring can be reduced.

Next, the process when the front door frame 14 of the above (3) is specified to be in the open state and the open state is continued will be described.

Since this time the front door frame 14 is in the open state, an affirmative determination is made in step S901, the process proceeds to step S911, and "250" is stored in the second front door frame counter area of the RAM 313. In the following step S912, it is determined whether or not the first front door frame counter area is "0". This time, since the front door frame 14 is specified to be in the open state and the open state is continued, the state where the first front door frame counter area is "0" is maintained. There is. Therefore, an affirmative determination is made in step S912, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is.

Next, the process from the case where the front door frame 14 of the above (4) is changed from the open state to the closed state until it is specified that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state will be described.

Since the front door frame 14 is in the closed state this time, a negative determination is made in step S901, the process proceeds to step S902, and "3" is stored in the first front door frame counter area of the RAM 313.

In the following step S903, it is determined whether or not the second front door frame counter area of the RAM 313 is "0". This time, since the process is performed from the open state to the closed state of the front door frame 14 until the closed state is specified, the second front in step S911 when the front door frame 14 is in the open state. The number of closed specific reference times stored in the door frame counter area has not yet reached "0". Therefore, a negative determination is made in step S903, and the process proceeds to step S904.

In step S904, the value of the second front door frame counter area is subtracted by 1. In the following step S905, it is determined whether or not the value of the second front door frame counter area is "0". That is, until the front door frame 14 is changed from the open state to the closed state and the closed state is specified, the second front door frame counter is executed every time the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed. The area value is subtracted by 1. Further, since the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is executed as a part of the normal process, the execution cycle is about 4 msec. When the front door frame 14 is in the open state, "250" is stored in the second front door frame counter area in step S911. Therefore, in step S905, 1 sec has elapsed from the time when the front door frame 14 was closed and changed from the open state to the closed state (when the output of the front door frame opening signal from the front door frame opening switch 78 was stopped). It means that it is judged whether or not.

If the value of the second front door frame counter area is not "0", a negative determination is made in step S905, and the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the value of the second front door frame counter area is "0", an affirmative determination is made in step S905, and the process proceeds to step S906. In step S906, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the RAM 313. If the front door frame opening flag is not stored, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the front door frame open flag is stored, the process proceeds to step S907.

In step S907, the front door frame opening flag stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area is deleted. Thereby, it is specified in the CPU 311 that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. In the following step S908, the front door frame state change flag is stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the RAM 313. Thereby, it is specified that the timing is specified in the CPU 311 that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state. In the following step S909, the front door frame closing command is set. The front door frame closing command is output to the payout control board 322 in the payout output process described later, and the front door frame 14 is closed by inputting the front door frame closing command in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. Identify that.

After that, in step S910, the subcommand setting process is executed. In the subcommand setting process this time, the front door frame closing state command (information for front body closing notification) is output to the voice lamp control board 324, and the front body opening notification is terminated. After that, the front door frame opening signal monitoring process is completed.

As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, even if the front door frame opening information is deleted from the general-purpose register of the CPU 311, it is not immediately determined that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state, and it is set as a plurality of times. When the state without front door frame opening information is confirmed consecutively for the number of consecutive closing criteria, that is, when the state without front door frame opening information is confirmed over the closing specific reference period, the front door is confirmed. It is specified that the frame 14 is closed. As a result, even though the front door frame 14 is not in the closed state, when the front door frame opening information is deleted from the second input port 352 or the general-purpose register due to noise or the like, the front door frame 14 is moved in the CPU 311. It is prevented from identifying it as a closed state.

Since the pachinko machine 10 has a configuration in which the payout of the game ball is stopped when the front door frame 14 is opened and the payout of the game ball is restarted when the front door frame 14 is closed, the front door is actually paid out. It is not preferable for the CPU 311 to specify that the front door frame 14 is in the closed state even though the frame 14 is not in the closed state. Further, when the front door frame closing command is output to the payout control board 322 due to the influence of noise or the like, the payout of the game ball is restarted even though the front door frame 14 is in the open state. Then, the game balls are connected from the position of the opening / closing member 124 of the main body frame 13 to the position of the payout device 224, and there is a concern that the payout device 224 may break down. On the other hand, according to this configuration, the possibility of such an inconvenience occurring is reduced.

Further, the period until the front door frame 14 is specified to be closed (specifically, 1 sec) is longer than the period until it is determined to be opened (specifically, 12 msec). This is for the following reason. That is, in the pachinko machine 10, as described above, the front door frame 14 is integrated with the window portion 21, the upper plate 33, and the lower plate 34 with respect to the front door frame 14. When is released, the payout of the game ball is stopped. This is because if the payout is not stopped, the game balls will be connected from the position of the opening / closing member 124 provided on the main body frame 13 to the position of the payout device 224, and there is a concern that the payout device 224 may break down. Therefore, when the front door frame 14 is opened, it is necessary to stop the payout of the game ball from the payout device 224 at the earliest possible stage. On the other hand, when the front door frame 14 is changed from the open state to the closed state, for example, when a game ball is caught between the front door frame 14 and the main body frame 13, the front door frame 14 is repeatedly opened and closed. Can be considered. In this case, if the period until the front door frame 14 is specified to be closed is short, it becomes necessary to repeatedly start and stop the drive of the payout motor 257 provided in the payout device 224 each time the front door frame 14 is repeatedly opened and closed. , It may cause a ball jam or a failure of the payout motor 257. On the other hand, the above configuration reduces the possibility of such inconvenience.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, the determination of whether or not a prize has been generated is performed by calculating each input information in byte units, whereas the front door frame 14 is in an open state. The determination of whether or not the door is closed and the determination of whether or not the door is closed are performed by determining the passage of the open specific reference period and the closed specific reference period using the front door frame counter area 364. This is due to the following reasons. That is, in the pachinko machine 10, the open specific reference period and the closed specific reference period are set longer than the period until it is determined that a prize has occurred. In this case, if the method for determining whether or not a prize has been generated is applied to the determination of the open state and the closed state of the front door frame 14, it becomes necessary to provide a large number of storage areas for determination such as the register 381 for this time. If this happens, the storage capacity will be extremely increased, which is not preferable. In particular, since the storage capacity of the register of the CPU 311 is relatively small, it is difficult to perform using the register. Further, since it is necessary to perform the information shift process as shown in step S604 of the read process (FIG. 27), if a large number of storage areas for determination are provided, the processing load in the shift process increases accordingly. On the other hand, by using the front door frame counter area 364 for the determination of the elapse of the open specific reference period and the closed specific reference period, the elapse of the open specific reference period and the closed specific reference period can be determined well. It can be carried out.

In the main body frame opening signal monitoring process in step S804, the description of the specific processing contents for specifying the open state and the closed state of the main body frame 13 is omitted, but basically the front door frame opening signal monitoring process. Performs the same processing as.

<Prize ball permission signal monitoring process>
Next, the prize ball permission signal monitoring process in step S806 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, the prize ball permission signal will be described.

In the pachinko machine 10, as described above, the power supply and the power from the power supply unit 321c for power failure of the emission control board 321 are supplied to the RAM 313 of the main control board 301, but to the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. Is not supplied. With this configuration, the capacity of the power supply unit 321c for power failure can be reduced, and the cost of the pachinko machine 10 can be reduced accordingly.

However, in this configuration, when the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped, all the information stored in the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is erased (destroyed). In this case, if all the information on the number of unpaid prize balls is stored in the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 as in the conventional pachinko machine, the pachinko machine 10 is provided with the number of unpaid prize balls. If the power supply is stopped, all the unpaid prize balls will be erased without being paid out. Then, it will cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10, unpaid prize ball information is basically stored in the prize ball counter area 361 of the RAM 313 of the main control board 301, and the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is the payout control board 322. When the prize ball permission signal is input from the CPU 331, the prize ball command is output to the CPU 331. Then, in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is, at the maximum, the maximum number of prize balls (15 prize balls) for one prize, which will be described later. The output start timing and output stop timing of the prize ball permission signal are set so as to be the sum of the number of permission reference numbers to be performed. In addition, this permission standard number is the minimum number of prize balls for one prize or less. As a result, even if the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain, the number of prize balls erased at that time can be reduced as much as possible. That is, the prize ball permission signal is information output from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 in order to specify the output timing of the prize ball command in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301.

By the way, in the prize ball permission signal monitoring process, first, in step S1001, it is determined whether or not the prize ball permission information indicating that the prize ball permission signal is input is stored in the 7th bit D7 of the first input port 351. To do. In the prize ball permission signal monitoring process, the information of the first input port 351 may be stored in a general-purpose register or a dedicated register of the CPU 311. In this case, whether or not the prize ball permission information is stored in the register. Is configured to be determined.

When the prize ball permission information is stored, the value stored in the prize ball permission counter area (means for grasping the permission opportunity) 365 of the RAM 311 of the main control board 301 is "5" in step S1002. Judge whether or not. The prize ball permission counter area 365 is due to the fact that when the prize ball permission information is stored in the first input port 351, the prize ball permission signal is actually output from the payout control board 322. This is for the CPU 311 to specify whether it is stored or stored due to a cause such as noise.

If the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is "5" or more, an affirmative determination is made in step S1002, and the main prize ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is less than "5", a negative determination is made in step S1002, and the process proceeds to step S1003. In step S1003, after adding 1 to the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365, the main prize ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated.

Here, since the prize ball permission signal monitoring process is executed as a part of the normal process, the execution cycle is about 4 msec. Therefore, when the prize ball permission signal is output from the payout control board 322 and the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is less than "5", the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is 1 in a cycle of about 4 msec. Will be added. Further, by executing the process of step S1002, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 becomes "5" or more even in the situation where the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout control board 322 is continued. In that case, the addition processing of the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is not executed.

If it is determined in step S1002 that the prize ball permission information is not stored, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is cleared to "0" in step S1004, and then the main prize ball permission signal monitoring process is performed. To finish. That is, in the situation where the prize ball permission signal is not output from the payout control board 322, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is maintained at "0".

<Output processing for payout>
Next, the payout output process executed in step S508 of the normal process (FIG. 22) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 33. The payout output process is a process for outputting various commands from the CPU 301 of the main control board 301 to the CPU 332 of the payout control board 322.

In the payout output process, first, in step S1101, it is determined whether or not the front door frame state change flag is stored in the front door frame state change flag storage area of the RAM 313 of the main control board 301. When the front door frame state change flag is stored, the front door frame state change flag is erased in step S1102, and the front door frame open command or the front door frame close command is issued in step S1103. After outputting to, the output processing for this payout is terminated.

On the other hand, in step S1101, if the front door frame state change flag storage area of the RAM 313 does not store the front door frame state change flag, a negative determination is made and the process proceeds to step S1104. In step S1104, it is determined whether or not the front door frame opening flag is stored in the front door frame opening flag storage area of the RAM 313. If the front door frame open flag is stored, the payout output process is terminated as it is.

When the front door frame opening flag is not stored, it is determined in step S1105 whether or not the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 of the RAM 313 is “5” as the output permission reference number of times. Here, as described above, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is the case where the prize ball permission signal is output from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 and the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is less than "5". Is incremented by 1 at a cycle of about 4 msec. Further, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is cleared to "0" when the output of the prize ball permission signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 is stopped. Therefore, in step S1105, it is determined whether or not the output of the prize ball permission signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 has continuously reached 20 msec as the output permission continuation period.

If the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is not "5", the main payout output process is terminated as it is. When the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is "5", in step S1106, is the prize ball information stored in any of the various counter areas 361a to 361d in the prize ball counter area 361 of the RAM 313? Judge whether or not. If the prize ball information is not stored in either of them, the output processing for this payout is terminated as it is.

When the prize ball information is stored in any of the counter areas 361a to 361d for various prize balls, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is cleared to "0" in step S1107. After that, the prize ball command output process is executed in step S1108 to end the payout output process.

Here, the prize ball command output process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 34.

First, in step S1201, it is determined whether or not the value of the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls of the RAM 313 is "0". If it is not "0", it means that the non-execution information of the 15 prize balls is stored for the 15 prize balls. Therefore, in step S1202, the 15 prize ball commands are output to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. At the same time, the value of the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls is subtracted by 1. After that, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

If the value of the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls is "0" in step S1201, the process proceeds to step S1203. In step S1203, it is determined whether or not the value of the four prize ball counter area 361c of the RAM 313 is “0”. If it is not "0", it means that the non-execution information of the four prize balls is stored for the four prize balls. Therefore, in step S1204, the four prize ball commands are output to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. At the same time, the value of the counter area 361c for four prize balls is subtracted by 1. After that, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

If the value of the counter area 361c for four prize balls is "0" in step S1203, the process proceeds to step S1205. In step S1205, it is determined whether or not the value of the counter area 361d for the three prize balls of the RAM 313 is “0”. If it is not "0", it means that the non-execution information of the three prize balls is stored for the three prize balls. Therefore, in step S1206, the three prize ball commands are output to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. At the same time, the value of the counter area 361d for three prize balls is subtracted by 1. After that, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

If the value of the counter area 361d for three prize balls is "0" in step S1205, the process proceeds to step S1207. In step S1207, the 10 prize ball command is output to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322, and the value of the 10 prize ball counter area 361b is subtracted by 1. After that, the prize ball command output process is terminated.

As described above, the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 cannot immediately specify that the output of the prize ball command is permitted in the payout control board 322 even if the prize ball permission information is stored in the first input port 351. It is confirmed that the prize ball permission information is continuously confirmed for the number of output permission reference times set as multiple times, that is, the prize ball permission signal is output over the output permission reference period of 20 msec. If it is, it is specified that the output of the prize ball command is permitted (identifies that the output is permitted). Then, by specifying that the output of the prize ball command is permitted, one prize ball command corresponding to one winning is output to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. By setting the output permission reference period in this way, as described above, when the prize ball permission information is stored in the first input port 351, it is the prize ball permission signal from the payout control board 322. Can be specified in the CPU 311 whether it is stored due to the output of the signal or due to noise or the like. Therefore, when the prize ball permission information is stored due to noise or the like, it is possible to prevent the prize ball command from being output.

In particular, as will be described later, the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 cannot store the number of prize balls exceeding a predetermined maximum reference number. In this case, if the prize ball permission information is stored due to noise or the like and the prize ball command is output to it, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command is deleted without actually being paid out. It ends up. Then, it will be disadvantageous to the player. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Here, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, the determination of whether or not a prize has been generated is performed by calculating each input information in byte units, whereas whether or not to output a prize ball command is performed. The determination is made by determining the passage of the output permission reference period using the prize ball permission counter area 365. This is due to the following reasons. That is, in the pachinko machine 10, the output permission reference period is set longer than the period until it is determined that a prize has been generated. In this case, if the method for determining whether or not a prize has been generated is applied to the prize ball permission signal, it becomes necessary to provide a large number of storage areas for determination such as the register 381 for this time. If this happens, the storage capacity will be extremely increased, which is not preferable. In particular, since the storage capacity of the register of the CPU 311 is relatively small, it is difficult to perform using the register. Further, since it is necessary to perform the information shift process as shown in step S604 of the read process (FIG. 27), if a large number of storage areas for determination are provided, the processing load in the shift process increases accordingly. On the other hand, when the elapse of the output permission reference period is determined, the elapse of the output permission reference period can be satisfactorily determined by using the prize ball permission counter area 365.

Further, by executing the process of step S1104 in the payout output process (FIG. 33), when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, the period during which the prize ball permission signal is input reaches the output permission reference period. Even if it is, the prize ball command is not output. In the pachinko machine 10, when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, the payout of the game ball is stopped. In this case, by not outputting the prize ball command when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, it is possible to prevent a new prize ball command from being output when the payout of the game ball is stopped. It will be possible.

In this pachinko machine 10, when the power supply from the external power supply is stopped, the information stored in the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is erased, so that the prize ball command is issued in the situation where the payout of the game ball is stopped. When it is output, if the power supply is stopped while the front door frame 14 is in the open state, the prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience. It is not essential to prohibit the output of the prize ball command when the front door frame 14 is in the open state, and the prize ball command may be output when the front door frame 14 is in the open state.

Further, in the prize ball command output process (FIG. 34), the priority of the command output is set as follows for the prize ball information set in a plurality of types. That is, the priority is set in the order of (1) 15 prize ball information → (2) 4 prize ball information → (3) 3 prize ball information → (4) 10 prize ball information ((1) Highest priority, (4) lowest priority).

In the pachinko machine 10, the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d of the RAM 313 of the main control board 301 are composed of 1 byte, and the number of memorable prize ball information has an upper limit, and each upper limit number is constant. It has become. On the other hand, the output of the prize ball command may be prohibited as in the case where the front door frame 14 is in the open state. On the other hand, by setting the priority regarding the output of the prize ball command as described above, the prize ball information corresponding to the prize is added to the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d even though the prize has occurred. The possibility of inconvenience such as being erased without being done is reduced.

That is, among the general winning opening 82, the variable winning device 83, the upper operating port 84a, and the lower operating port 84b, it is highly likely that a large number of prizes will be generated in a short time, that is, the variable winning device 83 → the lower operating port 84b → Upper operating port 84a → general winning opening 82 (the possibility of the variable winning device 83 is the highest, and the possibility of the general winning opening 82 is the lowest). It can be said that the higher the possibility that a large number of prizes will be generated in a short time, the higher the possibility that the above-mentioned inconvenience will occur. On the other hand, by setting the priority as described above, the prize ball information corresponding to the prize that is likely to generate a large number of prizes in a short time is preferentially output as the prize ball command. , The possibility of the above inconveniences occurring is reduced.

The variable winning device 83 is in an open state when it is in a big hit state, and when it is in an open state, a large number of prizes are generated in a short time. Further, the lower operating port 84b is in an open state when the frequency is improved, and a large number of prizes are generated in a short time when the lower operating port 84b is in the open state. However, the number of winnings per unit time in the open state is larger in the variable winning device 83. Further, although the upper operating port 84a is always in a state where a prize can be won, members supporting winning such as the variable winning device 83 and the lower operating port 84b are not provided, and the variable winning device 83 and the lower operating port 84a are not provided. The number of winnings per unit time when the opening 84b is opened is smaller in the upper operating port 84a than in the variable winning device 83 and the lower operating port 84b. Further, although the general winning opening 82 is always in a state where it is possible to win a prize, the nail 88 makes it more difficult to win a prize than the upper operating opening 84a.

<Processing configuration of CPU 331 of payout control board 322>
Next, the processing configuration in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 will be described. The processing of the CPU 331 is roughly divided into a main processing started when the power is turned on, an input interrupt processing started by inputting a command from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301, and periodically (in the present embodiment). There is a timer interrupt process that is started (at a 2 msec cycle).

<Main processing>
The main process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This main process is started by resetting when the power is turned on.

First, in step S1301, the initial setting accompanying the power-on is executed. In the following step S1302, the initial display process is executed. In the initial display process, "0" is displayed as the initial display on the 7-segment display 242a provided on the payout control board 322.

In the following step S1303, RAM access is permitted, and in step S1304, the external interrupt vector is set. After that, in step S1305, the entire area of the RAM 333 is cleared to "0", and in step S1306, the initial setting of the CPU peripheral device is performed. In the following step S1307, interrupts are permitted. The series of processes in steps S1301 to S1307 above correspond to the start-up process in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322, and it takes, for example, 300 msec to complete the start-up process. The time required for the start-up process is not limited to 300 msec, and is arbitrary as long as it is shorter than the time required for the start-up process in the CPU 311 of the main control board 301.

After that, the process of step S1307 is repeatedly executed until the power supply is completely shut off and the process cannot be executed. By repeatedly executing the interrupt permission setting process in step S1307 in this way, even if the interrupt permission setting is canceled due to the influence of noise or the like and the interrupt permission setting is set, the interrupt permission state is restored again. It can be set again.

<Interrupt processing at input>
Next, the input interrupt processing executed by the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Here, the input interrupt processing is activated by inputting a command from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 as described above. In this case, the command input from the CPU 311 is temporarily stored in the ring buffer provided in the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. In the input interrupt processing, the command stored in the ring buffer is read, and the processing corresponding to the read command is executed.

By the way, in the input interrupt processing, first, it is determined whether or not the command input in step S1401 is an initial command. If it is an initial command, the initial display release process is executed in step S1402, and then the interrupt process at the time of this input is terminated. In the initial display release process, the initial display on the 7-segment display 242a is terminated.

If the input command is not the initial command, it is determined in step S1403 whether or not it is a prize ball command. If it is a prize ball command, the command storage process is executed in step S1404, and then the interrupt process at the time of this input is terminated. In the command storage process, the prize ball command input this time is stored in the command storage area 373 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322.

If the input command is not a prize ball command, it is determined in step S1405 whether or not it is a front door frame opening command. In the case of the front door frame opening command, the front door frame opening flag (front body opening information on the payout side) is set in the front door frame opening flag storage area (front body opening information storage means on the payout side) of the RAM 333 in step S1406. Is stored, the interrupt processing at the time of this input is terminated.

If the input command is not the front door frame opening command, it is determined in step S1407 whether or not the front door frame closing command is used. In the case of the front door frame closing command, after clearing the front door frame opening flag from the front door frame opening flag storage area of the RAM 333 in step S1408, the interrupt processing at the time of this input is terminated. If it is not the front door frame open command, the interrupt processing at the time of this input is terminated as it is.

The processing content of the input interrupt processing may be executed as a command determination processing in the timer interrupt processing described later, and the input interrupt processing may only read the command into the ring buffer.

<Timer interrupt processing>
Next, the timer interrupt process activated by the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322, for example, every 2 msec, will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 37.

First, in step S1501, the state return switch 245 is checked, and when it is determined that the state return operation has started, the state return operation is executed. After that, in step S1502, a full tank process is executed as a process related to the full state of the lower plate 34, in step S1503, a ball unnecessary process is executed as a process related to the ball state of the tank 221, and in step S1504, a prize ball is executed. The prize ball setting process is executed as the process related to the number setting, the ball lending setting process is executed as the process related to the ball lending setting in step S1505, and the payout number setting process is executed as the process related to the setting of the payout number in step S1506. Then, in step S1507, the payout control process is executed as the process related to the payout of the game ball, and in step S1508, the prize ball permission signal setting process is executed as the process related to the setting of the prize ball permission signal, and then this timer interrupt process is terminated. To do.

Hereinafter, the full tank processing in step S1502, the ball useless processing in step S1503, the prize ball setting processing in step S1504, the ball lending setting processing in step S1505, the payout number setting process in step S1506, the payout control process in step S1507, and step S1508. The prize ball permission signal setting process will be described in detail.

<Processing for full tank>
First, the full tank processing in step S1502 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 38. In the full tank processing, it is determined whether or not the lower plate 34 is full based on the detection result of the full tank detection sensor 59 provided on the lower plate 52 on the front door side of the lower plate 34, and various processes are executed. To. Then, if the game ball is not detected by the full tank detection sensor 59, the processes after step S1602 are executed, and if the game ball is detected, the processes after step S1609 are executed. In the following description, for convenience, the processes after step S1609 will be described, and then the processes after step S1602 will be described.

In the full tank processing, first, in step S1601, it is determined whether or not a full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 59. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the full tank detection information indicating that the full tank detection signal is input is stored in the input port of the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322.

When the full tank detection signal is input, in step S1609, the second full tank counter area in the full tank counter area 371 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is cleared to "0". The second full tank counter area is a counter for measuring the period during which the full tank detection signal is not continuously input from the full tank detection sensor 59. Then, in step S1610, the value of the first full tank counter area in the full tank counter area 371 is added by 1. The first full tank counter area is a counter for measuring the period during which the full tank detection signal is continuously input from the full tank detection sensor 59.

After step S1610, it is specified in step S1611 whether or not the first full tank counter area is "850" as a count value corresponding to the first full tank specific reference period. Here, the full tank processing is executed as a part of the timer interrupt processing, and the timer interrupt processing is started at a cycle of 2 msec as described above. Therefore, when the full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 59, the first full tank counter area is incremented by 1 in a cycle of about 2 msec. Therefore, in step S1611, the full tank detection signal is added for about 1.7 sec (). It is determined whether or not it has continued for the first full tank specific reference period).

When the first full tank counter area is "850", it is specified that the lower plate 34 is in the full tank state, and the process proceeds to step S1612. That is, when the lower plate 34 is full, the game balls are lined up in the lower plate 52 on the front door side, so that the game balls are continuously detected by the full tank detection sensor 59 and the output of the full tank detection signal is output. Will be continued. Then, by continuing for about 1.7 seconds in this state, it is specified that the lower plate 34 is in a full tank state. In this way, the period in which the lower plate 34 is specified to be full is set to 1.7 sec because if the period is extremely long, the game balls are connected to the position of the payout device 224 and the payout motor 257 and the like are used. This is because there is a risk of failure, and if the period is extremely short, the lower plate 34 may be identified as being full even though it is not full.

In step S1612, it is determined whether or not the full tank flag (full tank state information) is stored in the full tank flag storage area (full tank state information storage means) of the RAM 333. If the full tank flag is stored, the full tank processing is terminated as it is. If the full tank flag is not stored, the full tank flag is stored in step S1613 and the full tank state is set, and then the full tank processing is terminated. When the full tank state is set, the output of the full tank signal is started from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301, and the full tank signal is output while the full tank state is set. The state is maintained.

On the other hand, if the value of the first full tank counter area is not "850" in step S1611, the first full tank counter area becomes "count value corresponding to the second full tank specific reference period" in step S1614. It is determined whether or not it is "400". As described above, since the first full tank counter area is incremented by 1 in a cycle of about 2 msec, whether or not the full tank detection signal is continuously input for about 0.8 sec (second full tank specific reference period) in step S1614. Is judged.

If the first full tank counter area is not "400", the full tank processing is terminated as it is. When the first full tank counter area is "400", it is specified that the lower plate 34 may be full, and the process proceeds to step S1615. In step S1615, the full tank low speed flag (full tank low speed information) is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area (full tank low speed information storage means) of the RAM 333. After that, the processing for full tank is completed.

By storing the full tank low speed flag, the CPU 331 sets the payout speed of the payout motor 257 from the normal cycle (specifically, paying out the game ball at intervals of 60 msec) to the low speed cycle as described later. (Specifically, the game ball is paid out at intervals of 800 msec).

The reason why the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched to the low speed cycle in this way is as follows. That is, since the full tank detection sensor 59 is configured to continuously output the full tank detection signal while detecting the game ball, the full tank detection sensor 59 becomes narrower when the interval between the game balls continuously paid out becomes narrower. From the viewpoint, the end of the detection period of one game ball is later than the start of the detection period of the next game ball. Then, even though the lower plate 34 is not in the full tank state, the full tank detection sensor 59 continuously outputs the full tank detection signal. Then, if this state continues, the lower plate 34 is specified to be in a full state.

On the other hand, as described above, by switching the payout speed of the payout motor 257 to a low speed cycle, the interval between the game balls that continuously pass through the lower plate 52 on the front door side becomes wider. More specifically, this interval is an interval that exceeds the detection range of the full tank detection sensor 59. Therefore, since the output of the continuous full tank detection signal is interrupted, it is possible to prevent the lower plate 34 from being identified as being full even though it is not full.

Returning to the description of the full tank processing, if the full tank detection signal is not input from the full tank detection sensor 59 in step S1601, the first full tank counter area is cleared to “0” in step S1602. After that, in step S1603, it is determined whether or not the full low speed flag is stored in the full low speed flag storage area of the RAM 333. If the full low speed flag is not stored, the process proceeds to step S1605 as it is, and if the full low speed flag is stored, the full low speed flag is cleared in step S1604 and then the process proceeds to step S1605.

By clearing the full tank low speed flag, the CPU 331 basically changes the payout speed setting of the payout motor 257 from the low speed cycle to the normal cycle. That is, when the full tank detection signal is continuously output from the full tank detection sensor 59 and the output of the full tank detection signal is interrupted by changing the payout speed of the payout motor 257 to a low speed cycle, The payout speed immediately returns to the normal cycle. As a result, in a configuration in which the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is changed to a low speed cycle as needed, it is possible to prevent the time required for payout of the game ball from becoming extremely long.

In the following step S1605, the second full tank counter area is added by 1. After that, in step S1606, it is determined whether or not the second full tank counter area is "250". Here, the second full tank counter area is incremented by 1 in a cycle of about 2 msec when the full tank detection signal is not input from the full tank detection sensor 59. Therefore, in step S1606, it is determined whether or not the state in which the full tank detection signal is not input continues for about 0.5 sec.

If the second full tank counter area is not "250", the main full tank processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when the second full tank counter area is "250", it is determined in step S1607 whether or not the full tank flag is stored in the full tank flag storage area of the RAM 333. If the full tank flag is not stored, the full tank processing is terminated as it is. If the full tank flag is stored, the full tank flag is cleared in step S1608, the full tank release state is set, and then the full tank processing is terminated. By setting the full tank release state, the output of the full tank signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is stopped, and the tank is full while the full tank release state is set. The signal output stop state is maintained.

Here, since the output of the full tank detection signal from the full tank detection sensor 59 is stopped in step S1606 and about 0.5 sec elapses before the process of step S1608 is executed, noise or the like is generated. It is possible to prevent it from being determined that the full tank state is released even though the game ball is actually waiting in the detection range of the full tank detection sensor 59 due to the influence of.

In addition, in step S1606, step S1611 and step S1614, it may be configured to determine whether or not it is equal to or greater than the determination value.

<No ball processing>
Next, the ball-free processing in step S1503 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 39. In the ball-free processing, it is determined whether or not the tank 221 is in a ball-free state based on the detection result of the ball-free detection sensor 223a provided on the case rail 223, and various processes are executed. Then, when the game ball is detected by the ball non-detection sensor 223a, the processes after step S1702 are executed, and when the game ball is not detected, the processes after step S1708 are executed. In the following description, for convenience, the processes after step S1708 will be described, and then the processes after step S1702 will be described.

In the ball-free processing, first, in step S1701, it is determined whether or not a ball-free detection signal is input from the ball-free detection sensor 223a. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the ball non-detection information indicating that the ball non-detection signal is input is stored in the input port of the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322.

When the ball-less detection signal is input, in step S1708, the second ball-free counter area in the ball-free counter area 372 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is cleared to "0". The second ball-free counter area is a counter for measuring the period during which the ball-free detection signal is not continuously input from the ball-free detection sensor 223a. After that, in step S1709, the value of the first ball-free counter area in the ball-free counter area 372 is added by 1. The first ball-free counter area is a counter for measuring the period during which the ball-free detection signal is continuously input from the ball-free detection sensor 223a.

After step S1709, it is specified in step S1710 whether or not the first ball non-counter area is "5000" as the count value corresponding to the first ball non-specific reference period. Here, the main ball useless process is executed as a part of the timer interrupt process, and the timer interrupt process is started at a cycle of 2 msec as described above. Therefore, when the ball non-detection signal is input from the ball non-detection sensor 223a, the first ball non-counter area is incremented by 1 at a cycle of about 2 msec. Therefore, in step S1710, the ball non-detection signal is added for about 10 sec (first). It is judged whether or not it continues for the ball non-specific reference period).

When the first full-ball non-counter area is "5000", it is specified that the tank 221 is in a ball-free state, and the process proceeds to step S1711. That is, when the tank 221 is in a ballless state, the game balls are not lined up in the case rail 223, so that the game balls are not continuously detected by the ball non-detection sensor 223a, and the output of the ball non-detection signal is continued. Rail. Then, by continuing for about 10 seconds in this state, the tank 221 is specified to be in a ballless state.

In step S1711, it is determined whether or not the ballless flag (ballless state information) is stored in the ballless flag storage area (ballless state information storage means) of the RAM 333. If the no-ball flag is stored, the no-ball processing is terminated as it is. If the ball-less flag is not stored, the ball-free flag is stored in step S1712 and the ball-free state is set, and then the main ball-free process is terminated. When the ball-free state is set, the payout abnormality signal is started to be output from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301, and the payout abnormality signal is output while the ball-free state is set. The state is maintained.

On the other hand, if the value of the first ball non-counter area is not "5000" in step S1710, the first ball non-counter area is set as the count value corresponding to the second ball non-specific reference period in step S1713. It is determined whether or not it is "500". As described above, since the first ball-free counter area is incremented by 1 in a cycle of about 2 msec, whether or not the ball-free detection signal is continuously input for about 1.0 sec (second ball-free reference period) in step S1713. Is determined.

If the first ball-free counter area is not "500", the main ball-free processing is terminated as it is. When the first ball-less counter area is "500", it is specified that the tank 221 may be in a ball-free state, and the process proceeds to step S1714. In step S1714, the ball-free / low-speed flag (ball-free / low-speed information) is stored in the ball-free / low-speed flag storage area (ball-free / low-speed information storage means) of the RAM 333. After that, the main ball useless processing is finished.

By storing the ball no-low speed flag, the CPU 331 sets the payout speed of the payout motor 257 from the normal cycle (specifically, paying out the game ball at intervals of 60 msec) to a low speed cycle as described later. (Specifically, the game ball is paid out at intervals of 800 msec).

The reason why the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched to the low speed cycle in this way is as follows. That is, ball clogging may occur in the tank 221. On the other hand, the tank 221 is provided with a vibration motor for vibrating the tank 221 in order to clear the ball clogging when the ball clogging occurs. If the ball clogging is not severe, the ball clogging is cleared by vibrating the tank 221 with a vibration motor. Then, it is considered that the elimination of the ball clogging is completed within 10 seconds.

In this situation, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched to a low speed cycle when about 1.0 sec, which is the first ball non-specific reference period, elapses during the period when the game ball is not detected by the ball non-detection sensor 223a. As a result, there is a high possibility that the ball clogging will be cleared at the timing before all the game balls waiting on the upstream side of the rotating body 256 of the payout device 224 are exhausted. When all the game balls waiting on the upstream side of the rotating body 256 of the payout device 224 are exhausted, when the game balls are replenished from the tank 221 side toward the rotating body 256 again, the game balls are released. It falls through the case rail 223 and directly collides with the rotating body 256, and there is a concern that the rotating body 256 may malfunction. On the other hand, by switching the payout speed to a low speed cycle as described above, the possibility of such an inconvenience occurring is reduced.

Returning to the description of the ball-free processing, if the ball-free detection signal is not input from the ball-free detection sensor 223a in step S1701, the first ball-free counter area is cleared to "0" in step S1702. After that, in step S1703, the second ball-free counter area is added by 1. After that, in step S1704, it is determined whether or not the second ball-free counter area is "1500". Here, the second ball-free counter area is incremented by 1 at a cycle of about 2 msec when no ball-free detection signal is input from the ball-free detection sensor 223a. Therefore, in step S1704, it is determined whether or not the state in which the ball non-detection signal is not input continues for about 3.0 sec.

If the second ball-free counter area is not "1500", the main ball-free processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when the second ball-free counter area is "1500", the ball-free low-speed flag is deleted from the ball-free low-speed flag storage area of the RAM 333 in step S1705. By clearing the ball-less low-speed flag, the CPU 331 basically changes the payout speed setting of the payout motor 257 from the low-speed cycle to the normal cycle.

In the following step S1706, it is determined whether or not the ballless flag is stored in the ballless flag storage area of the RAM 333. If the no-ball flag is not stored, the no-ball processing is terminated as it is. If the ball-less flag is stored, the ball-free flag is cleared in step S1707, the ball-free state is set, and then the ball-free process is terminated. By setting the ball non-release state, the output of the payout abnormality signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is stopped, and the payout abnormality is performed while the ball non-release state is set. The signal output stop state is maintained.

Here, the processing of step S1705 and step S1707 is executed after waiting for about 3.0 seconds to elapse after the output of the ball non-detection signal from the ball non-detection sensor 223a is stopped in step S1704. , It is possible to prevent it from being determined that the ball non-state is released even though the game ball is not actually waiting in the detection range of the ball non-detection sensor 223a due to the influence of noise or the like.

<Prize ball setting process>
Next, the prize ball setting process in step S1504 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 40. In the prize ball setting process, the number of prize balls is specified from the prize ball command input from the CPU 331 of the main control board 301, and the specified number of prize balls is added to the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. Is executed.

In the prize ball setting process, first, in step S1801, it is determined whether or not the prize ball command is stored in the command storage area 373 of the RAM 333. If the prize ball command is not stored, the main prize ball setting process is terminated as it is. If the prize ball command is stored, the process proceeds to step S1802.

In step S1802, the arithmetic processing for the prize ball command is executed. Specifically, the addition process of the prize ball command is executed. Here, as already explained, four types of prize ball commands are set: 3 prize ball commands, 4 prize ball commands, 10 prize ball commands, and 15 prize ball commands, and each of these prize ball commands. Is composed of 2 bytes including upper information and lower information as shown in FIG. 25 (b). Then, each prize ball command is set so that the form of the information is "11111111" from 1 byte when the addition process of the upper information and the lower information is executed.

In step S1802, the above addition process is executed for the prize ball command stored in the command storage area 373 of the RAM 333. Specifically, a register to be added and a register for addition are set in the CPU 331. In step S1802, among the upper information and lower information of the prize ball command stored in the command storage area 373, the upper information is read into the register to be added, and the lower information is read into the register for addition. Then, the addition process of adding the information stored in the addition register to the information stored in the addition register is performed. The addition result is stored and held in the register to be added. The lower information may be read into the register to be added, and the upper information may be read into the register to be added.

In the following step S1803, the prize ball command stored in the command storage area 373 is deleted. In the following step S1804, it is determined whether or not the result of the addition process is normal. Specifically, in step S1802, it is determined whether or not the information stored in the register to be added of the CPU 331 is "11111111" ("FF" in hexadecimal). More specifically, it is determined whether or not "1" is stored in all the bits. The determination method is not limited to the above method, and the logical product operation is performed on all the bits stored in the register to be added, and the 1-bit information which is the operation result is "1". It may be determined whether or not.

It is determined whether or not the result calculated in step S1802 is "11111111" ("FF" in hexadecimal). If it is "11111111", it means that the prize ball command this time is normal, so the process proceeds to step S1805.

On the other hand, if it is not "11111111", the prize ball command this time is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like in the middle of the command transmission path from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 to the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. Since it means that, the final prize ball setting process is terminated as it is. In this case, the prize ball command this time is deleted without being added to the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 as information on the number of prize balls. As a result, it is possible to reduce the damage to the game hall or the like when the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like. That is, in the prize ball command, the lower information corresponds to the information on the number of prize balls, but the lower information is rewritten. For example, the number of prize balls is 100 even though the number of prize balls should be three. There is a risk that it will end up. On the other hand, by not adding the prize ball command to the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 as the prize ball number information as described above, the information rewritten by the noise or the like is added. It will disappear, and the damage to the game hall etc. will be reduced.

Returning to the description of the prize ball setting process, in step S1805, the prize ball number specifying process is executed. Specifically, based on the information stored in the prize ball table storage area 332a of the ROM 332, it is specified which number of prize balls the prize ball command input this time corresponds to. In this case, the lower information of the prize ball command is compared with the prize ball table storage area 332a, and the number of prize balls is specified. The number of prize balls specified here is stored in the general-purpose register of the CPU 331 instead of the information of the prize ball command.

In the following step S1806, the mask processing at the time of addition is executed. In the addition mask processing, the logical product calculation is executed so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is equal to or less than a predetermined number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition.

Here, as will be described later, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 outputs the prize ball permission signal when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less as the permission reference number. Is started, and the prize ball command for it is input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 to output the prize ball permission signal when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 becomes 4 or more. To stop. Therefore, when the prize ball command is input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 and the prize ball number information is added to the prize ball number storage area 374, it is equal to or less than the permitted reference number stored in the prize ball number storage area 374. (Specifically, it should be 3 or less).

However, in the pachinko machine 10, noise or the like may be generated at various timings, and from the start of the output of the prize ball permission signal to the execution of the prize ball number addition process in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322. There is a risk that the information in the prize ball number storage area 374 will be rewritten. Then, for example, if the information in the prize ball number storage area 374 is originally three, but is rewritten to 131 or the like, it will cause a great disadvantage to the game hall. It ends up.

On the other hand, in the addition mask processing in step S1806, the logical product is such that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less as the number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition. Perform the operation. In this configuration, the number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition matches the number of permission criteria.

Specifically, the ROM 332 of the payout control board 322 stores in advance information for correction at the time of addition, which is composed of 1 byte, which is the same byte unit as the prize ball number storage area 374. The information for correction at the time of addition is "00000011". When this is expressed in decimal, it is "3". In the addition mask processing, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called into the dedicated register for mask processing in the CPU 331, and the logical product of the called information with the addition correction information is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374.

In this case, for example, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "00000011" corresponding to three, the calculation result of the logical product with the correction information at the time of addition is " It becomes "000000001" and remains three. Further, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "000000010" corresponding to two, the calculation result of the logical product with the information for correction at the time of addition is "000000010". It remains two. The information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is maintained as it is in the case of 1 and 0 as well.

On the other hand, for example, even if the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like and becomes "10000011" corresponding to 131 pieces, it is still the information for correction at the time of addition. By performing the operation of the logical product, it becomes "00000011".

As described above, when the number of prize balls is added, even if the information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 exceeds the permitted standard number due to the influence of noise, it is set to be equal to or less than the permitted standard number. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a disadvantage. In addition, when the number of permitted standards is exceeded, the number is not invalidated (that is, "0"), but is the number obtained by calculating the correction information at the time of addition and the logical product, which is disadvantageous to the player. It is also possible to suppress suffering from.

By the way, the timing of starting the output of the prize ball permission signal is different from the above. For example, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less, the output of the prize ball permission signal is output. When started, when the information on the number of prize balls is added to the prize ball number storage area 374, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less. In this case, the information for correction at the time of addition may be "000000111". In the case of this configuration, the number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition is 7, which is more than the permitted standard number of 5, but when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less. The information on the number of prize balls stored after the masking process at the time of addition is maintained as it is. Therefore, the player does not suffer any disadvantage due to the mask processing at the time of addition. Further, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is a number that greatly exceeds 7 such as 131, it can be corrected to 7 or less, so that noise or the like Even if the information on the number of prize balls is rewritten due to the influence of, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a disadvantage.

That is, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is equal to or less than the permitted reference number, the information on the number of prize balls is maintained after the mask processing at the time of addition. At the same time, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 exceeds the permission standard number, the number is set to be less than or equal to the permission standard number or close to the permission standard number. Just do it. More specifically, when the addition correction information is configured in byte units, "1" is continuously stored from the lower bit to the upper bit, and in decimal. In the case of representation, the information may be any information in which "1" is stored up to the bit immediately after the permission standard number is reached or exceeded.

When the number of permission criteria is 5 as described above, the information for correction at the time of addition is "000000111" (corresponding to 3), "00000100" (corresponding to 4), and "00000011" (5). Each piece of information (corresponding to an individual) may be stored. In this case, in the addition mask processing, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the dedicated register of the CPU 331, and the called information is individually logically ANDed with the above-mentioned addition correction information. To do. Then, among the calculated ones, the one having the maximum number of prize balls may be stored in the prize ball number storage area 374. In this case, even if the number of permission criteria is 5, the number of permission criteria and the number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition can be matched.

Returning to the explanation of the prize ball setting process, after executing the mask processing at the time of addition in step S1806, the information on the number of prize balls to be added in step S1807, that is, the information on the number of prize balls specified in step S1805 is obtained. Determine if it is 1 or more. If the information on the number of prize balls to be added is "0", the main prize ball setting process is terminated as it is. If the information on the number of prize balls to be added is not "0", the process proceeds to step S1808.

In step S1808, it is determined whether or not the information on the number of prize balls to be added is less than "16". If the information on the number of prize balls to be added is "16" or more, the main prize ball setting process is terminated as it is. If the information on the number of prize balls to be added is less than "16", the process proceeds to step S1809. By executing the processes of step S1807 and step S1808 as described above, if the information on the number of prize balls to be added is abnormal, it can be invalidated.

In the following step S1809, the process of adding the number of prize balls is executed. In the addition process, the information on the number of prize balls specified in step S1805 is added to the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 after the mask processing at the time of addition in step S1806.

In the following step S1810, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 after the addition process is executed in step S1809 is stored in the ROM 332 of the payout control board 322 in advance. It is determined whether or not the maximum number of prize balls of 374 is exceeded. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "19" or more.

If the information on the number of prize balls is less than "19", the process proceeds to step S1812 as it is. If the information on the number of prize balls is "19" or more, the process proceeds to step S1811. In step S1811, the post-addition correction process is executed. Specifically, the information on the number of prize balls in the prize ball number storage area 374 is corrected to "18". As a result, when the information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 exceeds the upper limit prize ball number due to the influence of noise or the like, it can be corrected to the upper limit prize ball number. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a disadvantage. Also, if the maximum number of prize balls is exceeded, the player may suffer a disadvantage by modifying the maximum number of prize balls instead of invalidating it (that is, setting it to "0"). Absent.

By executing each of the processes of step S1806, step S1807, step S1808, and step S1811, the abnormality in the number of prize balls can be carefully resolved. However, it is not essential to execute all these processes, and for example, it is not necessary to execute the processes of step S1807 and step S1808. Even in this case, the abnormality in the number of prize balls can be resolved by executing the processes of step S1806 and step S1811.

In the following step S1812, it is determined whether or not the prize ball low speed flag (prize ball low speed information) is stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area (prize ball low speed information storage means) of the RAM 333. The prize ball low-speed flag means that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is a switching reference number (specifically, "2") stored in advance in the ROM 332 of the payout control board 322. It is a flag that is stored when it becomes, and is deleted when the number of switching reference numbers is exceeded.

Here, in the pachinko machine 10, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 becomes the switching reference number, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is set in the normal cycle up to that point. It is configured to change from to low speed cycle. This is due to the following reasons. That is, in the situation where the prize ball number information is not stored in the prize ball number storage area 374, the drive of the payout motor 257 is stopped to save power. In this case, if the single-shot winning is repeatedly generated at a predetermined interval, it becomes necessary to repeatedly start and stop the drive of the payout motor 257. Since driving start of the payout motor 257 requires a larger driving force than when maintaining the drive state of the payout motor 257, it is not preferable that the drive start and drive stop of the payout motor 257 are repeatedly performed as described above. .. On the other hand, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 becomes the switching reference number, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched to a low speed cycle, so that a single prize can be won. Even if the prize balls are repeatedly generated at predetermined intervals, the possibility that the next prize will be generated while the prize balls of the switching reference number are being executed in a low speed cycle is increased, and the drive start and drive stop of the payout motor 257 are repeated. The possibility of being done is reduced.

A configuration is also conceivable in which the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is always low, but in this case, the payout speed of the game ball becomes chronically slow, and the player wins a prize even though the prize ball is paid out. It takes a considerable amount of time to receive the award, which is not preferable.

If the prize ball low speed flag is not stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area in step S1812, the process proceeds to step S1814 as it is. On the other hand, when the prize ball low speed flag is stored, the process proceeds to step S1814 after the prize ball low speed flag is deleted from the prize ball low speed flag storage area in step S1813. By clearing the prize ball low speed flag, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 becomes the switching reference number, and the payout speed of the payout motor 257 set to the low speed cycle becomes the normal cycle. Will return to.

In step S1814, the error flag clearing process is executed. The error flag is, for example, a flag stored when an unanalyzable command is input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 or when a command is not input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 for a predetermined period of time. The error flag is deleted in step S1814 when the prize ball command is normally input and the prize ball setting process for the prize ball command is executed. After executing the error flag erasing process in step S1814, the prize ball setting process ends.

In the present embodiment, the addition process is performed using the upper information and the lower information in step S1802. The logical sum or logical product may be executed using the upper information and the lower information, but in this case, even if the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the prize ball command is normal. There is a risk that it will be determined to be.

For example, a gaming machine that determines whether or not the prize ball command is normal using the logical sum, and determines that the prize ball command is normal when the result of the logical sum is "111111111" is conceivable. .. In this case, even if the lower information of the 10 prize ball commands is rewritten from "000001010" to "00001011", the result of the logical sum is "11111111", and the prize ball command is normal. There was a risk that it would be determined to be.

Further, for example, a gaming machine that determines whether or not the prize ball command is normal using the logical product, and determines that the prize ball command is normal when the result of the logical product is "00000000000". Conceivable. In this case, even if the lower information of the 10 prize ball command is rewritten from "000001010" to "000000111", the result of the logical product is "00000000000", and the prize ball command is normal. There was a risk that it would be determined to be.

In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal by using the addition process. If any of the bits is rewritten due to the influence of noise, the result of the addition process will not be "11111111" ("FF" in hexadecimal), so the prize ball command will be issued using the logical sum or logical product. Compared with the case of determining whether or not the prize ball command is normal, it is possible to make it easier to discover that the prize ball command has been rewritten.

However, even if it is determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal by using the addition process, the bits at multiple locations are rewritten due to the influence of noise, etc., and the addition result of the upper information and the lower information happens to be. It is conceivable that it will be "11111111" ("FF" in hexadecimal). For example, when the upper information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "11111100" to "111101100" and the lower information is rewritten from "000000111" to "00010011", the result of the addition process is "11111111". ("FF" in hexadecimal), it is judged that it is a normal prize ball command, and even though the prize ball command has been rewritten, a game ball based on the prize ball command It is conceivable that the payment will be made. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is further determined whether or not the maximum number of prize balls output by one prize ball command is 15 or less, that is, less than 16 (step S1808). As a result, even if the result of the addition processing of the upper information and the lower information happens to be "11111111", it is not determined as a normal prize ball command unless the number of prize balls is less than 16. In this way, it was discovered that the prize ball command was rewritten by noise because it was determined from the result of the addition process and the number of prize balls whether the prize ball command was normal or not. It's easy. Therefore, it is possible to better pay out the game ball.

In the case of a gaming machine that determines only the number of prize balls and determines whether or not the prize ball command is normal, even if the prize ball command is rewritten, it is identified from the prize ball command. If the number of prize balls is less than 16, it is determined that the prize ball command is normal. Therefore, for example, when the command for three prize balls is output, the lower information is rewritten, and even if the number of prize balls specified from the prize ball command becomes 15, the game ball remains as it is. Since 15 pieces are paid out, there is a possibility that the game balls are not paid out normally.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal from the result of the addition process and the number of prize balls. By determining whether or not the prize ball command is normal in this way, even if the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it is easy to discover that it has been rewritten. It becomes possible to do.

<Ball rental setting process>
Next, the ball lending setting process in step S1505 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the ball lending setting process, the number of ball lending is specified based on the ball lending request signal input from the ball lending device Y through the ball lending connection terminal board 249, and the specified number of ball lending is used to lend the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. The process of adding to the ball number storage area 375 is executed.

In the ball lending setting process, first, in step S1901, it is determined whether or not the ball lending state flag (ball lending state information) is stored in the ball lending state flag storage area (ball lending state information storage means) of the RAM 333. The ball lending state flag is a flag used in the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to specify whether or not the ball lending request signal from the ball lending device Y is in the input standby state, and is in the input standby state. It is stored in and is deleted when it is no longer necessary to receive the ball rental request signal.

If the ball lending state flag is not stored, the ball lending state setting process of steps S1902 to S1906 is executed, and if the ball lending state flag is stored, the ball lending of steps S1907 to S1911 is executed. Execute processing during the state.

In the ball lending state setting process, first, in step S1902, it is determined whether or not the ball lending state signal is input from the ball lending device Y. When the ball lending button 37 is operated (that is, when one ball lending operation is performed), the pachinko machine 10 outputs a ball lending button operation signal. When the ball lending button operation signal is input, whether or not a card is inserted in the card insertion slot H, and if a card is inserted, whether or not the amount of money is stored to lend the game ball is determined. The lending device Y determines. Then, when the card is inserted into the card insertion slot H and the amount of money for lending the game ball is stored in the card, the ball lending status signal is output. That is, the ball lending status signal is output from the ball lending device Y when the ball lending button 37 is operated and a card in which the amount of money is stored is inserted to pay out the game ball.

If the ball lending status signal has not been input in step S1902, the main ball lending setting process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, when the ball lending state signal is input, it is determined in step S1903 whether or not the payout error state is present. The payout error state is a state corresponding to any of the front door frame open state, the lower plate full tank state, the tank ball no state, and the payout device abnormal state.

The determination is made by determining whether or not the front door frame open flag is stored in the front door frame open flag storage area of the RAM 333 when the front door frame is open, and when the lower plate is full, the RAM 333 is determined. It is performed by determining whether or not the full tank flag is stored in the full tank flag storage area, and for the tank ball-free state, it is determined whether or not the ball-free flag is stored in the ball-free flag storage area of the RAM 333. The payout device error state is determined by determining whether or not the payout device error flag is stored in the payout device error flag storage area of the RAM 333.

If there is a payout error state, the main ball rental setting process is terminated as it is. If it is not in the payout error state, it is determined in step S1904 whether or not the payout operation is in progress. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the payout motor 257 is stopped. The situation in which the ball lending state flag is not stored and the payout motor 257 is operating means that the payout of the prize ball is being executed. That is, it can be said that in step S1904, it is determined whether or not the prize ball is operating. Further, it can be said that determining whether or not the payout operation is in progress determines whether or not the value of the payout counter area 376 is 0, and further, at least the value of the prize ball storage area 375 becomes 0. If so, it can be said that the payout operation is not performed.

If the payout operation is in progress, the main ball rental setting process is terminated as it is. If the payout operation is not in progress, the output state of the ball rental request output permission signal is set in step S1905. As a result, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 starts outputting the ball lending request output permission signal to the ball lending device Y. The ball lending device Y recognizes that the ball lending status signal has been received by the pachinko machine 10 by inputting the ball lending request output permission signal, and while inputting the ball lending request output permission signal. Recognizes that the output of the ball rental request signal is permitted. After that, in step S1906, the ball lending state flag is stored in the ball lending state flag storage area of the RAM 333, and then the main ball lending setting process is terminated.

That is, even if the ball lending state signal is output from the ball lending device Y based on the operation of the ball lending button 37, the pachinko machine 10 is not in the payout error state and the pachinko machine 10 is not in the payout operation. The request output permission signal is not output to the ball lending device Y. Further, in the present embodiment, the ball lending device Y continues to output the ball lending state signal until the ball lending request output permission signal is input, and the ball lending device Y is in the ball lending state by inputting the ball lending request output permission signal. Stop the signal output. As a result, when the ball lending button 37 is operated, for example, even if a payout error state occurs, the operation of the ball lending button 37 is not invalidated, and the payout error state is eliminated. In that case, the payout of the ball lending based on the operation of the ball lending button 37 will be started.

The operation of the ball lending button 37 may be invalidated during the payout error state or the payout operation (YES in either step S1903 or step S1904). In this case, the ball lending device Y outputs the ball lending status signal for a certain period based on the operation of the ball lending button 37, and the ball lending device Y inputs the ball lending request signal output permission signal during that period. If not, the operation of the ball lending button 37 may be invalidated. Even if the operation of the ball lending button 37 is invalidated, the amount of money stored in the card inserted in the ball lending device Y is not reduced, so even if the operation of the ball lending button 37 is invalidated. There is no disadvantage to the player.

In the ball lending state processing in steps S1907 to S1911, first, in step S1907, it is determined whether or not a ball lending request signal is input from the ball lending device Y. The ball lending request signal is a signal output when the ball lending device Y requests the payout of the ball lending device, and the ball lending device Y outputs the ball lending request signal when the ball lending request permission signal is input. .. If the ball rental request signal has not been input, the process proceeds to step S1909 as it is. When the ball rental request signal is input, the process proceeds to step S1909 after executing the addition process of the RAM 333 to the ball rental number storage area 375 in step S1908. In the addition process, information on the number of rented balls corresponding to 25 pieces corresponding to 100 yen is added to the number of rented balls storage area 375. That is, the ball lending device Y periodically outputs a ball lending request signal in response to the ball lending operation in the ball lending state, and the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 is predetermined each time the ball lending request signal is input. Information on the number of rented balls corresponding to the number of units is added to the number of rented balls storage area 375. The balance amount stored in the card or the like being inserted into the ball lending device Y is subtracted and updated based on the normal processing of steps S1907 and S1908.

In step S1909, it is determined whether or not the end signal is input from the ball lending device Y. The end signal is a signal that is output when one ball lending operation is performed and the ball lending request signal is output five times, and payout control that the output of the ball lending request signal for one ball lending operation is completed. This is a signal to be recognized by the CPU 331 of the board 322. If the end signal has not been input, the main ball rental setting process is terminated as it is. When the end signal is input, the ball lending state flag is deleted from the ball lending state flag storage area of the RAM 333 in step S1910, and the output stop state of the ball lending request output permission signal is set in step S1911. Later, the main ball rental setting process is terminated.

As described above, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 is set to the ball lending state when the payout error state is not obtained and the payout operation is not in progress in the situation where the ball lending state signal is input from the ball lending device Y. In particular, by preventing the ball lending state from being set during the payout operation, even if the ball lending operation is performed by the ball lending operation device 36 while the prize ball is being paid out. The payout of prize balls can be prioritized.

Assuming a configuration in which the ball lending operation is prioritized when the ball lending operation is performed while the prize balls are being paid out, the prize ball number information is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. Despite the fact that is remembered, it becomes necessary to stop the payout of prize balls. In this case, when the pachinko machine 10 is in the power cut-off state, the information on the number of prize balls is erased because the power for power failure is not supplied to the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 as described above. On the other hand, since the ball lending device Y has its own memory retention function when the information is cut off, the ball lending device Y should not input the ball lending request signal when the prize ball is being paid out. By doing so, the information on the number of rented balls is stored in the ball renting device Y, and the information on the number of rented balls is not deleted even if the pachinko machine 10 is in the power cutoff state. In the above circumstances, even if the ball lending operation is performed in the situation where the prize balls are paid out, by giving priority to the prize ball payout, the information on the number of prize balls is deleted without actually being paid out. Is prevented.

<Payout quantity setting process>
Next, the payout number setting process in step S1506 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 42. In the payout number setting process, the information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 or the loan number storage area 375 of the RAM 333 is stored in the payout number counter area of the RAM 333, which is an execution area when paying out the game balls. Will be executed.

In the payout quantity setting process, first, in step S2001, the payout setting mask process is executed. In the payout setting mask processing, the logical product calculation is executed so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is equal to or less than the predetermined number of prize balls for correction at the time of payout. ..

Here, as will be described later, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 outputs the prize ball permission signal when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less, which is the permission reference number. Is started, and the prize ball command for it is input from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301, and the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 becomes 4 or more as the disallowed reference number. Stops the output of the prize ball permission signal. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, the maximum number of prize balls for one prize is 15. In the above configuration, the maximum number of prize balls in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 18, which is the sum of the permission reference number and the maximum number of prize balls corresponding to winning.

However, in the pachinko machine 10, noise or the like may be generated at various timings, and after the prize ball number information is set in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 in the prize ball setting process (FIG. 40). Therefore, there is a possibility that the information in the prize ball number storage area 374 may be rewritten before the payout of the game balls corresponding to the prize balls is completed. Then, for example, if the information in the prize ball number storage area 374 is originally 10 pieces, but is rewritten to 131 pieces or the like, it will cause a great disadvantage to the game hall. It ends up.

On the other hand, in the payout setting mask processing in step S2001, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is logically producted so as to be 31 or less as the number of prize balls for correction at the time of payout. Performs the operation of.

Specifically, the ROM 332 of the payout control board 322 stores in advance the payout correction information composed of 1 byte, which is the same byte unit as the prize ball number storage area 374. The information for correction at the time of payout is "00011111". When this is expressed in decimal, it is "31". In the payout setting mask processing, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called into the dedicated register for mask processing in the CPU 331, and the logical product of the called information with the payout correction information is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374.

In this case, for example, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "00010001" corresponding to 17, the calculation result of the logical product with the information for correction at the time of payout is " It becomes "00010001" and remains at 17. Further, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "000000101" corresponding to five, the calculation result of the logical product with the information for correction at the time of payout is "0000101". It remains five. The information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is maintained as it is for all 18 or less, which is the maximum number of prize balls.

On the other hand, for example, even if the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like and becomes "10000011" corresponding to 131 pieces, it is still the information for correction at the time of payout. By performing the operation of the logical product, it becomes "00000011".

As described above, when the payout number counter area 376 is set, even if the information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 exceeds the payout correction information due to the influence of noise, it is paid out. The time correction information can be as follows. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a great disadvantage. Also, when the maximum number of prize balls is exceeded, it is not invalidated (that is, "0"), but it is the number obtained by calculating the correction information at the time of payout and the logical product, so that the player is not allowed. It is also possible to suppress the loss of profits.

By the way, the timer interrupt process is started every 2 msec by the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322, and the mask process at the time of payout setting is executed as a part of the timer interrupt process. Therefore, the mask processing at the time of payout setting is executed every 2 msec. That is, the mask processing at the time of payout setting is executed periodically. Further, while the payout of the game ball is basically executed in a cycle of 60 msec, the mask processing at the time of payout setting is executed every 2 msec as described above. Therefore, when the game balls are paid out, the mask processing at the time of payout setting is executed a plurality of times before one game ball is paid out, and the influence of noise can be satisfactorily reduced. Further, the mask processing at the time of payout setting is executed regardless of whether or not the payout of the game ball is being executed.

Returning to the description of the payout number setting process, in the following step S2002, it is determined whether or not the ball is being pulled out. The ball pulling operation is an operation for discharging the game balls stored in the tank 221 to the outside of the pachinko machine 10.

Here, the procedure of the ball pulling operation will be described. First, the supply from the island facility to the tank 221 is stopped. After that, the front door frame 14 is opened, and a large number of game balls are manually obtained in the variable winning device 83. After that, by closing the front door frame 14, the payout control board is output from the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 in response to the output of the prize ball permission signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301. A prize ball command is output to the CPU 331 of the 322, and the game ball is paid out by the payout device 224.

After that, when the game balls stored in the tank 221 are exhausted, the ball non-detection sensor 223a outputs a ball non-detection signal, and the payout device 224 stops paying out the game balls. In this case, by operating the ball removal operation switch 223b provided on the case rail 223, the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 is set to the ball removal state. Specifically, the ball removal state flag is stored in the ball removal state flag storage area of the RAM 333. As a result, even in a situation where the ball non-detection signal is output from the ball non-detection sensor 223a, the payout of the game ball by the payout device 224 is restarted, and the payout device 224 is located downstream of the ball removal operation switch 223b. The game balls connected to the position of the payout motor 257 of the above are discharged. Then, when the game ball is discharged, the ball removal of the tank 221 is completed. At this time, the setting of the ball removal state is canceled. That is, the ball removal state flag stored in the ball removal state flag storage area of the RAM 333 is erased.

In step S2002, it is determined whether or not the ball removal state is set. If the ball removal state is not set, it is determined in step S2003 whether or not the payout error state is set. The payout error status has already been described. If there is a payout error state, the main payout quantity setting process is terminated as it is. As a result, the payout of the game ball is prevented from being executed in the payout error state.

If it is not in the payout error state, it is determined in step S2004 whether or not the retry operation is in progress. The retry operation is a process of rotating the rotating body 256 in the opposite direction to the normal state when the payout device 224 is clogged with a game ball. If the retry operation is in progress, the main payout quantity setting process is terminated as it is, and if the retry operation is not in progress, the process proceeds to step S2005.

In step S2005, it is determined whether or not the ball lending operation is in progress. The ball lending operation is a state in which the ball lending state flag is stored in the ball lending state flag storage area of the RAM 333, or a state in which the ball lending number information is stored in the ball lending number storage area 375 of the RAM 333. To say. When the ball lending status flag is stored or the ball lending number information is stored in the ball lending number storage area 375, in step S2006, the information of the ball lending number storage area 375 is stored in the payout number counter of the RAM 333. After updating to the area 376, the final payout quantity setting process ends.

On the other hand, when the ball lending status flag is not stored and the ball lending number information is not stored in the ball lending number storage area 375, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is stored in step S2007. After updating to the payout number counter area 376 of the RAM 333, the main payout number setting process is terminated. Further, even when the ball removal state is set in step S2002, after updating the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 to the payout number counter area 376 of the RAM 333 in step S2007, the main payout number is set. End the process.

<Payout control processing>
Next, the payout control process in step S1507 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 43. In the payout control process, a process of paying out the game ball is executed based on the information stored in the payout number counter area 376 of the RAM 333.

In the payout control process, first, in step S2101, the payout state setting process is executed. Here, the payout state setting process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the payout state setting process, first, in step S2201, it is determined whether or not there is a payout error state. The payout error status has already been described. In the case of a payout error state, the payout state setting process ends after the payout motor 257 is set to the stop state in step S2206. As a result, the output of the drive signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the payout motor 257 is stopped, and the payout of the game ball by the payout device 224 is stopped. If the payout of the game ball has already been stopped, that state is maintained.

If there is no payout error state in step S2201, it is determined in step S2202 whether or not the value of the payout number counter area 376 of the RAM 333 is “0”. When the value of the payout number counter area 376 is "0", it means that there is no game ball to be paid out. Therefore, after the payout motor 257 is set to the stopped state in step S2206, the main payout is performed. The status setting process ends.

If the value of the payout number counter area 376 is not "0" in step S2202, it is determined in step S2203 whether or not the low speed flag is stored in any of the low speed flag storage areas of the RAM 333. That is, it is determined whether or not the full tank low speed flag is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area, it is determined whether or not the ball non-low speed flag is stored in the ball non-low speed flag storage area, and the prize ball low speed flag is stored. It is determined whether or not the prize ball low speed flag is stored in the storage area.

If none of the low speed flags is stored, the payout state setting process ends after setting the payout speed of the payout motor 257 to the normal cycle in step S2205. By setting the payout speed of the payout motor 257 to the normal cycle, one game ball is paid out from the payout device 224 every 60 msec. If the normal cycle has already been set, that state is maintained.

On the other hand, when any of the low speed flags is stored, in step S2204, after setting the payout speed of the payout motor 257 to a low speed cycle, the present payout state setting process is terminated. By setting the payout speed of the payout motor 257 to a low speed cycle, one game ball is paid out from the payout device 224 every 800 msec. If the cycle is already set to a low speed, that state is maintained.

Returning to the description of the payout control process (FIG. 43), after executing the payout state setting process in step S2101, the process proceeds to step S2102. In step S2102, it is determined whether or not the game ball is detected by the payout ball detection sensor 258 of the payout device 224. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the payout ball detection signal is input from the payout ball detection sensor 258. This determination is made by determining whether or not the input continuation period of the payout ball detection signal has reached the payout detection continuation period. If the payout ball detection signal is not input, the payout control process is terminated as it is. If the payout ball detection signal is input, the process proceeds to step S2103.

In step S2103, it is determined whether or not the ball lending operation is in progress. If the ball lending operation is not in progress, the payout control process ends after the prize ball subtraction process of steps S2104 to S2108 is executed. On the other hand, when the ball lending operation is in progress, the payout control process ends after the ball lending subtraction process of steps S2109 to S2110 is executed.

In the prize ball subtraction process, first, in step S2104, the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is subtracted by 1, and in the subsequent step S2105, the value of the payout number counter area 376 of the RAM 333 is subtracted by 1. After that, in step S2106, it is determined whether or not the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 is "2" or less. If it is not "2" or less, the main payout control process is terminated as it is. If it is "2" or less, in step S2107, it is determined whether or not the prize ball low speed flag is stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area of the RAM 333. If the prize ball low speed flag is stored, the main payout control process is terminated as it is, and if the prize ball low speed flag is not stored, the prize ball low speed flag is stored in the prize ball low speed flag storage area in step S2108. After that, the final payout control process is terminated.

Further, in the subtraction process for ball rental, first, in step S2109, the value of the ball rental number storage area 375 of RAM 333 is subtracted by 1, and then in step S2110, the value of the payout number counter area 376 of RAM 333 is subtracted by 1. , End the payout control process.

<Prize ball permission signal setting process>
Next, the prize ball permission signal setting process in step S1508 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 45. In the prize ball permission signal setting process, a process of setting the output stop and output start of the prize ball permission signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is executed.

In the prize ball permission signal setting process, first, in step S2301, it is determined whether or not the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is 3 or less, which is the permission reference number. If there are four or more, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated after setting the prize ball disapproval state (output disapproval state) in step S2307.

Regarding the setting of the prize ball disapproval state, specifically, the prize ball permission status flag (prize ball permission information or output permission) is set in the prize ball permission status flag storage area (prize ball permission information storage means or output permission information storage means) of the RAM 333. When information) is stored, the prize ball permission status flag is cleared and the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped (output of the prize ball permission signal from the output means for outputting the prize ball permission signal). To stop). In the state where the prize ball permission state flag is cleared, the output of the prize ball permission signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is stopped, and that state is maintained.

In this pachinko machine 10, since the state in which the prize ball permission signal is output is the HI level signal output state, the state in which the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped is the LOW level signal output state. .. However, when the state in which the prize ball permission signal is output is the output state of the LOW level signal, the state in which the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped may be the output state of the HI level signal. Further, the state in which the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped may be set to the state in which no signal is output for the signal path.

On the other hand, in step S2301, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less, which is the permitted reference number, whether or not the ball removal operation is in progress in step S2302. To judge. If the ball is not being pulled out, it is determined in step S2303 whether or not it is in a payout error state.

If the payout error state is set, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated after setting the prize ball disapproval state in step S2307. By setting the prize ball disapproval state in the payout error state in this way, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited in the payout error state.

As described above, the payout of the game ball is stopped in the payout error state. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, when the power supply from the external power source is stopped, the information stored in the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is erased. Therefore, if the prize ball command is output in the payout error state, the prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command will be deleted without being paid out if the power supply is stopped while the payout error state is continued. .. That is, in the configuration in which the prize ball command is output in the payout error state, there is a high possibility that the prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command will be deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

In step S2303, if it is not in the payout error state, it is determined in step S2304 whether or not the full tank low speed flag is stored in the full tank low speed flag storage area of the RAM 333. Further, in step S2305, it is determined whether or not the ball-free / low-speed flag is stored in the ball-free / low-speed flag storage area of the RAM 333.

When either the full tank low speed flag or the ball non-low speed flag is stored, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated after setting the prize ball disapproval state in step S2307. By setting the prize ball disapproval state in the full tank low speed state or the ball non-low speed state in this way, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped in the full tank low speed state or the ball non-low speed state, and the prize ball command Output is prohibited.

As described above, the full tank low speed state or the ball non-low speed state is a state set as a pre-stage when there is a high possibility that a payout error state will occur thereafter. Then, in the payout error state, the payout of the game ball is stopped. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, when the power supply from the external power source is stopped, the information stored in the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is erased. Therefore, if the prize ball command is output in the payout error state, the prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command will be deleted without being paid out if the power supply is stopped while the payout error state is continued. .. That is, in the configuration in which the prize ball command is output in the payout error state, there is a high possibility that the prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command will be deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, as in this configuration, when it is determined that there is a high possibility of a payout error state, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited, so that the payout error state occurs. The output of the prize ball command can be prohibited before the above, and the possibility of the above-mentioned inconvenience occurring is dramatically reduced.

If the full low-speed flag is not stored in step S2304 and the ball-free low-speed flag is not stored in step S2305, the prize ball permission state (output permission state) is set in step S2306. Later, the final prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated. Further, even when the ball pulling operation is being performed in step S2303, the prize ball permission signal setting process is terminated after setting the prize ball permission state in step S2306.

Regarding the setting of the prize ball permission status Specifically, when the prize ball permission status flag is not stored in the prize ball permission status flag storage area of the RAM 333, the prize ball permission status flag is stored and the prize ball permission signal is output. (Starts the output of the prize ball permission signal from the output means for outputting the prize ball permission signal). In the state where the prize ball permission state flag is stored, the output of the prize ball permission signal from the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 to the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is started, and the state is maintained. That is, in the state where the ball removal operation is not in progress, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 is 3 or less, which is the permitted reference number, and further, a payout error state and a full tank low speed. The output of the prize ball permission signal is continued when the state and the ball are not in the low speed state.

<About the output of the prize ball command for the prize ball permission signal>
Next, the state of output of the prize ball command with respect to the prize ball permission signal will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG. In the description using the following time chart, the CPU 311 of the main control board 301 is referred to as the main CPU 311 and the CPU 331 of the payout control board 322 is referred to as the payout side CPU 331. Further, the RAM 313 of the main control board 301 is referred to as a main RAM 313, and the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 is referred to as a payout side RAM 333. Further, in the explanation using FIG. 46, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that only the prizes corresponding to four prize balls out of the plurality of types of prizes are generated.

First, a case where a single prize is generated will be described.

In a situation where the prize ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side CPU 331 to the main side CPU 311 and a prize is generated at the timing of t1, the main side CPU 311 outputs four prize ball commands to the payout side CPU 331. As a result, information on the number of four prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and when the number of prize balls exceeds the permitted standard number (reaching the disallowed standard number), the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped, and the game ball The payout is started.

After that, the payout of one game ball is executed at the timing of t2, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three of the permission reference number. As a result, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. After that, the payout of one game ball is further executed at the timing of t3, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes two of the switching reference number. As a result, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched from the normal cycle up to that point to the low speed cycle. After that, the payout of the two game balls is executed by the timing of t4, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes 0. As a result, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 257 is stopped, and the payout of the prize ball is completed.

Next, a case where a prize is generated again in a situation where the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is a low cycle after a single prize is generated will be described.

In a situation where the prize ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side CPU 331 to the main side CPU 311 and a prize is generated at the timing of t5, the main side CPU 311 outputs four prize ball commands to the payout side CPU 331. As a result, information on the number of four prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and when the number exceeds the permission reference number, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped and the payout of the game balls is started.

After that, the payout of one game ball is executed at the timing of t6, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three of the permission reference number. As a result, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. After that, the payout of one game ball is further executed at the timing of t7, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes two of the switching reference number. As a result, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched from the normal cycle up to that point to the low speed cycle.

After that, when a new prize is generated at the timing of t8, which is within the range where the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 does not become 0, four prize balls are generated from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331. The command is output. As a result, information on the number of four prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped when the number of prize balls exceeds the permission reference number, and the payout motor 257 is paid out when the number of switching reference balls is exceeded. The speed is restored from the low speed cycle to the normal cycle.

Next, a case where winnings occur consecutively will be described.

As described above, when a new prize is generated at the timing of t8, four prize ball commands are output from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331. As a result, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes five by adding a new number of prize balls to the number of prize balls stored up to that point.

After that, by the timing of t9, the payout of the two game balls is executed, so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three, which is the permission reference number. As a result, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. In this case, winning is continuously generated by the timing of t9, and a plurality of information on the four prize balls is stored in the main RAM 313. After that, four prize ball commands are output from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331 at the timing of t10, which is the timing before the new game ball is paid out. Further, at the timing of t11, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three, which is the permission reference number, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. After that, at the timing of t12, which is the timing before the new game ball is paid out, the main CPU 311 outputs four prize ball commands to the payout side CPU 331.

That is, in a situation where the prize ball information is already stored in the main RAM 313, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes the permission reference number and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started, A prize ball command is output from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331 at a timing before the new game ball is paid out, and the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 exceeds the permitted standard number. Become.

This is due to the following reasons. The payout speed of the payout motor 257 according to the normal cycle is set so that one game ball is paid out at intervals of 60 msec. On the other hand, in the payout side CPU 331, the time required for the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 to become the permission reference number and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started is the execution time of the timer interrupt process. It is within the range of 2 msec, which is within the range of. Further, the time required for the main CPU 311 to output the prize ball command specified that the output of the prize ball command is permitted based on the input of the prize ball permission signal is within the range of 20 msec to 24 msec. .. Further, the time required for the payout side CPU 331 to input the prize ball command from the main side CPU 311 and the information on the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command to be added to the payout side RAM 333 is the execution time of the timer interrupt process. It is within the range of 2 msec, which is within the range of. In addition, even if the time required for transmission of the prize ball permission signal and the prize ball command and the error in the processing time are included, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes the permission reference number, and then thereafter. It takes about 40 msec at the maximum for the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 to exceed the permitted reference number by inputting the prize ball command. This is shorter than 60 msec, which is the time required for the payout of one game ball to be executed. That is, when the output of the prize ball permission signal is started in the situation where the prize ball information is already stored in the main RAM 313, the prize ball command is output at the timing before the new game ball is paid out. The processing time for the prize balls in the main CPU 311 and the payout CPU 331 is set so that the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 exceeds the permitted reference number.

Further, in the above configuration, the permission reference number that triggers the output start of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331 to the main side CPU 311 serves as a trigger for switching the payout speed of the payout motor 257 from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. One game ball is set more than the number of switching reference numbers. As a result, in a situation where a plurality of prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the prizes stored in the payout side RAM 333 until all the output of each prize ball command corresponding to the prize ball information is executed. The information on the number of balls does not reach the switching reference number. Therefore, the payout side CPU 331 outputs the prize ball permission signal to the main side CPU 311 and the main side CPU 311 outputs only one prize ball command corresponding to one winning to the payout side CPU 331. In the configuration, it is possible to prevent the payout speed of the payout motor 257 from being switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle even though the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, and the payout of the game ball is smooth. Can be done.

Returning to the description of FIG. 46, after that, at the timing of t13, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three of the permission reference numbers, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started. Further, by further executing the payout of one game ball at the timing of t14, the information of the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes two of the switching reference number, and the payout speed of the payout motor 257 becomes high. The normal cycle up to that point can be switched to the low speed cycle. After that, at the timing of t15, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes 0, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 257 is stopped, and the payout of the prize balls is completed.

<About the output of the prize ball permission signal for the predetermined restriction situation>
Next, the state of output of the prize ball permission signal for a predetermined restriction situation such as a full tank state of the lower plate 34 and a ball-free state of the tank 221 will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG. 47.

First, the state of output of the prize ball permission signal for a predetermined restriction situation due to the full state of the lower plate 34 will be described.

In a situation where the payout motor 257 is executing the payout of the game ball at the payout speed of the normal cycle, the game ball stands by within the detection range of the full tank detection sensor 59 at the timing of t21, and the full tank detection sensor 59 is full. The output of the tongue detection signal is started. However, at this point, the payout of the game ball at the payout speed of the normal cycle in the payout motor 257 is continued. After that, at the timing of t22, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three, which is the permission reference number, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t23, when the output duration of the full tank detection signal reaches about 0.8 sec, which is the second full tank specific reference period, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped. After that, at the timing of t24, when the output continuation period of the full tank detection signal reaches about 1.7 sec, which is the first full tank specific reference period, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 257 is stopped and the game ball. Payout is stopped.

By stopping the output of the prize ball permission signal when the second full tank specific reference period, which is shorter than the first full tank specific reference period, has passed, as described above, the lower plate 34 is full. The output of the prize ball permission signal will be stopped at the stage when it is determined that there is a high possibility of a tongue state. If the prize ball command is output when the lower plate 34 is full, the game ball is not paid out when the lower plate 34 is full. Therefore, when the power supply is stopped while the lower plate 34 is full. The prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is erased without being paid out. That is, in the configuration in which the prize ball command is output when the lower plate 34 is full, there is a high possibility that the prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command will be erased without being paid out. On the other hand, as in this configuration, when it is determined that the lower plate 34 is likely to be full, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited. Therefore, the possibility of the above-mentioned inconvenience occurring can be dramatically reduced.

Further, even if the output continuation period of the full tank detection signal reaches the second full tank specific reference period and the prize ball command is regulated not to be output, the payout of the game ball in the low speed cycle is continued. As a result, from the lapse of the second full tank specific reference period to the lapse of the first full tank specific reference period, the game balls are paid out in a situation where no new prize ball command is output. Therefore, if the prize ball number information is stored in the payout side RAM 333 when the second full tank specific reference period elapses, the prize ball number information is supported before the payout of the game balls is stopped. It is possible to reduce the number of game balls as much as possible.

The maximum number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333 is "18" as described above. On the other hand, in the low-speed cycle of the payout device 224, the game balls are paid out at intervals of 800 msec, whereas the difference between the first full tank specific reference period and the second full tank specific reference period is 900 msec. Therefore, when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374, the first full tank specific reference period elapses after the second full tank specific reference period elapses. In the meantime, not all of the prize balls will be paid out.

After that, at the timing of t25, the full tank state of the lower plate 34 is released, and the output of the full tank detection signal is stopped. However, at this point, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 257 is not restarted, and further, the output of the prize ball permission signal is not restarted. After that, at the timing of t26, when the output stop duration reaches about 0.5 sec, which is the specific reference period for releasing the full tank, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is set to the normal cycle, and the payout of the game ball is restarted. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is also resumed.

Even if the output of the full tank detection signal is stopped in this way, it is not specified that the full tank state is released immediately, but it is specified that the full tank state is released after the full tank cancellation specific reference period elapses. As a result, it is possible to prevent it from being determined that the full tank state is released even though the game ball is actually waiting in the detection range of the full tank detection sensor 59 due to the influence of noise or the like.

Further, when the lower plate 34 is full, even if it is resolved, it is conceivable that the lower plate 34 will be full immediately afterwards. In this case, if the drive start and drive stop of the payout motor 257 are repeated, a large driving force is required, which is not preferable. On the other hand, the payout motor 257 is not started to be driven until the full tank release specific reference period elapses after the output of the full tank detection signal from the full tank detection sensor 59 is stopped. The possibility of repeated drive start and drive stop of 257 is reduced.

In addition, when the prize ball permission signal is output immediately after the full tank state is released and the prize ball command is output accordingly, the timing before all the prize ball number information corresponding to the prize ball command is paid out. , There is a possibility that the lower plate 34 will be full again. If the power is cut off in this state, the prize ball number information will be deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, a state in which the output of the prize ball permission signal is restricted to be maintained from the time when the output of the full tank detection signal from the full tank detection sensor 59 is stopped until the elapse of the full tank release specific reference period is maintained. By not releasing it, the possibility of the above situation occurring is reduced.

Next, the state of output of the prize ball permission signal when it is determined that the lower plate 34 may be full when the lower plate 34 is not full will be described.

In a situation where the payout motor 257 is executing the payout of the game ball at the payout speed of the normal cycle, the output of the full tank detection signal from the full tank detection sensor 59 is started at the timing of t27. After that, at the timing of t28, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three, which is the permission reference number, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t29, when the output duration of the full tank detection signal reaches about 0.8 sec, which is the second full tank specific reference period, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped. After that, the output of the full tank detection signal is stopped at the timing of t30, which is within the range in which the output continuation period of the full tank detection signal does not reach the first full tank specific reference period. As a result, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is set to the normal cycle, the payout of the game ball is restarted, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is also restarted.

That is, even if the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped at the stage when it is determined that the lower plate 34 is likely to be full, it is determined that the lower plate 34 is unlikely to be full. At that stage, the output of the prize ball permission signal is resumed. Therefore, in the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the output prohibition period of the prize ball command from becoming extremely long.

Next, the state of output of the prize ball permission signal for the predetermined restriction situation due to the ballless state of the tank 221 will be described.

In a situation where the payout motor 257 is executing the payout of the game ball at the payout speed of the normal cycle, the game ball does not exist within the detection range of the ball non-detection sensor 223a at the timing of t31, and the ball non-detection sensor 223a The output of the ball non-detection signal is started. However, at this point, the payout of the game ball at the payout speed of the normal cycle in the payout motor 257 is continued. After that, at the timing of t32, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three, which is the permission reference number, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t33, when the output duration of the ball non-detection signal reaches about 1.0 sec, which is the second ball non-specific reference period, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped. After that, at the timing of t34, when the output duration of the ball non-detection signal reaches about 10 sec, which is the first ball non-specific reference period, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 257 is stopped and the game ball is paid out. It will be stopped.

By stopping the output of the prize ball permission signal when the second ball unspecified reference period, which is shorter than the first ball unspecified reference period, has passed, as described above, the tank 221 has no balls. The output of the prize ball permission signal will be stopped at the stage when it is determined that there is a high possibility of the state. If the prize ball command is output when the tank 221 is in a ball-free state, the game ball is not paid out in the tank 221 ball-free state. Therefore, if the power supply is stopped while the ball-free state is continued, that is the case. The prize ball corresponding to the prize ball command is deleted without being paid out. That is, in the configuration in which the prize ball command is output when the tank 221 is in a ballless state, there is a high possibility that the prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command will be erased without being paid out. On the other hand, as in this configuration, when it is determined that the tank 221 is likely to be in a ballless state, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited. , The possibility of the above-mentioned inconvenience occurring can be dramatically reduced.

Further, even if the output continuation period of the ball non-detection signal reaches the second ball non-specific reference period and the prize ball command is regulated not to be output, the payout of the game ball in the low speed cycle is continued. As a result, from the lapse of the second ball unspecified reference period to the lapse of the first ball unspecified reference period, the game ball is paid out in a situation where a new prize ball command is not output. Therefore, if the prize ball number information is stored in the payout side RAM 333 when the second ball unspecified reference period elapses, the prize ball number information corresponds to the prize ball number information before the payout of the game ball is stopped. It is possible to reduce the number of game balls as much as possible.

The maximum number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333 is "18" as described above. On the other hand, in the low-speed cycle of the payout device 224, the game balls are paid out at intervals of 800 msec, whereas the difference between the first ball unspecified reference period and the second ball unspecified reference period is 9 sec. Therefore, when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374, the first ball unspecified reference period elapses after the second ball unspecified reference period elapses. In the meantime, not all of the prize balls will be paid out.

After that, at the timing of t35, the ballless state of the tank 221 is released, and the output of the ball non-detection signal is stopped. However, at this point, the output of the drive signal to the payout motor 257 is not restarted, and further, the output of the prize ball permission signal is not restarted. After that, at the timing of t36, when the output stop duration reaches about 3.0 sec, which is the specific reference period for releasing the ball, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is set to the normal cycle, and the payout of the game ball is restarted. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is also resumed.

Even if the output of the ball-less detection signal is stopped in this way, it is not specified that the ball-free state is released immediately, but it is specified that the ball-free state is released after the ball-free release specific reference period elapses. As a result, it is possible to prevent it from being determined that the no-ball state is released even though the game ball is not actually waiting in the detection range of the no-ball detection sensor 223a due to the influence of noise or the like.

Further, when the ball-free state of the tank 221 occurs, it is conceivable that the ball-free state occurs immediately after the tank 221 is eliminated. In this case, if the drive start and drive stop of the payout motor 257 are repeated, a large driving force is required, which is not preferable. On the other hand, the payout motor 257 is not started to be driven until the ball non-release specific reference period elapses after the output of the ball non-detection signal from the ball non-detection sensor 223a is stopped. The possibility of repeated drive start and drive stop of 257 is reduced.

In addition, when the prize ball permission signal is output immediately after the ballless state is released and the prize ball command is output accordingly, the timing before all the prize ball number information corresponding to the prize ball command is paid out. , There is a possibility that the ballless state of the tank 221 will occur again. If the power is cut off in this state, the prize ball number information will be deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, the state in which the output of the ball non-detection signal from the ball non-detection sensor 223a is stopped and the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped is regulated until the ball non-release specific reference period elapses. By not releasing it, the possibility of the above situation occurring is reduced.

Next, the state of output of the prize ball permission signal when it is determined that the tank 221 may be in the ball-free state when the tank 221 is not in the ball-free state will be described.

In a situation where the payout motor 257 is executing the payout of the game ball at the payout speed of the normal cycle, the output of the ball non-detection signal from the ball non-detection sensor 223a is started at the timing of t37. After that, at the timing of t38, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes three, which is the permission reference number, and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t39, when the output duration of the ball non-detection signal reaches about 1.0 sec, which is the second ball non-specific reference period, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped. After that, the output of the ball non-detection signal is stopped at the timing of t40, which is within the range where the output duration of the ball non-detection signal does not reach the first ball non-specific reference period. After that, at the timing of t41, when the output stop duration reaches about 3.0 sec, which is the specific reference period for releasing the ball, the payout speed of the payout motor 257 is set to the normal cycle, and the payout of the game ball is restarted. , The output of the prize ball permission signal is also resumed.

<Handling of prize ball information when power supply is started when the tank is full>
Next, the handling of the prize ball information when the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started when the lower plate 34 is full will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG. 48.

First, a case where the main CPU 311 has a standby process after the start-up process will be described with reference to FIG. 48 (a).

When the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing of t51, the start-up process is started in each of the main CPU 311 and the payout side CPU 331. After that, at the timing of t52, the start-up process of the payout side CPU 331 is completed. In this case, since the lower plate 34 is full and the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started, it is specified by the payout side CPU 331 that the full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 59. To. However, at this point, since the payout side CPU 331 has specified that the full tank detection signal has been input, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t53, the startup process of the main CPU 311 is completed. However, the main CPU 311 waits without starting the execution of various processes until 1 sec elapses from this point. After that, at the timing of t54, which is a situation in which the main CPU 311 is waiting without starting the execution of various processes, the output continuation period of the full tank detection signal in the payout side CPU 331 is the second full tank specific reference period. When it reaches 0.8 sec, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped.

After that, at the timing of t55, the main CPU 311 starts executing various processes 1 sec after the start-up process. However, since the output of the prize ball permission signal has already been stopped, even if the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the prize ball command is not output and the information on the number of prize balls to the payout side RAM 333 is not output. Is not remembered. After that, at the timing of t56, the power supply is cut off.

As described above, according to this configuration, even if the power is turned on when the lower plate 34 is full and the power is cut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, the prize ball command is not output. It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the prize ball information is deleted without the game ball being paid out. This is because the main CPU 311 waits for 1 second after the start-up process without starting the execution of various processes. In addition, when the power is turned on when the lower plate 34 is full and the power is cut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, or when it is repeated, the power switch ON / OFF operation is repeatedly performed. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the above state may occur in a pseudo manner due to noise. Further, in this configuration, the timing at which the startup process is completed in the main CPU 311 may be the same as the timing at which the startup process is started in the payout side CPU 331, and the main CPU 311 is earlier within the range of 0.2 sec. It may be a complete configuration.

Here, a case where the main CPU 311 does not have the above-mentioned standby processing will be described with reference to FIG. 48 (b).

When the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing of t61, the start-up process is started in each of the main CPU 311 and the payout side CPU 331. After that, at the timing of t62, the start-up process of the payout side CPU 331 is completed. In this case, since the lower plate 34 is full and the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started, it is specified by the payout side CPU 331 that the full tank detection signal is input from the full tank detection sensor 59. To. However, at this point, since the payout side CPU 331 has specified that the full tank detection signal has been input, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t63, the startup process of the main CPU 311 is completed. In this case, the main CPU 311 starts executing various processes. Then, by inputting the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331 in the situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main side RAM 313, the prize ball command is output from the main side CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331 at the timing of t64. Will be done. As a result, the payout side CPU 331 stops the output of the prize ball permission signal, and the payout side RAM 333 stores the information on the number of prize balls.

After that, at the timing of t65, the power is cut off in a situation where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333. Then, since the power for power failure is not supplied to the payout side RAM 333, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 is erased without actually executing the payout of the game balls. Then, by repeating the operation of the timing of t65 from the timing of t61, such as the timing of t66 to the timing of t67, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is actually paid out of the game ball. It will be erased repeatedly without any problems. In this case, it causes a great disadvantage to the player. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10, the above-mentioned inconvenience is prevented because the aspect shown in FIG. 48A is as described above.

<Handling of prize ball information when power supply is started without a ball>
Next, the handling of the prize ball information when the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started with the tank 221 without a ball will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG. 49.

First, a case where the main CPU 311 has a standby process after the start-up process will be described with reference to FIG. 49 (a).

When the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing of t71, the start-up process is started in each of the main CPU 311 and the payout side CPU 331. After that, at the timing of t72, the start-up process of the payout side CPU 331 is completed. In this case, since the tank 221 is in a ballless state and the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is started from the external power source, it is specified by the payout side CPU 331 that the ball non-detection signal is input from the ball non-detection sensor 223a. .. However, at this point, since the payout side CPU 331 has specified that the ball non-detection signal has been input, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t73, the startup process of the main CPU 311 is completed. However, the main CPU 311 waits without starting the execution of various processes until 1 sec elapses from this point. After that, at the timing of t74, which is a situation in which the main CPU 311 is waiting without starting the execution of various processes, the output continuation period of the ball non-detection signal in the payout side CPU 331 is the second ball non-specific reference period. When it reaches 1.0 sec, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped.

After that, at the timing of t75, the main CPU 311 starts executing various processes 1 sec after the start-up process. However, since the output of the prize ball permission signal has already been stopped, even if the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the prize ball command is not output and the information on the number of prize balls to the payout side RAM 333 is not output. Is not remembered. After that, at the timing of t76, the power supply is cut off.

As described above, according to this configuration, even if the power is turned on without the ball in the tank 221 and the power is cut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, the prize ball command is not output, so that it is actually It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the prize ball information is deleted without the game ball being paid out. This is because the timing at which the startup process is completed on the main CPU 311 is set after the timing at which the startup process is completed on the payout side CPU 331, and various processes are executed on the main CPU 311 until 1 sec elapses after the startup process. This is due to the fact that it is made to wait without starting.

Here, a case where the main CPU 311 does not have the above-mentioned standby processing will be described with reference to FIG. 49 (b).

When the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing of t81, the start-up process is started in each of the main CPU 311 and the payout side CPU 331. After that, at the timing of t82, the start-up process of the payout side CPU 331 is completed. In this case, since the tank 221 is in a ballless state and the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is started from the external power source, it is specified by the payout side CPU 331 that the ball non-detection signal is input from the ball non-detection sensor 223a. .. However, at this point, since the payout side CPU 331 has specified that the ball non-detection signal has been input, the output of the prize ball permission signal is started.

After that, at the timing of t83, the startup process of the main CPU 311 is completed. In this case, the main CPU 311 starts executing various processes. Then, by inputting the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331 in the situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main side RAM 313, the prize ball command is output from the main side CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331 at the timing of t84. Will be done. As a result, the payout side CPU 331 stops the output of the prize ball permission signal, and the payout side RAM 333 stores the information on the number of prize balls.

After that, at the timing of t85, the power is cut off in a situation where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333. Then, since the power for power failure is not supplied to the payout side RAM 333, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 is erased without actually executing the payout of the game balls. Then, by repeating the operation of the timing of t85 from the timing of t81, such as the timing of t86 to the timing of t87, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is actually paid out of the game ball. It will be erased repeatedly without any problems. In this case, it causes a great disadvantage to the player. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10, the above-mentioned inconvenience is prevented because the aspect shown in FIG. 49 (a) is as described above.

<Handling of prize ball information when power supply is started with the front door frame 14 open>
Next, the handling of the prize ball information when the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started with the front door frame 14 open will be described with reference to the time chart of FIG.

First, the front door frame opening switch 78 is the period (output permission reference period) from the input of the prize ball permission signal of the payout side CPU 331 to the identification that the output of the prize ball command is permitted in the main CPU 311. A case where the period from the input of the front door frame opening signal of the above to the time when the front door frame 14 is specified to be in the open state (opening specific reference period) is longer than that of FIG. 50 (a) will be described.

When the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing of t91, the start-up process is started in the main CPU 311 and the standby process is executed after the start-up process. After that, at the timing of t92, the main CPU 311 starts executing various processes 1 sec after the start-up process. In this case, since the prize ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side CPU 331, the measurement of the output permission reference period is started. Further, since the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 open this time, the measurement of the open specific reference period is started.

After that, at the timing of t93, the measurement of the open specific reference period out of the output permission reference period and the open specific reference period is completed, so that the main CPU 311 cannot output the prize ball command. After that, at the timing of t94, the measurement of the output permission reference period is completed. However, since the prize ball command cannot be output at the timing of t93, the prize ball command is not output even if the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, and the prize ball is not output to the payout side RAM 333. No numerical information is stored. After that, at the timing of t95, the power supply is cut off.

As described above, according to this configuration, even if the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 open and the power is cut off at a relatively early stage thereafter, the prize ball command is not output. It is possible to prevent the inconvenience that the prize ball information is deleted without the game ball being paid out. This is because the output permission reference period is set longer than the open specific reference period.

Here, a case where the output permission reference period is shorter than the open specific reference period in the main CPU 311 will be described with reference to FIG. 50 (b).

When the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is started at the timing of t101, the start-up process is started in the main CPU 311 and the standby process is executed after the start-up process. After that, at the timing of t102, the execution of various processes is started when 1 sec has elapsed from the start-up process on the main CPU 311. In this case, since the prize ball permission signal has already been output from the payout side CPU 331, the measurement of the output permission reference period is started. Further, since the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 open this time, the measurement of the open specific reference period is started.

After that, at the timing of t103, when the measurement of the output permission reference period out of the output permission reference period and the open specific reference period is completed, the prize ball command is output from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331. After that, at the timing of t104, the measurement of the open specific reference period is completed, so that the main CPU 311 cannot output the prize ball command. Further, in this case, the front door frame opening command is output from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331, so that the payout side CPU 331 cannot pay out the game ball. Therefore, the payout of the game ball based on the prize ball command output at the timing of t103 is stopped, and the state in which the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333 is maintained.

After that, at the timing of t105, the power is cut off in a situation where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333. Then, since the power for power failure is not supplied to the payout side RAM 333, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 is erased without actually executing the payout of the game balls. Then, the operation of the timing from t101 to the timing of t105 is repeated from the timing of t106 to the timing of t107, so that the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is used as the information on the number of prize balls in the payout side RAM 333. It is memorized and is repeatedly erased without actually paying out the game ball. In this case, it causes a great disadvantage to the player. On the other hand, in the pachinko machine 10, the above-mentioned inconvenience is prevented because the aspect shown in FIG. 50A is as described above.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

Noise may be generated in the pachinko machine 10, and the prize ball command may be rewritten by the noise. It is conceivable that a large amount of game balls will be paid out to the player due to the rewriting of the prize ball command, and a great disadvantage will occur in the game hall where the pachinko machine 10 is installed. On the other hand, the prize ball command is set to have upper information and lower information. Further, the addition process is performed using the upper information and the lower information, and when the result of the addition process is "11111111" ("FF" in hexadecimal number), it is determined that the prize ball command is normal. did. As a result, if either bit in the upper information or lower information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the result of the addition process will not be "11111111", so that the upper information or lower information will be rewritten. You can discover that it has been done.

In the case of a normal prize ball command, the calculation result is the same for all prize ball commands. Therefore, if the results determined to be normal are different for each of the multiple prize ball commands, the calculation result is the same. In order to determine whether or not is normal, it is necessary to determine which prize ball command the input prize ball command is, which may increase the processing load. On the other hand, according to the above embodiment, it can be identified that the prize ball command is normal if the calculation result is "11111111" when the calculation is performed regardless of the prize ball command. .. Therefore, it is possible to specify whether or not the prize ball command is normal only by determining whether or not the calculation results are the same, and further, it is considered normal for each prize ball command. There is no need to memorize the result when the judgment is made.

In addition, by referring to a part of the upper information, it is specified which command the command corresponds to by referring to some bits of the input information. In this way, by specifying which command the input command corresponds to by referring to a part of the information of the input command, all the upper information and the lower information are referred to when the command is input. You don't have to.

Further, the number of prize balls as the payout number information corresponding to the prize ball command is specified by referring to some bits of the lower information. In this way, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command can be specified by referring to a part of the information of the input prize ball command. Therefore, in order to specify the number of prize balls, all the upper information and the lower information are used. No need to refer.

This makes it possible to determine whether or not the input prize ball command is normal by using the information for specifying the command and the information corresponding to the number of prize balls.

Furthermore, in the calculation using the upper information and the lower information, although multiple types of prize ball commands are output, the same calculation (addition processing) is performed for each prize ball command, and the same result is obtained. When ("11111111") is obtained, it is determined that the prize ball command is normal. Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not the prize ball command is normal by using the information for identifying the prize ball command and the information for specifying the number of prize balls. ..

In addition to the addition process, it was determined whether or not the number of specified game balls paid out was less than 16, and if it was less than 16, it was determined that the prize ball command was normal. If it is determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal only by the addition process, it is conceivable that the bits at a plurality of locations are rewritten and the result of the addition process happens to be "11111111". In this case, a large amount of game balls may be paid out and a great deal of damage may occur in the game hall. On the other hand, in order to determine whether or not the number of specified game balls to be paid out is less than 16, it is possible to suppress the payout of 16 or more game balls with one prize ball command. It becomes.

In this way, it was determined whether or not the prize ball command was normal based on whether or not the result of the addition process was "11111111" and whether or not the number of prize balls was less than 16. As a result, compared with a game machine that specifies whether or not the prize ball command is normal based on only one of whether or not the result of the addition process is "11111111" and whether or not the number of prize balls is less than 16. Therefore, when the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it can be well discovered that the prize ball command has been rewritten.

If it is not determined that the input prize ball command is normal, the game ball based on the prize ball command is not paid out. As a result, the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise, etc., and even if the prize ball command corresponding to a large number of payouts is output, a large amount of game media is used in the game hall where the game machine is installed. Is paid out, and it becomes possible to suppress the occurrence of damage.

The power from the power supply and the power supply unit 321c for power failure of the emission control board 321 is supplied to the main RAM 313, but not to the payout side RAM 333. As a result, the capacity of the power supply unit 321c for power interruption can be reduced, and the cost of the pachinko machine 10 can be reduced accordingly.

However, in this configuration, when the power supply from the external power source to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped, all the information stored in the payout side RAM 333 is erased. On the other hand, the unpaid prize ball information is basically stored in the main RAM 313, and when the main CPU 311 inputs the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331, one prize is awarded to the CPU 331. The corresponding prize ball command is output. Then, the payout side CPU 331 stores the information on the number of prize balls corresponding to the input prize ball command in the payout side RAM 333, and drives and controls the payout device 224 based on the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333. I tried to do it. As a result, when there are a large number of unpaid prize balls, only a part of them is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and the rest is stored in the main side RAM 313. Therefore, even if the power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is cut off in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain, it is possible to minimize the number of prize balls erased at that time.

Incidentally, a configuration is also conceivable in which the information on the number of prize balls stored in the main RAM 313 is subtracted each time the game balls are paid out by the payout device 224, without storing the information on the number of prize balls in the payout side RAM 333. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main CPU 311 is extremely increased, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main CPU 311 by providing the payout side CPU 331 separately from the main CPU 311 disappears. Will end up. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout side CPU 331 separately from the main side CPU 311 and to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect in addition to the effect.

When the information on the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes the permission reference number, the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331 to the main side CPU 311 is started, and the output permission state of the prize ball command is set. I did. As a result, the information on the number of prize balls is smoothly replenished to the payout side RAM 333, and the game balls are smoothly paid out accordingly.

In addition, when the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 has reached the permitted standard number, the prize ball command is output and exceeds the permitted standard number (when the disallowed standard number is reached), the payout is made. The output of the prize ball permission signal from the side CPU 331 to the main CPU 311 is stopped, and the output is set to the disallowed state. As a result, a part of the number of unpaid prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and the rest is stored in the main side RAM 313. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of prize balls that are erased when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain.

In addition, by setting the permission reference number to "3", which is a number of 1 or more, the output permission state is set at the timing before the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes "0". Can be done. Further, when the output of the prize ball permission signal is started in the situation where the prize ball information is already stored in the main RAM 313, the prize ball is paid out from the main CPU 311 at the timing before the new game ball is paid out. A prize ball command is output to the side CPU 331 so that the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 exceeds the permitted reference number. As a result, for example, in a situation where the payout of game balls is being executed, when a new prize is generated, the main is at the timing before all the payouts of the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 are completed. It is possible to output a prize ball command from the side CPU 311 and add a new number of prize balls to the payout side RAM 333. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect while making the payout of the game ball continuous.

In particular, in the pachinko machine 10, the payout device 224 is stopped when the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes "0" in order to save power. In this case, if the game balls are not continuously paid out in the situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, it is necessary to repeatedly start and stop the drive of the payout device 224. Then, starting the drive of the payout device 224 requires a larger driving force than when maintaining the drive state of the payout device 224, which is not preferable. On the other hand, in the situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the game balls are continuously paid out as described above, so that the payout device 224 can be repeatedly started and stopped. The sex is reduced.

On the other hand, the permission standard number is set to be equal to or less than the minimum number of prize balls among the number of prize balls set as the number of prize balls for winning. As a result, in the configuration in which the payout of the game balls is continuous as described above, the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 can be reduced as much as possible. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the number of prize balls that are erased when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain.

When the payout of the game balls corresponding to the prize ball information is started, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 and the game balls corresponding to the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 are paid out. Will all be done. That is, when the payout of the game ball corresponding to the prize ball information is started and the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the ball is lent until all the game balls based on the prize ball information are paid out. No request signal is input. If the prize ball command is output and the prize ball request signal is input at the same time, information is stored in both the ball rental number storage area 375 and the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333 to pay out the game ball. If the power is cut off, the information in both the rental ball number storage area 375 and the prize ball number storage area 374 will be deleted. According to the above embodiment, when the payout of the game balls corresponding to the prize ball information is started, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 and the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 are added. Since all the corresponding game balls are paid out, the ball lending request signal is input after all the corresponding game balls are paid out. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the input of the ball lending request signal and the output of the prize ball command at the same time.

In addition, when the game ball corresponding to the prize ball information is paid out, the ball lending state is not set. As a result, while the prize ball is being paid out, even if the ball lending operation is performed by the ball lending operation device 36, the prize ball can be paid out with priority. Assuming a configuration in which the ball lending operation is prioritized when the ball lending operation is performed while the prize balls are being paid out, the prize ball number information is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322. Despite the fact that is remembered, it becomes necessary to stop the payout of prize balls. In this case, when the pachinko machine 10 is in the power cut-off state, the information on the number of prize balls is erased because the power for power failure is not supplied to the RAM 333 of the payout control board 322 as described above. On the other hand, since the ball lending device Y has its own memory retention function when the information is cut off, the ball lending device Y should not input the ball lending request signal when the prize ball is being paid out. By doing so, the information on the number of rented balls is stored in the ball renting device Y, and the information on the number of rented balls is not deleted even if the pachinko machine 10 is in the power cutoff state. In the above circumstances, even if the ball lending operation is performed in the situation where the prize balls are paid out, by giving priority to the prize ball payout, the information on the number of prize balls is deleted without actually being paid out. Is prevented.

Further, when the game balls corresponding to the information on the number of prize balls are paid out, the ball lending request signal is not input from the ball lending device Y. When the game ball corresponding to the information on the number of prize balls is paid out, the number of prize balls and the number of balls to be lent are stored in the payout side RAM 333 when the ball rental request signal is input. If the state is cut off, both the number of prize balls and the number of rented balls will be deleted. When the game balls corresponding to the information on the number of prize balls are paid out, both the number of prize balls and the number of balls to be rented are stored in the payout side RAM 333 by not inputting the ball lending request signal. Can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the information on the number of rented balls from being erased even if the power is cut off when the game medium corresponding to the information on the number of prize balls is paid out.

When the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes the switching reference number, the payout speed setting of the payout device 224 is changed from the normal cycle up to that point to the low speed cycle. In the pachinko machine 10, as described above, when the number of prize balls is not stored in the payout side RAM 333, the drive of the payout device 224 is stopped to save power. In this case, when it becomes necessary to repeatedly start and stop the drive of the payout device 224 when the single-shot winning is repeatedly generated at a predetermined interval, the payout device 224 is set to start the drive of the payout device 224. It is not preferable because it requires a larger driving force than when maintaining the driving state. On the other hand, when the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes the switching reference number, the payout speed of the payout device 224 is switched to a low speed cycle, so that a single prize is set at a predetermined interval. Even if the prize balls are repeatedly generated, the possibility that the next prize will be generated while the prize balls of the switching reference number are being executed in a low speed cycle is increased, and the drive start and drive stop of the payout device 224 may be repeatedly performed. The sex is reduced.

In this configuration, the number of permission reference numbers that trigger the setting change from the output disapproval state to the output permission state of the prize ball command is set to a number larger than the number of switching reference numbers that triggers the switching of the payout device 224 to the low speed cycle. .. Further, when the output of the prize ball permission signal is started in the situation where the prize ball information is already stored in the main RAM 313, the prize ball is paid out from the main CPU 311 at the timing before the new game ball is paid out. The prize ball command is output to the side CPU 331, and the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 is configured to exceed the permitted reference number. As a result, in a situation where a plurality of prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the prizes stored in the payout side RAM 333 until all the output of each prize ball command corresponding to the prize ball information is executed. The information on the number of balls does not reach the switching reference number. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the payout speed of the payout device 224 from being switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle even though the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, and the game ball can be paid out smoothly. It can be carried out.

In particular, the number of permitted standards was set to one more than the number of switching standards (number of permitted standards = number of switching standards + 1). As a result, the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the number of permitted reference numbers is set to be two or more more than the number of switching reference numbers. By reducing the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 in this way, it is possible to minimize the number of prize balls that are erased when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off.

<Second Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, each processing configuration of the main processing, the information determination processing, and the prize ball permission signal monitoring processing in the main CPU 311 is different from that of the first embodiment. Therefore, these different processing configurations will be described below.

First, the main process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the main process, first, in step S2401, the start-up process accompanying the power-on is executed. Specifically, for example, it waits for about 500 msec to wait for the control board on the slave side (payout control board 322, etc.) to be in an operable state. Here, in the main process (FIG. 21) in the first embodiment, the process of step S402 is executed after the start-up process is executed to wait for 1 sec. However, the main process in the present embodiment is made to wait for 1 sec. The process does not execute the process.

Then, after executing the processes of steps S2402 to S2412, the main process is terminated. In this case, the processes of steps S2402 to S2409 and steps S241 to S2412 are the same as the processes of steps S403 to S412 of the main process (FIG. 21) in the first embodiment. The explanation is omitted.

However, in the present embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the process of step S2410 is executed before the interrupt enable setting (step S2411) is executed. In step S2410, the disapproval flag (main side disapproval information) is stored in the disapproval flag storage area (main side disapproval information storage means) provided in the main RAM 313. This disapproval flag is a flag for the main CPU 311 to specify that the output of the prize ball command is prohibited after the power is turned on.

Next, the information determination process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the information determination process, first, in step S2501, it is determined whether or not the winning information is stored in any of the bits W0 to W6 of the register 381 for this time in the main CPU 311. If the winning information is not stored in any of the bits W0 to W6, the information determination process is terminated as it is. If the winning information is stored in any of the bits W0 to W6, the process proceeds to step S2502.

In step S2502, it is determined whether or not the disapproval flag is stored in the disallowance flag storage area of the main RAM 313. If the disapproval flag is not stored, the process proceeds to step S2504 as it is. On the other hand, when the disapproval flag is stored, the process proceeds to step S2504 after the disapproval flag is cleared in step S2503.

Then, after executing the processes of step S2504 and subsequent steps, the information determination process ends. Since each process of steps S2504 to S2517 is the same as each process of steps S701 to S714 of the information determination process (FIG. 52) in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

Next, the prize ball permission signal monitoring process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 53.

In the prize ball permission signal monitoring process, first, in step S2601, it is determined whether or not the disapproval flag is stored in the disallowance flag storage area of the main RAM 313. If the disapproval flag is stored, the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is cleared to "0" in step S2605, and then the main prize ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated. As a result, while the disapproval flag is stored, the output of the prize ball command is prohibited even if the prize ball permission signal is input from the payout side CPU 331. Then, this disapproval flag is stored in the main process executed by the main CPU 311 when the power is turned on as described above, and then a prize is generated and the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313. If it is erased. Therefore, even if the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313 when the power is turned on, the prize ball command is not output until the game is started after the power is turned on and a prize is generated.

On the other hand, when the disapproval flag is stored, whether or not the prize ball permission information indicating that the prize ball permission signal is input in step S2602 is stored in the 7th bit D7 of the first input port 351. Is determined. If the prize ball permission information is stored, in step S2603, whether or not the value stored in the prize ball permission counter area (means for grasping the permission opportunity) 365 of the main RAM 311 is "5". To judge. When the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is "5" or more, the main prize ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated as it is. If the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is less than "5", the value of the prize ball permission counter area 365 is added by 1 in step S2604, and then the main prize ball permission signal monitoring process is terminated.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the disapproval flag is stored in the main RAM 313 when the power is turned on, so that even if the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313 when the power is turned on, the prize ball No command is output. Then, the state in which the output of the prize ball command is prohibited is maintained until the game is started after the power is turned on and a prize is generated. Therefore, when the power is turned on and off repeatedly, it is possible to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being erased without executing the payout of the game ball. ..

In particular, in the configuration of the present embodiment, the disapproval flag is used as described above regardless of whether the payout of the game ball is restricted or unrestricted, so that the power is turned on and the power is turned off. Is repeatedly performed, it is possible to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being erased without executing the payout of the game ball.

In addition, when the output of the prize ball command is prohibited, the game is started after the power is turned on and a prize is generated (the game content becomes the payout game content, or the passing portion of the passage detection target provided in the game area is displayed. Changed to be released by passing the game ball). Repeated power-on and power-off are considered to occur in situations where the game is not being played or the game cannot be played. Therefore, by setting the conditions for canceling the output prohibition state of the prize ball command as described above. , It is possible to surely prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being erased without executing the payout of the game ball.

The condition for releasing the output prohibition state of the prize ball command is not limited to the above, and for example, the release condition may be that the game ball launch handle 41 is operated. In this case, the output prohibition state may be released based on the detection result of the touch sensor or the handle operation sensor provided on the game ball launch handle 41. Further, the release condition may be that the game ball is launched, the game ball is discharged from the game area, or the game ball is discharged from the pachinko machine 10. In this case, it is preferable to provide a ball detection sensor at the entrance or exit of the gaming area or at the discharge port to the island facility in the pachinko machine 10, and release the output prohibition state based on the detection result of the ball detection sensor.

<Third Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the processing configuration of the reading process in the main CPU 311 is different from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, in the first embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, the main CPU 311 uses the detection start timing of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 as a reference for the game. Although the configuration is such that the presence or absence of passage of the ball is specified, in the present embodiment, the presence or absence of passage of the game ball is specified based on the detection end timing of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155. Therefore, the processing configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 54 and the explanatory diagram of FIG. 55.

In the present embodiment, the prize ball permission signal is not input to the 7th bit D7 of the 1st input port 351 and is blank. Along with this, in the reading process, the mask processing (step S602) of the input information this time in the first embodiment is not executed.

In the reading process, first, in step S2701, the process of acquiring the information of the first input port 351 as the input information this time is executed. Specifically, the information of the first input port 351 is stored in the register 381 for this time of the main CPU 311 as in the first embodiment.

For example, when the second winning opening sensor 152b is ON and the other sensors are OFF, the information form of the input information stored in the register 381 for this time is shown in FIG. 55 (a). As such, it becomes "00100000".

In the following step S2702, the process of acquiring the information stored in the previous area 362 of the main RAM 313 as the previous input information and the information stored in the previous two-time area 363 of the main RAM 313 as the previous input information. To execute. Specifically, as in the first embodiment, the information of the previous area 362 is stored in the previous register 382 of the main CPU 311 and the information of the previous area 363 is stored in the previous register of the main CPU 311. Store in 383.

For example, in the previous reading process, when the lower operating port sensor 154b, the count sensor 153, the second winning opening sensor 152b, and the third winning opening sensor 152c are turned on, and the others are turned off, The information form of the previous input information stored in the previous register 382 is "01100101" as shown in FIG. 55 (b). Further, when the lower operating port sensor 154b, the count sensor 153, and the second winning opening sensor 152b are ON in the reading process two times before, and the other sensors are OFF, they are stored in the register 383 for the previous two times. As shown in FIG. 55 (c), the information form of the input information before the previous time is "00100101".

In the following step S2703, the next writing process is executed. Since this is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted here.

In the following step S2704, the inversion process of the input information is executed this time. Specifically, the value of each bit of the register 381 for this time is inverted. For example, when the input information this time is "00100000" as shown in FIG. 55 (a), the inverted information is "110111111" as shown in FIG. 55 (d).

In the following step S2705, AND processing is executed between the information of the current register 381 inverted in step S2704 and the previous input information stored in the previous register 382. That is, the logical product of the information of the current register 381 inverted in step S2704 and the previous input information stored in the previous register 382 is calculated. Then, the information of the calculation result is updated as the information of the register 381 for this time.

For example, when the inverted information is "11011111" as shown in FIG. 55 (d) and the previous input information is "01100101" as shown in FIG. 55 (b), the AND process is performed in step S2705. The resulting information is "01000011" as shown in FIG. 55 (e).

In the following step S2706, the AND processing of the information as a result of the AND processing in step S2705 and the input information before the previous time stored in the register 383 for the previous time is executed. That is, the logical product of the information of the current register 381 obtained in step S2705 and the information of the pre-previous register 383 obtained in step S2702 is calculated. Then, the result of the calculation is updated as the information of the register 381 for this time.

For example, the information of the current register 381 obtained in step S2705 is “01000101” as shown in FIG. 55 (e), and the information of the pre-previous register 383 obtained in step S2702 is shown in FIG. 55 (c). In the case of "00100101" as described above, the information of the result of the AND processing in step S2706 is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 55 (f).

In the following step S2707, the information determination process is executed. Since this is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted here. After that, the main reading process is terminated.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 55, the detection information indicating that the game ball is detected in the previous time and the time before the previous time is confirmed for the lower operating port sensor 154b and the count sensor 153, and the game ball is detected this time. Non-detection information indicating that it has not been confirmed has been confirmed. That is, the detection end timing of the game ball by the lower operating port sensor 154b and the count sensor 153 corresponds to the timing of the current reading process. Therefore, after the current reading process, the winning information is stored in the bits corresponding to the lower operating port sensor 154b and the count sensor 153 of the register 381 for this time.

On the other hand, the bit corresponding to the third winning opening sensor 152c of the previous input information is sporadically stored with "1" due to the influence of noise or the like, but the winning information is not stored for it. Further, the detection information is continuously input from the second winning opening sensor 152b from the second time before the previous time, and "1" is stored in all the bits corresponding to the second winning opening sensor 152b in the previous time, the previous time, and this time. Winning information is not stored for this.

From the above, even if the detection end timing of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 is used as a reference, it is possible to specify whether or not the game ball has passed by executing the above calculation process. However, the processing configuration according to the first embodiment is preferable in terms of identifying the presence or absence of passage as quickly as possible.

<Fourth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the processing configuration of the reading process in the main CPU 311 is different from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, in the first embodiment, when the detection information indicating that the game ball is detected is input from the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, the corresponding bit of the first input port 351 is input. However, in the present embodiment, when the detection information indicating that the game ball is detected is input from the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, the first input port 351 is stored. Store "0" in the corresponding bit of. Along with this change, the processing configuration of the reading process is changed. Therefore, the processing configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 56 and the explanatory diagram of FIG. 57.

In the present embodiment, the prize ball permission signal is not input to the 7th bit D7 of the 1st input port 351 and is blank. Along with this, in the reading process, the mask processing (step S602) of the input information this time in the first embodiment is not executed.

In the reading process, first, in step S2801, the process of acquiring the information of the first input port 351 as the input information this time is executed. Specifically, the information of the first input port 351 is stored in the register 381 for this time of the main CPU 311 as in the first embodiment.

For example, when the lower operating port sensor 154b, the count sensor 153, and the second winning port sensor 152b are ON, and the others are OFF, the input information of the current input stored in the register 381 for this time is stored. The information form is "01011010" as shown in FIG. 57 (a).

In the following step S2802, the process of acquiring the information stored in the previous area 362 of the main RAM 313 as the previous input information and the information stored in the previous two-time area 363 of the main RAM 313 as the previous input information. To execute. Specifically, as in the first embodiment, the information of the previous area 362 is stored in the previous register 382 of the main CPU 311 and the information of the previous area 363 is stored in the previous register of the main CPU 311. Store in 383.

For example, in the previous reading process, when the lower operating port sensor 154b, the count sensor 153, the second winning port sensor 152b, and the third winning port sensor 152c are turned on, and the others are turned off, As shown in FIG. 57B, the information form of the previous input information stored in the previous register 382 is “00011010”. Further, when the second winning opening sensor 152b is ON and the other sensors are OFF in the reading process of the previous two times, the information form of the previous two times input information stored in the previous two times register 383 is shown in FIG. As shown in 57 (c), it becomes "01011111".

In the following step S2803, the writing process for the next time is executed. Since this is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted here.

In the following step S2804, the inversion processing of the current input information and the previous input information is executed. Specifically, the value of each bit of the register 381 for this time is inverted. For example, when the input information this time is "01011010" as shown in FIG. 57 (a), the inverted information is "10100101" as shown in FIG. 57 (d). In addition, the value of each bit of the previous register 382 is inverted. For example, when the previously input information is "00011010" as shown in FIG. 57 (b), the inverted information is "11100101" as shown in FIG. 57 (e).

In the following step S2805, AND processing is executed between the information of the current register 381 inverted in step S2804 and the information of the previous register 382 also inverted. That is, the logical product of the information of the current register 381 inverted in step S2804 and the information of the previous register 382 also inverted is calculated. Then, the information of the calculation result is updated as the information of the register 381 for this time.

For example, when the inverted information of the input information this time is "10100101" as shown in FIG. 57 (d), and the inverted information of the previously input information is "11100101" as shown in FIG. 57 (e). The information of the result of the AND processing in step S2805 is "10100101" as shown in FIG. 57 (f).

In the following step S2806, the AND processing of the information as a result of the AND processing in step S2805 and the input information before the previous time stored in the register 383 for the previous time is executed. That is, the logical product of the information of the current register 381 obtained in step S2805 and the information of the pre-previous register 383 obtained in step S2802 is calculated. Then, the result of the calculation is updated as the information of the register 381 for this time.

For example, the information of the current register 381 obtained in step S2805 is “10100101” as shown in FIG. 57 (f), and the information of the pre-previous register 383 obtained in step S2802 is shown in FIG. 57 (c). In the case of "01011111", the information of the result of the AND processing in step S2806 is "000000101" as shown in FIG. 57 (g).

In the following step S2807, the information determination process is executed. Since this is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted here. After that, the main reading process is terminated.

As described above, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 57, the detection information indicating that the game ball is detected this time and the previous time is confirmed for the lower operating port sensor 154b and the count sensor 153, and the game ball is detected two times before. Non-detection information indicating that it has not been confirmed has been confirmed. Therefore, after the current reading process, the winning information is stored in the bits corresponding to the lower operating port sensor 154b and the count sensor 153 of the register 381 for this time.

On the other hand, the bit corresponding to the third winning opening sensor 152c of the previous input information is sporadically stored with "0" due to the influence of noise or the like, but the winning information is not stored for it. Further, the detection information is continuously input from the second winning opening sensor 152b from the previous two times, and "0" is stored in all the bits corresponding to the second winning opening sensor 152b in the previous two times, the previous time, and this time. Winning information is not stored for this.

From the above, it is assumed that when the detection information indicating that the game ball is detected is input from the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, "0" is stored in the corresponding bit of the first input port 351. However, by executing the above calculation process, it is possible to specify whether or not the game ball has passed. However, the processing configuration in the first embodiment is preferable in terms of reducing the number of information to be inverted as much as possible.

<Fifth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the number of permission criteria is different from that of the first embodiment, and the processing configuration of the mask processing at the time of addition by the payout side CPU 331 is also different accordingly. Therefore, this difference will be described below. FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing the mask processing at the time of addition in the present embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the timing of starting the output of the prize ball permission signal is different from that of the first embodiment, and the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less. The output of the prize ball permission signal is started. Therefore, when the information on the number of prize balls is added, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less.

In the configuration in which the permission reference number is set to 5, the payout side ROM 332 is provided with "00000011" (corresponding to 3), which corresponds to the first addition correction information, as the addition correction information. Each information of "00000100" (corresponding to 4 pieces) corresponding to the information for correction at the time of the second addition and "000000101" (corresponding to 5 pieces) corresponding to the information for correction at the time of the third addition is stored. Incidentally, the first addition time correction information corresponds to the main correction information, and the second addition time correction information and the third addition time correction information correspond to the sub correction information.

By the way, in the addition mask processing, first, in step S2901, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the first dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called information is referred to at the time of the first addition. Calculate the logical product with the correction information. Then, the calculation result is stored in the first dedicated register.

After that, in step S2902, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the second dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called information is logically producted with the above-mentioned second addition correction information. Is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the second dedicated register.

After that, in step S2903, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the third dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called information is logically producted with the above-mentioned third addition correction information. Is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the third dedicated register.

Then, in step S2904, the comparison process is executed. Specifically, it is specified which of the information stored in the first dedicated register, the second dedicated register, and the third dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331 corresponds to the maximum number of game balls. After that, in step S2905, the information on the maximum number of game balls specified in step S2904 is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. After that, the mask processing at the time of this addition is terminated.

According to this configuration, even if the number of permission criteria is 5, the number of permission criteria and the number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition (the number of correction criteria at the time of addition) can be matched. That is, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "00000011" corresponding to three, the calculation result in step S2901 is "00000011" (corresponding to three). , The calculation result in step S2902 is "00000000000" (corresponding to 0 pieces), and the calculation result in step S2903 is "00000001" (corresponding to 1 piece). Then, the calculation result in step S2901 becomes maximum, and the information corresponding to the calculation result is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. This information is the same as the information on the number of prize balls stored before the mask processing.

Further, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "000000101" corresponding to five, the calculation result in step S2901 is "00000001" (corresponding to one). , The calculation result in step S2902 is "00000100" (corresponding to 4 pieces), and the calculation result in step S2903 is "000000101" (corresponding to 5 pieces). Then, the calculation result in step S2903 becomes maximum, and the information corresponding to the calculation result is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. This information is the same as the information on the number of prize balls stored before the mask processing.

The information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 as described above is maintained as it is in all cases of 5 or less.

On the other hand, for example, data 1 is set in the most significant bit of the information on the number of prize balls (“00001011”) corresponding to 5 stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 due to the influence of noise or the like, and the number is 133. It is conceivable that it will be the corresponding "10000101". In this case, the calculation result in step S2901 is "00000001" (corresponding to one), the calculation result in step S2902 is "00000100" (corresponding to four), and the calculation result in step S2903 is "000000101". (Equivalent to 5). Then, the calculation result in step S2903 becomes maximum, and the information corresponding to the calculation result is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. This information is the same as the information on the number of prize balls stored before being rewritten by noise.

As described above, when the number of prize balls is added, even if the information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 exceeds the permitted standard number due to the influence of noise, it is less than the permitted standard number. It is possible to return to the information before it was rewritten due to the influence of noise. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a disadvantage, and it is also possible to prevent the player from suffering a disadvantage.

In particular, in the above configuration, "1" (data 1) is set for each of the lower bits to the bits of the specific order as the addition correction information, and "0" (data 0) is set for the other bits. By adopting the configuration having the set first addition correction information (main correction information), the above excellent effect can be obtained even if the addition reference information for the number of permitted standards is not provided. .. That is, the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained while reducing the storage capacity of the payout side ROM 332 and the processing load of the payout side CPU 331.

<Sixth Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, the processing configuration of the mask processing at the time of payout setting by the payout side CPU 331 is different. Therefore, this difference will be described below. FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing the mask processing at the time of payout setting in the present embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the maximum number of prize balls in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 18, which is the sum of the number of permitted criteria and the maximum number of prize balls corresponding to winning, as in the first embodiment. In this case, the payout side ROM 332 has "00001111" (corresponding to 15 pieces) corresponding to the first payout correction information and "00010000" corresponding to the second payout correction information as the payout correction information. (Equivalent to 16 pieces), "00010001" (corresponding to 17 pieces) corresponding to the third payout correction information, and "00010010" (corresponding to 18 pieces) corresponding to the fourth payout time correction information. Each information of is stored. Incidentally, the first payout correction information corresponds to the main correction information, and the second payout correction information, the third payout correction information, and the fourth payout correction information correspond to the sub-correction information.

By the way, in the mask processing at the time of payout setting, first, in step S3001, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the first dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called first payout is performed with respect to the called information. Calculates the logical product with the time correction information. Then, the calculation result is stored in the first dedicated register.

After that, in step S3002, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the second dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called information is logically producted with the above-mentioned second payout correction information. Is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the second dedicated register.

After that, in step S3003, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the third dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called information is logically producted with the above-mentioned third payout correction information. Is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the third dedicated register.

After that, in step S3004, the information of the prize ball number storage area 374 having a 1-byte configuration is called to the fourth dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331, and the called information is logically producted with the above-mentioned fourth payout correction information. Is calculated. Then, the calculation result is stored in the fourth dedicated register.

After that, in step S3005, the comparison process is executed. Specifically, which of the information stored in the first dedicated register, the second dedicated register, the third dedicated register, and the fourth dedicated register of the payout side CPU 331 corresponds to the maximum number of game balls? To identify. After that, in step S3006, the information on the maximum number of game balls specified in step S3005 is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. After that, the mask processing at the time of main payout setting is terminated.

According to this configuration, the maximum number of prize balls and the number of prize balls for correction at the time of payout (correction reference number at the time of payout) can be matched. That is, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "00010010" corresponding to 18, the calculation result in step S3001 is "00000010" (corresponding to 2 pieces). , The calculation result in step S3002 is "00010000" (corresponding to 16 pieces), the calculation result in step S3003 is "00010000" (corresponding to 16 pieces), and the calculation result in step S3004 is "00010010" (corresponding to 18 pieces). Equivalent). Then, the calculation result in step S3004 is maximized, and the information corresponding to the calculation result is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. This information is the same as the information on the number of prize balls stored before the mask processing.

Further, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is "000000101" corresponding to five, the calculation result in step S3001 is "00001011" (corresponding to five). , The calculation result in step S3002 is "00000000000" (corresponding to 0 pieces), the calculation result in step S3003 is "00000001" (corresponding to 1 piece), and the calculation result in step S3004 is "0000000000" (corresponding to 0 pieces). Equivalent). Then, the calculation result in step S3001 is maximized, and the information corresponding to the calculation result is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. This information is the same as the information on the number of prize balls stored before the mask processing.

The information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 as described above is maintained as it is in all cases of 18 or less.

On the other hand, for example, data 1 is set in the most significant bit of the information on the number of prize balls (“00001011”) corresponding to 5 stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 due to the influence of noise or the like, and the number is 133. It is conceivable that it will be the corresponding "10000101". In this case, the calculation result in step S3001 is "000000101" (corresponding to 5 pieces), the calculation result in step S3002 is "00000000000" (corresponding to 0 pieces), and the calculation result in step S3003 is "00000001". (Equivalent to one), and the calculation result in step S3004 is "00000000000" (corresponding to 0). Then, the calculation result in step S3001 is maximized, and the information corresponding to the calculation result is updated in the prize ball number storage area 374. This information is the same as the information on the number of prize balls stored before being rewritten by noise.

As described above, when the game balls are paid out, even if the information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 exceeds the upper limit number of prize balls due to the influence of noise, the upper limit reference number is used. It is possible to return to the information before it was rewritten due to the influence of noise. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a disadvantage, and it is also possible to prevent the player from suffering a disadvantage.

In particular, in the above configuration, as the payout correction information, the data 1 is set in each of the lower bits to the bits in the specific order, and the data 0 is set in the other bits. By having the configuration having (main correction information), the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained even if the payment correction information for the number of permission standards is not provided. That is, the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained while reducing the storage capacity of the payout side ROM 332 and the processing load of the payout side CPU 331.

<7th Embodiment>
In the present embodiment, when the number of information stored in the prize ball counter area 361 exceeds the reference information number, it is taught that the information number exceeds the reference information number. These processes will be described.

As described above, the general winning opening 82, the variable winning device 83, the upper operating opening 84a, and the lower operating opening 84b are provided, and when a game ball enters each entry portion, each entry portion is provided. Information that a game ball has entered the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball provided corresponding to the above is counted. Since the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball are composed of 8 bits, the number of times the prize balls that can be stored have not been executed is 255 times.

However, when the game ball enters the ball entry section corresponding to the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d, which is stored as 255 times even though the number of times the prize ball has not been executed is stored as 255 times. It is conceivable that the ball entered becomes invalid or the state stored as 255 times becomes 0 times. In this case, it can be said that the player is disadvantaged because the game ball is not paid out.

Here, a state in which the number of times the prize ball has not been performed in the present embodiment is likely to be 255 will be described. As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, as a kind of special gaming state, a frequency improving state in which the frequency of the electric accessory 89 being opened per unit time is set to be high. In this frequency-improved state, winning a prize in the lower operating port 84b is likely to occur. Since winning a prize is likely to occur in the lower operating port 84b, the number of times the prize ball has not been executed in the counter area 361c for four prize balls tends to be 255 times.

The frequency improvement state will be described in detail while explaining the control performed by the electric accessory 89 in the present embodiment.

First, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 60, an electric accessory opening counter C4 is provided in addition to the above-mentioned counters. The electric accessory opening counter C4 is a loop counter like other counters, and is added one by one in order in the range of 0 to 250, for example. Further, an electric accessory initial value counter is provided, and when the value of the electric accessory release counter C4 reaches the maximum value as in the jackpot random number counter C1 described above, the electric accessory initial value counter at that time is reached. Is read as the initial value of the electric accessory release counter C4. Although the details will be described later, a lottery may be performed to determine whether or not to control the electric accessory 89 in the open state, and in the lottery, the electric accessory 89 is controlled to the open state by using the electric accessory release counter C4. It is decided whether or not. For example, if C4 = 0 to 190, the electric accessory 89 is controlled to the open state, and if C4 = 191 to 250, the electric accessory 89 is not controlled to the open state. The value of the electric accessory opening counter C4 is periodically updated, and is stored in the accessory holding ball storage area of the main RAM 313 at the timing when the game ball passes through the through gate 85. The electric accessory release counter C4 is updated in step S203 in the timer interrupt process, like the other counters.

Next, the start winning process in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 61. In the present embodiment, after the processing of steps S301 to S304 in the above-described embodiment is performed, the accessory hold counter acquisition processing of steps S305 to S308 is performed.

In step S305, it is determined whether or not the game ball has passed through the through gate 85. When the game ball has passed through the through gate 85, the process proceeds to step S306, and whether or not the number of reserved balls at the gate (hereinafter referred to as the number of reserved balls N2) is less than the upper limit (4 in the present embodiment). To judge. On condition that the game ball passes through the through gate 85 and the number of reserved balls N2 <4, the process proceeds to step S307, and the number of reserved balls N2 is incremented by one. Subsequently, in step S308, the value of the electric accessory release counter C4 described above is stored in the smallest storage area among the free storage areas of the accessory holding ball storage area of the main RAM 313. Specifically, the accessory holding ball storage area is provided with a first area, a second area, a third area, a fourth area, and an execution area, and when the game ball passes through the through gate 85, The value of the electric accessory opening counter C4 is stored in the area having the smallest number in which information is not stored in the first to fourth areas. If it is not determined in step S305 that the game ball has passed through the through gate 85, and if it is determined in step S306 that the value of the number of reserved balls N2 is the upper limit, the value of the electric accessory opening counter 4 is set. The main start winning process is completed without storing.

Next, the opening / closing process of the electric accessory 89 performed in the second specific lamp unit control process of step S505 in the above embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 62 and 63.

First, in step S3101, it is determined whether or not there is an open flag, that is, whether or not the open flag is set in the open flag storage area provided in the main RAM 313. The open flag is a flag that means controlling the electric accessory 89 in the open state. If the release flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S3102, and it is determined whether or not there is an open winning flag, that is, whether or not the open winning flag is set in the open winning flag storage area provided in the main RAM 313. .. The open winning flag is a flag meaning that the electric accessory 89 has been won in a lottery for controlling the open state. If the open winning flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S3103, and it is determined whether or not the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0. The accessory timer t2 is a counter provided in the main RAM 313, and is used when controlling the electric accessory 89.

If the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0 in step S3103, the process proceeds to step 3104, and whether or not the value of the accessory holding ball storage area N2 is larger than 0, that is, in the accessory holding ball storage area N2. Determine if the value is stored. When the value is stored in the accessory holding ball storage area, the electric accessory opening lottery process in steps S3105 to S3113 is performed.

First, in step S3105, it is determined whether or not the gaming state is the frequency improving state. If the gaming state is determined to be the frequency improvement state in step S3105, an open lottery is performed in step S3106. The above-mentioned electric accessory opening counter C4 is used for the opening lottery. Specifically, when the value stored in the accessory holding ball storage area is shifted and the value of the electric accessory release counter C4 shifted to the execution area is 0 to 190, the open lottery is won. Become. At the same time as the open lottery, 750 is set in the accessory timer t2.

The accessory timer t2 is subtracted at a cycle of 0.2 msec. That is, when 750 is set, it becomes 0 in 1.5 seconds. Further, the shift of the value stored in the accessory holding ball storage area is to shift the information stored in the accessory holding ball storage area to the next lower area. Then, when the value of the first area is shifted, the value is shifted to the execution area.

In step S3107, the value set in the accessory timer t2 and the lottery result of the open lottery are transmitted to the display control device 325 as a command. Upon receiving the command, the display control device 325 performs a variable display of whether or not to open the electric accessory 89 at the lower right end portion of the symbol display device 91. Specifically, during the variable display, the symbol with the shell open and the symbol with the shell closed are displayed alternately, and if the open lottery is won, the shell will be displayed when the variable display is stopped. The open symbol will be stopped, and if the open lottery is not won, the symbol with the closed shell will be stopped when the variable display is stopped.

After the process of step S3107 is performed, the process proceeds to step S3108, and it is determined whether or not the open lottery in step S3106 has been won. If the open lottery has been won, the open winning flag is set in the open winning flag storage area in step S3109, and 3 is set in the open count counter provided in the main RAM 313. The opening number counter is a counter used to count the number of times the electric accessory 89 has been opened. That is, when the open lottery is won in the frequency-improved state, the electric accessory 89 is opened three times. If it is determined in step S3108 that the open lottery has not been won, or if the process of step S3109 is performed, the present electric accessory opening process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S3105 that the frequency is improved, the process proceeds to step S3110. In step S3110, an open lottery is performed as in step S3106. Further, 14750 is set in the accessory timer t2. In step S3111, the result of the open lottery performed in step S3110 and the value set in the accessory timer t2 are transmitted to the display control device 325. After the processing of step S3111 is performed, the process proceeds to step S3112 to determine whether or not the lottery result of step S3110 is a winning, and if the lottery result is a winning, the open winning flag is set in step S3113. Set 1 to the open count counter. For example, if the open lottery is won in the normal state, the electric accessory 89 will be opened once.

If the open winning flag is set in step S3102, the process proceeds to step S3114 to determine whether or not the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0. If the value of the accessory timer t2 is not 0, it means that the variable display of whether or not to release the electric accessory 89 is being performed, so that the main accessory release process is terminated. .. If the value of the accessory timer t2 is determined to be 0 in step S3114, the process proceeds to step S3115, the release flag is set in the release flag storage area provided in the main RAM 313, and the release winning flag is cleared. When the process of step S3115 is performed, the present electric accessory opening process is terminated.

If the open flag is set in step S3101, the process proceeds to step S3116 to open / close the electric accessory. The electric accessory opening / closing process specifically controls the electric accessory 89 to an open state in which the game ball is easy to enter, or to control the electric accessory 89 to a closed state in which the game ball is difficult to enter.

This electric accessory opening / closing process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 63.

First, in step S3201, it is determined whether or not the electric accessory 89 is open. Whether or not the electric accessory 89 is open is determined by whether or not the electric accessory solenoid provided in the electric accessory 89 is in an excited state. When the electric accessory solenoid is excited, the electric accessory 89 is opened. If the electric accessory 89 is open, the process proceeds to step S3202, and it is determined whether or not the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0. If the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0, the process proceeds to step S3203, a closing process for controlling the electric accessory 89 to the closed state is performed, and 250 is set in the accessory timer t2. After setting the accessory timer t2, the process proceeds to step S3204, and the value of the open counter is decremented by 1. After that, the process proceeds to step S3205, and it is determined whether or not the value of the open counter is 0. If the value of the release counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S3206 and the release flag is cleared. When the accessory timer t2 is not 0 in step S3202, when the release counter is not 0 in step S3205, or when the release flag is cleared in step S3206, the electric accessory opening / closing process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3201 that the electric accessory 89 is not open, the process proceeds to step S3207 to determine whether or not the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0. That is, whether or not the value of the accessory timer t2 set in each step is 0 or whether or not the accessory timer t2 has been won in the accessory lottery in steps S3106 and S3110 in the electric accessory opening process, or the electric accessory opening / closing. It is determined whether or not the value of the accessory timer t2 set in step S3203 in the process is 0. If it is determined in step S3207 that the value of the accessory timer t2 is not 0, the electric accessory opening / closing process is terminated. If the value of the accessory timer t2 is 0, the process proceeds to step S3208, and the electric accessory release process for controlling the electric accessory 89 to the open state is performed.

That is, when the open lottery is won in the frequency-improved state, the accessory timer t2 is set to 750, so that the electric accessory 89 is opened after 1.5 seconds, but the open lottery is performed in the normal state. Even if the winning is won, 14750 is set in the accessory timer t2, so that the electric accessory 89 is not opened until 29.5 seconds have elapsed. Further, once the electric accessory 89 is controlled to the closed state, 250 is set in the accessory timer t2, and the electric accessory 89 is not controlled to the open state until the value becomes 0. As a result, when the electric accessory 89 is controlled to be in the closed state, the closed state is maintained for at least 0.5 seconds.

After controlling the electric accessory 89 to the open state, the process proceeds to step S3209 to determine the gaming state. If it is determined in step S3209 that the gaming state is not in the frequency improving state, 800 is set in the accessory timer t2 in step S3210, and if it is determined in step S3209 that the gaming state is not in the frequency improving state. Set 100 to the accessory timer t2. That is, in the frequency-improved state, the electric accessory 89 is maintained in the open state for 1.6 seconds, and in the non-frequency-improved state, the electric accessory 89 is maintained in the open state for 0.2 seconds. Further, as described above, when the open lottery is won in the frequency-improved state, the electric accessory 89 is released in 1.5 seconds, whereas in the normal state, the electric accessory 89 does not elapse before 29.5 seconds. 89 is not released. As a result, it can be said that the game ball can easily enter the lower operating port 84b because the electric accessory 89 is maintained in the open state for a long time in the frequency-improved state. When the value is set in the accessory timer t2 in step S3210 or step S3211, the electric accessory opening / closing process and the electric accessory opening process are terminated.

As described in the first embodiment, the frequency improvement state is until the predetermined number of games (the number of times the symbol changes are displayed on the symbol display device 91) after the end of the jackpot state or the next jackpot occurs. Although it continues, the number of times the frequency improvement state continues is arbitrary. Further, as the frequency improvement state, a high probability state in which the probability of a big hit occurring is higher than that in the normal state may be set.

Further, in parallel with the electric accessory opening process, the main control device 162 performs the color switching process displayed on the second specific lamp unit 94 described above, and the electric accessory 89 is won by the opening lottery. Is displayed in red after a predetermined time has elapsed.

Here, a state in which the electric accessory 89 is controlled to be in an open state or a closed state will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 64A shows a state in which the electric accessory 89 is controlled to be closed. In this case, the game ball can enter only from almost directly above.

FIG. 64 (b) shows a state in which the electric accessory 89 is controlled to be in an open state. In this case, as compared with the case where the electric accessory 89 is controlled in the closed state, the angle at which the game ball can enter the lower operating port 84b is increased by the amount that the electric accessory 89 is controlled in the open state. .. As a result, when the electric accessory 89 is controlled in the open state, the game ball can enter not only from substantially directly above but also from the upper left direction and the upper right direction.

In the frequency-improved state, the electric accessory 89 is controlled to the open state for a longer period of time than in the normal state, so that the game ball enters the lower operating port 84b in the frequency-improved state as compared with the normal state. It will be easier.

Here, the frequency with which the ball enters the ball entry portion in each game state will be described.

In the jackpot state, the variable winning device 83 enters the ball at a rate of once every 1.5 seconds, and does not enter the variable winning device 83 in the normal state and the frequency improving state. In addition, the lower operating port 84b enters the ball at a rate of once every two seconds in the frequency-improved state, and hardly enters the ball in the normal state and the jackpot state. In addition, the ball enters the upper operating port 84a at a rate of about 10 seconds regardless of the gaming state. Further, the general winning opening 82 is designed to enter a ball at a rate of about 1 in about 300 seconds regardless of the gaming state. Since three general winning openings 82 are provided in the game area, a total of one ball is entered every 100 seconds. As described above, in the jackpot state, the game ball easily enters the variable winning device 83, and in the frequency-improved state, the game ball easily enters the lower operating port 84b. That is, in the jackpot state, the information is easily stored in the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls, and in the frequency-improved state, the information is easily stored in the counter area 361d for 4 prize balls. It should be noted that the rate at which the game ball enters is not limited to the above, and it goes without saying that the rate at which the game ball enters may be set in any way.

As described above, in the frequency-improved state, the game ball is more likely to enter the lower operating port 84b than in the normal state, and in the jackpot state, the game ball is more likely to enter the variable winning device 83. For example, in the frequency improvement state, if the game is continued despite the payout error state, the number of times the prize ball information stored in the counter area 361c for four prize balls has not been executed becomes 255 times or more. Therefore, it is conceivable that a disadvantage to the player will occur due to the fact that the above-mentioned game ball is not paid out. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a warning sound is issued to the player to interrupt the game when the unexecuted prize ball information is stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball more than a predetermined number of times. generate. Here, a specific process for generating the warning sound will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 65 and 66.

First, the reading process of the main control board 301 by the CPU 312 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 65.

In the present embodiment, unlike each of the above-described embodiments, the information determination process in step S608 is performed, and then the process proceeds to step S609 to perform the prize ball information storage number confirmation process. After the prize ball information storage number confirmation process is performed, the main reading process is terminated.

Here, the prize ball information storage number confirmation process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 66.

First, in step S3301, it is determined whether or not it is in the warning state. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the warning flag is set in the warning flag storage area provided in the main RAM 313. If the warning flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S3302, and it is determined whether or not the value of the 15 prize ball counter area 361a is greater than 150. If it is determined in step S3302 to be 150 or less, the process proceeds to step S3303 to determine whether or not the value of the four prize ball counter area 361c is greater than 150. If it is determined in step S3303 to be 150 or less, the process proceeds to step S3304 to determine whether or not the value of the three prize ball counter area 361d is greater than 150. If it is determined in step S3304 to be 150 or less, the process proceeds to step S3305 to determine whether or not the value of the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls is greater than 150. If it is determined in step S3305 to be 150 or less, the process for confirming the number of stored prize ball information is terminated. Whether or not the value is larger than 150 in steps S3302 to S3305 is determined by whether or not the value input to each of the counter areas 361a to 361d is larger than "10010110".

On the other hand, if it is determined in any of steps S3302 to S3305 that it is larger than 150 (YES in any of steps S3302 to S3305), the process proceeds to step S3306, the warning flag is set in the warning flag storage area, and a warning is given. Performs sound generation processing. Specifically, the warning sound generation command is transmitted to the voice lamp control board 324 in the warning sound generation processing. The voice lamp control board 324 generates a warning sound from the speaker unit 26 by receiving the warning sound generation command (in the present embodiment, a voice instructing to eliminate the abnormality is generated). In the present embodiment, if the value stored in any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d is larger than 150, if the game is continued as it is, any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d It is determined that there is a high possibility that the value stored in the crab will be 255 (the values of the counter areas 361a to 361d are "11111111"), and a warning sound will be generated.

If it is determined in step S3301 that the warning state is in effect, the process proceeds to step S3307 to determine whether or not the value of the 15 prize ball counter area 361a is less than 100. If it is determined in step S3307 to be less than 100, the process proceeds to step S3308 to determine whether or not the value of the four prize ball counter area 361c is less than 100. If it is determined in step S3308 to be less than 100, the process proceeds to step S3309 to determine whether or not the value of the three prize ball counter area 361d is less than 100. If it is determined in step S3309 that it is less than 100, the process proceeds to step S3310 to determine whether or not the value of the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls is less than 100. If it is determined in step S3310 to be less than 100, the process proceeds to step S3311, the warning flag stored in the warning flag storage area is cleared, and the warning sound stop processing is performed. Specifically, the warning sound stop command is transmitted to the voice lamp control board 324 in the warning sound stop processing. The voice lamp control board 324 stops the warning sound generated from the speaker unit 26 by receiving the warning sound stop command. In the present embodiment, once the warning state is reached, it is determined that the warning state has been canceled when the value stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is less than 100, and a warning sound is emitted. It will stop. Whether or not it is smaller than 100 in steps S3302 to S3305 is determined by whether or not the value input to each of the counter areas 361a to 361d is larger than "1100100".

On the other hand, when it is determined in any of steps S3307 to S3310 that it is 100 or more (any of steps S3307 to S3310 is NO), it is determined that the warning state continues, and the number of prize balls information stored is the same. End the confirmation process.

According to the present embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects are obtained.

When the prize ball command is output, if the prize ball information is not stored in the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls to pay out the game balls, the 4 prize ball commands are given priority after the 15 prize ball commands. It was configured to be output. The four prize ball commands are output based on the fact that a game ball has entered the lower operating port 84b, and are the most easily output prize ball commands in the frequency-improved state. For example, in the case of a game machine in which the four prize ball commands are not preferentially output, the game balls are entered into the lower operating port 84b a plurality of times before the four prize ball commands are output in the frequency-improved state. It is conceivable that the prize ball information stored in the counter area 361c for four prize balls will increase. In this case, it is conceivable that the number of unexecuted times counted in the counter area 361c for four prize balls will be 255 times. If a game ball enters the lower operating port 84b when the number of times of non-execution is 255, the game ball is not paid out due to the game ball entering the lower operating port 84b, or four prize balls are awarded. It is conceivable that the value of the counter area 361c becomes 0, which may cause a disadvantage to the player. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, since the four prize ball commands are preferentially output, the number of unexecuted times counted in the counter area 361c for four prize balls is 255 times. Can be suppressed.

Further, although the upper operating port 84a is always in a state where a ball can be entered, a member that supports winning is not provided like the lower operating port 84b, and the variable winning device 83 and the electric accessory 89 are in an open state. In the case of, the number of balls entered per unit time is smaller in the upper operating port 84a than in the variable winning device 83 and the lower operating port 84b. Furthermore, although the general winning opening 82 is always in a state where it is possible to win a prize, it is more difficult to win a prize than the upper operating opening 84a due to the nail 88, so three prizes are awarded next to the four prize ball command. The ball command is output with priority, and the 10 prize ball commands are output after the 3 prize ball commands. In this way, the prize ball command based on entering the ball entry part that is difficult to enter has a lower priority than the prize ball command based on entering the ball entry part that is easy to enter. Therefore, it is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game balls.

As described above, by setting the priority in the order of outputting the prize ball commands, the payout of the game balls can be made as compared with the configuration in which the prize ball commands are output in the order in which the balls enter the entry section. It can be done well.

Since the prize ball information in which the game ball has entered the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d provided corresponding to the respective entry portions is counted in the prize ball counter area 361, the information is rewritten by noise or the like. The risk of being killed can be diversified. Therefore, it is desirable to store more information in the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d than in the prize ball number counter area 374. In the present embodiment, if the prize ball permission state is not obtained, a new prize ball command is not output and the prize ball number information is not added to the prize ball number storage area 374, whereas the prize ball counter area 361 is used. When the game ball enters the ball entry section, new prize ball information is stored. Therefore, it is possible to store more information in the prize ball counter area 361 than in the prize ball number counter area.

In addition, the information corresponding to the one prize ball information was output by one output command. As a result, the maximum value of the unpaid prize ball number information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is the sum of the maximum number of prize balls output by one output command added to the permitted reference number. Become. In addition, the permission reference number is set to be less than or equal to the prize ball number information output by one prize ball command (in this embodiment, the decimal number is "3"). As a result, even if noise is generated in the prize ball number storage area 374, its influence can be minimized.

When the number of unexecuted times counted in any of the counter areas 361 to 361d for each prize ball is more than 150 times, a warning sound is generated to inform that the prize ball information has reached the reference information amount. .. If the number of unexecuted times counted in the counter area 361c for four prize balls is 255, and if a game ball enters the lower operating port 84b, the game ball enters the lower operating port 84b. It is conceivable that the player will suffer disadvantages such as not paying out the game medium corresponding to the above. However, according to the above embodiment, when the number of unexecuted times counted in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball becomes larger than 150 times, a warning sound is generated. As a result, it is possible to encourage the player to deal with the disadvantage so as not to occur, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the disadvantage.

Further, for example, if an abnormality occurs in the payout of the game balls and the game balls are not paid out even though the game can be played, the prize ball command is not output and each prize ball number counter. It is conceivable that the number of unimplemented times counted in areas 361a to 361d will increase. In this case, the amount of information stored in each of the counter areas 361a to 361d becomes enormous, and when the number of unexecuted times stored is 255, the game is further played in the ball entry section corresponding to the counter area. It is also possible that the ball enters. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, since the warning sound is generated even in this case, it is possible to urge the player to deal with the disadvantage so as not to occur.

Further, once the warning sound is generated, the warning sound is continuously generated until the number of unexecuted times counted in each of the counter areas 361a to 361d is less than 100 times. That is, the amount of information for starting the generation of the warning sound and the amount of information for canceling the generation of the warning sound are set so that the amount of information for canceling the generation of the warning sound is smaller than the amount of information for starting the generation of the warning sound. It was provided individually. Assuming that the teaching is started when the number of non-execution times is 150 times or more, and the generation of the warning sound is canceled when the number of times is less than 150, the number of times the warning sound is generated is less than 150 and the generation of the warning sound is canceled. Even so, if the number of non-execution times reaches 150 immediately, the warning sound will start to be generated again. In this case, the start of the warning sound and the cancellation of the warning sound are repeated, which may impose an extra processing load on the gaming machine. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the warning sound is started when the number of non-execution times is larger than 150 times, and the warning sound is not released until the number of times is less than 100 times. It is possible to suppress the continuous occurrence of start and release of the warning sound.

A general winning opening 82, a variable winning device 83, an upper operating port 84a, and a lower operating port 84b are provided, and when a game ball enters each entry portion, they are provided corresponding to each entry portion. The prize ball information in which the game ball enters the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is counted. As a result, even if the prize ball information of any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d is erased due to the influence of noise or the like, the other prize ball counter areas are not affected, so that noise or the like is generated. The risk of the prize ball information being erased due to the influence can be dispersed.

Further, the main control board 302 of the main control device 162 and the payout control board 322 of the payout control device 242 are configured to control the payout of the game ball. Further, by providing the counter areas 361 and 376 in each of the control devices 162 and 242, even if noise is generated in one of the control devices and the information is rewritten, the influence is suppressed in the one counter area. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the effect of dispersing the risk of information being rewritten due to the generation of noise or the like.

When the prize ball command is output, when the prize ball information is counted in the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls, the 15 prize ball commands are output with the highest priority. When the 15 prize ball commands are output, the 15 game balls with the largest number of game balls paid out by one prize ball command in the present embodiment are paid out. If a large amount of unexecuted prize ball information is stored in the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls, and the information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the influence will be great. .. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, since the 15 prize ball commands with a large number of game balls paid out are preferentially output, a large amount of unimplemented prize ball information is output in the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls. It can be suppressed from being memorized. As a result, even if the information counted in the 15 prize ball counter areas 361a is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the influence can be minimized.

<Other Embodiments>
The content is not limited to the description of each of the above-described embodiments, and may be implemented as follows, for example.

(1) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball permission signal, which is an HI level signal, is output from the payout side CPU 331 to the main CPU 311 in the output permission state of the prize ball command in the payout side CPU 331, and the prize is awarded in the output disallowed state. The output of the ball permission signal is stopped and the LOW level signal is output. However, if the main CPU 311 can specify whether the payout side CPU 331 is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state, the prize is awarded. The output mode of the ball permission signal is not limited to the above. For example, the LOW level signal may be output in the output permitted state, and the HI level signal may be output in the payout disallowed state. Further, the payout side CPU 331 may output an ON signal to the main CPU 311 in the output permitted state, and may stop the output in the output disallowed state. On the contrary, the payout side CPU 331 may output an ON signal to the main CPU 311 in the output disallowed state, and stop the output in the output permitted state.

(2) In each of the above embodiments, the number of permission criteria that triggers the switching from the output disapproval state of the prize ball permission signal to the output permission state is set to "3", but the number is not limited to this. For example, the permission reference number may be set to "0". In this case, although the payout of game balls may be discontinuous, even if the power to the pachinko machine 10 is cut off in a situation where a large number of unpaid prize balls remain, the prize is deleted at that time. It is possible to reduce the number of balls as much as possible.

In addition, the number of permitted criteria may be four or more, which is larger than the number of three prize balls, which is the minimum unit of the number of prize balls for one prize. Further, the number of permitted reference numbers may be two or more larger than the number of switching reference numbers that triggers switching when the payout speed of the payout device 224 is switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. However, from the viewpoint of minimizing the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333, the configuration according to the above embodiment is preferable.

(3) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball command is assumed to include information on the number of prize balls corresponding to a single prize, but this may be changed. For example, one prize ball command may be configured to include information on the sum of the number of prize balls corresponding to a maximum of two or three prize information. Even with this configuration, the prize ball command is configured to include information on the number of prize balls corresponding to some, but not all, of the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313. A part of the number of unpaid prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and the other is stored in the main side RAM 313.

Further, for example, in the main RAM 313, prize ball information is stored as information on the total number of prize balls, and in the prize ball command, the number of prize balls equal to or less than a predetermined output unit number among the information on the total number of prize balls. It may be configured to include the information of. That is, in a configuration in which the number of output units is 15, when the total number of prize balls stored in the main RAM 313 is 100, the number of prize balls is 15 for each output of one prize ball command. Information is output, and when the seventh prize ball command is output, information on the number of remaining 10 prize balls is output. Even in this configuration, a part of the number of unpaid prize balls is stored in the payout side RAM 333, and the other is stored in the main side RAM 313.

However, as in each of the above embodiments, in the prize ball counter area 361 of the main RAM 313, there is a risk of electrical noise in the configuration in which the prize ball information is individually stored for each prize with a different number of prize balls. Be distributed. That is, in the configuration in which the main RAM 313 stores the total number of prize balls, if the stored area is rewritten due to the influence of electrical noise or the like, the total number of prize balls is affected. However, according to the configuration in the above embodiment, even if the counter area 361d for three prize balls is rewritten, the possibility that it extends to the counter area 361a for 15 prize balls is reduced. To.

(4) In each of the above embodiments, when the game balls are paid out and the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333 reaches the switching reference number, the payout speed of the payout device 224 is increased. Although the configuration is such that the normal cycle is switched to the low speed cycle, the payout speed may not be switched.

Further, the first low-speed cycle and the second low-speed cycle slower than the first low-speed cycle are set as the payout speed of the payout device 224, and the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 reaches the permitted reference number. It may be configured to switch to the second low speed cycle by switching to the first low speed cycle and reaching the switching reference number.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, the payout device 224 is switched when the game balls are paid out and the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333 reaches the switching reference number. The payout speed is the same as the payout speed of the payout device 224 which is switched between the pre-stage where the lower plate 34 is identified as full and the pre-stage where the tank 221 is identified as being ballless. However, it is not limited to this. For example, a first low-speed cycle and a second low-speed cycle slower than that are set as the payout speed of the payout device 224, and when the number of prize balls reaches the switching reference number, the first low-speed cycle is switched and the lower plate is set. The configuration may be such that the second low speed cycle is switched to the pre-stage in which 34 is specified to be full and the pre-stage in which tank 221 is specified to be in a ballless state.

(6) In each of the above embodiments, when the output of the prize ball permission signal is started in the situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, before the payout of one game ball is completed. The prize ball command is output at the timing, and the number of prize balls is added to the payout side RAM 333, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the output of the prize ball permission signal is started in the situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the prize ball command is output at the timing after the payout of one game ball is completed. At the same time, the number of prize balls may be added to the payout side RAM 333. In this case, it is conceivable that the normal cycle of the payout device 224 is set shorter than that of the above embodiment. However, even in this configuration, the prize ball command is output and the number of prize balls is added to the payout side RAM 333 at the timing before the payout of the permission reference number stored in the payout side RAM 333 is completed. It is preferable that the configuration is as follows. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the payout of game balls from being discontinuous even though the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313.

(7) In each of the above embodiments, when the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 becomes the permission reference number and the output of the prize ball permission signal is started, the prize ball command is output from the main CPU 311. The output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped when the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 exceeds the permission reference number, but this may be changed. For example, the payout side CPU 331 may be configured to stop the output of the prize ball permission signal at the timing when the prize ball command is input from the main side CPU 311. In this case, the timing for stopping the output of the prize ball permission signal can be earlier than that in the above embodiment.

However, in this configuration, even if the prize ball command cannot be analyzed due to electrical noise or the like during transmission, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped. Then, the output start and output stop of the prize ball permission signal are repeated, and the timing at which the number of prize balls is added to the payout side RAM 333 may be delayed. In this respect, when the prize ball command is output from the main CPU 311 and the number of prize balls stored in the payout side RAM 333 exceeds the permission reference number as in the above embodiment, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped. As a result, the above-mentioned inconvenience does not occur.

(8) In each of the above embodiments, when the main CPU 311 specifies whether or not the payout side CPU 331 is in the output permission state based on the input of the prize ball permission signal, the prize ball permission counter area provided in the main RAM 313. Although the output permission reference period is measured using 365, this may be changed. For example, a real-time clock may be provided on the main control board 301, and the output permission reference period may be measured by the real-time clock. Further, the winning determination configuration of the various ball detection sensors 152 to 155 in the above embodiment may be applied.

(9) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball permission signal is input to the same first input port 351 as the various ball detection sensors 152 to 155, but instead of this, the same as the front door frame opening switch 78 and the like. The input may be made to the second input port 352. Further, the main CPU 311 may be provided with an input port dedicated to the prize ball permission signal, and the prize ball permission signal may be input to the input port.

(10) In each of the above embodiments, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped in a predetermined restriction situation such as a full tank state of the lower plate 34 or a ball-free state of the tank 221. The output of the prize ball permission signal may not be stopped even in the restricted situation. However, in order to minimize the number of prize balls that are erased when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off, it is preferable to stop the output of the prize ball permission signal under a predetermined restriction situation as in the above embodiment. ..

(11) In each of the above embodiments, the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped when the front door frame 14 is open, but instead of this, the prize ball is stopped even when the front door frame 14 is open. The output of the permission signal may not be stopped. Even with this configuration, the output of the prize ball command is not permitted in the main CPU 311 when the front door frame 14 is open. Further, the signal from the front door frame opening switch 78 may also be input to the payout side CPU 331.

(12) In each of the above embodiments, a plurality of payout devices 224 may be arranged side by side so that a plurality of game balls are paid out at the same time. In this configuration, when the number of prize balls in the payout side RAM 333 reaches the permitted reference number in a situation where the prize ball information is stored in the main RAM 313, the payout speed of the payout device 224 cannot be switched from the normal cycle to the low speed cycle. In order to do so, it is necessary to make the difference between the number of permission reference numbers and the number of switching reference numbers larger than that of the above embodiment.

(13) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball counter area 361 may be provided with a prize ball ring buffer (individual storage means) in the main RAM 313. The prize ball ring buffer has a plurality of (for example, 255) storage areas for individually storing one prize ball information for one prize. Further, a read pointer (read identification means) and a read pointer (read identification means) are set in the prize ball ring buffer. Then, based on the read pointer, the prize ball information is regularly stored in the plurality of storage areas, and when the prize ball information is stored in all the storage areas, the prize ball information is returned to the first storage area. Is configured to be updated. Further, based on the read pointer, the prize ball information stored in each storage area is read out with regularity from each storage area.

(14) In each of the above embodiments, with respect to the storage of the prize ball information in the main RAM 313, the prize ball information corresponding to the prize is added every time a prize is generated, and the prize ball is output every time the prize ball command is output. Although the prize ball information corresponding to the command is subtracted, the relationship between addition and subtraction may be reversed as long as the prize ball information can be specified by the main CPU 311.

Further, regarding the storage of the information on the number of prize balls in the payout side RAM333, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command is added based on the input of the prize ball command, and the number of prize balls is calculated each time the game ball is paid out. Although the subtraction is configured, the relationship between addition and subtraction may be reversed as long as the information on the number of prize balls can be specified by the payout side CPU 331.

(15) In each of the above embodiments, a payout permission flag storage area (payout permission information storage means) is provided in the payout side RAM 333, and the payout permission flag (payout permission information) is stored in the payout permission flag storage area. The game ball may be paid out only to the player. In this case, when the power supply is turned on, the payout permission command is output from the main CPU 311 to the payout side CPU 331, so that the payout side CPU 331 stores the payout permission flag. As a result, for example, it is possible to prevent the payout of the rental ball from being started at the stage where the startup process of the main CPU 311 is not completed.

(16) In each of the above embodiments, the payout side CPU 331 may output an input completion signal to the main side CPU 311 when the prize ball command is input from the main side CPU 311. In this case, it is possible for the main CPU 311 to specify that the prize ball command has been normally input to the payout side CPU 331. Further, the main CPU 311 may be configured to execute the subtraction process of the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 by inputting the input completion signal. In this case, even if the prize ball command is rewritten due to electrical noise or the like during transmission, it is possible to prevent the prize ball information for the prize ball command from being deleted without being paid out.

(17) In the first embodiment or the like, when the detection result of the front door frame opening switch 78 is input to the payout control board 322 and the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 open. The output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped in the payout side CPU 331 while the standby process is being executed in the main process of the main CPU 311. Even with this configuration, even if the power is turned on and off repeatedly with the front door frame 14 open, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is stored without the game ball being paid out. It is possible to prevent it from being erased repeatedly.

(18) In the first embodiment or the like, the detection result of the full tank detection sensor 59 and the detection result of the ball non-detection sensor 223a are input to the main control board 301, and the power is turned on under a predetermined restriction situation. In this case, the main CPU 311 may specify that the payout side CPU 331 is in the predetermined restriction state before specifying that it is in the output permission state. Even with this configuration, even if the power is turned on and off repeatedly under a predetermined restriction situation, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is repeatedly erased without paying out the game balls. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

(19) In the first embodiment or the like, even if the power is turned on and off repeatedly with the front door frame 14 open, the game balls are stored in the main RAM 313 without being paid out. A configuration for preventing the prize ball information from being repeatedly erased may be applied to the main body frame 13. As a result, even if the power is turned on and off repeatedly while the main body frame 13 is open, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is repeatedly erased without paying out the game balls. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

(20) In the first embodiment or the like, even if the period during which the full tank detection signal is continuously input from the full tank detection sensor 59 by the payout side CPU 331 reaches the second full tank specific reference period. The payout speed of the payout device 224 may not be changed to a low speed cycle. Even with this configuration, by stopping the output of the prize ball permission signal when the second full tank specific reference period is reached, the predetermined restriction situation is suppressed while suppressing the main waiting period from becoming extremely long. It is possible to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being repeatedly erased when the power is turned on and off repeatedly.

Further, the output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped when the first full tank specific reference period is reached without setting the second full tank specific reference period. However, in this configuration, in order to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being repeatedly erased when the power is turned on and off repeatedly under a predetermined restriction situation, the main It becomes necessary to secure a side waiting period longer than that of the first embodiment.

Further, in addition to the first full tank specific reference period and the second full tank specific reference period, a third full tank specific reference period shorter than the second full tank specific reference period may be set. Then, when the period during which the full tank detection signal is continuously input reaches the third full tank specific reference period, the output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped. In this configuration, the main waiting period can be made shorter than that of the first embodiment.

In addition, in the configuration in which both the first full tank specific reference period and the second full tank specific reference period are set as in the first embodiment, when the power is turned on when the lower plate 34 is full. , If the second full tank specific reference period is set so that the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped while the main standby process is being executed, those specific periods are arbitrary. ..

(21) In the first embodiment or the like, even if the period during which the ball non-detection sensor 223a is continuously input by the payout side CPU 331 reaches the second ball non-specific reference period. The payout speed of the payout device 224 may not be changed to a low speed cycle. Even with this configuration, by stopping the output of the prize ball permission signal when the second ball unspecified reference period is reached, the predetermined restriction situation is suppressed while suppressing the main side standby period from becoming extremely long. It is possible to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being repeatedly erased when the power is turned on and off repeatedly.

Further, the output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped when the first ball unspecified reference period is reached without setting the second ball unspecified reference period. However, in this configuration, in order to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being repeatedly erased when the power is turned on and off repeatedly under a predetermined restriction situation, the main It becomes necessary to secure a side waiting period longer than that of the first embodiment.

Further, in addition to the first ball unspecified reference period and the second ball unspecified reference period, a third ball unspecified reference period shorter than the second ball unspecified reference period may be set. Then, the output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped when the period during which the ball non-detection signal is continuously input reaches the third ball non-specific reference period. In this configuration, the main waiting period can be made shorter than that of the first embodiment.

In addition, in the configuration in which both the first ball non-specific reference period and the second ball non-specific reference period are set as in the first embodiment, when the power is turned on without the ball of the tank 221. If the second ball unspecified reference period is set so that the output of the prize ball permission signal is stopped while the main standby process is being executed, those specific periods are arbitrary.

(22) In the first embodiment or the like, when the power is turned on, the output of the prize ball command is immediately set to the prohibition state by inputting the front door frame opening signal from the front door frame opening switch 78. It may be configured to be used. In this case, although there is a possibility that the output of the prize ball command is prohibited due to noise or the like, the main RAM 313 is repeatedly turned on and off when the front door frame 14 is open. It is possible to prevent the prize ball information stored in the door from being repeatedly erased.

(23) In the first embodiment or the like, when the power is turned on, the output of the prize ball permission signal is immediately stopped by inputting the full tank detection signal from the full tank detection sensor 59. May be good. In this case, although the output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped due to noise or the like, when the power is turned on and off repeatedly with the lower plate 34 full, the main RAM 313 It is possible to prevent the stored prize ball information from being repeatedly erased.

(24) In the first embodiment or the like, when the power is turned on, the output of the prize ball permission signal is immediately stopped by inputting the ball non-detection signal from the ball non-detection sensor 223a. May be good. In this case, although the output of the prize ball permission signal may be stopped due to noise or the like, it is stored in the main RAM 313 when the power is turned on and off repeatedly without the ball in the tank 221. It is possible to prevent the prize ball information being deleted from being repeatedly deleted.

(25) By using the disapproval flag as in the second embodiment, the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 is erased when the power is turned on and off repeatedly. A configuration for preventing this may be applied to the payout side CPU 331. Specifically, at the time of the main processing of the payout side CPU 331, the disapproval flag is stored in the disallowance flag storage area of the payout side RAM 333. While this disapproval flag is stored, the output of the prize ball permission signal is prohibited. Then, for example, the detection result of the operation detection means for detecting that the game ball launch handle 41 is operated is input to the payout side CPU 331, and the payout side CPU 331 operates the game ball launch handle 41 from the operation detection means. The disapproval flag is cleared when the detection result indicating that the status is entered is entered.

As described above, according to this configuration, when the power is turned on, the disapproval flag is stored in the payout side RAM 333, so that the prize ball permission signal is not output, and accordingly, the main RAM 313 is awarded when the power is turned on. Even if the ball information is stored, the prize ball command is not output. Then, the state in which the output of the prize ball permission signal is prohibited is maintained until the game ball launching handle 41 is operated after the power is turned on. Therefore, when the power is turned on and off repeatedly, it is possible to prevent the prize ball information stored in the main RAM 313 from being erased without executing the payout of the game ball. ..

(26) When the power is turned on with the front door frame 14 open and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited, the release condition may be different from that of the first embodiment. For example, the above-mentioned release conditions may be that a prize is generated and that the game ball launch handle 41 is operated.

Further, when the power is turned on when the lower plate 34 is full and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited, the release condition may be different from that of the first embodiment. For example, the above-mentioned release conditions may be that a prize is generated and that the game ball launch handle 41 is operated.

Further, when the power is turned on without the tank 221 and the output of the prize ball command is prohibited, the release condition may be different from that of the first embodiment. For example, the above-mentioned release conditions may be that a prize is generated and that the game ball launch handle 41 is operated.

(27) In the first embodiment or the like, when the standby process of step S402 is completed in the main process of the main CPU 311, the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331 may not be stopped. The waiting period for the waiting process may be set. However, in the case of this configuration, the predetermined limit is set by setting the waiting period so that the output of the prize ball permission signal from the payout side CPU 331 is stopped before the output permission reference period elapses after the standby process. It is possible to prevent the prize ball command from being output when the power is turned on in a situation.

(28) In each of the above embodiments, when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the second full tank specific reference period elapses. A part of the prize balls will be paid out but not all of them will be paid out until the first full tank specific reference period elapses, but this may be changed.

For example, even when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the second full tank specific reference period (second limit reference period) The entire number of prize balls may be paid out between the lapse of time and the lapse of the first full tank specific reference period (first restriction reference period).

As a specific configuration for realizing the configuration, for example, the drive speed of the payout device 224 may be maintained at a normal cycle instead of being changed to a low speed cycle after the lapse of the second full tank specific reference period. However, in each of the above embodiments, the upper limit number of prize balls is "18", the normal cycle is 60 msec, and the difference between the first full tank specific reference period and the second full tank specific reference period is 900 msec. , As it is, all the maximum number of prize balls will not be paid out. Therefore, the normal cycle is made faster than the first embodiment, the second full tank specific reference period is shorter than the first embodiment, or the first full tank specific reference period is set to the first full tank. It is necessary to make at least one modification, which is longer than the embodiment.

Further, as in the first embodiment, in the configuration in which the drive speed of the payout device 224 is changed to the low speed cycle after the lapse of the second full tank specific reference period, after the lapse of the second full tank specific reference period Set the payout speed of the payout device 224 or specify the first full tank specification period and the second full tank so that all the maximum number of prize balls will be paid out before the first full tank specification reference period elapses. It is necessary to set at least one of the period between the reference period and the reference period.

As described above, even when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the second full tank is specified after the lapse of the specified reference period. If the lower plate 34 is full and the payout of the game balls is stopped by the configuration in which all the prize balls are paid out before the 1 full tank specific reference period elapses, the game is played. The payout of the number of game balls corresponding to the prize ball number information stored in the payout side RAM 333 can be completed before the payout of the balls is stopped. Therefore, when the power is cut off when the lower plate 34 is full, the possibility that the prize ball number information is erased without being paid out is reduced.

The configuration is not limited to the above, and even if no game ball is paid out between the lapse of the second full tank specific reference period and the lapse of the first full tank specific reference period. Good. For example, it can be realized by setting the low speed cycle of the payout device 224 to be slower than that of the first embodiment.

(29) In each of the above embodiments, when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the second ball unspecified reference period elapses. A part of the prize balls will be paid out but not all of them will be paid out until the first ball unspecified reference period elapses afterwards, but this may be changed.

For example, even when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the second ball unspecified reference period (second restriction reference period) The entire number of prize balls may be paid out between the lapse of time and the elapse of the first non-specific reference period (first restriction reference period).

As a specific configuration for realizing the configuration, for example, the drive speed of the payout device 224 may be maintained at a normal cycle instead of being changed to a low speed cycle after the lapse of the second ball unspecified reference period. In each of the above embodiments, the upper limit number of prize balls is "18", the normal cycle is 60 msec, and the difference between the first ball unspecified reference period and the second ball unspecified reference period is 9000 msec. The entire maximum number of prize balls will be paid out between the elapse of the two-ball non-specific reference period and the elapse of the first ball non-specific reference period.

Further, as in the first embodiment, in the configuration in which the drive speed of the payout device 224 is changed to the low speed cycle after the lapse of the second ball unspecified reference period, after the lapse of the second ball unspecified reference period Set the payout speed of the payout device 224 or set the first ball unspecified reference period and the second ball unspecified so that all the maximum number of prize balls will be paid out before the first ball unspecified reference period elapses. It is necessary to set at least one of the period between the reference period and the reference period.

As described above, even when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the second ball is the first after the lapse of the second ball unspecified reference period. By configuring all of the prize balls to be paid out before the 1-ball non-specific reference period elapses, if the tank 221 becomes empty and the payout of game balls is stopped, the game balls are paid out. The payout of the number of game balls corresponding to the prize ball number information stored in the payout side RAM 333 can be completed before the payout is stopped. Therefore, when the power supply is cut off without the balls in the tank 221, the possibility that the prize ball number information is erased without being paid out is reduced.

The configuration is not limited to the above, and even if no game ball is paid out between the lapse of the second ball unspecified reference period and the lapse of the first ball unspecified reference period. Good. For example, it can be realized by setting the low speed cycle of the payout device 224 to be slower than that of the first embodiment.

(30) In each of the above embodiments, when the front door frame 14 is opened, the prize ball command is not output at a timing before the payout of the game ball from the payout device 224 is stopped. The configuration may be regulated by. Specifically, when the period during which the front door frame opening signal is continuously input from the front door frame opening switch 78 (opening detection continuation period) reaches the first opening specific reference period (for example, 500 msec). By outputting the front door frame opening command to the payout side CPU 331, the payout of the game ball is stopped, and the opening detection continuation period is shorter than the first opening specific reference period (for example, 100 msec). The configuration is such that the prize ball command is not output when the value is reached. As a result, when the front door frame 14 is opened and the payout of the game ball is stopped, it is possible to regulate so that the prize ball command is not output at a relatively early stage, and the payout of the game ball is stopped. It is possible to surely prevent the prize ball command from being output in the present situation.

Further, in the configuration, when the prize ball number information corresponding to the upper limit prize ball number is stored in the prize ball storage area 374 of the payout side RAM 333, the first open specification is specified after the lapse of the second open specification reference period. The maximum number of prize balls may not be paid out until the reference period elapses, or only a part of the maximum number of prize balls may be paid out, and all of the maximum number of prize balls may be paid out. It may be configured as such. However, by configuring all of the maximum number of prize balls to be paid out, the possibility that the prize ball number information will be erased without being paid out is reduced when the power is cut off with the front door frame 14 open. Will be done.

Further, in the above configuration, when the input of the front door frame opening signal from the front door frame opening switch 78 is stopped in the situation where the first opening specific reference period has passed and the payout of the game ball is stopped, the input is stopped. Based on the state reaching the first unrestricted reference period (for example, 1 sec), the restricted state may be released so that the prize ball command is not output. In addition, when the input of the front door frame opening signal from the front door frame opening switch 78 is stopped in a situation where the second opening specific reference period has passed but the first opening specific reference period has not passed, It may be configured to release the restricted state so that the prize ball command is not output immediately or based on the elapse of the second unrestricted reference period (for example, 500 msec) shorter than the first unrestricted reference period. ..

The configuration relating to the opening of the front door frame 14 as described above may be applied to the configuration relating to the opening of the main body frame 13.

(31) In each of the above embodiments, the lower plate 34 is in a full tank state, and between the lapse of the second full tank specific reference period and the lapse of the first full tank specific reference period. When the input of the full tank detection signal is stopped, the state where the prize ball permission signal is not output is not immediately released, but the second full tank, which is shorter than the full tank cancellation specific reference period. After the lapse of the specific reference period, the state in which the prize ball permission signal is not output may be released. In this case, when the input of the full tank detection signal is stopped due to noise or the like, the possibility that the restricted state in which the prize ball permission signal is not output is released is reduced. Even with this configuration, if the input of the full tank detection signal is stopped between the elapse of the second full tank specific reference period and the elapse of the first full tank specific reference period, the full tank release is specified. Without waiting for the elapse of the reference period, the state where the prize ball permission signal is not output is released, so the period when the output of the prize ball command is restricted does not become extremely long. can do.

It should be noted that a configuration for releasing the restricted state so that the prize ball permission signal is not output may be applied to the ballless state of the tank 221. On the other hand, the state in which the prize ball permission signal is not output with respect to the ball-free state of the tank 221 in the first embodiment may be applied to the full tank state of the lower plate 34.

(32) In each of the above embodiments, the drive speed of the payout device 224 may not be changed to a low speed cycle when a predetermined limiting situation such as a full tank state of the lower plate 34 or a ballless state of the tank 221 occurs. .. Further, in the configuration in which the drive speed of the payout device 224 is changed to a low speed cycle when a predetermined limitation situation occurs, the timing at which the prize ball permission signal is regulated and the drive speed of the payout device 224 are restricted. May be different from the timing at which is changed to a low speed cycle. Further, the timing of releasing the restricted state so that the prize ball permission signal is not output and the timing of returning the drive speed of the payout device 224 to the normal cycle may be different.

(33) The processing configuration when the main CPU 311 specifies whether or not the game balls are detected by the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 may be different from the above-described embodiments. For example, the passage specific reference information is stored in advance in the main ROM 312. Specifically, the information "0", "1", and "1" are stored in advance in this order as the passage specific reference information. Then, in the reading process of the main CPU 311 the information of this time, the previous time, and the time before the previous time is read from each of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 from the first input port 351 and the area 362 for the previous time and the area 363 for the previous time. Then, by comparing and calculating the read one group of information with the passage specific reference information, it is possible to specify whether or not the game ball is detected. That is, when the read information of one group is "0", "1", and "1" in the order of the previous time and the time before the previous time, it is specified that the game ball is detected. Even with this configuration, by executing the same arithmetic processing for each of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, it is possible to accurately identify whether or not each ball detection sensor 152 to 155 has passed. Further, as compared with the configuration in which the period measuring means such as the timer counter is individually provided for each of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, it is preferable in terms of both the hardware configuration and the software configuration of the main control board 301.

(34) In each of the above embodiments, the reference continuous number of times when the main CPU 311 specifies whether or not the game balls are detected by the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 is set to 3 times. Alternatively, it may be 4 times or more. However, in terms of reducing the influence of noise and minimizing the number of history areas such as the previous area 362 and the previous two-time area 363, it is preferable to set the number to three as in each of the above embodiments.

(35) In each of the above embodiments, three registers of the main CPU 311 are used in the read process, but this may be changed. For example, the read process may be executed by using two registers of the main CPU 311 and updating both registers as appropriate. Further, in each of the above embodiments, the specific content of the logical operation in the reading process is arbitrary, but in order to simplify the content of the logical operation, it is preferable to use the logical product as in each of the above embodiments. ..

(36) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball permission signal is input to the first input port 351 of the main CPU 311. Instead, the first input port 351 is used for the game area. It is also possible not to input a signal other than the provided ball detection sensors 152 to 155. In this case, unlike each of the above-described embodiments, when the number of ball detection sensors 152 to 155 provided for the game area is eight, all the signals of the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 are first input. It may be input to port 351. The functions of the first input port 351 and the second input port 352 are provided as driver ICs separately from the chip of the main CPU 311, and the main CPU 311 has a single input / output port (multi-bit configuration) or an input port (a configuration of a plurality of bits). In the configuration in which a plurality of bits are provided), the prize ball permission signal is not input to the driver IC having the function as the first input port 351 but is input to the driver IC having the function as the second input port 352. It may be configured.

(37) In each of the above embodiments, all the signals from the ball detection sensors 152 to 155 provided for the game area are input to the first input port 351 of the main CPU 311. Only a part of the above may be input to the first input port 351 and the others may be input to an input port different from the first input port 351. In this case, the arithmetic processing of the reading processing in each of the above embodiments may be executed only for the first input port 351, and the arithmetic processing is executed for the first input port 351 and other input ports. You may do so.

When the arithmetic processing of the reading process in each of the above embodiments is executed only for the first input port 351, the period measurement of the timer counter or the like is performed for the ball detection sensor that inputs the signal to the other input port. The presence or absence of passage may be specified by means. This provides the functions of the first input port 351 and the second input port 352 as a driver IC separately from the chip of the main CPU 311, and the main CPU 311 has a single input / output port (multi-bit configuration) or an input port. The same applies to a configuration in which (a configuration of a plurality of bits) is provided.

(38) The calculation process of the read process in each of the above embodiments may be executed by the payout side CPU 331. For example, it may be applied to the payout ball detection sensor 258 and the full tank detection sensor 59 of the payout device 224. However, with respect to the full tank detection sensor 59, it is necessary to specify not only the timing at which the detection of the game ball is started but also the timing at which the detection of the game ball is finished. Therefore, both of these timings can be specified. It is necessary to set the processing configuration of the arithmetic processing.

(39) In each of the above embodiments, the present invention is applied to a gaming machine having a control means in which 1 byte is set to 8 bits, but control in which 1 byte is set to less than 8 bits or 9 bits or more. The present invention may be applied to a gaming machine having means.

(40) In each of the above embodiments, the arithmetic processing in the reading process is applied only to the ball detection sensors 152 to 155, but in addition to this, the prize ball permission signal, the front door frame opening switch 78, and the like are applied. May be applied.

(41) In each of the above embodiments, the present invention has been applied to a game machine provided with ball detection sensors 152 to 155 in a one-to-one correspondence with a passing portion provided in the game area. The present invention may be applied to a game machine that detects the passage of a game ball in a plurality of passing portions by the ball detection sensor of 1.

(42) In each of the above embodiments, the read process is executed as a part of the timer interrupt process, but instead of this, the read process may be executed as a part of the normal process. .. Further, if it is executed as a part of a series of processes that are repeatedly executed, the read process does not need to be executed periodically.

Incidentally, the configuration related to the reading process in each of the above embodiments may be applied to a gaming machine in which power is supplied to the payout side RAM 333 at the time of power interruption. Further, the configuration related to the reading process may be applied to a game machine in which the payout control board 322 is not provided and the drive control of the payout device 224 is executed by the main CPU 311.

(43) The timing of starting the output of the prize ball permission signal is different from that of the first embodiment. For example, the prize ball number information stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less. The output of the permission signal may be started. In this case, when the information on the number of prize balls is added, the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less.

In such a configuration in which the number of permission reference points is set to 5, the information for correction at the time of addition may be set to "000000111". In the case of this configuration, the number of prize balls for correction at the time of addition is 7, which is more than the permitted standard number of 5, but when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is 5 or less. The information on the number of prize balls stored after the masking process at the time of addition is maintained as it is. Therefore, the player does not suffer any disadvantage due to the mask processing at the time of addition. Further, when the information on the number of prize balls stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 is a number that greatly exceeds 7 such as 131, it can be corrected to 7 or less, so that noise or the like Even if the information on the number of prize balls is rewritten due to the influence of, it is possible to prevent the game hall from suffering a disadvantage.

In the modification as described above, the permission reference number is not the number corresponding to the information in which "1" (data 1) is continuously set from the lower bit to the predetermined bit on the upper side. Can be applied in the same way. In this case, the information for correction at the time of addition may be information in which "1" is continuously set from the lower bit to the bit immediately after reaching or exceeding the permitted reference number when expressed in decimal. ..

(44) The maximum number of prize balls in the prize ball number storage area 374 may be different from that of each of the above embodiments. For example, it corresponds to the information in which "1" (data 1) is continuously set from the lower bit to the upper bit in the specific order, such as the upper limit number of prize balls being 15 or 31. It may be a number. In this configuration, the payout correction information is set to be information in which "1" is continuously set from the lower bit to the upper bit in the specific order, so that the payout correction reference number is used. It is possible to match with the maximum number of prize balls.

(45) In each of the above embodiments, the logical product calculation is not executed by the mask processing at the time of addition or the mask processing at the time of payout setting, but at a predetermined timing, "1" is set in a predetermined bit of the prize ball number storage area 374. "(Data 1) is set, it may be modified to" 0 "(data 0). For example, in the addition mask processing in the first embodiment, even if "1" is set in two consecutive bits from the lower bit in the prize ball number storage area 374, it is maintained. When "1" is set in the bit higher than the two bits, it may be corrected to "0". Even with this configuration, even if the information in the prize ball number storage area 374 is rewritten due to noise or the like, its influence can be reduced.

(46) In each of the above embodiments, only one of the addition mask processing and the payout setting mask processing may be executed.

(47) In each of the above embodiments, the mask processing at the time of addition may be executed after the information on the number of prize balls is added to the prize ball number storage area 374. In this case, the same information as the correction information at the time of payout may be used as the correction information at the time of addition.

(48) The timing of executing the mask processing at the time of payout setting is not limited to the timing in each of the above embodiments. For example, immediately after the payout of one game ball is detected by the payout ball detection sensor 258. It may be the timing of. Further, the timing may be immediately before or immediately after the payout state setting process (FIG. 44). Further, the mask processing at the time of payout setting may be executed only in the situation where the payout motor 257 is operating. Further, the payout mask processing may be executed only in the situation where the information on the number of prize balls is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374.

(49) In each of the above embodiments, the register of the payout side CPU 331 is used in the mask processing at the time of addition and the mask process at the time of payout setting, but the register of the payout side CPU 331 may not be used. In this case, it is necessary to provide the payout side RAM 333 with an execution storage area for storing information in executing the addition mask processing and the payout setting mask processing.

(50) In each of the above embodiments, the mask processing at the time of addition and the mask processing at the time of payout setting are executed only for the prize ball number storage area 374, but both or one of these mask processes is the number of balls lent. It may be applied to the storage area 375.

(51) In the payout side RAM 333, the power at the time of power failure is not supplied to the area where the number of prize balls is stored, but the power at the time of power failure may be supplied to the area where the information related to security is stored. Even in this case, the cost can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the area where the number of prize balls is stored and the area where the security information is stored in the payout side RAM 333.

Incidentally, the configuration of the mask processing such as the mask processing at the time of addition and the mask processing at the time of payout setting in each of the above embodiments may be applied to the gaming machine in which the power at the time of power interruption is supplied to the payout side RAM 333. Further, the mask processing configuration may be applied to a game machine in which the payout control board 322 is not provided and the drive control of the payout device 224 is executed by the main CPU 311. In this case, the prize ball number storage area 374 is provided in the main RAM 313, and the mask process is executed for the prize ball number storage area 374.

(52) The main control board 301 and the payout control board 322 may be configured to input / output information by optical communication instead of inputting / outputting information by electric signals. Further, the present invention is not limited to wired communication, and information may be input / output by wireless communication using radio waves or infrared rays.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, the power supply and the power from the power supply unit 321a at the time of power-on of the firing control board 321 are supplied to the VCS terminal of the payout side CPU 331, and the VCS terminal and the VBB terminal are further connected to the payout side CPU 331. Due to the electrically connected configuration, the power from the power supply unit 321a at the time of power-on is supplied to the payout side RAM 333, but this may be changed. For example, the payout side CPU 331 may have a configuration in which the VCS terminal and the VBB terminal are not electrically connected. In this case, since the power is supplied to the payout side RAM 333 only from the VBB terminal, in order to supply power to the payout side RAM 333 while the pachinko machine 10 is turned on, the power supply for power on is supplied. The unit 321a and the VBB terminal of the payout side CPU 331 may be electrically connected so that the electric power from the power supply unit 321a at the time of power-on is supplied to the VBB terminal of the payout side CPU 331.

(53) In each of the above embodiments, when a payout error state occurs, the payout device 224 stops paying out the game ball. Instead, the payout device 224 normally sets the payout speed of the game ball. It may be configured to be extremely slower than the time (low speed cycle), and the payout speed may be set so that the game ball is not substantially paid out.

(54) In each of the above embodiments, the present invention is applied to the pachinko machine 10 provided with the upper plate 33 and the lower plate 34 as the outer storage portion, but instead, a single outer storage portion is provided. The present invention may be applied to a pachinko machine. In this case, the full tank detection sensor 59 is provided so as to detect whether or not the single outer storage portion is full, and when it is specified that the outer storage portion is full, the game ball is paid out. Try to limit.

(55) In each of the above embodiments, the main control board 301 may be configured to have only the function of the main control circuit 302 by providing the power failure monitoring device separately from the main control device 162.

(56) In each of the above embodiments, the voice lamp control device 143 controls the display control device 325, but instead of this, the display control device 325 may control the voice lamp control device 143. .. Further, a single control device having both functions of the voice lamp control device 143 and the display control device 325 may be provided.

(57) Other types of pachinko machines different from the above embodiments, for example, pachinko machines in which the electric accessory is opened a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of the special device, or a game in a specific area of the special device. The present invention can also be applied to pachinko machines that generate a right when a ball enters and become a big hit, pachinko machines equipped with other accessories, arrange ball machines, and game machines such as sparrow balls. Further, the present invention may be applied to a pachinko machine in which a game ball is not rented through the ball renting device Y.

In addition, a non-bullet type gaming machine, for example, a plurality of reels having a plurality of types of symbols attached in the circumferential direction is provided, the reels are started to rotate by inserting medals and operating the start lever, and the stop switch is operated. After the reels have stopped after a predetermined time has passed, if a specific symbol or a combination of specific symbols is established on the effective line that can be seen from the display window, a privilege such as a medal payout is given to the player. The present invention can also be applied to slot machines. In particular, it is more effective to apply the present invention to a slot machine capable of starting the next game round even when the payout of medals has not been completed.

In addition, a pachinko machine and a slot machine that are equipped with a take-in device and start rotating the reel by operating the start lever after a predetermined number of game balls stored in the storage unit are taken in by the take-in device. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine in which the above are fused. In particular, it is more effective to apply the present invention to a game machine capable of starting the next game round even in a situation where the payout of the game ball is not completed.

(58) In each of the above embodiments, when the loan ball is paid out, the prize ball permission state is set, but such a configuration is changed. That is, if the ball is paid out, the prize ball is not permitted. This case will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 67.

In the ball lending permission signal setting process in this configuration, it is determined in step S3401 whether or not the ball lending request signal is input, and if the ball lending request signal is not input, the process proceeds to step S3402 to store the number of ball lending. It is determined whether or not the value of area 375 is 0. If the value of the ball rental number storage area 375 is 0, the process proceeds to step S3403. Since the processes of steps S3403 to S3409 are the same as those of steps S2301 to S2307 of the prize ball permission signal setting process in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3401 that the ball rental request signal is input, or if it is determined in step S3402 that the value of the ball rental number storage area 375 is not 0, the process proceeds to step S3409 and the prize ball is awarded. Set to the disallowed state. If the ball lending request signal is input, the ball lending will be started from now on, and if the value of the ball lending number storage area 375 is not 0, the ball lending is being paid out. Become. That is, when the payout of the ball is started and when the payout of the ball is being made, the prize ball is not permitted, so that the payout of the ball is started and the ball is paid out. It is possible to prevent the information of the prize balls from being stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 when the prize balls are stored. If the prize ball information is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 when the ball rental is being paid out, the information on the payout is stored in both the prize ball number storage area 374 and the ball rental number storage area 375. In this case, when the power is cut off, the unpaid information is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374 and the loan number storage area 375, and all the information is deleted. ..

According to the present embodiment, by setting the prize ball non-permission state when the ball rental is being paid out, the prize ball is placed in the prize ball number area 374 when the ball is being paid out. It is possible to prevent the information from being stored and to prevent all the information on the unpaid prize balls from being erased even if the power is cut off when the rental balls are being paid out. It will be possible. In addition, it is possible to suppress the output of the prize ball command at the timing when the ball rental request signal is input. As a result, it is possible to prevent the prize ball command from being output between the time when the loan request signal is output and the time when the information on the number of loans is stored in the loan number storage area 375 based on the loan request signal.

It should be noted that the configuration may be such that only one of the processes of step S3401 and step S3402 is performed. However, in the case of a game machine that determines whether or not to disallow the prize ball only by whether or not the ball lending request signal is input, the ball lending request signal is not input, but the ball lending number storage area 375. The prize ball command is output even when the ball rental is paid out instead of 0. Further, in the case of a game machine that determines whether or not the prize ball output is disallowed only by whether or not the value of the loan number storage area 375 is 0, a ball loan request signal is output and the value of the loan number storage area 375 is obtained. The prize ball command will be output during the period until is not 0. Therefore, it is desirable to perform both the processes of step S3401 and step S3402.

(59) The ball lending request signal may be input to the main control device 162, and the ball lending request signal may be output from the main control device 162 to the payout control device 242. In this case, the main side RAM 313 of the main control device 162 is provided with the main side ball lending counter area, and when there is a ball lending request signal, the information corresponding to the ball lending request signal is the main side ball lending counter area. Is entered in. Then, when the game ball corresponding to the prize ball command is not paid out, the information input to the main side ball rental counter area is output to the payout control device 242, thereby causing the ball rental number storage area 375. The number of balls to be rented may be added to.

(60) The ball lending device Y outputs a number of ball lending request signals corresponding to the amount stored in the card by inserting the card into the insertion slot H, but directly lends cash instead of the card. It may be input to the device Y. In this case, the ball lending device Y outputs a ball lending request signal corresponding to the inserted cash. Even in this case, if the power supplies of the ball lending device Y and the pachinko machine 10 are different, the power of the ball lending device Y is not cut off even if the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off. Cash information can be prevented from being erased.

Even if the power supply of the ball lending device Y is cut off, it is desirable that the information of the cash put into the ball lending device Y is not erased. In this case, even if the power of the ball lending device Y is cut off in the storage area for storing the input amount of the ball lending device Y, the power may be supplied at the time of power failure so that the information in the storage area is not erased. .. As a result, it is possible to prevent the information on the amount of money input to the ball lending device Y from being erased regardless of whether or not the power of the pachinko machine 10 and the ball lending device Y is turned off.

Further, a card or coin is released from the ball lending device Y based on the fact that cash is inserted into the ball lending device Y, and a ball lending status signal is sent based on the card or coin being inserted into the ball lending device Y. It may be output. In this case, the above-mentioned release and insertion of cards and coins may be performed automatically. Further, when cash, a card or a coin is inserted, a ball lending status signal may be output from the ball lending device Y without determining whether or not the ball lending button 37 has been operated, or the ball lending button may be output. A ball lending status signal may be output based on the operation of 37.

(61) In the above embodiment, the ball lending request signal is output five times for one ball lending operation, and when one ball lending request signal is input, information on the number of ball lending equivalent to 25 is output. Although it was added to the ball rental number storage area 375, it is not limited to such a configuration.

When the ball rental request signal is input, information on the number of balls to be rented, such as 3, 5, 10, 20, and 50, may be added to the number of rented balls storage area 375.

Further, it is not necessary to output the ball lending request signal five times for one ball lending operation, and one ball lending request signal may be output for one ball lending operation. When a large amount of information corresponding to a game ball is output by one ball rental request signal, the information corresponding to the ball rental request signal is stored in the main control device 162, and the information is stored from the main control device 162. Is desirable to be configured to output to the payout control device 242.

(62) In the above embodiment, when the game ball is paid out based on the information on the number of prize balls, the ball lending request signal is not input, but the configuration is not limited to this.

When the game balls are paid out based on the information on the number of prize balls, the ball lending operation may be performed or the operation may be invalidated. That is, the ball lending status signal is output based on the operation of the ball lending button 37 only when the game ball is not paid out based on the information on the number of prize balls. In this case, it is sufficient to determine whether or not the ball lending button 37 has been operated only when it is determined in step S1904 that the payout operation is not in progress.

(63) In each of the above embodiments, the ball lending request signal is output from the ball lending device Y provided outside the pachinko machine 10, but the configuration is not limited to this.

A lending means for outputting a ball lending request signal may be provided inside the game machine. In this case, the lending means may be provided in the pachinko machine 10 as a new device, or any device may have a function of outputting a ball lending request signal.

For example, it is conceivable that the main control device 162 has a function as a lending means, and a lending status signal and a ball lending request signal are output from the main control device 162 based on the operation of the ball lending button 37. .. In this case, when the ball lending button 37 is operated, it is sufficient to refer to whether the main control device 162 stores the amount of money to pay out the game ball to the card, and the ball lending as in the above embodiment. The card may be inserted into the device Y, or the card may be inserted into the pachinko machine 10. When a card is inserted into the ball lending device Y, the ball lending device Y functions as a device only for inserting the card. Further, when inserting the card into the pachinko machine 10, the ball lending device Y is not required.

(64) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball command is output in the prize ball permitted state, but the prize ball permitted state and the prize ball disallowed state are not set, and the prize is awarded to the main RAM 313. The prize ball command may be output as soon as the ball information is stored.

Even in this configuration, when the game ball is paid out based on the prize ball information, the ball lending request signal may not be input. As a result, when the game ball is paid out based on the prize ball command, the information is stored in the ball rental number storage area 375 to pay out the game ball in order not to input the ball rental request signal. Never. As a result, even if the game ball is paid out based on the prize ball command and the power is cut off, the unpaid information is stored in the loan number storage area 375 and the unpaid amount is paid out. It is possible to prevent the information from being erased.

(65) In the above embodiment, when the ball lending state signal is input, the output state of the ball lending request output permission signal is set based on the fact that the payout operation is not in progress (NO in step S1904). When a ball rental status signal is input, it is determined whether the prize ball counter area 361 stores information on the non-payment of game balls or whether the value of the prize ball number storage area is equal to or less than a predetermined number. Then, the output state of the ball lending request output permission signal may be set based on the determination result.

That is, in step S1904, the prize ball counter area 361 provided in the main control device 162 stores the non-execution information of the game ball payout, or the prize ball number storage area 374 provided in the payout control device 242. Determines if the value of is 3 or less. Then, when the non-execution information of the game ball is not stored in the prize ball counter area 361 and the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less, the output state of the ball rental request output permission signal It should be set to. As a result, the ball lending request signal is input when the non-execution information of the game ball is not stored in the prize ball counter area 361 and the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less. .. Also in this configuration, the information is stored in the prize ball number storage area 374, and it is possible to suppress the input of the ball rental request signal when the game balls are paid out. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the unpaid information that is erased even if the pachinko machine 10 is in a power failure state.

The method of determining whether or not the payout control device 242 stores the non-execution information of the game ball payout in the prize ball counter area 361 provided in the main control device 162 is arbitrary. For example, when the non-execution information of the game ball is not stored in the counter area 361 for the prize ball, a signal indicating that the non-execution information of the payout of the game ball is not stored in the counter area 361 for the prize ball. Is output from the main control device 162 to the payout control device 242, and by inputting the signal, it is determined that the payout control device 242 does not store the non-execution information of the game ball payout in the prize ball counter area 361. Things can be considered. Further, based on the fact that the prize ball command is not input from the main control device 162 for a predetermined period, the payout control device 242 stores the non-execution information of the game ball in the prize ball counter area 361. It is conceivable that there is no such thing.

Whether or not the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 in this configuration is 3 or less may be determined as to whether or not the prize ball is permitted. Further, in this configuration, in order to determine whether or not the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less, when the ball lending button 37 is continuously operated, the ball lending request signal is continuously input. However, if it is determined in step S1904 in this configuration whether or not the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 is 3 or less, but whether or not the value of the payout number counter area is 3 or less, it can be lent. It is possible to suppress inputting a ball lending request signal when the ball is being paid out. Further, the value of the prize ball number storage area 374 in the ball rental request output permission state is not limited to 3, for example, 1 or less, 2 or less, 10 or less, and the ball rental request output permission state is obtained. The specified number of cases is arbitrary.

(66) According to the seventh embodiment, the 15 prize ball commands are output with the highest priority, and then the 4 prize ball commands are output with priority, but the configuration is not limited to this. .. That is, the priority may be set in any way. In this case, the order of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d referred to in the prize ball command output process may be changed.

For example, the four prize ball commands may be output with the highest priority, and then the fifteen prize ball commands may be output. In this case, the four prize ball command based on the value of the counter area 361c for four prize balls, which is easily stored in the frequency improvement state, is output with the highest priority, and the frequency is improved as compared with the seventh embodiment. It is possible to prevent the number of unexecuted prize balls stored in the counter area 361c for four prize balls from being 255 times in the state.

Further, although the 10 prize ball commands may be preferentially output, the damage caused to the player when the data in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is erased due to the influence of noise or the like. It is desirable to give priority to the output of the prize ball command corresponding to the ball entry portion where the ball is easy to enter, as in the above embodiment, in order to reduce the problem.

Further, the prize ball command that is preferentially output may differ depending on the game state. For example, in the frequency improvement state, it is conceivable that the four prize ball commands are output with priority. In this case, the prize ball counter area referred to in the prize ball command output process may be changed for each game state.

(67) According to the seventh embodiment, when the number of unexecuted prize balls stored in any of the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is greater than 150 times, a warning state is set and a warning is given once. In the case of the state, the warning state is not canceled unless the number of unexecuted times stored in all of the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is less than 100 times, but the configuration is not limited to this.

The number of unexecuted times determined to be a warning state is not limited to the case where it is larger than 150 times, and the number of unexecuted times determined to be a warning state is arbitrary. Further, the case where the warning state is canceled is not limited to less than 100 times, and the number of unexecuted times when the warning state is canceled is arbitrary. For example, the warning state may be set when the number of unexecuted times stored is 200 times or more, and the warning state may be canceled when the number of times of non-execution is 50 times or less. Further, the number of times the warning state has not been executed and the number of times the warning state has not been released may be equal. However, if the number of times the warning state has not been executed and the number of times the warning state has not been released are equal, even if the warning state is released, the warning state is set based on the fact that the game ball has entered the ball entry section again. , It is possible that the warning sound is repeatedly generated and stopped in a short period of time, and an extra processing load may be applied to the voice lamp control board 324. Therefore, the number of unexecuted warning states and the warning state are canceled. It is desirable that it is different from the number of unimplemented times.

Further, in the present embodiment, once the warning state is set, the warning state is set unless the number of non-execution of the prize balls stored in all of the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is less than 100 times. Was not released, but the number of non-execution of prize balls stored in the counter area for prize balls is referred to the counter area for prize balls for which the number of non-execution times exceeded 150 times when the warning state was entered. The warning state may be canceled when the number of times is less than 100 times. For example, if a warning state occurs because the number of unexecuted times stored in the counter area 361c for four prize balls exceeds 150 times, only the number of unexecuted times in the counter area 361c for four prize balls is referred to. It is sufficient to decide whether or not to cancel the warning state. In this case, it is not necessary to perform all the processes of steps S3307 to S3310, and any one of steps S3307 to 3310 may be performed.

(68) According to the seventh embodiment, a warning state may be set depending on the number of times the prize ball has not been executed, which is stored in any of the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball. No matter how many times the prize balls have not been executed are stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball, the warning state does not have to occur.

(69) In the above embodiment, one prize ball command is output in response to one game ball entering the entry section, but the game is played in the entry section a plurality of times. One prize ball command may be output in response to the ball entering.

For example, if the number of unexecuted times counted by the counter area 361d for three prize balls is eight, 15 game balls corresponding to five times of the value counted in the counter area 361 for three prize balls. A prize ball command corresponding to is output, and then a prize ball command corresponding to nine game balls may be output. Furthermore, prize ball commands corresponding to 24 game balls may be output at one time. However, if the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, the information stored in the payout side RAM 333 will be erased. In order to reduce this risk, it is desirable to extremely avoid storing information on the number of unpaid prize balls in the payout side RAM 333.

(70) In the above embodiment, the information stored in the payout side RAM 333 is erased when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, but the configuration is not limited to this. That is, even if the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, the information stored in the payout side RAM 333 may not be erased by supplying power to the payout side RAM 333 or the like. Further, the information stored in the main RAM 313 may be erased when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned off.

(71) In the seventh embodiment, the frequency improvement state is set as a game state in which the game ball can easily enter the lower operating port 84b, but the frequency improvement state does not have to be limited to such a configuration. It does not have to be set.

(72) In each of the above embodiments, the prize ball command is output in the prize ball permitted state, but the prize ball permitted state and the prize ball disallowed state are not set, and the prize is awarded to the main RAM 313. The prize ball command may be output as soon as the ball information is stored.

(73) In the seventh embodiment, a warning sound is generated when the value stored in any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d becomes larger than 150, but the configuration is limited to this. It's not a thing. That is, the warning mode to be performed when the value stored in any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d becomes larger than 150 is not limited.

For example, the warning sound may be generated in any way, and a siren may be generated in addition to the sound being played. Further, a message instructing the symbol display device 91 to resolve the abnormality may be displayed, or the error display lamp unit 24 may be used to teach that the state is in the warning state. Further, it is possible to preferably urge the player to eliminate the abnormality by displaying a message or the like on the symbol display device 91 in accordance with the voice. Further, the voice or the displayed message may be changed according to the cause of the stored value being larger than 150. For example, when the lower plate 34 is full, the game ball may be changed. If the payout is not performed and the value stored in any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d becomes larger than 150, it may be instructed to reduce the number of game balls in the lower plate 34.

Further, when an abnormality has occurred in the payout and the value of any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d is larger than 150, it may be displayed to instruct to eliminate the abnormality. When instructed to eliminate the abnormality at the game hall or the like, the player may call a staff member to resolve the abnormality. The abnormality related to the payout mentioned here includes a ballless state of the tank 221 and a failure of the payout device 224.

Furthermore, if the value of any of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d becomes larger than 150 due to multiple causes, such as when an abnormality related to payout occurs and the lower plate is full, it corresponds to each. The instruction may be given, or the instruction to call a staff member may be given.

Further, if the warning state is output externally from the pachinko machine 10 and the hall computer such as the game hall can grasp that the warning state is in the warning state, the pachinko machine 10 in the warning state can be informed. It becomes possible to take appropriate measures.

(74) In the above embodiment, a warning sound is generated when the value stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball becomes larger than 150, but a game ball enters each entry portion. Each time, the corresponding values of the prize ball counter areas 361a to 361d are subtracted, and when the value becomes smaller than a predetermined value, a warning state may be set.

In this case, if a warning state is set when the number of times the prize ball has not been executed is more than 150 times, the number of times the prize ball has not been executed stored in each of the counter areas 361a to 361d is 100 (that is, "1101001" in binary) or less. If it is, the warning state may be set. Further, if the warning state is canceled when the number of times the prize ball has not been executed is less than 100 times, the value stored in each counter area 361a to 361d is 155 (that is, "10011011" in binary number). If it is large, the warning state may be canceled.

(75) Further, when the value stored in any of the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball becomes larger than 150, a warning sound is generated, but it is stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball. A warning sound may be generated when the sum of the values being set is larger than a predetermined value. That is, a warning sound may be generated when the total amount of information stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is larger than the reference information amount. In this case, the warning sound may be stopped when the total amount of information stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball is less than the reference information amount.

For example, when the total number of unexecuted prize balls stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball exceeds 200 times, a warning sound is generated and stored in the counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball. The warning sound may be canceled when the total number of times the prize balls have not been played is less than 150 times. However, it is desirable that the reference information amount at which the warning sound is generated is less than 255 times, which is the maximum value of the number of unexecuted times that can be stored in one prize ball counter area.

(76) In the above embodiment, the main control device 162 and the payout control device 242 are provided, but the configuration is not limited to this. The prize ball information may be counted based on the fact that the game ball has entered the ball entry unit by one control device, and the game ball may be paid out.

Even when the game ball is paid out by one control device, it is conceivable that the information regarding the payout of the game ball is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like. Also in this case, as in the above embodiment, the prize ball information is counted according to the entry portion, and the game balls are paid out from the counted prize ball information having the highest priority. , It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game balls while distributing the risk that the prize ball information is rewritten due to the influence of noise and the like.

(77) In the above embodiment, when a game ball enters each entry portion, the value of the prize ball counter area corresponding to the entry portion is added by 1, but the entry portion is added to the value of the prize ball counter area. When a game ball enters, the information corresponding to the entry may be stored.

For example, 5 game balls are paid out based on the game balls entering the lower operating port 84b, and 15 game balls are paid out based on the game balls entering the variable winning device 83. In a gaming machine provided with a counter area for 5 prize balls in the RAM 313, when a prize is generated in the lower operating port 84b, the value of the counter area for 5 prize balls is added by 1 to the variable winning device 83. When a prize is won, the value of the counter area for 5 prize balls is considered to be added by 3. In this case, if the payout of the game balls based on the information stored in the counter area for five prize balls is given priority, the game based on the winning of the variable winning device 83 which is likely to occur in the big hit state. It is possible to preferentially pay out the game ball based on the winning of the lower operating port 84b, which tends to occur in the payout of the ball and the state of increasing the frequency.

As described above, the game state includes the first game state and the second game state, and the ball entry portion in which the ball is likely to enter in the first game state and the ball entry portion in which the ball is likely to enter in the second game state. In a configuration different from the unit, the storage area of the game information for entering the ball may be common. Furthermore, the number of prize balls when a game ball enters the first entry section where the entry is likely to occur in the first game state, and the second entry section where the entry is likely to occur in the second game state. When the number of prize balls when the game ball enters is different and the same specified number is multiplied by a predetermined natural number, the common storage area is set in the first entry portion. Either the corresponding information on the predetermined natural number or the information on the predetermined natural number corresponding to the second ball entry section is the ball entry section in which the ball entry occurs among the first ball entry section and the second ball entry section. It may be configured to be updated in correspondence with.

With this configuration, different storage areas are provided for the first ball entry section and the second ball entry section, and the priority order of the storage areas is changed in each of the first game state and the second game state. Even if it is not, by setting the priority of paying out the game information stored in the common storage area higher than the game information stored in the other storage areas, the first game state can be set. Priority is given to the payout of the game ball based on the entry into the first ball entry section, and in the second gaming state, the payout of the game ball based on the entry into the second entry section is prioritized. Further, even with this configuration, since the gaming states in which ball entry is likely to occur are different between the first ball entry section and the second ball entry section, the storage capacity of the common storage area may be exceeded. It is reduced.

Further, for example, in a game machine in which a plurality of types of ball entry portions are provided, and when a game ball enters each entry portion, 5, 10, and 15 game balls are paid out, respectively. When a prize is paid out of 10 game balls, the value of the counter area for prize balls is added by 1, and when a prize is paid out of 10 or 15 game balls, the value of the counter area for prize balls is added. It is conceivable that the values are added by 2 or 3 respectively.

In addition, when it is easy to generate prizes corresponding to 5 or 15 pieces and it is difficult to generate prizes corresponding to 10 pieces, the payout information corresponding to 5 pieces or 15 pieces is used as one prize ball. It may be stored in the counter area for prize balls, and the payout information corresponding to 10 pieces may be stored in the counter area for prize balls different from the counter area for prize balls. Further, in a game machine provided with a ball entry section where 3, 5, and 8 game balls are paid out, a counter area for 3 prize balls and a counter area for 5 prize balls are provided, and 3 When a prize is paid out for 5 game balls, the value of the counter area for 3 prize balls is added by 1, and when a prize is paid out for 5 game balls, the counter area for 5 prize balls is added. When a prize is generated in which eight game balls are paid out, the value of the counter area for three or five prize balls may be added by one, respectively.

(78) In the above embodiment, a plurality of general winning openings 82 are provided, and when a game ball enters the general winning opening 82, the value of the counter area 361b for 10 prize balls is added by 1. However, in a configuration in which the likelihood of winning a prize in a plurality of general winning openings 82 is different, even if a counter area is individually provided in response to the likelihood of winning a prize. Good. Further, in a configuration in which the number of game balls to be paid out when a game ball enters the upper operating port 84a and the lower operating port 84b is the same, a counter area is individually provided corresponding to each operating port 84a, 84b. When a game ball enters any of the operating ports 84a and 84b, the value in the same counter area may be updated.

(79) Of the upper information and the lower information in the prize ball command, the information for specifying the command is stored in the upper information, and the information on the number of prize balls of the game ball is stored in the lower information, but the configuration is limited to this. do not do. That is, any information may be stored in the upper information and the lower information.

For example, information on the number of prize balls may be stored in the upper information. In addition, information corresponding to the number of prize balls of the game ball may be stored in both the upper information and the lower information. In this case, in step S1805 in the prize ball setting process, the number of prize balls of the game ball is specified from both the upper information and the lower information. Further, it is not necessary to specify that the command is a prize ball command in the 4 bits of the upper information, and for example, it may be specified that the command is a prize ball command in the upper 2 bits.

(80) In the above embodiment, if the result of the addition processing of the upper information and the lower information in the prize ball command is not "11111111", the game ball is not paid out, but the configuration is limited to this. It is not something that is done. If the result of the addition process is not "11111111", the predetermined number of correction prize balls may be added to the prize ball number storage area 374 of the RAM 333. This case will be described with reference to FIG. 58.

If the result of the addition process is not "111111111" in step S1804 of the prize ball setting process in the above embodiment, the process proceeds to step S1815 and the number of prize balls is determined to be the number of prize balls for correction in the present embodiment. To do. That is, when the result of the addition process is not "11111111", the information corresponding to the number of prize balls for correction is stored in the general-purpose register of the CPU 331 instead of the information of the prize ball command. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged because the game ball is not paid out at all when it is determined in step S1804 that the prize ball command is not normal.

As the number of prize balls for correction, for example, a configuration in which the maximum number of prize balls (15 in the above embodiment) among those actually set as the number of prize balls for winning can be considered. In this case, it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged when the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like. Further, it is conceivable that the minimum number of prize balls (three in the above embodiment) is set as the number of prize balls for winning. In this case, if the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the player can be compensated for the disadvantage of the player at the minimum. Further, it may be configured to be the average number of prize balls among those set as the number of prize balls for winning. Also in this case, if the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the game ball is not paid out to the player at all, and it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged. Furthermore, a predetermined number of prize balls may be provided as the number of prize balls for correction. In this case, one type of correction prize ball number may be provided in one game machine. Further, a plurality of types of correction prize balls may be provided, and in a gaming machine in which a plurality of game states are set, it is conceivable that the number of correction prize balls differs for each game state. In this case, for example, in a gaming machine in which a special gaming state advantageous to the player is set, the correction prize ball is different between the special gaming state and the normal gaming state, and the special gaming state is better than the normal gaming state. However, it is conceivable that a large number of prize balls for correction is set.

(82) In the above embodiment, when the result of the addition processing using the upper information and the lower information is "111111111", it is determined that the prize ball command is normal, but the configuration is limited to this. It's not something. That is, the result of the addition processing of the upper information and the lower information may be set to be other than "11111111".

For example, when the result of the addition processing of the upper information and the lower information is "11110,000", it may be determined that the prize ball command is normal. In this case, the upper information of the three prize ball commands is "11101101", and the lower information is "000000111".

Further, it may be determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal by the subtraction process using the upper information and the lower information instead of the addition process.

For example, when the result of subtracting the lower information from the upper information is "11110,000", it may be determined that the prize ball command is normal. In this case, the upper information of the three prize ball commands is "11110011", and the lower information is "000000111".

Further, it may be determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal by the division process or the multiplication process instead of the addition process or the subtraction process. However, when the division process or the multiplication process is used, the bit shift process may occur a plurality of times as compared with the addition process or the subtraction process, so it is desirable to use the addition process or the subtraction process.

Further, it may be determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal by using a logical operation instead of the addition process or the subtraction process. For example, when the logical sum is used, if the prize ball command in the above embodiment is used, it is determined that the prize ball command is normal when the result of the logical sum is "11111111". Further, when the logical product is used, it is determined that the prize ball command is normal when the result of the logical product is "00000000000". In this way, when determining whether or not a prize ball command is normal using a logical operation, the operation can be performed only by comparing the operations in bit units, so that there is a case where addition processing and subtraction processing are performed. In comparison, the processing speed can be improved.

However, when the logical operation is used, even if the prize ball command is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, it is conceivable that the result of the logical operation will be the same as the normal one. When performing a logical sum, for example, even if the lower information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "000000111" to "000000111", the result of the logical sum is "11111111", which is a normal prize ball command. Will be determined to be. Further, in the case of the logical product, even if the lower information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "000000111" to "00000001", the result of the logical product is "0000000000", which is a normal prize ball command. Will be judged. Therefore, it is preferable to determine whether or not the prize ball command is normal by the addition process as in the above embodiment.

(83) Further, both the OR and the AND may be performed. In this case, by making the results of the logical sum and the logical product different in the case of a normal prize ball command, even if any bit is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the prize ball command is used. It is possible to make it easier to discover that it has been rewritten.

Specifically, the CPU 331 is set with a first OR register and a second OR register, and in step S1802, higher-level information of the prize ball command stored in the command storage area 373. And, of the lower information, one is read into the first OR register and the other is read into the second OR register. Then, the logical sum is calculated using the information stored in the first logical sum register and the information stored in the second logical sum register. The result of the OR is stored and held in the first OR register. Further, a first logical product register and a second logical product register are set in the CPU 331, and in step S1802, upper information and lower information of the prize ball command stored in the command storage area 373. Of these, one is read into the first AND register and the other is read into the second AND register. Then, the logical product is calculated using the information stored in the first logical product register and the information stored in the second logical product register. The result of the logical product is stored and held in the first OR register. After performing the logical sum and the logical product in step S1802, in step S1804, whether or not the information of the first logical sum register is "111111111" and the information of the first logical product register is "00000000000", respectively. It is determined whether or not there is. Then, when the information of the first OR register is "11111111" and the information of the first AND register is "00000000000", it is determined that the prize ball command is normal.

If only one of the logical sum or the logical product is performed, for example, when the logical sum is performed, even if the lower information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "000000111" to "000000111", the logical sum The result is "11111111", and it is determined that the prize ball command is normal. In addition, when performing a logical product, even if the lower information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "000000111" to "000000001", the result of the logical product is "00000000000" and the normal prize ball command is used. It will be determined that there is. Therefore, it is preferable to determine whether or not the prize ball command is normal by the addition process as in the above embodiment.

On the other hand, when both the logical product and the logical sum are performed, if the lower information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "000000111" to "000000111", the result of the logical sum is "11111111". Even if it becomes, the result of the logical product is "00000100", and it can be determined that the prize ball command has been rewritten. Further, when the lower information in the three prize ball command is rewritten from "000000111" to "00000001", the result of the logical sum is "111111101" even if the result of the logical product is "00000000000". , It can be determined that the prize ball command has been rewritten.

In this way, when both the logical sum and the logical product are performed, it is possible to make it easier to discover that the prize ball command has been rewritten as compared with the case where only one of them is performed.

(84) In the above embodiment, when the number of prize balls is specified, the process of step S1809 is performed when the specified number of prize balls is 1 or more and less than 16, but the configuration is not limited to this. ..

For example, the process of step S1809 may be performed when the specified prize ball number information is 3 or more and less than 18. That is, the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the prize ball number information for which the process of step S1809 is performed are not limited.

The lower limit value must be 3 or less, which is the minimum number of prize balls of the above embodiment, and the upper limit value must be 15 or more, which is the maximum number of prize balls of the above embodiment. If the specified number of prize balls is not within a predetermined range, the corrected number of prize balls may be added by the process of adding the number of prize balls.

Further, the process of step S1809 may be performed when the number of prize balls is less than or equal to a predetermined number.

For example, even if 15 game balls are paid out when a game ball enters the ball entry section, one prize ball command outputs a prize ball command corresponding to a predetermined number of prize balls. Can be considered. In this case, for the payout of 15 game balls, the prize ball command corresponding to 10 prize ball number information is output once, and the prize ball command corresponding to 5 prize ball number information is output once. Will be. In the case of such a game machine, it may be determined that the prize ball command is normal when the information on the number of prize balls corresponding to one prize ball command is 10 or less. In this way, it is possible to apply to a game machine in which the number of prize balls based on one game ball entering the ball entry section and the number of prize balls corresponding to one prize ball command are different. It becomes.

(85) In the above embodiment, whether or not the prize ball command input from whether or not the result of the addition process is "11111111" and whether or not the number of prize balls is 1 or more and 15 or less is normal. Although it was judged, it is not limited to such a configuration. It may be determined whether or not the prize ball command is normal from either whether or not the result of the addition process is "11111111" and whether or not the number of prize balls is 1 or more and 15 or less.

However, for example, when it is determined that the prize ball command is normal when the number of prize balls is 1 or more and 15 or less, even if the prize ball command is rewritten so that the number of prize balls is 1 or more and 15 or less. It will be judged as a normal prize ball command. Further, when it is determined that the prize ball command is normal when the result of the addition process is "111111111", the bits in the prize ball command are rewritten in a plurality of places and the result of the addition process is accidentally "111111111". If this is the case, it will be determined that the prize ball command is normal. For example, when the upper information in the three prize ball commands is rewritten from "11111100" to "111101100" and the lower information is rewritten from "000000111" to "00010011", the result of the addition process is "11111111". It is conceivable that the prize ball command is determined to be a normal prize ball command, and the game ball is paid out based on the prize ball command even though the prize ball command has been rewritten. .. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the prize ball command input from both whether the result of the addition process is "11111111" and whether or not the number of prize balls is 1 or more and 15 or less is normal. desirable.

(86) In addition to the means described in the above "means for solving the problem", the following means can also be applied. In the following, explanations will be given while showing the effects and the like as necessary. By the way, the following means may be applied instead of the means 1 to 20 of the "means for solving the problem", and any one of the means 1 to 20 of the "means for solving the problem" 1 to 20. The following means may be applied to the above.

Means A1. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is paid out.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become the payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content is specified, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and further, the information is provided while the power is supplied to itself. The main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
With the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information input from the main control means or the information corresponding to the payout command information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). ,
The prize payout number information is stored as the prize payout number information specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and further, the information can be stored and retained while the electric power is supplied to itself. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state, and
Payout drive control means that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means (function of executing the payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331). When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Depending on the prize payout number information, the permission identification information is output to the main control means so that the main control means can specify whether the output command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. Permission identification information output means (function to execute prize ball permission signal setting processing in the payout side CPU 331) and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. It is provided, and the payout command information can be output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.
The permission specifying information output means is such a permission so that the main control means can specify at least the output permission state when the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means. It is provided with an output state setting means (a function of executing the processes of steps S2306 and S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) for setting the output state of the specific information.
Further, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout command information output means does not output the payout command information even if the prize information is stored in the main storage means. The regulatory means (the function of executing the process of step S916 in the main CPU 311 or the function of executing the process of step S1615 or step S1714 in the payout side CPU 331, etc.) and
Release specifying means for specifying whether or not to release the restricted state so that the payout command information is not output (a function of executing the process of step S905 in the main CPU 311; step S1601 in the payout side CPU 331 or (Functions for executing the process of step S1704, etc.) and
When it is specified by the release specifying means that the release should be performed, the regulation release means for releasing the restricted state (a function of executing the process of step S907 in the main CPU 311; step S1604 in the payout side CPU 331). Or the function to execute the process of step S1705) and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

In the game machine of the means A1, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the game content becoming the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. The permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. , The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means A1, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

However, in the above configuration, if the power is turned on and off repeatedly while the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the game medium is stored in the main storage means without being executed. The prize information may be deleted repeatedly. That is, if the power supply is started with the prize information stored in the main storage means, and the payout control means is in the output permission state and the payout command information is output, the prize is paid out to the payout side storage means. Numerical information is stored. If the power is cut off at a relatively early stage in this situation, the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is deleted without executing the payout of the game medium. If the power is turned on and off repeatedly, the prize information stored in the main storage means is repeatedly erased without paying out the game medium.

On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means A1, when the power supply to the game machine is started, the output of the payout command information is restricted even if the prize information is stored in the main storage means. Yes, the withdrawal command information is not output until the regulation is lifted. That is, even if the power supply to the game machine is started, the prize information stored in the main storage means is maintained in the main storage means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. There are times. Since the power at the time of power failure is supplied to the main storage means as described above, the prize information is not erased even if the power is cut off as long as the power at the time of power failure is supplied.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and a game ball is paid out according to a stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game ball. It may be a stop pattern.

Further, the "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON and OFF, or information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Means A2. In the means A1, when the output permission state specifying means is in an input state indicating that the input state of the permission identification information is the output permission state, the input continuation period is a predetermined output permission reference. A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission state is specified based on the fact that the period has been reached.

According to the means A2, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input state indicating that there is reached the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, as described above, the main control means does not immediately identify that the payout control means is in the output permission state, but the payout control means is in the output permission state at least until the output permission reference period elapses. By setting the configuration to suspend the identification of the above, the period required for the main control means to identify the payout control means as the output permission state when the power supply to the game machine is started is secured accordingly. As a result, for example, when a process for prohibiting the output of the payout command information is executed, there is a time margin for executing the process.

In addition to the configuration in which the input continuation period is measured by using a real timer, "the output permission state is specified based on the fact that the input continuation period reaches a predetermined output permission reference period". Also includes the following configurations: In a configuration in which the output permission state specifying means includes the permission specifying information confirmation means for periodically confirming the input state of the permission specifying information, the permission specifying information confirmation means is in the output permission state. The configuration may be such that the output permission state is specified based on the confirmation of the predetermined output permission reference number of times that the input state indicates that the input state is specified. The same applies to the handling of such a "period" as follows.

Means A3. In the means A1 or A2, when the regulation means starts supplying power to the game machine from an external power source in the case where the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the above-mentioned A gaming machine characterized in that the payout command information is not output by the payout command information output means.

When a restricted situation occurs, the power may be cut off while the prize information is stored in the main storage means. In this case, when the power supply is started, the payout control means is in the output permission state, and the payout command information is output, the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means. However, since the payout of the game medium is still restricted, the payout of the game medium is not executed even if the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means. If the power is cut off in this situation, the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is deleted without executing the payout of the game medium. If the power is turned on and off repeatedly, the prize information stored in the main storage means is repeatedly erased without paying out the game medium.

On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means A3, when the power supply to the game machine is started in the restricted situation, the payout command information is not output even if the prize information is stored in the main storage means. That is, in this situation, the prize information stored in the main storage means is maintained in the main storage means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. Since the power at the time of power failure is supplied to the main storage means as described above, the prize information is not erased even if the power is cut off as long as the power at the time of power failure is supplied.

It should be noted that "the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted" is not only in the situation where the payout of the game medium is not performed, but also because the payout speed of the game medium by the payout means is extremely slow. It also includes situations where the game media is not paid out.

Means A4. In means A3, the regulatory means is
A restriction specifying means (a function of executing a front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) having the main control means and specifying that a predetermined restriction situation predetermined as the restriction status has occurred, and
An output regulating means that regulates not to output the payout command information based on the fact that the payout command information output means has and the restriction specifying means has identified that the predetermined restriction situation has occurred ( (Function to execute the process of step S1104 in the main CPU 311) and
Is equipped with
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the predetermined restriction situation, the restriction specifying means may perform the limitation specifying means at a timing before specifying that the output permission state specifying means is in the output permission state. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that it is in a predetermined restriction situation.

According to the means A4, when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation, the main control means may be in the above situation. It is specified, and further, it is performed at the timing before the identification is specified as the output permission state. Thereby, the payout command information can be prevented from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the above means A3 can be obtained. Further, according to this configuration, it is not necessary for the payout control means to perform a special process at the start of power supply to the game machine regarding the output of the permission identification information.

Means A5. In the means A4, the main control means has the release specifying means and the regulation release means.
The release specifying means specifies that the predetermined restriction situation has been released.
The restriction release means releases the restricted state so that the payout command information is not output when the release specific means specifies that the predetermined restriction situation has been released. A game machine characterized by being there.

According to the means A5, even if the payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation. After that, the payout command information is output based on the release of the predetermined restriction status. Therefore, in the configuration in which the effects of the means A4 and the like can be obtained, the game medium is smoothly paid out.

Means A6. In the means A4 or A5, when the output permission state specifying means is in an input state indicating that the input state of the permission identification information is the output permission state, the input duration is a predetermined output. Based on the fact that the permission standard period has been reached, it is specified that the output permission state is reached.
Further, it is provided with a restriction detecting means (front door frame opening switch 78) for detecting the predetermined restriction situation.
The restriction specifying means is based on the fact that the restriction detection continuation period reaches a predetermined restriction reference period when the detection result of the restriction detecting means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied. To identify the above-mentioned predetermined restriction situation,
A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission reference period is set longer than the restriction reference period.

According to the means A6, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input state indicating that there is reached the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, even if the detection result of the restriction detection means becomes a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is obtained, it is not immediately specified as the predetermined restriction situation, but the restriction detection continuation period which is the detection result. Is identified as a predetermined restriction situation based on the fact that the restriction standard period has been reached. As a result, the payout command information is output when the detection result of the limitation detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the limitation detection state is in the predetermined limitation situation due to noise or the like even though it is not actually the predetermined limitation situation. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming untouched.

Further, since the output permission reference period is set longer than the restriction reference period, the predetermined restriction status is set at the timing before the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permission state. It is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means under the predetermined restriction situation.

In a configuration in which the main control means repeatedly executes a plurality of predetermined processes as a series of processes after the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started, the process is described as a part of the series of processes. The output permission reference period measurement process and the limit detection continuation period measurement process may be executed. In this case, the measurement start timing of the output permission reference period and the limit detection continuation period can be made substantially the same.

Means A7. In the means A4 or A5, the output permission state specifying means includes a permission specifying information confirmation means (a function of executing the process of step S1001 in the main CPU 311) for confirming the input state of the permission specifying information, and the permission is provided. The output permission state is specified based on the fact that the input state indicating that the output permission state is confirmed by the identification information confirmation means is confirmed as the output permission reference number of times set as a plurality of times. Yes,
Further, it is provided with a restriction detecting means (front door frame opening switch 78) for detecting that the predetermined restriction situation has occurred.
The restriction specifying means includes a restriction detection result confirmation means (a function of executing the process of step S901 in the main CPU 311) for confirming the detection result of the restriction detection means, and is restricted by the restriction detection result confirmation means. Based on the fact that the detection result indicating that the situation is confirmed is the limit detection reference number of times set as a plurality of times, the predetermined limit situation is specified.
A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission reference number of times is set as a number larger than the limit detection reference number of times.

According to the means A7, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input status indicating that there is is confirmed by the output permission reference number of times. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, even if the detection result of the restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is obtained, the restriction detection does not mean that the detection result is immediately specified as the predetermined restriction situation. Based on the fact that the reference number of times has been confirmed, it is identified as a predetermined restriction situation. As a result, the payout command information is output when the detection result of the limitation detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the limitation detection state is in the predetermined limitation situation due to noise or the like even though it is not actually the predetermined limitation situation. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming untouched.

Further, since the output permission reference number is set as a number larger than the limit detection reference number, the timing before the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permission state of the payout command information. The payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the predetermined restriction situation is specified and the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation. Can be done.

In a configuration in which the main control means repeatedly executes a plurality of predetermined processes as a series of processes after the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started, the process is described as a part of the series of processes. The configuration may be such that the confirmation process of the permission identification information and the confirmation process of the restriction detection result are executed. In this case, it is possible to make the measurement start timing of the output permission reference number and the limit detection reference number substantially the same.

Means A8. In the means A3, the game machine main body (main body frame 13 and back pack unit 15) on which the payout means is installed and
A display unit (window 21) provided so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine with respect to the game machine body so that the game content can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine, and a game medium paid out from the payout means are stored. The front body (front door frame 14) of the game machine with the outer storage part (lower plate 34) integrated,
Is further equipped with
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the front body of the game machine is open. ,
The regulatory means
The open state specifying means (a function of executing the front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) that the main control means has and specifies that the front body of the game machine is in the open state.
When the payout command information output means has and the open state specifying means specifies that the payout command information is in the open state, the output control means (process of step S1104 in the main CPU 311) that does not output the payout command information. Function to execute) and
Is equipped with
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the situation where the front body of the game machine is open, the output permission state specifying means is in the output permission state of the payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that it is in the open state at a timing prior to specifying that.

In the game machine of the means A8, the display unit and the outer storage unit are integrated with respect to the front body of the game machine. As a result, a boundary leading to the game machine main body side does not occur between the display unit and the outer storage unit on the front surface of the game machine, and it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts using the boundary. Further, when the front body of the game machine is open, even if the game medium is paid out by the payout means, it cannot be received by the outer storage portion. Therefore, as a countermeasure, the game medium is paid out by the payout means. Is restricted.

In this case, if the front body of the game machine is open and the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the main control means described above. It is performed at a timing before the situation is specified and the identification is specified as the output permission state. Thereby, the payout command information can be prevented from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the above means A3 can be obtained. Further, according to this configuration, it is not necessary for the payout control means to perform a special process at the start of power supply to the game machine regarding the output of the permission identification information.

By the way, when a fraudulent act is performed on the game machine, the front body of the game machine may be opened. In this case, since the main control means has a function of controlling the game in an integrated manner, it is preferable that the main control means specifies whether or not the front body of the game machine is in the open state. In this means, the main control means uses a configuration for specifying whether or not the front body of the game machine is in the open state, and the prize information is given to the main storage means in the situation where the front body of the game machine is open. If the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where is stored, the payout command information can be prevented from being output.

The main control means may be configured to include a specific process executing means for executing a predetermined specific process when the open state specifying means specifies that the front body of the game machine is in the open state. Good. Further, as the specific process, a notification process for notifying that the front body of the game machine is in the open state can be considered.

Means A9. In the means A8, the main control means has the release specifying means and the regulation release means.
The release specifying means specifies that the front body of the game machine is not open.
The regulation release means releases the restricted state so that the payout command information is not output when it is specified by the release identification means that the front body of the game machine is not opened. A game machine characterized by being.

According to the means A9, the payout command information is output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the front body of the game machine is open and the prize information is stored in the main storage means. Even if this is not performed, the payout command information is output based on the fact that the front body of the game machine is closed thereafter. Therefore, in the configuration in which the effects of the means A8 and the like can be obtained, the game medium is smoothly paid out.

Means A10. In the means A8 or A9, when the output permission state specifying means is in an input state indicating that the input state of the permission identification information is the output permission state, the input duration is a predetermined output. Based on the fact that the permission standard period has been reached, it is specified that the output permission state is reached.
Further, it is provided with an opening detection means (front door frame opening switch 78) for detecting whether or not the front body of the game machine is open.
When the detection result of the open state detecting means is a detection result indicating that the open state is in the open state, the open state specifying means has reached a predetermined open specific reference period for the open detection continuation period. Based on this, it is specified that it is in the open state.
A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission reference period is set longer than the open specific reference period.

According to the means A10, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input state indicating that there is reached the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, even if the detection result of the open detection means is a detection result indicating that the open state is obtained, it is not immediately specified as the open state, but the open detection continuation period which is the detection result is open. It is identified as open based on reaching a specific reference period. As a result, even though it is not actually in the open state, the payout command information is not output when the detection result of the open detection means is a detection result indicating that the open state is due to noise or the like. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming a state.

Further, since the output permission reference period is set longer than the open specific reference period, the main control means keeps the front body of the game machine open at a timing before specifying that the output permission state is set. Identify that. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the open state and the prize information is stored in the main storage means.

In a configuration in which the main control means repeatedly executes a plurality of predetermined processes as a series of processes after the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started, the process is described as a part of the series of processes. It may be configured to execute the measurement process of the output permission reference period and the measurement process of the open detection continuation period. In this case, the measurement start timing of the output permission reference period and the open detection continuation period can be made substantially the same.

Means A11. In the means A8 or A9, the output permission state specifying means includes a permission specifying information confirmation means (a function of executing the process of step S1001 in the main CPU 311) for confirming the input state of the permission specifying information, and the permission is provided. The output permission state is specified based on the fact that the input state indicating that the output permission state is confirmed by the identification information confirmation means is confirmed as the output permission reference number of times set as a plurality of times. Yes,
Further, it is provided with an opening detection means (front door frame opening switch 78) for detecting whether or not the front body of the game machine is open.
The open state specifying means includes an open detection result confirming means (a function of executing the process of step S901 in the main CPU 311) for confirming the detection result of the open detecting means, and the open state detecting means confirms the open state. It is specified that the open state is based on the fact that the detection result indicating that the above is confirmed is the open detection reference number of times set as a plurality of times.
A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission reference number is set as a number larger than the open detection reference number.

According to the means A11, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input status indicating that there is is confirmed by the output permission reference number of times. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, even if the detection result of the open detection means is a detection result indicating that the open state is obtained, it is not immediately specified as the open state, but the detection result is the open detection reference number of times. It is identified as open based on what has been confirmed. As a result, even though it is not actually in the open state, the payout command information is not output when the detection result of the open detection means is a detection result indicating that the open state is due to noise or the like. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming a state.

Further, since the output permission reference number is set as a number larger than the open detection reference number, the timing before the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permission state of the payout command information. When the front body of the game machine is specified to be in the open state and the power supply to the game machine is started in the open state and the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the payout command information Can be prevented from being output.

In a configuration in which the main control means repeatedly executes a plurality of predetermined processes as a series of processes after the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started, the process is described as a part of the series of processes. The configuration may be such that the confirmation process of the permission identification information and the confirmation process of the release detection result are executed. In this case, it is possible to make the measurement start timing of the output permission reference number and the open detection reference number substantially the same.

Means A12. In the means A3, the main control means, the payout control means, and the power supply means at the time of power failure are mounted, and the game machine main body (game machine) attached to the attachment target (outer frame 11) so as to be opened and closed in front of the game machine. It also has a main part 12).
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means for limiting the drive control of the payout means when the game machine main body is open.
The regulatory means
An open state specifying means possessed by the main control means and specifying that the game machine main body is in the open state,
When the payout command information output means has the open state identification means and the open state is specified, the output control means that does not output the payout command information and the output control means.
Is equipped with
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the situation where the game machine main body is open, the open state specifying means means that the output permission state specifying means is in the output permission state of the payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that it is in the open state at a timing prior to specifying.

In the game machine of the means A12, when the game machine main body is open, the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted.

In this case, when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the game machine main body is open and the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the above situation in the main control means. Is specified, and further, the specification is performed at a timing before it is specified that the output is permitted. Thereby, the payout command information can be prevented from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the above means A3 can be obtained. Further, according to this configuration, it is not necessary for the payout control means to perform a special process at the start of power supply to the game machine regarding the output of the permission identification information.

By the way, when a fraudulent act is performed on a game machine, the game machine itself may be opened. In this case, since the main control means has a function of controlling the game in an integrated manner, it is preferable that the main control means specifies whether or not the game machine main body is in the open state. In the present means A12, the prize information is sent to the main storage means in the situation where the game machine main body is open by using the configuration for specifying whether or not the game machine main body is in the open state in this main control means. It is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the stored situation.

The main control means may be configured to include a specific process executing means for executing a predetermined specific process when the open state specifying means specifies that the game machine main body is in the open state. .. Further, as the specific process, a notification process for notifying that the game machine main body is in the open state can be considered.

Means A13. In any one of means A3 to A12, the regulatory means is
A function possessed by the payout control means and executing a payout side restriction specifying means (a function of executing a full tank processing and a ball-free processing in the payout side CPU 331) for specifying that a predetermined restriction situation predetermined as the restriction status has occurred. )When,
Based on the fact that the output state setting means has and the payout side restriction specifying means has identified the predetermined restriction situation, the output state of the permission identification information is the output disapproval state. Disapproval state regulating means (a function of executing each process of step S2304, step S2305, and step S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) that regulates the output state to be maintained in a identifiable output state by the main control means, and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means A13, in the predetermined restriction situation, the output state of the permission specifying information is restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state so that the payout command information is not output from the main control means to the payout control means. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output in a predetermined restriction situation. When the payout command information is output in the predetermined limit situation, if the predetermined limit situation is not resolved and the power of the game machine is cut off while the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the new output is made. The prize payout number information corresponding to the payout command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Further, in this configuration, even when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the predetermined restriction situation, it is regulated to correspond to the output disapproval state by specifying the predetermined restriction situation. Will be done. As a result, it becomes possible to prevent the payout command information from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the above means A3 can be obtained.

In the "predetermined restriction situation", in a configuration further including an outer storage unit for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means, the predetermined restriction status may be set to the full tank state of the outer storage unit. Further, in a configuration in which an inner storage unit for storing the game medium is further provided inside the game machine, and the payout means discharges the game medium stored in the inner storage part, the game stored in the inner storage part is provided. A predetermined restriction situation may be set to run out of media. Further, the situation in which the payout means has failed may be set as a predetermined restriction situation.

Means A14. In the means A13, the payout control means has the release specifying means and the regulation release means.
The release specifying means specifies that the predetermined restriction situation has been released.
The restriction release means releases the restricted state so that the payout command information is not output when the release specific means specifies that the predetermined restriction situation has been released. A game machine characterized by being there.

According to the means A14, even if the payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation. After that, the payout command information is output based on the situation where the payout of the game medium is restricted is released. Therefore, in the configuration in which the effects of the means A13 and the like can be obtained, the game medium is smoothly paid out.

Means A15. In the means A13 or A14, the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the predetermined restriction situation, and the output permission state is obtained because the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means. When the output state of the permission identification information is set so that it can be specified by the main control means, the output state is specified at a timing before the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means. The payout side restriction specifying means specifies that the predetermined restriction situation is set, and the disapproval state regulating means specifies that the output state of the permission identification information is the output disapproval state by the main control means. A game machine characterized in that it is regulated so as to be maintained in a possible output state.

When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, since the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means, it is specified so that the output permitted state can be specified by the main control means. The output status of the information is set. In this case, according to the means A15, when the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started in the predetermined limited situation, the timing before the main control means specifies that the output is permitted. Then, the payout control means specifies that the predetermined restriction status is set, and the output status of the permission identification information is restricted to the output status corresponding to the output disapproval status. As a result, it becomes possible to prevent the payout command information from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the above means A1 can be obtained.

Means A16. Any one of the means A13 to A15 is provided with a payout side restriction detecting means (full tank detection sensor 59, ball non-detection sensor 223a) for detecting that the predetermined restriction situation has occurred.
When the detection result of the payout side restriction detecting means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is obtained, the payout side restriction specifying means has a predetermined payout side restriction reference period for which the restriction detection continuation period is set. It is intended to identify the above-mentioned predetermined restriction situation based on the achievement of.
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the main control means waits for at least a predetermined main standby period so that the output permission state specifying means does not specify the power. It is provided with side standby means (a function of executing the processes of steps S401 and S402 in the main CPU 311).
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the predetermined limitation situation, the predetermined limitation situation is set before the main standby period elapses and the output permission state identification means is specified. Is specified by the payout side restriction specifying means, and the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to an output state corresponding to the output disapproval state by the disapproval state regulating means. A game machine characterized in that a period is set.

According to the means A16, even if the detection result of the limitation detection means is a detection result indicating that the limitation detection means is the predetermined limitation situation, the payout control means does not immediately specify the detection result as the predetermined limitation situation. It is identified as a predetermined restriction situation based on the fact that the restriction detection continuation period is reached the payer restriction reference period. As a result, the payout command information is output when the detection result of the limitation detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the limitation detection state is in the predetermined limitation situation due to noise or the like even though it is not actually the predetermined limitation situation. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming untouched.

However, in the above configuration, even if the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout control means does not specify that the predetermined limit state is reached at least until the payout side limit reference period is reached. On the other hand, since power is not supplied to the payout side storage means when the power is cut off, the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source. In this case, the output status of the permission identification information is set so that the output permission status can be specified. Then, there is a high possibility that the payout command information will be output even in the predetermined restriction situation.

On the other hand, in the main control means, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the predetermined restriction situation, the permission identification information is not specified over the main standby period. Then, during the main standby period, while the main control means is waiting, it is specified by the payout control means that the predetermined restriction state is set, and the output state of the permission identification information corresponds to the output disapproval state. Regulated by the state. As a result, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started under the predetermined restriction situation.

Means A17. In the means A16, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout control means identifies the prize payout number information by the payout number information specifying means and drives the payout over a predetermined payout side standby period. The payout side standby process execution means (main process in the payout side CPU 331) waits so that the drive control by the control means, the update by the payout update means, and the output of the permission specification information by the permission identification information output means are not performed. Has the ability to execute)
A gaming machine characterized in that the main waiting period is set longer than a total period of the paying side waiting period and the paying side restriction reference period.

In the game machine of the means A17, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout control means waits for the execution of each process for the payout side standby period. In this case, the main waiting period in the main control means is set longer than the total period of the paying side waiting period and the paying side restriction reference period. As a result, in the configuration in which the payout side standby period is set in the payout control means as described above, the payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source under the predetermined restriction situation. Can be done.

Means A18. In the means A16 or A17, when the output permission state specifying means is in an input state indicating that the input state of the permission identification information is the output permission state, the input duration is a predetermined output. A gaming machine characterized in that it is specified to be in the output permission state based on the fact that the permission reference period has been reached.

According to the means A18, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input state indicating that there is reached the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, according to the above configuration, even if the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout command information is not output until the output permission reference period elapses after the main side standby period elapses. That is, even if the main standby period elapses, the payout command information is not output until the output permission reference period elapses thereafter. This makes it possible to prevent the main waiting period from becoming extremely long. Not only in the predetermined restriction situation but also in the non-predetermined restriction situation, when the power supply to the game machine is started, the normal processing in the main control means is waited until the main standby period elapses, so that it is not predetermined. From the viewpoint of preventing the period required for the standby process after the power is turned on in the restricted situation from becoming extremely long, it is preferable that the main standby period does not become extremely long as described above.

Means A19. In any one of means A16 to A18, the payout side restriction specifying means is
When the detection result of the payout side restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied, the restriction detection continuation period reaches a predetermined first restriction reference period. 1 First restriction specifying means for identifying a situation (a function of executing the process of step S1611 or step S1710 in the payout side CPU 331) and
When the detection result of the payout side restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied, the restriction detection continuation period has reached the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period. A second restriction specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1614 or step S1713 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying the second situation based on the above.
Is equipped with
The payout drive control means is a drive control limiting means (processing of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the first limiting specifying means specifies the first situation. Has the ability to execute)
When the second restriction specifying means specifies the second situation, the disapproval state regulating means maintains the output state of the permission identification information in the output state corresponding to the output disapproval state. It regulates to be done,
When the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started in the predetermined limitation situation, the second situation is set before the main standby period elapses and the output permission state identification means is specified. Is specified by the second restriction specifying means, and the main side standby is performed so that the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to the output state corresponding to the output disapproval state by the disapproval state regulating means. A game machine characterized in that a period is set.

According to the means A19, the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted when the first restriction reference period elapses after the detection result of the payout side restriction detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is obtained. .. In this case, when the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period elapses, the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state. As a result, while ensuring the first restriction reference period as long as possible in order to suppress the restriction of the payout of the game medium due to noise or the like, the output status of the permission identification information is output when the predetermined restriction situation is met. The second restriction reference period until it is regulated to the disallowed state can be shortened as much as possible. By shortening the period until the output state of the permission identification information is regulated to the output disapproval state as much as possible in this way, the main standby period can be shortened accordingly. Not only in the predetermined restriction situation but also in the non-predetermined restriction situation, when the power supply to the game machine is started, the normal processing in the main control means is waited until the main standby period elapses, so that it is not predetermined. From the viewpoint of preventing the period required for the start-up process after the power is turned on in the restricted situation from becoming extremely long, it is preferable to shorten the main standby period as described above.

Means A20. In the means A19, the payout drive control means is a low-speed drive that changes the payout speed of the payout means to a slower speed when the second restriction specifying means specifies the second situation. A gaming machine further comprising a control means (a function of executing the process of step S2204 in the payout side CPU 331).

According to the means A20, the detection duration, which is the detection result indicating that the detection result of the payout side restriction detection means is in the predetermined restriction situation, reaches the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period. Then, the payout speed of the payout means is changed to a slower speed than before. As a result, the intervals between the game media paid out from the payout means are widened. For example, in a configuration in which an outer storage unit for storing game media paid out from the payout means is further provided and the outer storage unit is in a full tank state, the outer storage unit is not actually full. Despite this, it has been identified that the outer storage unit is full due to the continuous detection of a plurality of game media among the game media flowing toward the outer storage unit by the payout side restriction detection means. There is a risk that it will end up. On the other hand, when the second restriction reference period, which is shorter than the first restriction reference period, is reached, the payout speed of the payout means is changed to a slower speed than before, so that the payout side limit detection means continues. The detected state is canceled and the detection continuation period is interrupted. Therefore, the possibility that the payout of the game medium is restricted even though the outer storage portion is not full is reduced.

In the above configuration, the means A19 is provided, and the output state of the permission identification information is set to correspond to the output disapproval state when the second restriction reference period elapses. That is, the opportunity to change the payout speed of the payout means to a slower speed than before is also used as an opportunity to make the output state of the permission identification information correspond to the output disapproval state. Therefore, the storage capacity for the payout side restriction reference period to be stored by the payout control means can be reduced.

Means A21. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is paid out.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content is specified, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and further, the information is provided while the power is supplied to itself. The main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
With the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information input from the main control means or the information corresponding to the payout command information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). ,
The prize payout number information is stored as the prize payout number information specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and further, the information can be stored and retained while the electric power is supplied to itself. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state, and
Payout drive control means that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means (function of executing the payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331). When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Depending on the prize payout number information, the permission identification information is output to the main control means so that the main control means can specify whether the output command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. Permission identification information output means (function to execute prize ball permission signal setting processing in the payout side CPU 331) and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. It is provided, and the payout command information can be output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.
Further, the permission specifying information output means can be identified by the main control means as being in the output permission state at least when the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means. It is provided with an output state setting means (a function of executing the processes of steps S2306 and S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) for setting the output state of the permission identification information.
When power supply to the game machine is started from an external power source in the case where a predetermined restriction situation is generated as a restriction situation in which the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the main memory A gaming machine characterized in that even if the prize information is stored in the means, the payout command information is not output by the payout command information output means.

In the game machine of the means A21, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the game content becoming the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. The permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. , The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means A21, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

Further, at least when the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means, the output state of the permission specifying information is set so that the output permission state can be specified. As described above, since the payout side storage means is not supplied with power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means when the power supply to the game machine is started. In this case, the output state of the permission identification information is set so that the output permission state can be specified, and then the game content becomes the payout game content, so that the main control means becomes the payout control means. The payout command information is output, and the payout of the game medium is smoothly started.

However, in this configuration, if the power is turned on and off in a predetermined restriction situation, the prize information stored in the main storage means may be erased without paying out the game medium. That is, in a predetermined restriction situation, the power supply may be cut off while the prize information is stored in the main storage means. In this case, when the power supply is started, the payout control means is in the output permission state, and the payout command information is output, the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means. However, since the payout of the game medium is still restricted, the payout of the game medium is not executed even if the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means. If the power is cut off in this situation, the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is deleted without executing the payout of the game medium. If the power is turned on and off repeatedly, the prize information stored in the main storage means is repeatedly erased without paying out the game medium.

On the other hand, according to the configuration of the means A21, when the power supply to the game machine is started in the predetermined restriction situation, the payout command information is not output even if the prize information is stored in the main storage means. That is, in this situation, the prize information stored in the main storage means is maintained in the main storage means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. Since the power at the time of power failure is supplied to the main storage means as described above, the prize information is not erased even if the power is cut off as long as the power at the time of power failure is supplied.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern.

Further, the "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON and OFF, or information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Further, "the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted" is not only in the situation where the payout of the game medium is not performed, but also because the payout speed of the game medium by the payout means is extremely slow. It also includes situations where the game media is not paid out.

Means A22. In the means A21, even if the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started in the predetermined restriction situation and the payout command information is not output, the predetermined restriction situation is subsequently released. Based on this, the gaming machine is characterized in that the state in which the payout command information is not output by the payout command information output means is released.

According to the means A22, even if the payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation. After that, the payout command information is output based on the release of the predetermined restriction status. Therefore, in the configuration in which the effects of the means A21 and the like can be obtained, the game medium is smoothly paid out.

Means A23. In the means A21 or A22, the main control means further includes a restriction specifying means (a function of executing a front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the predetermined limiting situation has occurred. ,
The payout command information output means does not output the payout command information when the limit specifying means has specified the predetermined limit situation.
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the predetermined restriction situation, the restriction specifying means may perform the limitation specifying means at a timing before specifying that the output permission state specifying means is in the output permission state. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that it is in a predetermined restriction situation.

According to the means A23, when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation, the main control means may be in the above situation. It is specified, and further, it is performed at a timing before the identification is specified as the output permission state. Thereby, the payout command information can be prevented from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the means A21 can be obtained. Further, according to this configuration, it is not necessary for the payout control means to perform a special process at the start of power supply to the game machine regarding the output of the permission identification information.

The configuration limited by the means A6 or A7 may be applied to the means A23.

Means A24. In the means A21 or A22, the game machine main body (main body frame 13 and back pack unit 15) on which the payout means is installed and
A display unit (window 21) provided so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine with respect to the game machine body so that the game content can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine, and a game medium paid out from the payout means are stored. The front body (front door frame 14) of the game machine with the outer storage part (lower plate 34) integrated,
Is further equipped with
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the front body of the game machine is open. ,
The main control means further includes an open state specifying means (a function of executing a front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) for specifying that the front body of the game machine is in the open state.
The payout command information output means does not output the payout command information when the open state is specified by the open state specifying means.
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the situation where the front body of the game machine is open, the output permission state specifying means is in the output permission state of the payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that it is in the open state at a timing prior to specifying that.

In the game machine of the means A24, the display unit and the outer storage unit are integrated with respect to the front body of the game machine. As a result, a boundary leading to the game machine main body side does not occur between the display unit and the outer storage unit on the front surface of the game machine, and it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts using the boundary. Further, when the front body of the game machine is open, even if the game medium is paid out, it cannot be received in the outer storage portion. Therefore, as a countermeasure, the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted. To.

In this case, if the front body of the game machine is open and the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the main control means described above. It is performed at a timing before the situation is specified and the identification is specified as the output permission state. Thereby, the payout command information can be prevented from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the means A21 can be obtained. Further, according to this configuration, it is not necessary for the payout control means to perform a special process at the start of power supply to the game machine regarding the output of the permission identification information.

By the way, when a fraudulent act is performed on the game machine, the front body of the game machine may be opened. In this case, since the main control means has a function of controlling the game in an integrated manner, it is preferable that the main control means specifies whether or not the front body of the game machine is in the open state. In the present means A24, the main control means is configured to specify whether or not the front body of the game machine is in the open state, and the front body of the game machine is open, and the main storage means is awarded. When the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the information is stored, the payout command information can be prevented from being output.

The main control means may be configured to include a specific process executing means for executing a predetermined specific process when the open state specifying means specifies that the front body of the game machine is in the open state. Good. Further, as the specific process, a notification process for notifying that the front body of the game machine is in the open state can be considered.

Further, the configuration limited in the above means A10 or A11 may be applied to the present means A24.

Means A25. In the means A21 or A22, the main control means, the payout control means, and the power supply means at the time of power failure are mounted, and the game machine main body (outer frame 11) is attached to the attachment target (outer frame 11) so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine. It also has a game machine main part 12).
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means for limiting the drive control of the payout means when the game machine main body is open.
The main control means further includes an open state specifying means for identifying that the game machine main body is in the open state.
The payout command information output means does not output the payout command information when the open state is specified by the open state specifying means.
When the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source in the situation where the game machine main body is open, the open state specifying means means that the output permission state specifying means is in the output permission state of the payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that it is in the open state at a timing prior to specifying.

In the game machine of the means A25, when the game machine main body is open, the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted.

In this case, when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the game machine main body is open and the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the above situation in the main control means. Is specified, and further, the specification is performed at a timing before it is specified that the output is permitted. Thereby, the payout command information can be prevented from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the means A21 can be obtained. Further, according to this configuration, it is not necessary for the payout control means to perform a special process at the start of power supply to the game machine regarding the output of the permission identification information.

By the way, when a fraudulent act is performed on a game machine, the game machine itself may be opened. In this case, since the main control means has a function of controlling the game in an integrated manner, it is preferable that the main control means specifies whether or not the game machine main body is in the open state. In the present means A25, the prize information is sent to the main storage means in the situation where the game machine main body is open by using the configuration for specifying whether or not the game machine main body is in the open state in this main control means. It is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the stored situation.

The main control means may be configured to include a specific process executing means for executing a predetermined specific process when the open state specifying means specifies that the game machine main body is in the open state. .. Further, as the specific process, a notification process for notifying that the game machine main body is in the open state can be considered.

Means A26. In any one of the means A21 to A25, the payout control means executes the payout side restriction specifying means (payout side CPU 331 full tank processing and ball useless processing) for identifying that the predetermined restriction situation has occurred. It has more functions)
When the payout side restriction specifying means identifies the predetermined restriction situation, the output state setting means maintains the output state of the permission identification information in the output state corresponding to the output disapproval state. A game machine characterized by being regulated in such a way.

According to the means A26, in the predetermined restriction situation, the output state of the permission specifying information is restricted to the output state corresponding to the output disapproval state so that the payout command information is not output from the main control means to the payout control means. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output in a predetermined restriction situation. When the payout command information is output in the predetermined limit situation, if the predetermined limit situation is not resolved and the power of the game machine is cut off while the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the new output is made. The prize payout number information corresponding to the payout command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Further, in this configuration, even when the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started in the predetermined limitation situation, the output is restricted to the output disallowed state by specifying the predetermined limitation situation. As a result, it becomes possible to prevent the payout command information from being output in the above situation, and the effect of the above means A21 can be obtained.

As the "predetermined restriction situation", in a configuration further provided with an outer storage unit for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means, the outer storage unit may be in a full tank state as a predetermined restriction situation. Further, in a configuration in which an inner storage unit for storing the game medium is further provided inside the game machine, and the payout means discharges the game medium stored in the inner storage part, the game stored in the inner storage part is provided. A predetermined restriction situation may be set to run out of media.

(87) Means B1. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is paid out.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become the payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content is specified, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and further, the information is provided while the power is supplied to itself. The main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
With the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information input from the main control means or the information corresponding to the payout command information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). ,
The prize payout number information is stored as the prize payout number information specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and further, the information can be stored and retained while the electric power is supplied to itself. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state, and
Payout drive control means that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means (function of executing the payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331). When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Depending on the prize payout number information, the permission identification information is output to the main control means so that the main control means can specify whether the output command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. Permission identification information output means (function to execute prize ball permission signal setting processing in the payout side CPU 331) and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. It is provided, and when the output permission state specifying means specifies that the output permission state is specified, the payout command information is output.
Further, the process of step S916 in the main CPU 311 is executed to specify that a predetermined restriction situation predetermined as a restriction situation in which the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted has occurred. (Or a function to execute the process of step S1615 or step S1714 in the payout side CPU 331, etc.)
An output regulating means (step in the main CPU 311) for preventing the payout command information output means from outputting the payout command information based on the fact that the limit specifying means has specified that the predetermined limit situation is met. The function of executing the process of S1104 or the function of executing each process of step S2304, step S2305 and step S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

In the game machine of the means B1, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the game content becoming the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. The permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. , The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means B1, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

Further, in the game machine, a predetermined restriction situation may occur in which the payout of the game medium is restricted. In this case, if the payout command information is output in the predetermined restriction situation, and if the power of the game machine is cut off without resolving the situation, the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure. Then, the prize payout number information corresponding to the newly output payout command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means B1, since the payout command information is not output in the predetermined restriction situation, it is possible to prevent the above-mentioned inconvenience from occurring.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and a game ball is paid out according to a stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game ball. It may be a stop pattern.

Further, the "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON and OFF, or information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Further, in the "predetermined restriction situation", in a configuration further provided with an outer storage unit for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means, the predetermined restriction situation may be set to the full tank state of the outer storage unit. Further, in a configuration in which an inner storage unit for storing the game medium is further provided inside the game machine, and the payout means discharges the game medium stored in the inner storage part, the game stored in the inner storage part is provided. The predetermined restriction situation may be that the medium is exhausted or the storage amount is equal to or less than the predetermined lower limit storage amount. Further, from the game machine main body in which the payout means is installed, a display unit provided so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine with respect to the game machine main body, and the game content can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine, and the payout means. In a configuration including a game machine front body in which an outer storage portion for storing the paid-out game medium is integrated, the game machine front body may be in an open state as a predetermined restriction situation. Further, in the configuration including the game machine main body attached to the attachment target, the game machine main body may be in the open state as a predetermined restriction situation. Further, the situation in which the payout means has failed may be set as a predetermined restriction situation.

Means B2. In the means B1, when the output permission state specifying means is in an input state indicating that the input state of the permission identification information is the output permission state, the input continuation period is a predetermined output permission reference. A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission state is specified based on the fact that the period has been reached.

According to the means B2, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input state indicating that there is reached the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Further, as described above, the main control means does not immediately identify that the payout control means is in the output permission state, but the payout control means is in the output permission state at least until the output permission reference period elapses. By setting the configuration to suspend the identification of the above, the period required for the main control means to specify that the payout control means is in the output permission state is secured as much as the predetermined restriction situation is reached. As a result, for example, when a process for prohibiting the output of the payout command information is executed, there is a time margin for executing the process.

In addition to the configuration in which the input continuation period is measured by using a real timer, "the output permission state is specified based on the fact that the input continuation period reaches a predetermined output permission reference period". Also includes the following configurations: In a configuration in which the output permission state specifying means includes the permission specifying information confirmation means for periodically confirming the input state of the permission specifying information, the permission specifying information confirmation means is in the output permission state. The configuration may be such that the output permission state is specified based on the confirmation of the predetermined output permission reference number of times that the input state indicates that the input state is specified. The same applies to the handling of such a "period" as follows.

Means B3. The means B1 or B2 is provided with a limit detecting means (front door frame opening switch 78, full tank detection sensor 59, ball non-detection sensor 223a) for detecting the predetermined limiting situation.
The restriction specifying means is based on the fact that the restriction detection continuation period reaches a predetermined restriction reference period when the detection result of the restriction detecting means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied. A gaming machine characterized in that it specifies that the predetermined restriction situation is met.

According to the means B3, even if the detection result of the restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is present, the detection result is not immediately specified as the predetermined restriction situation. It is identified as a predetermined restriction situation based on the fact that the restriction detection duration reaches the restriction reference period. As a result, the payout command information is output when the detection result of the limitation detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the limitation detection state is in the predetermined limitation situation due to noise or the like even though it is not actually the predetermined limitation situation. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming untouched.

Means B4. Any one of the means B1 to B3 is provided with a restriction detecting means (full tank detection sensor 59, ball non-detection sensor 223a) for detecting the predetermined restriction situation.
The restriction specifying means
When the detection result of the limitation detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined limitation situation is reached, the first situation is based on the fact that the limitation detection continuation period reaches a predetermined first limitation reference period. The first restriction specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1613 or step S1712 in the payout side CPU 331) and
When the detection result of the restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied, the restriction detection continuation period has reached the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period. A second restriction specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1615 or step S1714 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying the second situation based on the above.
Is equipped with
The payout drive control means limits the drive control of the payout means based on the identification of the first situation by the first limit specifying means (step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331). It has a function to execute the processing of
The output regulating means prevents the payout command information output means from outputting the payout command information based on the fact that the second restriction specifying means has identified the second situation. A game machine characterized by being.

According to the means B4, the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted when the first limit reference period elapses after the detection result of the limit detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the predetermined limit state is reached. In this case, it is regulated so that the payout command information is not output when the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period elapses. As a result, while ensuring the first restriction reference period as long as possible in order to suppress the restriction of the payout of the game medium due to noise or the like, the payout command information is not output when the predetermined restriction situation is met. It is possible to shorten the period until it is regulated as much as possible. By shortening the period until it is regulated so that the payout command information is not output in this way, the payout command information is output at a relatively early stage when the payout of the game medium is restricted. It is possible to regulate so that it will not be damaged. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the payout command information from being output in a situation where the payout of the game medium is restricted by the drive control limiting means.

Further, in this configuration, from the lapse of the second restriction reference period to the lapse of the first restriction reference period, the payout of the game medium is continued in a situation where no new payout command information is output. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means as much as possible before the payout of the game medium is restricted by the drive control limiting means. Then, by reducing the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means as much as possible, the number of unpaid prize payouts that are erased when the power is cut off is reduced. It becomes possible.

In addition, in "restricting the drive control of the payout means", not only the situation where the game medium is not paid out but also the payout speed of the game medium by the payout means is extremely slow, so that the game is substantially played. It also includes situations where media is not paid out.

Means B5. In the means B4, based on the non-restriction detection result indicating that the detection result of the restriction detection means is not the predetermined restriction situation, the output restricting means is regulated so that the payout command information is not output. It is provided with a regulation release means (a function of executing each process of step S1604 and step S1608 in the payout side CPU 331) to release the state.
The deregulation means
When the first restriction specifying means has specified the first situation and the detection result of the restriction detection means is the non-restriction detection result, the non-restriction detection duration is predetermined. Based on the arrival of the first non-restriction reference period, the first regulation release means (function for executing the process of step S1608 in the payout side CPU 331) for releasing the state regulated by the output regulation means, and
When the first restriction specifying means has not specified the first situation and the second restriction specifying means has specified the second situation, the detection result of the restriction detection means is not limited. If the detection result is obtained, the state regulated by the output regulating means is released, or the non-restricted detection continuation period reaches the second non-restricted reference period shorter than the first non-restricted reference period. A second regulation release means (a function of executing the process of step S1604 in the payout side CPU 331) for releasing the state regulated by the output regulation means based on the above.
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

By providing the configuration of the means B4, the game medium is paid out by the payout means when the first limit reference period elapses after the detection result of the limit detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the predetermined limit situation is obtained. Is restricted. Further, in a state where the payout of the game medium is restricted, it is already regulated so that the payout command information is not output.

In this case, according to the means B5, even if the detection result of the restriction detection means becomes an unrestricted detection result, the state in which the output of the payout command information is restricted is not immediately released, and the unrestricted detection is performed. When the duration reaches the first non-restrictive reference period, the state in which the output of the payout command information is restricted is released. When a predetermined restriction situation occurs, even if it is resolved, it is conceivable that the predetermined restriction situation will occur immediately afterwards. In this case, if the payout command information is output immediately after the predetermined limit status is resolved, the predetermined limit status reoccurs at the timing before all the prize payout number information corresponding to the payout command information is paid out. There is a risk that it will end up. If the power is cut off in this state, the prize payout number information will be deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, by maintaining the state in which the output of the payout command information is restricted from the time when the detection result of the restriction detection means becomes the unrestricted detection result until the first non-restriction reference period elapses, as described above. Is less likely to occur.

On the other hand, in a situation where the second restriction reference period has elapsed but the first restriction reference period has not elapsed since the detection result of the restriction detection means became the detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation has passed, the restriction detection means When the detection result of is an unrestricted detection result, it means that, for example, the detection result of the restriction detection means is the restriction detection result when the predetermined restriction situation is not actually obtained. Therefore, in this case, it is preferable to release the restricted state of the output of the payout command information without waiting for the elapse of the first non-restrictive reference period. As a result, it is possible to prevent the output of the payout command information from being restricted for an extremely long period of time.

Means B6. In any one of the means B1 to B3, the payout control means has the restriction specifying means, and the output state setting means of the payout control means has the output regulation means.
Based on the fact that the predetermined restriction situation is specified by the restriction specifying means, the output regulating means determines that the output state of the permission specifying information is the output disallowed state by the main control means. A gaming machine characterized by being a disallowed state regulating means (a function of executing each process of step S2304, step S2305, and step S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) that regulates so as to be maintained in a identifiable output state.

According to the means B6, when it is specified that the predetermined restriction situation is set, the output state of the permission identification information is changed to the output disapproval state so that the payout command information is not output from the main control means to the payout control means. Be maintained. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output in a predetermined restriction situation.

Means B7. The means B6 is provided with a limit detection means (full tank detection sensor 59, ball non-detection sensor 223a) for detecting the predetermined limit situation.
The restriction specifying means
When the detection result of the limitation detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined limitation situation is reached, the first situation is based on the fact that the limitation detection continuation period reaches a predetermined first limitation reference period. The first restriction specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1613 or step S1712 in the payout side CPU 331) and
When the detection result of the restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied, the restriction detection continuation period has reached the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period. A second restriction specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1615 or step S1714 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying the second situation based on the above.
Is equipped with
The payout drive control means is a drive control limiting means (processing of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the first limiting specifying means specifies the first situation. Has the ability to execute)
When the second restriction specifying means specifies the second situation, the disapproval state regulating means controls that the output state of the permission identification information is the output disapproval state. A gaming machine characterized in that it is regulated so as to be maintained in an output state that can be specified by means.

According to the means B7, the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted when the first limit reference period elapses after the detection result of the limit detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the predetermined limit state is reached. In this case, when the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period elapses, the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state. As a result, while ensuring the first restriction reference period as long as possible in order to suppress the restriction of the payout of the game medium due to noise or the like, the output status of the permission identification information is output when the predetermined restriction situation is met. It is possible to shorten the period until it is regulated to the disapproval state as much as possible. By shortening the period until the output state of the permission identification information is regulated to the output disapproval state as much as possible in this way, when the payout of the game medium is restricted, the permission identification information can be obtained at a relatively early stage. It is possible to regulate the output status to the output disallowed status. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the payout command information from being output in a situation where the payout of the game medium is restricted by the drive control limiting means.

Further, in this configuration, from the lapse of the second restriction reference period to the lapse of the first restriction reference period, the payout of the game medium is continued in a situation where no new payout command information is output. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means as much as possible before the payout of the game medium is restricted by the drive control limiting means. Then, by reducing the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means as much as possible in this way, it is possible to reduce the number of prize payouts that are erased when the power is cut off. It becomes.

In addition, in "restricting the drive control of the payout means", not only the situation where the game medium is not paid out but also the payout speed of the game medium by the payout means is extremely slow, so that the game is substantially played. It also includes situations where media is not paid out.

Means B8. In the means B7, the payout drive control means is a low-speed drive that changes the payout speed of the payout means to a slower speed when the second restriction specifying means specifies the second situation. A gaming machine further comprising a control means (a function of executing the process of step S2204 in the payout side CPU 331).

According to the means B8, the detection continuation period, which is the detection result indicating that the detection result of the restriction detection means is in the predetermined restriction situation, reaches the second restriction reference period, which is shorter than the first restriction reference period. The payout speed of the payout means is changed to a slower speed than before. As a result, the intervals between the game media paid out from the payout means are widened. For example, in a configuration in which an outer storage unit for storing game media paid out from the payout means is further provided and the outer storage unit is in a full tank state, the outer storage unit is not actually full. Despite this, there is a risk that the outer storage unit will be identified as full due to the continuous detection of multiple game media among the game media flowing toward the outer storage unit by the restriction detection means. There is. On the other hand, when the second limit reference period, which is shorter than the first limit reference period, is reached, the payout speed of the payout means is changed to a slower speed than before, so that the limit detection means continuously detects the speed. The state that was being used is canceled, and the detection duration is interrupted. Therefore, the possibility that the payout of the game medium is restricted even though the outer storage portion is not full is reduced.

In the above configuration, the means B7 is provided, and when the second restriction reference period elapses, the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state. That is, the opportunity to change the payout speed of the payout means to a slower speed than before is also used as an opportunity to make the output state of the permission identification information correspond to the output disapproval state. Therefore, the storage capacity for the restriction reference period stored by the payout control means can be reduced.

Means B9. In the means B7 or B8, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the main control means is specified by at least the output permission state specifying means for a predetermined main standby period. It is provided with a main standby means (a function of executing the processes of steps S401 and S402 in the main CPU 311) that waits so as not to occur.
When the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started in the predetermined restriction situation, the second situation is set before the main standby period elapses and the output permission state identification means is used to identify the game machine. Is specified by the second restriction specifying means, and the main waiting period is set so that the output state of the permission identification information is regulated by the disapproval state regulating means. A game machine to play.

In a predetermined restriction situation, the power supply may be cut off while the prize information is stored in the main storage means. In this case, when the power supply is started, the payout control means is in the output permission state, and the payout command information is output, the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means. However, since the payout of the game medium is still restricted, the payout of the game medium is not executed even if the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means. If the power is cut off in this situation, the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is deleted without executing the payout of the game medium. If the power is turned on and off repeatedly, the prize information stored in the main storage means is repeatedly erased without paying out the game medium.

On the other hand, according to the means B9, in the main control means, when the power is turned on in a predetermined restriction situation, the permission identification information is not specified over the main standby period. Then, while the main control means waits for the main standby period, the payout control means regulates the output state of the permission identification information so that the output disapproval state can be identified. As a result, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started under the predetermined restriction situation. That is, when the power is turned on in a predetermined restriction situation, the prize information stored in the main storage means is maintained in the main storage means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. Will be done. Since the power at the time of power failure is supplied to the main storage means as described above, the prize information is not erased even if the power is cut off as long as the power at the time of power failure is supplied. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the above-mentioned inconvenience from occurring.

Further, since the configuration of the above means B7 is provided and the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state when the second restriction reference period shorter than the first restriction reference period elapses. While securing the first restriction reference period as long as possible in order to prevent the payout of the game medium from being restricted due to noise or the like, the output state of the permission identification information is the output disapproval state when the predetermined restriction situation is met. It is set so that the period until it is regulated by is as short as possible. By shortening the period until the output state of the permission identification information is regulated to the output disapproval state as much as possible in this way, the main standby period can be shortened accordingly. Not only in the predetermined restriction situation but also in the non-predetermined restriction situation, when the power supply to the game machine is started, the normal processing in the main control means is waited until the main standby period elapses, so that it is not predetermined. From the viewpoint of preventing the period required for the start-up process after the power is turned on in the restricted situation from becoming extremely long, it is preferable to shorten the main standby period as described above.

Means B10. In the means B9, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout control means specifies by the prize payout number information specifying means and the payout drive over a predetermined payout side standby period. The payout side standby process execution means (main process in the payout side CPU 331) waits so that the drive control by the control means, the update by the payout update means, and the output of the permission specification information by the permission identification information output means are not performed. Has the ability to execute)
The gaming machine characterized in that the main waiting period is set longer than the combined period of the payout side waiting period and the second restriction reference period.

In the game machine of the means B10, when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source, the payout control means waits for the execution of each process for the payout side standby period. In this case, the main waiting period in the main control means is set longer than the combined period of the paying side waiting period and the second restriction reference period. As a result, in the configuration in which the payout side standby period is set in the payout control means as described above, the payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started from the external power source under the predetermined restriction situation. Can be done.

Means B11. In any one of the means B7 to B10, the state regulated by the disallowed state regulating means is determined based on the non-restricted detection result indicating that the detection result of the limiting detecting means is not the predetermined limiting situation. It is provided with a regulation release means (a function of executing each process of step S1604 and step S1608 in the payout side CPU 331) to release the regulation.
The deregulation means
When the first restriction specifying means has specified the first situation and the detection result of the restriction detection means is the non-restriction detection result, the non-restriction detection duration is predetermined. Based on the arrival of the first non-restriction reference period, the first regulation release means (function for executing the process of step S1608 in the payout side CPU 331) for releasing the state regulated by the disapproval state regulation means, and
When the first restriction specifying means has not specified the first situation and the second restriction specifying means has specified the second situation, the detection result of the restriction detection means is not limited. If the detection result is obtained, the state regulated by the disapproval state regulating means is released, or the non-restricted detection duration reaches the second non-restricted reference period shorter than the first non-restricted reference period. Based on the above, the second regulation release means (function for executing the process of step S1604 in the payout side CPU 331) for releasing the state regulated by the disapproval state regulation means, and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

By providing the configuration of the means B7, the game medium is paid out by the payout means when the first limit reference period elapses after the detection result of the limit detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the predetermined limit situation is obtained. Is restricted. Further, in the state where the payout of the game medium is restricted, the output state of the permission identification information is already restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state.

In this case, according to the means B11, even if the detection result of the restriction detection means is an unrestricted detection result, the output state of the permission identification information is immediately restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state. When the unrestricted detection duration reaches the first unrestricted reference period, the regulated state is released. When a predetermined restriction situation occurs, even if it is resolved, it is conceivable that the predetermined restriction situation will occur immediately afterwards. In this case, if the payout command information is output immediately after the predetermined limit status is resolved, the predetermined limit status reoccurs at the timing before all the prize payout number information corresponding to the payout command information is paid out. There is a risk that it will end up. If the power is cut off in this state, the prize payout number information will be deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, from the time when the detection result of the restriction detection means becomes the unrestricted detection result until the first non-restriction reference period elapses, the output state of the permission identification information is regulated to correspond to the output disapproval state. By maintaining this state, the possibility of the above situation occurring is reduced.

On the other hand, in a situation where the second restriction reference period has elapsed but the first restriction reference period has not elapsed since the detection result of the restriction detection means became the detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation has passed, the restriction detection means When the detection result of is an unrestricted detection result, it means that, for example, the detection result of the restriction detection means is the restriction detection result when the predetermined restriction situation is not actually obtained. Therefore, in this case, it is preferable to release the state in which the output state of the permission identification information is restricted to the one corresponding to the output disapproval state without waiting for the elapse of the first non-restriction reference period. As a result, it is possible to prevent the output of the payout command information from being restricted for an extremely long period of time.

Means B12. In any one of the means B1 to B5, the payout command is based on the fact that the payout command information output means has the payout command information output means and the limit specifying means has specified that the predetermined limit situation is present. A gaming machine characterized by being an output prohibition means (a function of executing the process of step S1104 in the main CPU 311) for prohibiting the output of information.

According to the means B12, when it is specified that the predetermined restriction situation is satisfied, the output of the payout command information is directly regulated by the main control means. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the payout command information from being output in a situation in which the predetermined restriction situation is specified.

(88) Means C1. Passage detection means (ball detection sensors 152 to 155) that detect the passage of a game medium at a predetermined location, and
A control means (main control board 301) that inputs the detection result of the passage detection means and identifies the passage of the game medium at the predetermined location based on the input detection result.
In a game machine equipped with
The control means is
An input means (first input port 351) for inputting the detection result of the passage detection means, and
A confirmation means (a function of executing the process of step S601 in the main CPU 311) for confirming the input information input to the input means each time the confirmation timing is reached, and
The history storage means (a part of the main RAM 313) that stores the input information confirmed by the confirmation means as history information and stores the history information over a plurality of subsequent confirmation timings by the confirmation means. Function) and
Each process of the passage specifying means (steps S605 to S608 in the main CPU 311) for specifying that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detecting means based on the history information stored in the history storage means. Functions to be executed, etc.) and
Is equipped with
The history storage means uses the passage specifying means based on the history information to obtain information on the detection result corresponding to a reference number of times determined as three or more times including a predetermined confirmation timing. The history information is stored so that it can be grasped.
The passage specifying means is information corresponding to the detection result in which either the first time or the last time does not detect the game medium among the information of the detection result for the reference number of times, and the other is the game. When the information corresponds to the detection result of detecting the medium, the passage detecting means is provided with an arithmetic processing execution means for executing the arithmetic processing that is the arithmetic result that the passage of the game medium is detected. Based on the calculation result of the calculation processing execution means, it is specified that the passage detection means detects the passage of the game medium.
Further, the input means individually inputs the input information corresponding to the detection results of the plurality of passage detection means, and also inputs the input information individually.
The history storage means individually stores the history information in correspondence with each of the input information.
The gaming machine characterized in that the arithmetic processing execution means executes the arithmetic processing so as to obtain an arithmetic result for each of the passage detecting means.

In the gaming machine of the means C1, the control means repeatedly confirms the information of the detection result of the passage detecting means. In this case, even if the control means confirms the information that the passage of the game medium is detected, it is not immediately specified as having passed, and if the information is confirmed multiple times, there is passage. Is specified. As a result, even though the game medium does not actually pass through the predetermined location, the possibility that the control means determines that the game medium has passed due to the influence of noise or the like is reduced.

Further, the detection results of a plurality of passage detecting means are input to the input means of the control means, and it is specified whether or not the passage detecting means detects the passage of the game medium. Then, the influence of the above noise and the like is reduced on the identification of the detection result of these passage detection means.

In this case, the control means stores the input information input to the input means, which has been confirmed at the past confirmation timing, as the history information. Then, based on the history information, the information of the detection result for the reference number of times is grasped and the calculation process is executed. In this arithmetic processing, of the information of each detection result grasped above, either the first round or the last round is the information corresponding to the detection result in which the game medium is not detected, and the others detect the game medium. When the information corresponds to the detection result, the calculation result is that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detection means. Then, the calculation process is executed so as to obtain the calculation result for each of the passage detection means, and the presence or absence of the passage of the game medium is accurately specified for each of the passage detection means. By executing the same arithmetic processing on the detection results of the plurality of passage detecting means in this way, the storage capacity to be stored in advance as the control processing contents of the control means can be reduced. Further, according to this configuration, since it is not necessary to individually provide the period measuring means such as the timer counter and the real timer for each passage detecting means, the hardware configuration of the control means is compared with the configuration in which the period measuring means is individually provided. It is possible to make it preferable in terms of both the soft configuration and the soft configuration.

By the way, as described above, the arithmetic processing must be information corresponding to the detection result in which either the first round or the last round does not detect the game medium among the information of the detection result for the reference number of times. It does not result in the calculation result with the passage of. As a result, when one game medium passes through the predetermined place, it is possible to prevent the identification that the game medium has passed through the predetermined place from occurring in duplicate.

The "confirmation timing" includes not only periodic ones but also those executed as a part of a series of processes to be repeatedly executed.

Further, the "first round" information means the information of the oldest round of the detection result information for the reference number of times, and the "last round" information is the information of the detection result for the reference number of times. It refers to the latest information of the times.

Means C2. In the means C1, the input means is configured as one unit of bytes that are grouped by a plurality of bits, and each of the input information is stored in the corresponding bit.
The history storage means includes a history area (previous area 362, previous two-time area 363) configured with the byte as one unit for the reference number of times.
In each of the history areas, each history information of the corresponding confirmation timing times is stored in the corresponding bit.
The arithmetic processing execution means logically performs logical operations on the information of each history area in the arithmetic processing in byte units, and derives the arithmetic result for each detection result of each passage detection means. A featured gaming machine.

According to the means C2, the input means and each history area are all configured in units of bytes. In this case, the information in each history area is logically operated in byte units, so that the calculation result is derived for each detection result of each passage detecting means. As a result, the detection result of each passage detecting means can be accurately specified while simplifying the software configuration of the control means as compared with the case of executing the arithmetic processing in bit units.

The "history storage means" may have a configuration having a storage area that is not used for arithmetic processing.

Means C3. In the means C2, the input information is stored in a one-to-one correspondence with each bit of the input means, and each history information is stored one-to-one with each bit of the corresponding history area in each history area. A game machine characterized in that it is memorized in correspondence with.

According to the means C3, each input information is stored individually in each bit of the input means. That is, the amount of information of each input information is 1 bit. Further, for each of the history areas, each history information of the corresponding confirmation timing is individually stored in each bit. That is, the amount of information of each history information is 1 bit. With the above information form, it is possible to accurately specify the detection result of each passage detecting means while reducing the storage capacity required for the control means, that is, simplifying the hardware configuration of the control means.

Means C4. A gaming machine according to means C2 or C3, wherein each of the history areas is composed of 1 byte.

According to the means C4, when the calculation result is derived for each detection result of each passage detection means, the information of each history area of 1 byte may be logically operated. Therefore, the detection result of each passage detecting means can be accurately specified while simplifying the software configuration of the control means.

Means C5. In any one of means C2 to C4, when the input information is confirmed by the confirmation means and the calculation process is executed or executed by the calculation process execution means, the control means first times. History area updating means (step S604 in the main CPU 311) for updating the information of each history area so that each history information of the history area corresponding to the confirmation timing times earlier than that of the history area on the side is stored. A gaming machine characterized in that it has a function (such as a function to execute the processing of).

According to the means C5, the history information stored in the history area is updated as appropriate, so that the logical operation is performed satisfactorily. Further, the number of history areas can be limited to the number of the reference number of times, and the storage capacity required for the control means can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to accurately specify the detection result of each passage detecting means while simplifying the hardware configuration of the control means.

Means C6. In any one of the means C2 to C5, data 0 or data 1 is stored as the input information in each bit of the input means, and data 0 or data 1 is stored as the history information in each bit of the history area. Is remembered,
The arithmetic processing execution means corresponds to the detection result in which either the first time or the last time does not detect the game medium in the information of the detection result for the reference number of times, and the others When the information corresponds to the detection result of detecting the game medium, the first of the information in each history area for the reference number of times so that the corresponding bit of the result of the logical calculation becomes the data 1. Data 0 and data 1 of each bit are inverted for information corresponding to either one of the times or the last time, or other information, and the logical product of the inverted information and the information not to be inverted. A game machine characterized in that it calculates.

According to the means C6, it is possible to specify whether or not each passage detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium through a relatively simple logical operation of inversion (denial) and logical product. Therefore, it is possible to accurately specify the detection result of each passage detecting means while simplifying the software configuration of the control means.

Means C7. In any one of the means C2 to C5, data 0 or data 1 is stored as the input information in each bit of the input means, and data 0 or data 1 is stored as the history information in each bit of the history area. Is stored, and when the input information and the history information correspond to the detection result of detecting the passage of the game medium, the data 1 is stored.
The arithmetic processing execution means is information in which data 0 and data 1 of each bit are inverted with respect to information corresponding to either the first time or the last time for the reference number of times among the information in each history area. And the logical product of the remaining information for the reference number of times is calculated.
Based on the fact that the data 1 is stored as a result of calculating the logical product, the passage specifying means detects the passage of the game medium for the passage detecting means corresponding to the bit in which the data 1 is stored. A gaming machine characterized in that it is identified as being present.

According to the means C7, it is possible to specify whether or not each passage detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium through a relatively simple logical operation of inversion (denial) and logical product. In particular, in this configuration, it is only necessary to perform inversion for one piece of information in each history area, and the software configuration can be simplified as compared with the configuration in which inversion is performed for a plurality of pieces of information. Therefore, it is possible to accurately specify the detection result of each passage detecting means while simplifying the software configuration of the control means.

Means C8. In any one of the means C1 to C7, the number of the history areas is set to be the number of the reference times, which is smaller than the number of the passage detecting means in which the detection result is input as the input information to the input means. A game machine characterized by being.

According to the means C8, the number of history areas is set to be smaller than the number of passage detecting means in which the detection result is input to the input means as input information. For example, if it is attempted to specify whether or not the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detecting means using a period measuring means such as a timer counter, a period measuring means for several minutes of the passing detecting means is required. .. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to specify whether or not each passage detecting means has detected the passage of the game medium by using a number of history areas smaller than the number of passage detecting means. Therefore, the detection result of each passage detecting means can be accurately specified while reducing the storage capacity required for the control means, that is, simplifying the hardware configuration of the control means.

Means C9. In any one of means C1 to C8, a game area through which the game medium flows down and a plurality of passing portions (general winning opening 82, variable winning device) provided in the game area through which the game medium flowing down the game area passes. 83, upper operating port 84a, lower operating port 84b, through gate 85), and further provided.
The passage detection means is provided for the passage portion, and the passage detection means is provided.
A gaming machine characterized in that all detection results of the passage detecting means provided for the passing portion are input to the input means.

The passage detecting means provided for the passing portion of the game area targets a substantially similar event of detecting a game ball flowing down the game area. Therefore, in order to reduce the influence of noise and the like, it is considered that there is no problem even if the number of confirmations required to identify the presence of passage is the same. In this case, according to the means C9, all the detection results of the passage detecting means provided for the passing portion are input to the input means, and the arithmetic processing is executed so as to obtain the arithmetic results for each of the passing detecting means. Will be done. As a result, the presence or absence of passage of the game medium is accurately specified for each of the passage detection means.

Further, it is common that a relatively large number of passing portions are installed in the game area, and the number of passing detecting means provided for the passing portions is relatively large accordingly. In this case, by executing the same arithmetic processing for all the detection results of the passage detecting means provided for the passing portion, the storage capacity to be stored in advance as the control processing contents of the control means is reduced. Is planned. Further, since it is not necessary to individually provide the period measuring means such as the timer counter for each passage detecting means, it is preferable in terms of both the hardware configuration and the software configuration of the control means as compared with the configuration in which the period measuring means is individually provided. Become.

Means C10. In any one of the means C1 to C9, the arithmetic processing execution means is information corresponding to the detection result in which the first time does not detect the game medium among the information of the result information for the reference number of times. , And others are information corresponding to the detection result of detecting the game medium, and the corresponding passage detection means executes the calculation process that is the calculation result that the passage of the game medium is detected. A game machine characterized by being.

According to the means C10, when the passage detecting means detects the passage of the game medium, the control means identifies the presence or absence of the passage at the timing when the passage detecting means starts the detection of the passage of the game medium.

Means C11. In any one of the means C1 to C10, the control means transmits the input information corresponding to the detection result of the passage detection means to the input means or an input means (second input port 352) different from the input means. Is for entering different special input information,
Further, the control means
When the special input information is input, the special period measuring means (front door frame counter area 364, prize ball permission counter area 365) for measuring the input continuation period, and
When the input continuation period measured by the special period measuring means reaches a predetermined special reference period, the special specific means for specifying that the special input information is being input (step S916 in the main CPU 311). A function to execute the process, a function to execute the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311), and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means C11, for the special input information different from the input information corresponding to the detection result of the passage detecting means, it is specified that the special input information is input by the control means using the special period measuring means. .. For example, the period required for the control means to identify that special input information is input is secured longer than the period required for the control means to identify that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detecting means. If you want to apply the arithmetic processing by the arithmetic processing execution means to the special input information, the storage capacity of the history storage means may become very large. Further, the fact that the storage capacity of the history storage means becomes very large means that the update process becomes complicated when the history information update process is executed every time one confirmation timing elapses. On the other hand, for those that may cause inconvenience when the arithmetic processing by the arithmetic processing execution means is applied in this way, the input is specified by using the period measurement means, so that the hardware configuration of the control means is configured. And the soft configuration can be good.

Means C12. In any one of the means C1 to C10, a game area through which the game medium flows down, and a plurality of prize payout passage portions provided in the game area through which the game medium flowing down the game area passes (general winning openings 82, A variable winning device 83, an upper operating port 84a, a lower operating port 84b, and a through gate 85) are further provided.
The passage detecting means is provided corresponding to the prize payout passing portion, and all the detection results of the passing detecting means provided corresponding to the prize payout passing portion are input to the input means.
The control means is a main control means that outputs payout command information based on the fact that the passage detecting means has specified that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage specifying means.
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that a predetermined number of game media are paid out based on the input.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
In addition to having the history storage means, the prize information is stored when it is specified by the passage detecting means that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detecting means, and power is supplied to itself. In the meantime, the main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables storage and retention of information and receives the power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state,
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
Based on the input of the payout command information from the main control means, the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information or the corresponding information (execution of the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). Function to do) and
The prize payout number information is stored as the prize payout number information specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and further, the information can be stored and retained while the electric power is supplied to itself. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state, and
Payout drive control means that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means (function of executing the payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331). When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Depending on the prize payout number information, the permission identification information is output to the main control means so that the main control means can specify whether the output command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. Permission identification information output means (function to execute prize ball permission signal setting processing in the payout side CPU 331) and
Is equipped with
The permission identification information is input to the input means in the main control means or an input means different from the input means.
The main control means is a permission specific measurement means (prize ball permission counter area) that measures an input duration when the input state of the permission identification information is an input state indicating that the output permission state. It has 365)
The payout command information output means specifies that the payout command information is in the output permission state based on the fact that the input continuation period in the permission specific measurement means reaches a predetermined output permission reference period. It is provided with a specific means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311), and outputs the payout command information when the output permission state specifying means specifies that the output permission state is specified. A game machine characterized by being something to gain.

In the game machine of the means C12, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the passage detection means has specified that the passage of the game medium is detected. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that a predetermined number of game media are paid out based on the input of the payout command information. As a result, the game medium is paid out in response to the fact that the game medium has passed through the prize payout passing portion.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. This permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and the information on the number of payouts for the game medium passing through the prize payout passing portion is one of the unpaid information. It is possible to store the unit in the payout side storage means and store the rest in the main side storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the prize payout number information until the power is cut off, is deleted. It becomes possible to prevent it.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means C12, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

Further, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but indicates that the output permission state is set. The payout command information is output based on the input status reaching the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

Further, the passage detecting means provided for the prize payout passing portion of the game area targets a substantially similar event of detecting a game ball flowing down the game area. Therefore, in order to reduce the influence of noise and the like, it is considered that there is no problem even if the number of confirmations required to identify the presence of passage is the same. In this case, according to the means C12, all the detection results of the passage detecting means provided for the prize payout passing portion are input to the input means, and the calculation results are obtained for each of the passing detecting means. The process is executed. As a result, the presence or absence of passage of the game medium is accurately specified for each of the passage detection means.

In addition, a relatively large number of prize payout passing portions are generally installed in the game area, and the number of passage detecting means provided for the prize payout passing portion is relatively large accordingly. In this case, the same arithmetic processing is executed for all the detection results of the passage detecting means provided for the prize payout passing portion, so that the control processing contents of the main control means are stored in advance. The storage capacity can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to individually provide a period measuring means such as a timer counter for each passage detecting means, it is preferable in terms of both the hardware configuration and the software configuration of the main control means as compared with the configuration in which the period measuring means is individually provided. It becomes.

In addition, the passage detection means of the prize payout passing portion is specified as having passed by executing the above calculation process without using the period measuring means, whereas the above calculation is performed for the permission identification information. It was decided to use the permitted specific measurement means without executing the process. As described above, the permission specification information is information used in the main control means to specify whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state of the payout command information, so the output timing of the payout command information is adjusted. In order to do so, it may be necessary to intentionally lengthen the period until the input state of the permission identification information is specified to correspond to the output permission state. In this case, if the above arithmetic processing is to be executed for the permission identification information, it becomes necessary to secure a large storage capacity of the history storage means, and the hardware configuration and software configuration of the main control means are compared with the configuration using the period measurement means. On the contrary, it may be complicated. On the other hand, for the permission specifying information, by using the permission specifying measuring means without executing the above arithmetic processing, it is possible to satisfactorily specify whether or not the output permission state is in the main control means. That is, according to the configuration of the present means, the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained for the passage detecting means, and it is also possible to satisfactorily specify whether or not the output is permitted.

The "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON or OFF, or may be information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

In addition to the configuration in which the input continuation period is measured by using a real timer, "the output permission state is specified based on the fact that the input continuation period reaches a predetermined output permission reference period". Also includes the following configurations: In a configuration in which the output permission state specifying means includes the permission specifying information confirmation means for periodically confirming the input state of the permission specifying information, the permission specifying information confirmation means is in the output permission state. The configuration may be such that the output permission state is specified based on the confirmation of the predetermined output permission reference number of times that the input state indicates that the input state is specified. The same applies to the handling of such a "period" as follows.

Means C13. In the means C12, a limitation detecting means (front door frame opening switch 78) for detecting that a predetermined limiting situation is generated as a limiting situation in which the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted is provided. I have
The detection result of the restriction detecting means is input to the input means in the main control means or an input means (second input port 352) different from the input means.
The main control means
When the detection result of the restriction detection means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is obtained, the restriction specific measurement means (front door frame counter area 364) for measuring the input continuation period, and
Restriction specifying means for identifying the predetermined restriction situation based on the fact that the input continuation period in the restriction specifying measurement means reaches a predetermined restriction reference period (front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) Function to execute) and
A gaming machine characterized in that the output permission reference period is set longer than the restriction reference period.

According to the means C13, even if the detection result of the restriction detecting means is a detection result indicating that the predetermined restriction situation is present, the detection result is not immediately specified as the predetermined restriction situation. It is identified as a predetermined restriction situation based on the fact that the restriction detection duration reaches the restriction reference period. As a result, the payout command information is output when the detection result of the limitation detection means becomes the detection result indicating that the limitation detection state is in the predetermined limitation situation due to noise or the like even though it is not actually the predetermined limitation situation. It is possible to prevent the situation from becoming untouched.

Further, since the output permission reference period is set longer than the restriction reference period, the predetermined restriction status is set at the timing before the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permission state. It is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means under the predetermined restriction situation.

In the configuration in which power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the power is turned on and off repeatedly while the prize information is stored in the main side storage means, the game medium is paid out. There is a risk that the prize information stored in the main storage means will be repeatedly erased without being performed. That is, if the power supply is started with the prize information stored in the main storage means, and the payout control means is in the output permission state and the payout command information is output, the prize is paid out to the payout side storage means. Numerical information is stored. If the power is cut off at a relatively early stage in this situation, the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is deleted without executing the payout of the game medium. If the power is turned on and off repeatedly, the prize information stored in the main storage means is repeatedly erased without paying out the game medium. On the other hand, as described above, the payout command information is not output when the power supply to the game machine is started in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means in the predetermined restriction situation. Therefore, the occurrence of the above-mentioned inconvenience is prevented.

Further, in this configuration, it is necessary to set the output permission reference period longer than the restriction reference period. In this case, if the above arithmetic processing is to be executed for the permission identification information, it becomes necessary to secure a large storage capacity of the history storage means, and the hardware configuration and software configuration of the main control means are compared with the configuration using the period measurement means. On the contrary, it may be complicated. On the other hand, for the permission specifying information, by using the permission specifying measuring means without executing the above arithmetic processing, it is possible to satisfactorily specify whether or not the output permission state is in the main control means. That is, according to the configuration of the present means, the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained for the passage detecting means, and it is also possible to satisfactorily specify whether or not the output is permitted.

In a configuration in which the main control means repeatedly executes a plurality of predetermined processes as a series of processes after the power supply from the external power source to the game machine is started, the process is described as a part of the series of processes. The output permission reference period measurement process and the limit detection continuation period measurement process may be executed. In this case, the measurement start timing of the output permission reference period and the limit detection continuation period can be made substantially the same.

Means C14. In any one of means C1 to C13, the passage detecting means outputs a HI level signal while the passage of the game medium is not detected, and a LOW level signal while detecting the passage of the game medium. Is to output
The game machine is characterized in that information indicating that the passage of the game medium is detected is input to the input means while the LOW level signal is being input from the passage detection means.

According to the means C14, it is possible to reduce the influence of electrical noise on the detection of the passage of the game medium by the passage detecting means.

Means C15. Passage detection means (ball detection sensors 152 to 155) that detect the passage of a game medium at a predetermined location, and
A control means (main control board 301) that inputs the detection result of the passage detection means and identifies the passage of the game medium at the predetermined location based on the input detection result.
In a game machine equipped with
The control means is
An input means (first input port 351) for inputting the detection result of the passage detection means, and
A confirmation means (a function of executing the process of step S601 in the main CPU 311) for confirming the input information input to the input means each time the confirmation timing is reached, and
The history storage means (a part of the main RAM 313) that stores the input information confirmed by the confirmation means as history information and stores the history information over a plurality of subsequent confirmation timings by the confirmation means. Function) and
Each process of the passage specifying means (steps S605 to S608 in the main CPU 311) for specifying that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detecting means based on the history information stored in the history storage means. Functions to be executed, etc.) and
Is equipped with
The history storage means uses the passage specifying means based on the history information to obtain information on the detection result corresponding to a reference number of times determined as three or more times including a predetermined confirmation timing. The history information is stored so that it can be grasped.
The passage specifying means is information corresponding to the detection result in which either the first time or the last time does not detect the game medium among the information of the detection result for the reference number of times, and the other is the game. When the information corresponds to the detection result of detecting the medium, the passage detecting means is provided with an arithmetic processing execution means for executing the arithmetic processing that is the arithmetic result that the passage of the game medium is detected. Based on the calculation result of the calculation processing execution means, it is specified that the passage detection means detects the passage of the game medium.
Further, as the passage detecting means, a first passage detecting means (lower operating port sensor 154b) for detecting the passage of the game medium at the first predetermined location and a game medium at a second predetermined location different from the first predetermined location. It is equipped with a second passage detecting means (upper operating port sensor 154a) for detecting passage.
As the input information, the input means individually inputs the first input information corresponding to the detection result of the first passage detecting means and the second input information corresponding to the detection result of the second passage detecting means. ,
The history storage means individually stores the first history information corresponding to the first input information and the second history information corresponding to the second input information as the history information.
The arithmetic processing execution means executes the arithmetic processing on the first passage detecting means based on the first input information and the first history information, and is based on the second input information and the second history information. The gaming machine is characterized in that the arithmetic processing is executed for the second passage detecting means.

In the gaming machine of the means C15, the control means repeatedly confirms the information of the detection result of the passage detecting means. In this case, even if the control means confirms the information that the passage of the game medium is detected, it is not immediately specified as having passed, and the information is passed when the information is confirmed a plurality of times. Identified as yes. As a result, even though the game medium does not actually pass through the predetermined location, the possibility that the control means determines that the game medium has passed due to the influence of noise or the like is reduced.

Further, both the detection result of the first pass detection means and the detection result of the second pass detection means are input to the input means of the control means, and the passage of the game medium for the first pass detection means and the second pass detection means. Is specified whether or not is detected. Then, the influence of the noise and the like is reduced for each of the identification of the detection result of the first passage detecting means and the identification of the detection result of the second passage detecting means.

In this case, the control means stores the input information input to the input means, which has been confirmed at the past confirmation timing, as the history information. Then, based on the history information, the information of the detection result for the reference number of times is grasped and the calculation process is executed. In this arithmetic processing, of the information of each detection result grasped above, either the first round or the last round is the information corresponding to the detection result in which the game medium is not detected, and the others detect the game medium. When the information corresponds to the detection result, the calculation result is that the passage of the game medium is detected by the passage detection means. Then, the above arithmetic processing is executed for each of the detection result of the first passage detection means and the detection result of the second passage detection means, and whether or not the game medium has passed is determined for each of the first predetermined portion and the second predetermined portion. Be accurately identified. By executing the same arithmetic processing in this way, it is possible to reduce the storage capacity to be stored in advance as the control processing content of the control means. Further, according to this configuration, since it is not necessary to individually provide the period measuring means such as the timer counter for each passage detecting means, the hardware configuration and the software configuration of the control means are compared with the configuration in which the period measuring means is individually provided. It is preferable in terms of both sides.

By the way, as described above, the arithmetic processing must be information corresponding to the detection result in which either the first round or the last round does not detect the game medium among the information of the detection result for the reference number of times. The calculation result is such that there is a passage of. As a result, when one game medium passes through a specific place, it is possible to prevent duplication of identification that the game medium has passed through the predetermined place.

(89) Means D1. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM333) that stores information on the number of game media to be paid out as prize payout number information, and
The payout drive control means (payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Function to execute) and
With
The prize payout number information is information composed of a plurality of bits and a combination of data 0 and data 1 set in each bit, and a setting pattern of data 1 of each bit within a predetermined number of game media. Corresponds to the number of game media
Further, the correction process is executed at a predetermined timing, and when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is equal to or less than the correction reference number in the correction process, it is set in each bit. When the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the correction reference number, the data 1 is set to a bit which is not set when the correction reference number or less is maintained. It is characterized by having a prize payout number correcting means (a function of executing a mask processing at the time of addition in the payout side CPU 331 and a function of executing a mask process at the time of payout setting in the payout side CPU 331) for correcting the data 1 to the data 0. Game machine.

In the game machine of the means D1, the payout means is driven and controlled so that the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is paid out. In this case, if the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the correction reference number at a predetermined timing, the prize payout number information is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the correction reference number. As a result, even if the prize payout number information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like and exceeds the correction standard number, the game hall will not suffer any disadvantage.

On the other hand, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is equal to or less than the correction reference number, the data set in each bit in the prize payout number information is maintained. Furthermore, when the correction reference number is exceeded, the prize payout number information is not invalidated, but the data 1 set in the bit in which the data 1 is not set below the correction reference number is corrected to data 0. To. That is, even when the number of correction reference numbers is exceeded and the predetermined data 1 is corrected to data 0, the data 1 set in the bits in which the data 1 can be set below the correction reference number is maintained as it is. .. Therefore, the influence on the player can be reduced as much as possible by the above modification.

In particular, when the prize payout number information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, the data of the bits in which the data 1 can be set below the correction reference number is not rewritten, and the data 1 is set in the bits in which the data 1 is not set below the correction reference number. It is possible that it will be set. In this case, by executing the correction process as described above, it is possible to return the prize payout number information to the state before being rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like. Therefore, it is convenient for both the game hall side and the player side.

Means D2. In the means D1, correction information in which data 0 or data 1 is set in each bit is stored in advance so as to be information consisting of a plurality of bits and corresponding to the correction reference number.
The game machine characterized in that the prize payout number correction means executes a calculation of the prize payout number information and the correction information as the correction process.

According to the means D2, an excellent effect in the means D1 can be obtained by a relatively simple process of calculating the prize payout number information and the correction information.

Means D3. The gaming machine according to the means D2, wherein both the prize payout number information and the correction information are information configured in a unit of bytes that are grouped by a plurality of predetermined bits.

According to the means D3, both the prize payout number information and the correction information are configured in one byte. Therefore, in the correction process, the operation can be performed in byte units. Therefore, as compared with the configuration in which the calculation is performed in bit units, it is possible to obtain an excellent effect in the means D1 while reducing the processing load of the correction processing.

Means D4. In the means D2 or D3, in the prize payout number information, data 1 is set in each bit in a predetermined order from the lower bit to the upper bit, and data 1 is set in the upper bit. The information is expressed in binary so that the number of corresponding game media is large.
The correction information is information having the same number of bits as the prize payout number information, and data 1 is set in the bits up to the specific order in the predetermined order with the lower bits as a reference. Information in which data 0 is set in the other bits.
The game machine characterized in that the prize payout number correcting means calculates a logical product of each bit corresponding to each other of the prize payout number information and the correction information.

According to the means D4, the correction information is information having the same number of bits as the prize payout number information, data 1 is set in the bits up to a specific order based on the lower bits, and the other bits are set. Data 0 is the set information. Then, in the correction process, the logical product of each bit corresponding to the prize payout number information and the correction information is calculated.

In this configuration, the data set in the bits up to the specific order based on the lower bit in the prize payout number information is the logical product of the correction information regardless of whether it is data 0 or data 1. Is maintained after the calculation of. Therefore, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is equal to or less than the correction reference number, the data set in each bit in the pre-stage of the correction processing is maintained.

Further, when the data 1 is set in the bit higher than the specific order in the prize payout number information, the data 1 set in the bit higher than the specific order after the calculation of the logical product with the correction information is performed. Is modified to data 0. Therefore, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the correction standard number, it is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the correction standard number in the correction processing.

Further, even when the data is modified so as to be less than or equal to the modification reference number as described above, the data set to the bits up to the specific order with the lower bits as the reference are the data 0 and the data 1. In any case, it is maintained after the calculation of the logical product with the correction information. Therefore, the influence on the player can be reduced as much as possible by the above modification.

Further, according to this configuration, by using the correction information of the relatively simple information form, and further by a relatively simple calculation process of calculating the logical product of the correction information and the prize payout number information. The above excellent effect can be obtained.

Means D5. In the means D4, the payout side storage means is configured as one unit of bytes that are grouped by a plurality of predetermined bits, and the prize payout number storage means (prize ball number storage area 374) in which the prize payout number information is stored. ) And
A specific number is set as the number of game media of the prize payout number information that can be stored in the prize payout number storage means at the predetermined timing, and the specific number is stored in the prize payout number storage means. Even so, the data 1 is not set in all the bits of the prize payout number storage means.
The specific number has data 1 set in the bits of the specific order and bits in which data 0 is set on the lower side of the bits, and further higher than the bits of the specific order. A gaming machine characterized in that the number corresponds to the information in which data 0 is set in the bit on the side.

According to the means D5, the specific number that can be stored in the prize payout number storage means at a predetermined timing is that the data 1 is set in the bits in the specific order and the data is lower than the bits. It has bits in which 0 is set, and is a number corresponding to information in which data 0 is set in bits higher than the bits in a specific order. On the other hand, the correction information is information in which data 1 is set in the bits up to a specific order with reference to the lower bits and data 0 is set in the other bits. That is, the correction reference number is a number larger than the specific number and smaller than the maximum number that can be stored in the prize payout number storage means.

In this configuration, since the most significant bit in which the data 1 is set for each of the correction reference number and the specific number is the same specific order bit, the prize payout number information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like and is specified. Even if the number is exceeded, it is possible to approach the specific number as much as possible by executing the correction process.

On the other hand, the above-mentioned single information is sufficient as the correction information used in the correction process at a predetermined timing. That is, the storage capacity required for the correction process is larger than that in which a plurality of types of correction information are set for the correction process at a predetermined timing and all the correction information is used in the correction process. The above effect can be obtained while reducing the reduction and the processing load.

Means D6. In the means D2 or D3, in the prize payout number information, data 1 is set in each bit in a predetermined order from the lower bit to the upper bit, and data 1 is set in the upper bit. The information is expressed in binary so that the number of corresponding game media is large.
The correction reference number is a bit in which data 1 is set as bits in a specific order in the predetermined order with reference to the lower bit, and data 0 is set as a bit lower than the bit. Is a number corresponding to the information in which data 0 is set in the bits higher than the bits in the specific order.
As the correction information,
This is information having the same number of bits as the prize payout number information, data 0 is set in the specific order and bits higher than the specific order, and data 1 is set in the other bits. Information for correction and
The information has the same number of bits as the prize payout number information, and the prize payout number information of the number of game media that is larger than the number of game media corresponding to the main correction information and within the range of the correction reference number or less. It is provided with one or more sub-correction information, which is information set in a one-to-one correspondence.
The means for correcting the number of prizes paid out is
A first calculation means for calculating the logical product of each bit corresponding to each other of the prize payout number information and the main correction information (a function of executing the process of step S2901 in the payout side CPU 331, step S3001 in the payout side CPU 331). Function to execute processing) and
A second calculation means for calculating the logical product of each bit corresponding to each other of the prize payout number information and the sub-correction information (a function of executing each process of steps S902 to S2903 in the payout side CPU 331, payout side CPU 331). (Functions for executing each process of steps S3002 to S3004) in
The update means (process of step S2905 in the payout side CPU 331) that updates the information corresponding to the maximum number of game media among the calculation result of the first calculation means and the calculation result of the second calculation means to the payout side storage means. (Function to execute the process of step S3006 in the payout side CPU 331) and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means D6, the main correction information and the sub correction information are provided as the correction information. Of these, the main correction information is information having the same number of bits as the prize payout number information, and is the highest-order bit in which the data 1 is set by the correction reference number and the specific order and higher than that. This is information in which data 0 is set in the upper bit and data 1 is set in the other bits. Further, the sub-correction information is information having the same number of bits as the prize payout number information, and the number of game media that is larger than the number of game media corresponding to the main correction information and within the range of the correction reference number or less. It is one or more pieces of information set in a one-to-one correspondence with the prize payout number information. Then, in the correction process, the logical product of each bit corresponding to the prize payout number information and the main correction information is calculated, and the prize payout number information and the sub-correction information correspond to each other. The logical product of the bits is calculated, and among the calculation results of these logical products, the information corresponding to the maximum number of game media is updated as new prize payout number information.

In this configuration, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is less than or equal to the correction reference number, the data set in each bit of the prize payout number information is logically ANDed with any of the correction information. It is maintained after the calculation of the product, and the maintained information is the information corresponding to the maximum number of game media among the calculation results of the logical product. Therefore, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is equal to or less than the correction reference number, the data set in each bit in the correction processing is maintained.

Further, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the correction standard number, the data 1 that causes the prize payout number information to exceed the correction standard number is the logic of any correction information. Even after the product calculation, the data is corrected to 0. Therefore, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the correction standard number, it is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the correction standard number in the correction processing.

Further, even when the correction is made so as to be less than or equal to the correction reference number as described above, the data set in the bit in which the data 1 can be set when the correction reference number is less than or equal to is one of the corrections. It is maintained after the calculation of the logical product with the information, and the maintained information is the information corresponding to the maximum number of game media in the calculation result of the logical product. Therefore, the influence on the player can be reduced as much as possible by the above modification.

Further, according to this configuration, each correction information in the relatively simple information form is used, and further, the calculation of the logical product of the correction information and the prize payout number information and the comparison of the magnitude of the calculation result are performed. The above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained by a relatively simple arithmetic process. Further, it corresponds to the information in which the data 1 is set in the bits of the specific order in the predetermined order for the lower bits and both the data 0 and the data 1 are set in the bits lower than the bits. Even if the information form of the correction reference number is complicated, such as the number obtained, the above-mentioned excellent effect can be obtained.

Incidentally, when the present means is applied to the configuration in which the number of correction reference numbers is 4 or more, the above effect can be obtained while reducing the storage capacity required for the correction processing and the processing load. That is, by having the main correction information, the number of correction information can be made smaller than the number of correction reference numbers.

Means D7. In any one of the means D1 to D6, the prize information storage means (the prize ball of the main RAM 313) that stores the information corresponding to the payout game content or the corresponding information based on the game content becoming the payout game content. Counter area 361) and
The update means (executes the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) executes the update process so that the information specified based on the information stored in the prize information storage means is reflected in the information of the payout side storage means. Function to do) and
Is equipped with
The prize payout number correction means is a pre-memory correction means (addition mask in the payout side CPU 331) that executes the correction process at a timing prior to the update process when the update process is executed by the update means. A game machine characterized by having a function (function to execute processing).

In the game machine of the means D7, since the payout storage means and the prize information storage means are separately provided, the information according to the payout game content is not stored in a single storage means, but a plurality of storage means. Will be distributed to.

When the update process is executed in the configuration, the correction process is executed at a timing prior to the update process. As a result, the number of game media to be modified can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the modification process is executed at the timing after the update process.

Further, when the data 1 is set to the bit in which the data 1 is not set when the number is less than the correction reference number due to the influence of noise or the like in the stage before the update process, the data 1 is directly corrected to the data 0. Can be done. That is, when the correction process is executed at the timing after the update process, the correction process is executed after the data structure of each bit of the prize payout number information is updated by the update process, and therefore, due to the influence of the above noise or the like. The set data 1 cannot be directly modified. Then, even if the correction process is executed, the influence of the data being rewritten as described above may not be sufficiently reduced. On the other hand, according to the configuration of this means, the data that has been rewritten as described above can be directly corrected, so that the influence of the data being rewritten can be reduced.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern. This also applies to the following.

Means D8. In the means D7, the game medium is paid out by the payout means, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is 1 or more, and the payout side storage means It is provided with a specific means for updating (a function of executing the process of step S2301 in the payout side CPU 331) for specifying that the number has reached the update reference number, which is smaller than the maximum number of game media that can be stored in.
The update means executes the update process after it is specified by the update specific means that the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information has become the update reference number.
The number of correction reference numbers in the correction process by the pre-storage correction means is a number equal to or larger than the update reference number, and further, data is stored in a bit corresponding to the highest bit in which data 1 is set in the update reference number. A gaming machine characterized in that 1 is set and data 0 is set in all bits higher than the bit, which is a number corresponding to the information.

In the game machine of the means D8, the update process is executed based on the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information reaches the update reference number, so that the prize information storage means stores the information according to the payout game content. If so, the payout of the game medium can be made continuous.

In this configuration, the correction process is executed before the update process. Further, the number of correction reference numbers in the correction processing is equal to or greater than the above-mentioned update reference number, and data 1 is set to the bit corresponding to the highest bit in which data 1 is set in the update reference number, and the bit concerned. It is a number corresponding to the information in which data 0 is set in all the bits on the higher side. As a result, if data 1 is set in a bit in which data 1 is not set when the number is less than the update reference number due to the influence of noise or the like in the stage before the update process, the data 1 is directly corrected to data 0. be able to.

Further, according to this configuration, the correction processing is executed at a stage after the update processing, and the number of bits to be corrected is larger than that in the configuration in which the correction reference number is larger than the configuration in this means. The effect of executing the correction process is enhanced.

Means D9. A gaming machine characterized in that, in the means D8, the correction reference number in the correction process by the pre-memory correction means is the update reference number.

According to the means D9, even if the prize payout number information is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like in the stage before the update process and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the update reference number, before the update process. The correction process is executed at the timing of, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the update reference number. As a result, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

Means D10. In any one of the means D1 to D6, the main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content,
The payout side storage means, the payout drive control means, and the prize payout number correction means are provided, and the payout command information is input, and the information corresponding to the input payout command information is used as the prize payout number information. A payout control means that stores the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means by the drive control of the payout means by the payout drive control means (payout control means). Withdrawal control board 322)
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When the game content specifying means specifies that the payout game content has been obtained, the main storage means (main RAM 313) that stores the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
When the payout command information is input, the payout control means executes an input-time update process for updating the information of the payout side storage means so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is reflected. It is equipped with a time update means (a function of executing the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331).
The prize payout number correction means is a pre-memory correction means (payout) that executes the correction process at a timing prior to the input update process when the input update process is executed by the input update means. A gaming machine characterized by having a function of executing mask processing at the time of addition in the side CPU 331).

The gaming machine of the means D10 includes a main control means and a payout control means, and in a configuration in which the control processing load of the main control means is reduced by the payout control means, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. As a result, the game medium is smoothly paid out.

In the configuration, when the input update process is executed, the correction process is executed at a timing prior to the input update process. As a result, the number of game media to be corrected can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the correction process is executed at the timing after the update process at the time of input.

Further, when the data 1 is set to the bit in which the data 1 is not set when the number is less than the correction reference number due to the influence of noise or the like in the stage before the update process at the time of input, the data 1 is directly corrected to the data 0. can do. That is, when the correction process is executed at the timing after the input update process, the correction process is executed after the data structure of each bit of the prize payout number information is updated by the input update process. It is not possible to directly modify the set data 1 due to the influence of the above. Then, even if the correction process is executed, the influence of the data being rewritten as described above may not be sufficiently reduced. On the other hand, according to the configuration of this means, the data that has been rewritten as described above can be directly corrected, so that the influence of the data being rewritten can be reduced.

Means D11. The means D10 is provided with a power supply means (power supply unit 321c for power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure in a power failure state in which power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
The main storage means is configured to be capable of storing and holding information while power is being supplied to itself, and to receive the power at the time of power failure in the power failure state.
The payout side storage means is configured to be capable of storing and holding information while power is being supplied to itself and not to receive the power at the time of power failure in the power failure state.
The payout control means
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
According to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, the main control means can specify whether the payout command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. The permission identification information output means (a function of executing the prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that outputs the permission identification information to the control means, and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. A gaming machine provided, characterized in that the payout command information can be output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.

According to the means D11, the power at the time of power failure is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means, whereas the power at the time of power failure is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. This permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. , The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means D11, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

The "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON or OFF, or may be information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Means D12. In the means D11, the permission identification information output means is set in a situation where the output state of the permission identification information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output is not permitted. When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, updated by the payout update means, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number. Output state setting means for setting the output state of the identification information so that the output permission state can be specified by the main control means (function of executing the processes of steps S2306 and S2307 in the payout side CPU 331). Is equipped with
The number of correction reference numbers in the correction process by the pre-storage correction means is a number equal to or larger than the permission reference number, and further, data is stored in a bit corresponding to the highest bit in which data 1 is set in the permission reference number. A gaming machine characterized in that 1 is set and data 0 is set in all bits higher than the bit, which is a number corresponding to the information.

According to the means D12, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. As a result, the prize payout number information is smoothly replenished to the payout side storage means, and the game medium is smoothly paid out accordingly.

Further, according to this configuration, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means exceeds the permission standard number, the output is disallowed and the payout control is performed from the main control means. The payout command information is not output to the means. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means, and store the rest in the main side storage means.

In this configuration, the correction process is executed at the stage before the input update process. Further, the number of correction reference numbers in the correction processing is equal to or greater than the number of permission reference numbers, and data 1 is set to the bit corresponding to the highest bit in which data 1 is set in the permission reference number, and data 1 is set from the bit. Is also the number corresponding to the information in which data 0 is set in all the upper bits. As a result, when data 1 is set in a bit in which data 1 is not set when the number is less than the permitted reference number due to the influence of noise or the like in the stage before the update process at the time of input, the data 1 is directly converted to data 0. It can be fixed.

Further, according to this configuration, the number of bits to be modified is larger than that of the configuration in which the correction processing is executed at the stage after the input update process and the correction reference number is larger than the configuration in this means. , The effect of executing the correction process is enhanced.

Means D13. In the means D11, the permission identification information output means is set in a situation where the output state of the permission identification information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output is not permitted. When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, updated by the payout update means, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number. Output state setting means for setting the output state of the identification information so that the output permission state can be specified by the main control means (function of executing the processes of steps S2306 and S2307 in the payout side CPU 331). Is equipped with
A gaming machine characterized in that the correction reference number in the correction processing by the pre-memory correction means is the permission reference number.

According to the means D13, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. As a result, the prize payout number information is smoothly replenished to the payout side storage means, and the game medium is smoothly paid out accordingly.

Further, according to this configuration, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means exceeds the permission standard number, the output is disallowed and the payout control is performed from the main control means. The payout command information is not output to the means. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means, and store the rest in the main side storage means.

In this configuration, the correction process is executed in the stage before the input update process, and the correction reference number in the correction process is the above-mentioned permission reference number. As a result, when data 1 is set in a bit in which data 1 is not set when the number is less than the permitted reference number due to the influence of noise or the like in the stage before the update process at the time of input, the data 1 is directly converted to data 0. It can be fixed.

Further, according to this configuration, the number of bits to be modified is larger than that in the configuration in which the modification process is executed at the stage after the input update process and the modification reference number is larger than the permitted reference number. The effect of executing the correction process is enhanced.

Means D14. In the means D12 or D13, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number in a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, one By the time the game medium is paid out and the prize payout number information is updated by the payout update means, the payout command information output means newly outputs the payout command information and the input update means. A game machine characterized in that the prize payout number information is updated by the above.

According to the means D14, in the situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, when the game content becomes a new payout game content or when the prize information is already stored in the main storage means. , With respect to the current payout, the payout command information is output from the main control means before the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is exhausted, and the payout storage means prize. Information on the number of new game media is added to the information on the number of payouts. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect while making the payout of the game medium continuous.

In particular, by making sure that the payout command information is newly output and the prize payout number information is updated before one game medium is paid out and the prize payout number information is updated, the prize payout is made. The information on the number of new game media can be added to the numerical information at an early stage, and the continuous payout of the game media can be smoothly performed.

Further, when the above means D13 is provided and the input update process is executed, the correction process is executed at a stage before the input update process, and the number of correction reference numbers in the correction process is a permission standard. It is a number. Therefore, at the timing of executing the update process at the time of input, the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is equal to or less than the permitted reference number, and the prize payout number information can be updated satisfactorily.

The output state change is described as "the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means and the prize payout number information is updated by the input update means". The processing time required to change the output state of the specific information by the means, the processing time required to identify the output permission state by the payout command information output means and output the payout command information, In addition, one game medium is paid out for a total of the processing times required from the output of the payout command information to the update of the prize payout number information by the input update means. It is conceivable that the prize payout number information is set to be shorter than the time required for updating.

Means D15. In any one of the means D1 to D14, the payout side storage means is configured as one unit of bytes that are grouped by a plurality of predetermined bits, and the prize payout number storage means (which stores the prize payout number information). It has a prize ball number storage area 374) and
An upper limit is set as the number of game media of the prize payout number information that can be stored in the prize payout number storage means, and even if the upper limit number is stored in the prize payout number storage means, the prize payout number is stored. The configuration is such that data 1 is not set in all the bits of the means.
The prize payout number correction means is a payout correction means (payout setting in the payout side CPU 331) that executes the correction process at a predetermined timing when the payout means is drive-controlled by the drive control means. Has a function to execute time mask processing)
The correction reference number in the correction process by the payout correction means is a number equal to or larger than the upper limit number, and further, the data 1 corresponds to the highest bit in which the data 1 is set in the upper limit number. A gaming machine characterized in that the number corresponds to the information in which data 0 is set in all the bits that are set and higher than the bit.

In the gaming machine of the means D15, the prize payout number information is stored in the prize payout number storage means configured with a byte as a unit by a plurality of predetermined bits. As a result, the prize payout number information is handled in byte units. In addition, an upper limit is set as the number of game media for the prize payout number information that can be stored in the prize payout number storage means.

In this case, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the prize payout number storage means is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the upper limit. Is expected. On the other hand, when the payout means is driven and controlled, the correction process is executed at a predetermined timing, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the correction reference number. To. As a result, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

Means D16. A gaming machine characterized in that, in the means D15, the correction reference number in the correction process by the payout correction means is the upper limit number.

According to the means D16, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the prize payout number storage means is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the upper limit. Even if the payout means is driven and controlled, the correction process is executed at a predetermined timing, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the upper limit number. As a result, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

Means D17. In the means D15 or D16, the main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
The payout side storage means, the payout drive control means, and the prize payout number correction means are provided, and the payout command information is input, and the information corresponding to the input payout command information is used as the prize payout number information. A payout control means that stores the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means by the drive control of the payout means by the payout drive control means (payout control means). Withdrawal control board 322)
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
A plurality of types of the payout command information are set so that the number of corresponding game media is different.
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content is specified, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and further, the information is provided while the power is supplied to itself. The main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout side storage means is configured to be capable of storing and holding information while power is being supplied to itself and not to receive the power at the time of power failure in the power failure state.
The payout control means
When the payout command information is input, the input time update means (payout side) that executes the input time update process for updating the information of the payout side storage means so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is reflected. The function of executing the process of step S1809 in the CPU 331) and
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
According to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, the main control means can specify whether the payout command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. The permission identification information output means (a function of executing the prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that outputs the permission identification information to the control means, and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. It is provided, and the payout command information can be output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.
The permission identification information output means
In a situation where the output state of the identification information is set so that the output disallowed state can be specified by the main control means, the game medium is paid out by the payout means and updated at the time of payout. When the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information updated by the means and stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number, the main control means determines that the output permission state is reached. An output permission state setting means (a function of executing the process of step S2306 in the payout side CPU 331) that sets the output state of the permission identification information so that the permission can be specified.
In a situation where the output state of the permission specifying information is set so that the output permission state can be specified by the main control means, the output is not permitted based on the input of the payout command information. Output disapproval state setting means (a function of executing the process of step S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) for setting the output state of the permission identification information so that the state can be specified by the main control means.
With
The game machine is characterized in that the upper limit is the sum of the permission reference number and the maximum number of game media among the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information.

According to the means D17, the power at the time of power failure is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means, whereas the power at the time of power failure is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. This permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. , The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means D17, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

When the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. As a result, the prize payout number information is smoothly replenished to the payout side storage means, and the game medium is smoothly paid out accordingly.

Further, according to this configuration, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means exceeds the permission standard number, the output is disallowed and the payout control is performed from the main control means. The payout command information is not output to the means. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means, and store the rest in the main side storage means.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

Further, in the above configuration, the upper limit number corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the prize payout number storage means is the sum of the permission reference number and the maximum number of game media among the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information. It becomes a number. In this case, in the situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the prize payout number storage means is rewritten due to the influence of noise or the like, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information exceeds the correction reference number. Even so, when the payout means is driven and controlled, the correction process is executed at a predetermined timing, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information is corrected so as to be equal to or less than the correction reference number. As a result, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

The "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON or OFF, or may be information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

(90) Means E1. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is paid out.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content is specified, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and further, the information is provided while the power is supplied to itself. The main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
With the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information input from the main control means or the information corresponding to the payout command information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). ,
The prize payout number information is stored as the prize payout number information specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and further, the information can be stored and retained while the electric power is supplied to itself. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state, and
Payout drive control means that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means (function of executing the payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331). When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
According to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, the main control means can specify whether the payout command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. The permission identification information output means (a function of executing the prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that outputs the permission identification information to the control means, and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. A gaming machine provided, characterized in that the payout command information can be output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.

In the game machine of the means E1, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the game content becoming the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game content becoming the payout game content is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Will be remembered. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. This permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means. , The rest can be stored in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted. It is possible to prevent it from happening.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means E1, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

From the above, even if the payout control means does not have the memory retention function at the time of power failure in the game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium. It is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern.

Further, the "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON and OFF, or information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Further, the "payout side storage means" may be all or a part of the information storage functions of the payout control means, and when it is a part, it has a function of storing only the prize payout number information. There may be. Further, in this case, the payout control means may have a function of storing information related to security, and the means having the function may be configured to be supplied with power at the time of power interruption. This also applies to the following.

Means E2. In the means E1, the permission-specific information output means is set in a situation where the output state of the permission-specific information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output is not permitted. When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, updated by the payout update means, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number. A function of executing the processes of step S2306 and step S2307 in the payout side CPU 331 for setting the output state of the permission specifying information so that the main control means can specify that the output permission state is present. ) Is a game machine.

According to the means E2, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. As a result, the prize payout number information is smoothly replenished to the payout side storage means, and the game medium is smoothly paid out accordingly.

Further, according to this configuration, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means exceeds the permission standard number, the output is disallowed and the payout control is performed from the main control means. The payout command information is not output to the means. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means, and store the rest in the main side storage means.

Means E3. In the means E2, the game machine characterized in that the permission reference number is one or more game media numbers.

According to the means E3, since the permission reference number is set as the number of game media of 1 or more, at the timing before all the game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means are exhausted. It can be in the output permission state. As a result, for example, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, when the game content becomes a new payout game content, the payout side storage means is stored with respect to the currently performed payout. It is possible to output the payout command information from the main control means and add new game medium number information to the prize payout number information of the payout storage means at the timing before all the game media numbers corresponding to the prize payout number information are exhausted. It will be possible. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect while making the payout of the game medium continuous.

Means E4. In the means E3, the permission reference number is equal to or less than the number of game media paid out for one of the payout game contents.

According to the means E4, it is possible to minimize the number of game media stored as prize payout number information in the payout storage means in the configuration in which the effects as described in the above means E3 can be obtained. Become. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the number of game media to be paid out, which are erased when the power of the game machine is cut off.

Means E5. In any one of the means E2 to E4, when the payout command information is input, the payout control means stores the information of the payout side storage means so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is reflected. It is provided with an input-time update means (a function of executing the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) to be updated.
In a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number, the game medium of the permission reference number is released. The payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means and the prize payout number is newly output by the input update means before all the game media corresponding to the prize payout number information are paid out. A gaming machine characterized in that the information is configured to be updated.

According to the means E5, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, when the game content becomes a new payout game content or when the prize information is already stored in the main storage means. , With respect to the current payout, the payout command information is output from the main control means before the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is exhausted, and the payout storage means prize. Information on the number of new game media is reflected in the payout number information. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect while making the payout of the game medium continuous.

The output state setting is described as "the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means and the prize payout number information is updated by the input update means". The processing time required to set the output state of the permission specifying information by the means, and the processing time required to specify the output permission state by the payout command information output means and output the payout command information. , And the total processing time of the processing time required from the output of the payout command information to the update of the prize payout number information by the input update means is paid by the game medium of the permitted reference number. It is conceivable that the time required for the game media to be issued and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information to be exhausted is shorter than the time required.

Means E6. In any one of the means E2 to E4, when the payout command information is input, the payout control means stores the information of the payout side storage means so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is reflected. It is provided with an input-time update means (a function of executing the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) to be updated.
In a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the permitted reference number, one game medium is paid out. Before the prize payout number information is updated by the payout update means, the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means, and the prize payout number information is output by the input update means. A gaming machine characterized by being configured to be updated.

According to the means E6, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, when the game content becomes a new payout game content or when the prize information is already stored in the main storage means. , With respect to the current payout, the payout command information is output from the main control means before the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is exhausted, and the payout storage means prize. Information on the number of new game media is reflected in the payout number information. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect while making the payout of the game medium continuous.

In particular, by making sure that the payout command information is newly output and the prize payout number information is updated before one game medium is paid out and the prize payout number information is updated, the prize payout is made. The information on the number of new game media can be reflected in the numerical information at an early stage, and the continuous payout of the game media can be smoothly performed.

The output state setting is described as "the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means and the prize payout number information is updated by the input update means". The processing time required to set the output state of the permission specifying information by the means, and the processing time required to specify the output permission state by the payout command information output means and output the payout command information. , And one game medium is paid out for a total of the processing times required from the output of the payout command information to the update of the prize payout number information by the input update means. Therefore, it is conceivable that the prize payout number information is set to be shorter than the time required for updating.

Means E7. In means E5 or E6, the payout drive control means
A function of executing the process of step S2205 in the payout side CPU 331 to start the drive control of the payout means when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means becomes one or more. )When,
A drive control stop means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) to stop the drive control of the payout means when all the game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means are exhausted. ,
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

In the game machine of the means E7, the drive control of the payout means is stopped when all the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means is exhausted, so that energy saving can be achieved. In this case, when the drive control of the payout means is started, a larger drive force is required as compared with the case where the drive state of the payout means is maintained. Therefore, if the drive control of the payout means is repeatedly started and stopped, a large driving force is required, which is not preferable. On the other hand, by providing the configuration of the means E5 or E6, it is possible to continuously pay out the game medium, and there is a possibility that the drive control of the payout means is repeatedly started and stopped. Is reduced.

Means E8. In any one of means E2 to E7, the payout drive control means
When the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means becomes one or more, the drive control start means (the process of step S2205 in the payout side CPU 331) for starting the drive control of the payout means is executed. Function) and
Drive control stop means for stopping the drive control of the payout means when all the game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means are exhausted (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331). When,
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means and updated by the payout update means and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the switching reference number, the payout means It is provided with a speed changing means (a function of executing the process of step S2204 in the payout side CPU 331) for changing the payout speed of the game medium to a speed slower than the speed up to that point.
A gaming machine characterized in that the permitted reference number is set to a number larger than the switching reference number.

In the game machine of the means E8, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means is exhausted, the drive control of the payout means is stopped, so that energy saving is achieved.

Further, when the game medium is paid out and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the switching reference number, the payout speed of the game medium in the payout means is slower than the previous speed. Change to speed. As described above, in the configuration in which the drive control of the payout means is stopped when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means is exhausted, the payout game contents are generated at predetermined intervals. If it occurs repeatedly once and for all, it becomes necessary to repeatedly start and stop the drive control of the payout means. Since a large driving force is required to start the drive control of the payout means as compared with the case of maintaining the drive state of the payout means, it is not preferable that the drive control of the payout means is repeatedly started and stopped as described above. On the other hand, when the game medium is paid out and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the switching reference number, the payout speed of the game medium in the payout means up to that point is set. By changing to a slower speed, even if the payout game content is generated repeatedly at a predetermined interval, the next payout game is performed while the game medium is paid out at the slower payout speed. The possibility that the content is generated is increased, and the possibility that the drive control of the payout means is repeatedly started and stopped is reduced.

In addition, the number of permission reference numbers that trigger the setting change from the output disapproval state to the output permission state of the payout command information is set larger than the number of switching reference numbers that trigger the switching of the payout means to a slower payout speed. .. As a result, when the game medium is paid out based on the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means, the output permission state is set at the timing before the payout speed of the payout means is switched to a slower speed than before. At the same time, it becomes possible to output the payout command information from the main control means to the payout control means. Therefore, in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the payout speed of the payout means is switched to a slow speed until all the output of the payout command information corresponding to the prize information is executed. Can be prevented, and the game medium can be smoothly paid out.

Means E9. In the means E8, when the payout control means inputs the payout command information, the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is stored in the payout side storage means, and the game corresponds to the prize payout number information. It is provided with an input-time update means (a function of executing the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) to update the prize payout number information so as to be added to the number of media.
When the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the permission reference number in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the permission reference number and the switching reference The payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means before the game medium having the difference from the number is paid out and the prize payout number information is updated by the payout update means. A game machine characterized in that the prize payout number information is updated by the input-time updating means.

According to the means E9, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payer side storage means reaches the permitted standard number in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main side storage means, the payout means is paid out. It is possible to output the payout command information and prevent the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means from reaching the switching reference number at the timing before the speed is switched to the slower speed than before. .. Therefore, in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the payout speed of the payout means is switched to a slow speed until all the output of the payout command information corresponding to the prize information is executed. Can be prevented, and the game medium can be smoothly paid out.

Means E10. In the means E8, when the payout control means inputs the payout command information, the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is stored in the payout side storage means, and the game corresponds to the prize payout number information. It is provided with an input-time update means (a function of executing the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) to update the prize payout number information so as to be added to the number of media.
Further, the permitted reference number is set to a number one larger than the switching reference number.
In a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means reaches the permitted reference number, one game medium is paid out. Before the prize payout number information is updated by the payout update means, the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means, and the prize payout number information is output by the input update means. A gaming machine characterized by being configured to be updated.

According to the means E10, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payer side storage means reaches the permitted standard number in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main side storage means, the payout means is paid out. It is possible to output the payout command information and prevent the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means from reaching the switching reference number at the timing before the speed is switched to the slower speed than before. .. Therefore, in the situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the payout speed of the payout means is switched to a slow speed until all the output of the payout command information corresponding to the prize information is executed. Can be prevented, and the game medium can be smoothly paid out.

In particular, the number of permission standards is set to one larger than the number of switching standards, and the game media are smoothly paid out as described above, so that the number of permission standards is two or more larger than the number of switching standards. Compared with the configuration set to the number, the number of game media to be paid out stored in the payout side storage means can be reduced. Then, by reducing the number of game media to be paid out stored in the payout side storage means, it is possible to minimize the number of game media to be paid out that are erased when the power of the game machine is cut off.

Means E11. In any one of the means E1 to E10, the output state of the permission specifying information is set so that the permission specifying information output means can specify that the output permission state is in the main control means. Output state setting means for setting the output state of the permission specifying information so that the main control means can specify that the output is not permitted based on the input of the payout command information. A gaming machine comprising (a function of executing the processes of steps S2306 and S2307 in the payout side CPU 331).

According to the means E11, even in a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, new payout command information can be obtained based on the fact that the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. Output is temporarily disabled. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means and the rest in the main side storage means.

Means E12. In the means E11, the output state setting means is one of the payouts in a situation where the output state of the permission specifying information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output permission state is present. A gaming machine characterized in that the output state of the permission identification information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output is not permitted based on the input of command information. ..

According to the means E12, even in a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, a new payout command is issued based on the output of one payout command information from the main control means to the payout control means. Information output is temporarily disabled. As a result, for example, in a situation where a large number of payout game contents are continuously generated, it is possible to minimize the amount of unpaid information stored in the payout side storage means. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the number of game media to be paid out, which are erased when the power of the game machine is cut off.

Means E13. In the means E11 or E12, when the payout command information is input, the payout control means corresponds to the prize payout number information in which the payout number corresponding to the payout command information is stored in the payout side storage means. It is provided with an input-time update means (a function of executing the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) to update the prize payout number information so as to be added to the number of game media.
In a situation where the output state of the permission specifying information is set so that the main control means can specify that the output state setting means is in the output permission state, the payout command is issued from the main control means. When the information is output and the prize payout number information is updated by the input update means, and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information reaches the disapproval reference number, the output is disallowed. A gaming machine characterized in that the output state of the permission identification information is set so that this can be specified by the main control means.

According to the means E13, even in a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means, and the prize payout stored in the payout side storage means. Based on the fact that the number of game media corresponding to the numerical information reaches the disapproval standard number, it is temporarily impossible to output new payout command information. As a result, for example, in a situation where a large number of payout game contents are continuously generated, it is possible to minimize the amount of unpaid information stored in the payout side storage means. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the number of game media to be paid out, which are erased when the power of the game machine is cut off.

Means E14. In any one of means E2 to E13, the payout drive control means is
An inhibition status specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S2201 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying an inhibition status that inhibits the payout of the game medium by the payout means, and
A drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the obstruction state is specified by the obstruction status specifying means.
Is equipped with
The output state setting means sets the output state of the permission identification information so that the main control means can identify the output disapproval state in the case of the inhibition situation. A featured game machine.

According to the means E14, the payout of the game medium by the payout means may be restricted depending on the inhibition situation that hinders the payout of the game medium. In this case, in the obstruction situation, the output disallowed state is set so that the payout command information is not output from the main control means to the payout control means. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output in the obstruction situation. When the payout command information is output in the obstruction situation, if the obstruction situation is not resolved and the power of the game machine is cut off while the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the newly output payout is performed. The prize payout number information corresponding to the command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

In the configuration including the means E7 or E8, the "drive control limiting means" and the "drive control stopping means" may be the same. In this case, the drive control of the payout means is stopped when the inhibition situation is specified by the inhibition situation specifying means.

Further, as the "inhibition situation", in a configuration further including an outer storage portion for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means, the inhibition status may be that the outer storage portion is in a full tank state. Further, in a configuration in which an inner storage unit for storing the game medium is further provided inside the game machine, and the payout means discharges the game medium stored in the inner storage part, the game stored in the inner storage part is provided. The loss of the medium may be an inhibitory situation.

Means E15. In any one of the means E1 to E14, the game machine main body (main body frame 13 and back pack unit 15) on which the payout means is installed and
A display unit (window 21) provided so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine with respect to the game machine body so that the game content can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine, and a game medium paid out from the payout means are stored. The front body (front door frame 14) of the game machine with the outer storage part (lower plate 34) integrated,
Is further equipped with
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the front body of the game machine is open. ,
The main control means
It is provided with an open state specifying means (a function of executing a front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) for specifying that the front body of the game machine is in the open state.
The payout command information output means is specified to be in the open state by the open state specifying means even when the output permission state specifying means has specified the output permission state. In this case, the gaming machine is characterized in that the payout command information is not output.

In the game machine of the means E15, the display unit and the outer storage unit are integrated with the front body of the game machine. As a result, a boundary leading to the game machine main body side does not occur between the display unit and the outer storage unit on the front surface of the game machine, and it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts using the boundary. Further, when the front body of the game machine is open, even if the game medium is paid out from the payout means, it cannot be received by the outer storage unit, so that the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted. ..

In this case, when the front body of the game machine is open, the payout command information is not output even if the payout command information output permission state is set in the payout control means. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output when the front body of the game machine is open. If the payout command information is output when the front body of the game machine is open, the power of the game machine is cut off while the front body of the game machine is not closed and the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted. The prize payout number information corresponding to the newly output payout command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

In the configuration including the means E7 or E8, the "drive control limiting means" and the "drive control stopping means" may be the same. In this case, when the open state specifying means specifies that the open state is in the open state, the drive control of the payout means is stopped.

Means E16. In any one of the means E1 to E15, when the output permission state specifying means is in an input state indicating that the input state of the permission identification information is the output permission state, the input continuation period is set in advance. A gaming machine characterized in that it is specified to be in the output permission state based on reaching a predetermined output permission reference period.

According to the means E16, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output based on the fact that the input state indicating that there is reached the output permission reference period. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

In addition to the configuration in which the input continuation period is measured by using a real timer, "the output permission state is specified based on the fact that the input continuation period reaches a predetermined output permission reference period". Also includes the following configurations: In a configuration in which the output permission state specifying means includes the permission specifying information confirmation means for periodically confirming the input state of the permission specifying information, the permission specifying information confirmation means is in the output permission state. The configuration may be such that the output permission state is specified based on the confirmation of the predetermined output permission reference number of times that the input state indicates that the input state is specified.

Means E17. In any of the means E1 to E15, the output permission state specifying means is a permission specifying information confirmation means for confirming the input state of the permission specifying information (a function of executing the prize ball permission signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311). When the output permission reference number of times set as a plurality of times is confirmed as the input state indicating that the output permission state is specified by the permission identification information confirmation means, the output permission state is specified. A game machine characterized by being a game machine.

According to the means E17, even if the input state of the permission identification information in the main control means becomes the input state indicating that the output permission state is set, the payout command information is not output immediately, but in the output permission state. The payout command information is output when the output permission reference number of times that the input state indicating that there is is set as multiple times is confirmed. As a result, even though the payout control means is actually in the output disallowed state, when the input state of the permission specifying information becomes the output permitted state due to noise or the like, On the other hand, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output.

Means E18. In any one of the means E1 to E17, when the payout command information output means stores prize information corresponding to a plurality of the payout game contents in the main storage means, the payout command information is one in the payout command information. A game machine characterized in that it outputs information on the number of game media corresponding to the content of the game paid out by the department.

According to the means E18, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means and the rest in the main side storage means. Become. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the number of game media to be paid out, which are erased when the power of the game machine is cut off.

Means E19. In any one of the means E1 to E18, the payout command information output means outputs information on the number of game media corresponding to the payout game content in the payout command information. Game machine.

According to the means E19, it is possible to store a part of the information on the number of payouts for the payout game content and the unpaid information in the payout side storage means and the rest in the main side storage means. Become. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the number of game media to be paid out, which are erased when the power of the game machine is cut off.

Means E20. A game board (game board 81) in which a game area in which a game ball flows down is formed, and
A ball entry portion (general winning opening 82, variable winning device 83, upper operating port 84a, lower operating port 84b) provided on the game board and capable of entering the flowing game ball.
A main control means (main control board 301) that outputs payout command information corresponding to the ball entry result based on the game ball entering the ball entry section.
A payout control means (payout control board 322) that inputs the payout command information and drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is paid out.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A ball entry specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that a game ball has entered the ball entry portion, and
When it is specified that a game ball has entered the ball entry portion by the ball entry identification means, the prize information corresponding to the specified ball entry result is stored, and power is supplied to itself. While the information can be stored and retained, the main storage means (main RAM 313) that receives the power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
With the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information input from the main control means or the information corresponding to the payout command information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331). ,
The prize payout number information is stored as the prize payout number information specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and further, the information can be stored and retained while the electric power is supplied to itself. A payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that does not receive power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout drive control means (a function of executing a payout state setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the information stored in the payout side storage means.
When the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the number of prize payouts is reflected in the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. A payout update means for updating information (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) and
According to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, the main control means can specify whether the payout command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. The permission identification information output means (a function of executing the prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that outputs the permission identification information to the control means, and
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. A gaming machine provided, characterized in that the payout command information can be output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.

In the game machine of the means E20, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the game ball has entered the ball entry portion. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out in response to the game ball entering the ball entry section.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if all the unpaid information, which is the information on the number of payouts for the payout game contents until the power is cut off, is deleted, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, the prize information for the game ball entering the ball entry section is stored in the main storage means, and the prize payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is stored in the payout side storage means. Is remembered in. Further, the payout control means outputs the permission specifying information to the main control means, and the main control means specifies whether or not the payout control means is in the output permission state based on the permission specifying information. This permission identification information is output according to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means. Then, when the main control means specifies that the payout control means is in the output permitted state, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and at the same time, the payout side stores a part of the information on the number of payouts for the ball entering the ball entry section and the unpaid information. It becomes possible to store in the means and store the rest in the main storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, it is the information on the number of payouts for the ball entering the ball entry section until the power is cut off, and the unpaid information. It is possible to prevent all of the power from being erased.

Incidentally, it is also conceivable that the number of game media corresponding to the prize information stored in the main storage means is subtracted each time the game medium is paid out by the payout means without storing the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means. However, in this configuration, the processing load of the main control means is increased more than necessary, and the effect of reducing the processing load of the main control means disappears by providing the payout control means separately from the main control means. .. On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present means E20, it is possible to obtain the effect of providing the payout control means separately from the main control means, and in addition, obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect.

From the above, in a game machine having a main control means and a payout control means, and the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means to pay out the game medium for winning, the payout control means is disconnected. Even if the time memory retention function is not provided, the game medium can be satisfactorily paid out for the prize.

The "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON or OFF, or may be information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Further, the configuration limited to any one of the above means E2 to E19 may be applied to the present means E20.

(91) Means F1. In a game machine provided with a payout means (payout device 224) for paying out a game medium based on the occurrence of any of the payout game contents set in a plurality of types.
A payout game content storage means (counter area 361 for prize balls) that stores information on the number of game media according to the payout game content or information corresponding to the number of game media as game information for each type of payout game content.
A payout drive control means (payout control board 322) that drives and controls the payout means so as to pay out the game medium based on the game information stored in the payout game content storage means.
With
The priority order to be paid out is set in advance in the game information for each type stored in the payout game content storage means.
The payout control by the payout drive control means is performed from the game information stored in the payout game content storage means, which corresponds to the game information having a high priority.

According to the means F1, when the payout game content is generated, the game information is stored in the payout game content storage means for each type of the payout game content. The priority of the game information is predetermined, and the game medium is paid out from the game information having the highest priority among the stored game information.

For example, in the case of a game machine in which information on the number of game media corresponding to the payout game content is accumulated and stored in the payout game content storage means when the payout game content occurs, an abnormality occurs in the game machine and the game medium. If the payout game content is generated multiple times even though the payout is not performed, it is possible that the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means is exceeded. In addition, even if no abnormality has occurred in the game machine and the game medium is normally paid out, the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means will be exceeded if a large amount of payout game content is generated. Is possible. In this case, it is conceivable that the game medium is not paid out based on the payout game content generated after the storage capacity is exceeded, which causes a disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, in this means, the payout game content storage means stores the game information for each type of payout game content. As a result, a storage area is provided for each game information, and the payout game content storage is compared with the case where the information on the number of game media according to the payout game content is accumulated and stored in the payout game content storage means. It is possible to prevent the storage capacity of the means from being exceeded.

In addition, the game medium is paid out from the stored game information corresponding to the game information having a high priority. For example, in the case of a game machine in which payout game contents that are likely to occur are set, game information based on the payout game contents is often stored, and the storage capacity for storing the game information is exceeded. Is possible. In this case, if the priority of the game information based on the payout game content that is likely to occur is raised, it is possible to prevent a large amount of game information based on the payout game content from being stored, and the payout game content that is likely to occur can be obtained. It is possible to prevent the storage capacity of the storage area for storing the based game information from being exceeded.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern.

In addition, "memorizing as game information according to the type of payout game content" includes not only one that stores one game information when one payout game content occurs, but also one payout game content occurs. When this is done, the information is divided into a plurality of game information and stored. In addition, in a game machine in which a plurality of types of payout game contents in which the same number of game media are paid out are set, game information corresponding to the plurality of types of payout game contents is individually stored.

Means F2. In the means F1, as the payout game content, the first payout game content with the largest number of game media payouts is set.
The payout game content storage means stores the first game information when the first payout game content occurs.
The priority storage means (step S1201, step S1203, step S1205, step S1207 in the prize ball command output process by the CPU 311 of the main control board 302) for storing the priority information in which the first game information has the highest priority. A gaming machine characterized in that it is equipped with a ROM 312) that stores processing.

According to the means F2, the priority of the first game information corresponding to the payout game content in which the number of payouts of the game medium is set is the highest. As a result, the payout of the game medium corresponding to the first game information in which the payout of the game medium is the largest is preferentially performed. If the stored first game information becomes an enormous amount and reaches the limit amount of the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means, the first payout game content generated in the state where the storage capacity limit amount is reached is It is possible that it will be invalid. Since the first game information corresponds to the content of the first payout game in which the number of payouts of the game medium is the largest, the disadvantage that occurs to the player when it becomes invalid becomes large. On the other hand, according to this means, since the game medium corresponding to the first game information is preferentially paid out, it is possible to prevent the stored first game information from becoming an enormous amount. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the content of the first payout game from becoming invalid, and it is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game medium.

In addition, noise may be generated in the game machine, and it is conceivable that the game information stored in the payout game content storage means is erased due to the influence of the noise. According to this means, since the game medium corresponding to the first game information in which the game medium is most paid out is preferentially paid out, the game information stored in the payout game content storage means is stored due to the influence of noise or the like. Even if it is erased, it is possible to minimize the disadvantage caused to the player.

Means F3. In the means F2, as the payout game content, in addition to the first payout game content, a second payout game content and a third payout game content are set.
The content of the third payout game is less paid out of the game medium than the content of the first payout game.
The second payout game content is less likely to be paid out of the game medium than the third payout game content, and is more likely to occur than the third payout game content in a predetermined game state.
The payout game content storage means stores the second game information when the second payout game content occurs, and stores the third game information when the third payout game content occurs.
The priority order storage means is characterized in that the first game information is given the highest priority, and the second game information is prioritized over the third game information. Game machine to be.

According to the means F3, even if the second payout game content pays less game medium than the third payout game content, the second payout game content is the third payout game content in the predetermined game state. More likely to occur. That is, in a predetermined game state, the second game information is easier to be stored than the third game information.

Assuming that the third game information has a higher priority than the second game information, the third game information is stored in the payout game content storage means while the game medium is paid out based on the third game information. 2 There is a risk that the game information will be enormous. Further, when the stored second game information becomes an enormous amount and reaches the limit amount of the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means, the payout game content generated in the state where the storage capacity is limited is displayed. It is possible that it will be invalid.

On the other hand, in this means, since the second game information has a higher priority than the third game information, the game medium based on the second game information is paid out preferentially, and the payout game content storage means It is possible to prevent the second game information stored in the game from becoming enormous, and it is possible to prevent the payout game content from becoming invalid.

Means F4. In the means F1, as the payout game contents, the first payout game content in which the game medium is most paid out and the first payout game content in which the game medium is paid out less than the first payout game content and in a predetermined game state. The second payout game content, which is more likely to occur than the game content, is set.
The payout game content storage means stores the first game information when the first payout game content occurs, and stores the second game information when the second payout game content occurs.
A gaming machine comprising a priority order storage means for storing priority information in which the second game information is prioritized over the first game information.

According to the means F4, the second payout game content is more likely to occur in the predetermined game state than the first payout game content in which the game medium is paid out most. That is, in a predetermined game state, the second game information is more easily stored than the first game information.

Assuming that the priority of the first game information is higher than that of the second game information, the second game content storage means stored in the payout game content storage means while the game medium is paid out based on the first game information. There is a risk that the amount of game information will be enormous. Further, when the stored second game information becomes enormous and the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means is reached, the payout game content generated in the state where the storage capacity is limited is displayed. It is possible that it will be invalid.

On the other hand, in this means, since the second game information has a higher priority than the first game information, the game medium based on the second game information is paid out with priority, and the payout game content It is possible to prevent the second game information stored in the storage means from becoming enormous.

Means F5. In means F3 or F4, a game ball is used as a game medium.
As the game state, a frequency improvement state (frequency improvement state) and a special game state (big hit state) different from the normal game state are set.
The first special ball-entry means (variable winning device 83) that can switch between an open state in which a game ball is easy to enter and a closed state in which it is difficult or impossible to enter.
A first switching control means (large winning opening opening / closing process) that executes switching control for switching the first special ball entry means to the open state in the special gaming state, and
It is possible to switch between an open state in which the game ball is easy to enter and a closed state in which it is difficult or impossible to enter the ball, and at least in the normal game state and the frequency improvement state, the open state and the closed state are switched. Special ball entry means (lower operating port 84b, electric accessory 89),
A second switching control means (electric accessory opening process) that executes switching control for switching the second special ball entering means to the open state so that the game ball can easily enter the ball in the frequency-improved state as compared with the normal game state. When,
With
The content of the first payout game is that the game ball enters the first special ball entry means.
The second payout game content is a game machine characterized in that a game ball enters the second special ball entry means.

According to the means F5, the game ball is likely to enter the first special ball entry means in the special game state, and the game ball is likely to enter the second special ball entry means in the frequency-improved state. That is, the first game information is easily stored in the special game state, and the second game information is easily stored in the frequency-improved state.

When applied to means F3, the first game information has the highest priority. As a result, the payout of the game ball based on the first game information is preferentially performed. Assuming that, in the case of a game machine in which the first payout game content is most likely to occur in the special game state, the payout of the game ball based on the first game information most easily memorized in the special game state is given priority. You can also. In addition, the payout of the game ball based on the second game information, which is easily stored in the frequency-improved state, is given priority next to the first game information. As described above, the payout of the game ball can be satisfactorily performed by giving priority to the payout of the game ball based on the game information that is easily stored in each game state.

When applied to the means F4, the payout of the game ball based on the second game information that is easily stored in the frequency-improved state is prioritized over the first game information. In the case of a game machine in which the frequency improvement state continues for a longer period of time than the special game state, it is considered that the second game information is stored more frequently than the first game information, and the second game information It is desirable to give priority to paying out the game ball based on it. On the other hand, since the game balls are preferentially paid out based on the second game information that is easily memorized in the frequency-improved state and is memorized even in the normal game state, it is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game balls. It will be possible.

As described above, even in a game machine in which a plurality of game states are set, it is possible to satisfactorily pay out the game balls.

Means F6. In any one of the means F1 to F5, among the game information stored in the payout game content storage means, the payout command information output means for preferentially outputting the payout command information based on the game information having a higher priority. (Main control board 301) and
Based on the output of the payout command information, the payout number information storage means (payout side RAM333) that stores the payout number information of the game medium corresponding to the payout command information or the payout number information as the corresponding information.
With
The payout drive control means is a gaming machine characterized in that the payout means is driven and controlled in order to pay out a game medium based on the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means.

According to the means F6, among the game information stored in the payout game content storage means, the payout command information based on the game information having a high priority is preferentially output. Then, when the payout command information is output, the payout number information based on the payout command information is stored in the payout number information storage means, and the game medium is paid out based on the payout number information.

With the above configuration, when the paid-out game content is stored, the game medium is paid out for the paid-out game content and the unpaid information is partially stored in the payout game content storage means. It is possible to store the rest in the storage means and store the rest in the payout game content storage means. That is, a plurality of storage areas for storing information based on the content of the payout game are provided. Therefore, when an abnormality occurs in the game machine and the game medium is not paid out, but the payout game content occurs multiple times, or when a large amount of payout game content occurs, the payout game content becomes. It is possible to prevent the game medium from being paid out based on the payout game content even though the storage capacity of the storage area for storing the information based on the fact is exceeded and the payout game content is reached.

Means F7. In the means F6, a main control means (main control board 301) having the payout game content storage means and the payout command information output means, and
A payout control means (payout control board 322) having the payout number information storage means and the payout drive control means, and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means F7, the payout game content storage means and the payout command information output means are provided in the main control means, and the payout number information storage means and the payout drive control means are provided in the payout control means. As a result, the function for paying out the game medium is divided into a plurality of control means, and the load on each control means is reduced as compared with the configuration in which one control means has all the functions.

Further, in a configuration in which one control means has all of the above functions, when electrical noise or the like is generated in the control means, both the payout game content storage means and the payout number information storage means are affected by the noise and the like. There is concern that it will end up. On the other hand, since the payout game content storage means is provided in the main control means and the payout number information storage means is provided in the payout control means, the risk of the noise and the like is dispersed. If the main control means and the payout control means are provided separately, the effect of the risk diversification can be enhanced.

Further, in the above configuration, among the information stored in the payout game content storage means, the payout command information corresponding to a part of the information is output from the main control means to the payout control means, and the payout control means receives the payout. Based on the command information, the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information is stored in the payout number information storage means. As a result, in the configuration in which the payout game content storage means is provided in the main control means and the payout number information storage means is provided in the payout control means, the game medium is smoothly paid out.

Means F8. In the means F6 or F7, the payout command information output means determines whether the payout command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state according to the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means. It is equipped with a permission identification information output means (a function of executing a prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that outputs permission identification information so that it can be specified in the above.
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. A gaming machine provided, characterized in that the payout command information is output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.

According to the means F8, the permission specifying information output means outputs the permission specifying information, and the payout command information output means specifies whether or not the payout command information output is permitted based on the permission specifying information. it can. This permission identification information is output according to the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means. Then, when it is specified that the output is permitted, the payout command information is output. With this configuration, it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, and a part of the payout and unpaid information for the payout game content is stored in the payout number information storage means, and the rest. Can be stored in the payout game content storage means.

Further, since the payout game content storage means stores the game information for each type of payout game content, the risk of the information being rewritten due to noise or the like can be dispersed. Therefore, it is desirable to store more information in the payout game content storage means than in the payout number information storage means. On the other hand, according to this means, the payout command information is not output unless the output is permitted. Therefore, it is possible to store more information in the payout game content storage means than in the payout number information storage means.

Further, the "permission identification information" may be information whose output is turned ON and OFF, or information output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and turned OFF in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned OFF in the output permitted state and ON in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, the specific configuration of the permission specifying information is arbitrary as long as it can be specified by the permission specifying information whether it is the output permitted state or the output disallowed state.

Means F9. In the means F8, when the game medium is paid out based on the payout number information, the number of the game media paid out is reflected in the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means. A payout update means (a function of executing the process of step S2104 in the payout side CPU 331) for updating the payout number information so as to be
The permission-specific information output means pays out the game medium by the payout means in a situation where the output state of the permission-specific information is set so that it can be specified that the output is not permitted. When the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information updated by the payout number information storage means and stored in the payout number information storage means reaches the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. It is characterized by having an output state setting means (a function of executing the processes of steps S2306 and S2307 in the payout side CPU 331) for setting the output state of the permission identification information so that the control means can specify it. Game machine.

According to the means F9, when the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means reaches the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. As a result, the payout number information is smoothly replenished to the payout number information storage means, and the game medium is smoothly paid out accordingly.

Further, according to this means, when the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means exceeds the permitted standard number, the output is disallowed and the payout command information is not output. .. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the unpaid information that is paid out for the paid-out game content in the payout number information storage means, and store the rest in the payout game content storage means.

Means F10. In the means F9, the permission reference number is equal to or less than the number of game media paid out for one of the payout game contents.

According to the means F10, the number of game media corresponding to the number of payout information stored in the payout number information storage means is equal to or less than the number of game media to be paid out for the one payout game content. It is possible to set the output permission state at the timing before all of them disappear. As a result, for example, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, when the game content becomes a new payout game content, the payout number information storage means is stored for the currently performed payout. The payout command information is output from the main control means and the information on the number of new game media is added to the payout number information of the payout number information storage means at the timing before all the game media numbers corresponding to the payout number information are exhausted. Is possible.

Further, since the payout game content storage means stores the game information for each type of payout game content, the risk of the information being rewritten due to noise or the like can be dispersed. Therefore, it is desirable to store more information in the payout game content storage means than in the payout number information storage means. On the other hand, according to this means, the payout command information is not output unless the number of game media is less than or equal to the number of game media to be paid out for one of the payout game contents. It is possible to reduce the number of game media to be played as much as possible. Therefore, when the payout number information is erased due to the influence of noise or the like, the number of game media to be paid out to be erased can be reduced as much as possible.

Means F11. Any one of the means F6 to F10 is provided with a power supply means (power supply unit 321c for power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure in a power failure state in which power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
The payout game content storage means receives the power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state.
The payout number information storage means is a gaming machine characterized in that it does not receive power at the time of power failure in the power failure state.

According to the means F11, the payout game content storage means is supplied with the power at the time of power failure, whereas the payout number information storage means is not supplied with the power at the time of power failure. As a result, the cost of the power failure storage function can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the payout game content storage means and the payout number information storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout number information storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power cut state, the payout number information storage means cannot store and hold the information. In this case, if the game medium is paid out for the paid-out game content until the power is cut off and all the unpaid information is erased, it may cause a great disadvantage to the player.

On the other hand, when the game content becomes the payout game content, the game information related to the payout game content is stored in the payout game content storage means, and the payout number information referred to when actually executing the payout is It is stored in the payout number information storage means. As described above, it is possible to store a part of the unpaid information of the game medium for the paid-out game content in the payout number information storage means and the rest in the payout game content storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout number information storage means at the time of power failure as described above, all the unpaid information, which is the information on the payout game contents until the power cut state is reached, is deleted. It becomes possible to prevent this.

Means F12. In any one of means F6 to F11, the payout command information output means outputs information on the number of game media corresponding to one game information in one payout command information. ..

According to the means F12, since the information on the number of game media corresponding to the one game information is output by one payout command information, the payout number information storage means is stored before the output permission state is reached. The sum of the number information and the maximum number of payouts of the game medium generated in one game is the maximum value of the information stored in the payout number information storage means. As a result, the number of game media stored as the payout number information in the payout number information storage means becomes large, and the effect when the information stored in the payout number information storage means is rewritten. Can be suppressed from becoming a large amount.

Further, since the payout game content storage means stores the game information for each type of payout game content, the risk of the information being rewritten due to noise or the like can be dispersed. Therefore, it is desirable to store more information in the payout game content storage means than in the payout number information storage means. On the other hand, according to this means, information on the number of game media corresponding to one game information is output with one payout command information. Therefore, it is possible to store more information in the payout game content storage means than in the payout number information storage means.

However, in order to output information on the number of game media corresponding to one game information in one payout command information, one payout command information is output, and the game medium is paid out based on the payout command information. It is conceivable that the payout game content may occur multiple times in the meantime. Therefore, it is conceivable that the amount of game information stored in the payout game content storage means becomes enormous and exceeds the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means. On the other hand, if the means F3 or the means F4 is applied, it will be output from the payout command information based on the second game information that is likely to occur. As a result, it is possible to prevent the amount of the second game information stored in the payout game content storage means from becoming enormous.

When applied to the means F10, the maximum number of payouts of the game media stored in the payout number information storage means is two times the maximum number of game media to be paid out when one payout game content is obtained. That is, even if the payout number information stored in the payout number information storage means is erased, the damage shall be less than twice the maximum number of game media to be paid out when one payout game content is obtained. It becomes possible.

Further, when applied to the means F11, since the payout number information storage means is not supplied with electric power at the time of power failure, it is desirable that the payout number information storage means does not store the payout number information corresponding to a large number of game media. On the other hand, according to this means, the payout number information storage means adds the maximum number of payouts of the game medium generated in one game to the payout number information stored before the output is permitted. Since the maximum value of the information stored in the payout number information storage means is reached, it is possible to minimize the number of unpaid game media that are erased in the event of a power failure.

Means F13. In any one of means F6 to F12, the payout drive control means is
An inhibition status specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S2201 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying an inhibition status that inhibits the payout of the game medium by the payout means, and
A drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the obstruction state is specified by the obstruction status specifying means.
Is equipped with
The payout command information output means is a gaming machine characterized in that it does not output the payout command information in the case of the obstruction situation.

According to the means F13, the payout of the game medium by the payout means may be restricted depending on the inhibition situation that hinders the payout of the game medium. With this means, the payout command information is not output in the obstruction situation. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output in the obstruction situation. When the payout command information is output in the obstruction situation, the number of payouts of the game medium stored in the payout number information storage means increases even though the game medium has not been paid out. In this case, if the information stored in the payout number information storage means is erased due to the influence of noise or the like, the payout number information corresponding to the newly output payout command information is erased without being paid out. It ends up. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Further, as the "inhibition situation", in a configuration further including an outer storage portion for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means, the inhibition status may be that the outer storage portion is in a full tank state. Further, in a configuration in which an inner storage unit for storing the game medium is further provided inside the game machine, and the payout means discharges the game medium stored in the inner storage part, the game stored in the inner storage part is provided. The loss of the medium may be an inhibitory situation.

Means F14. In any one of the means F1 to F13, the information amount specifying means for specifying that the game information amount stored in the payout game content storage means has reached the reference information amount, and
Teaching means (speaker unit 26) for performing predetermined teaching, and
When it is specified by the information amount specifying means that the game information amount has reached the reference information amount, the teaching control means (award by the main CPU 311) teaches and controls the teaching means so as to perform a predetermined specific teaching. Step S3306) in the ball information storage number confirmation process and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means F14, when the amount of game information stored in the payout game content storage means reaches the reference amount of information, specific teaching is performed. If a new payout game content occurs even though the game information is stored up to the storage capacity limit, the player has a disadvantage such that the game medium corresponding to the payout game content is not paid out. It is possible that it occurs in. On the other hand, according to this means, when the amount of game information reaches the reference amount of information, specific teaching is given. By providing the specific teaching, for example, it is possible to encourage the player to deal with the disadvantage so as not to occur. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the above disadvantages to the player.

Further, for example, when an abnormality occurs in the payout control means and the game medium is not paid out even though the game can be played, the payout command information is not output and the payout game content storage means is used. It is conceivable that new game information will be stored. In this case, it is conceivable that the amount of game information stored in the payout game content storage means becomes enormous. On the other hand, according to this means, since the specific teaching is performed even in this case, it is possible to prevent the amount of game information stored in the payout game content storage means from exceeding the storage capacity. It becomes.

Further, when the means F13 is applied and the game can be continued even in the blocked state, the game information is stored in the payout game content storage means even though the game medium is not paid out in the blocked state. Is possible. On the other hand, when this means is applied, specific teaching is performed when the game information stored in the game content storage means reaches the reference amount of information, so that the game information stored in the payout game content storage means is provided. It is possible to enhance the effect of suppressing the amount from exceeding the storage capacity.

Even if the specific teaching is started, the game may still be performed at the timing when the teaching is started, and it is conceivable that the payout game content will be generated even after the reference information amount is reached. If the specific teaching is started when the limit amount of the storage capacity is reached, the payout game content will be generated even though the limit amount of the storage capacity is reached, and the payout game content will be obtained. It is conceivable that the game medium will not be paid out based on the fact. Therefore, it is desirable to specify that the amount of game information reaches the reference amount of information before reaching the limit of the storage capacity of the payout game content storage means.

Means F15. In any one of means F1 to means F13, the payout game content storage means has a plurality of storage areas (counter areas 361a to 361d for each prize ball) for storing the game information according to the type of payout game content. Ori
Information amount specifying means for identifying that the game information amount stored in at least one of the storage areas has reached the reference information amount (step S3302 to step in the prize ball information storage number confirmation process by the main CPU 311). S3305) and
Teaching means (speaker unit 26) for performing predetermined teaching, and
When it is specified by the information amount specifying means that the game information amount has reached the reference information amount, the teaching control means (award by the main CPU 311) teaches and controls the teaching means so as to perform a predetermined specific teaching. Step S3306) in the ball information storage number confirmation process and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means F15, specific teaching is performed when the amount of game information stored in at least one storage area among the plurality of storage areas reaches the reference amount of information. If the game information is stored up to the storage capacity limit of one storage area, but the payout game content corresponding to the one storage area is generated, the game medium corresponding to the payout game content is paid out. It is conceivable that the player will suffer a disadvantage such as not being performed. On the other hand, according to this means, when the amount of game information stored in one storage area reaches the reference amount of information, specific teaching is performed. By providing the specific teaching, for example, it is possible to encourage the player to deal with the disadvantage so as not to occur. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the above disadvantages to the player.

Further, for example, when an abnormality occurs in the payout control means and the game medium is not paid out even though the game can be played, the payout command information is not output and a new game is played in the storage area. It is possible that the information is stored. In this case, it is conceivable that the amount of game information stored in each storage area becomes enormous. On the other hand, according to this means, even in this case, since the specific teaching is performed, it is possible to prevent the amount of game information stored in the storage area from exceeding the storage capacity.

Further, when the means F13 is applied and the game can be continued even in the blocked state, it is considered that the game information is stored in the storage area even though the game medium is not paid out in the blocked state. Be done. On the other hand, when this means is applied, the specific teaching is performed when the game information stored in any of the storage areas reaches the reference information amount, so that the game information amount stored in the storage area is reduced. It is possible to enhance the effect of suppressing the storage capacity from being exceeded.

Even if the specific teaching is started, the game may still be performed at the timing when the teaching is started, and it is conceivable that the payout game content will be generated even after the reference information amount is reached. If the specific teaching is started when the limit amount of the storage capacity is reached, the payout game content will be generated even though the limit amount of the storage capacity is reached, and the payout game content will be obtained. It is conceivable that the game medium will not be paid out based on the fact. Therefore, it is desirable to specify that the game information amount reaches the reference information amount before reaching the limit of the storage capacity of the storage area.

Means F16. In the means F14 or F15, the release specifying means (memory ball information storage by the main CPU 311) for specifying that the amount of game information stored in the payout game content storage means is less than or equal to the amount of release information less than the reference amount of information. Step S3307 to step S3310) in the number confirmation process,
When the release specifying means specifies that the game information amount is equal to or less than the release information amount, the teaching end control means (a prize ball by the main CPU 311) controls the end of the teaching means so as to end the specific teaching. Step S3311) in the information storage number confirmation process and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means F16, when the teaching that the stored game information amount has reached the reference information amount is started, the game information amount stored in the payout game content storage means is less than the reference information amount. The teaching is continued until the amount is less than or equal to the amount. That is, the game information amount for starting the teaching that the reference information amount has been reached and the game information amount for canceling the teaching are individually provided. In the case of a gaming machine in which the teaching is started when the standard information amount is reached and the teaching is terminated when the standard information amount is less than the standard information amount, even if the teaching is finished when the standard information amount is less than the standard information amount, the instruction is immediately paid out. When the game content occurs, the teaching will be started again. In this case, the start of the teaching and the end of the teaching are repeated, which may impose an extra processing load on the gaming machine. On the other hand, according to this means, when the reference information amount is reached and the teaching is started, the teaching is not completed until the game information amount becomes equal to or less than the release information amount. It is possible to prevent the end of teaching from occurring continuously.

Means F17. In any one of the means F1 to F16, the payout game content storage means is a game machine that stores the number of times of the payout game content generated as game information for each type.

According to the means F17, the number of times the paid-out game content is generated is stored as game information. When the payout game content occurs, a plurality of game media may be paid out. If the number of game media to be paid out is stored as game information, and if a large amount of game content to be paid out is generated, the game information is stored as the number of game media, so the stored value. Can be enormous. On the other hand, according to this means, since the number of times the payout game content is generated is stored as game information, a large amount of payout game content is generated as compared with the case where the number of game media to be paid out is stored as game information. Even if this is done, the storage capacity required to store the game information corresponding to the paid-out game content can be reduced.

(92) Means G1. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
The payout command information is input from the main control means, and the lending command information (ball lending request signal) output from the lending means (ball lending device Y) inside or outside the game machine is input, and the payout command information is input. Alternatively, a payout control means (payout control board 322) that drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the loan command information is paid out, and
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content has been obtained, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and the information is stored while power is being supplied to itself. A main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
The information on the number of payouts corresponding to the payout command information or the prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the information corresponding to the information (a function of executing the prize number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Lending number information specifying means (a function of inputting a ball lending request signal in step S1907 in the payout side CPU 331) for specifying the lending number information corresponding to the lending command information or the corresponding information, and
The prize payout number information is stored as the information on the number of payouts specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and as the information on the number of loans specified by the loan number information specifying means or the corresponding information. The payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that stores the loan number information, enables the storage of the information while the power is supplied to itself, and does not receive the power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state. Prize ball number storage area 374) and
The payout means is driven and controlled in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, and the loan number information stored in the payout side storage means is used. A payout drive control means (a function of executing a payout information setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the corresponding number of game media.
When the payout of the game medium started based on the storage of the prize payout number information in the payout side storage means is continued, the prize information is stored in the main side storage means. In the case and when the number of game media to be paid out is equal to or more than a predetermined number, the lending restriction means for restricting the input of the lending command information (step S1904, step S1905 of the ball lending setting process in the payout side CPU 331). Function to execute the processing of) and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means G1, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the game content has become the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content. In addition, lending command information is output from the lending means. Based on the input of the lending command information, the payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the lending command information is paid out.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. Therefore, when the gaming machine is turned off, all the unpaid information of the paying side storage means up to that point is erased. If a large amount of unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means in the case of a power failure, the player may be greatly disadvantaged. On the other hand, in this means, when the payout of the game medium started based on the storage of the prize payout number information is continued, the prize information is stored and the game to be paid out. If the number of media is greater than or equal to the predetermined number, do not enter the lending command information. As a result, the number of loans is made when the game medium is paid out based on the prize payout number information, the prize information is stored, and the prize payout number information exceeding the specified number is stored. It is possible to prevent the information from being stored in the payout side storage means, and it is possible to prevent the unpaid information from being excessively stored in the payout side storage means. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the unpaid information that is deleted even if the power is cut off.

From the above, in a game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means or the game medium is paid out by outputting the lending command information, the payout control means is stored in memory at the time of power failure. Even if the function is not provided, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern.

Further, the "payout side storage means" may be all or a part of the information storage functions of the payout control means, and when it is a part, it has a function of storing the prize payout number information. You may. Further, in this case, the payout control means may have a function of storing information related to security, and the means having the function may be configured to be supplied with power at the time of power interruption. This also applies to the following.

Means G2. In the means G1, the lending means outputs the lending confirmation information (ball lending state signal) before outputting the lending command information.
The lending restriction means is a payout determination means (ball lending in the payout side CPU 331) that determines whether or not the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out based on the input of the lending confirmation information. It has a function to execute the processing of step S1902 and step S1904 of the setting processing).
A gaming machine characterized in that when it is determined by the payout determination means that a game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information has been paid out, the lending command information is not input.

According to the means G2, when the loan confirmation information is output, it is determined whether or not the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out.

Generally, the payout of the game ball based on the lending command information is intended to be performed by the player at an arbitrary timing, and the player is allowed to carry out the game medium when the game medium is exhausted or almost disappears. Is conceivable to try to pay out the game medium based on the lending command information. On the other hand, the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out when the payout game content is reached. Once the game medium is paid out based on the lending command information, it is conceivable that the paid-out game content will be generated multiple times before the game medium is used. As a result, it is considered that the frequency of occurrence of the payout game content is higher than the frequency of occurrence of the payout of the game medium based on the lending command information. According to this means, when the loan confirmation information to be output is input before the loan command information is output, it is determined whether or not the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out. Compared to the configuration in which it is determined whether or not the payout corresponding to the prize payout number information is made, and when it is determined that the payout is not made, whether or not the loan confirmation information is input is determined. It is possible to reduce the processing load on the machine.

Means G3. In the means G1 or G2, the payout control means gives the main control means permission identification information so that the main control means can specify whether the payout command information is in the output permitted state or the output disallowed state. Is equipped with a permission identification information output means (a function of executing a prize ball permission signal setting process in the payout side CPU 331).
The payout command information output means provides an output permission state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1105 in the main CPU 311) for identifying the output permission state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. A gaming machine provided, characterized in that the payout command information is output when the output permission state is specified by the output permission state specifying means.

According to the means G3, the payout control means outputs the permission identification information to the main control means, and the main control means is in the output permission state or the output disapproval state of the payout command information based on the permission identification information. It is specified whether there is any, and the payout command information is output when the output is permitted. As a result, new payout command information is not output unless the output is permitted. Therefore, while it is possible to pay out the game medium based on the output of the payout command information, the payout and unpaid information for the payout game content is the same. It is possible to store a part in the payout side storage means and the rest in the main side storage means. Therefore, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure, it is further prevented that all the unpaid information is erased for the payout game contents until the power is cut off. It becomes possible.

The "permission identification information" may be information whose output is ON and OGG, or information which is output as a HI level signal and a LOW level signal. In the former case, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and OGG in the output disallowed state, and conversely, it may be turned ON in the output permitted state and OGG in the output disallowed state. Further, in the latter case, the HI level signal may be used in the output permitted state and the LOW level signal may be used in the output disallowed state, and conversely, the LOW level signal may be used as the LOW level signal in the output permitted state and the HI level signal may be used as the output disallowed state. That is, in the main control means, if it is possible to specify whether the payout control means is in the output permission state or the output non-permission state by the permission identification information, the specific configuration of the permission identification information is It is optional.

Means G4. In the means G3, when the loan number information is stored in the payout side storage means in order to pay out the game medium, the permission identification information output means sets the output state of the permission identification information to the payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that the output state of the above is set to an output state that can be specified by the main control means.

According to the means G4, when the loan number information is stored in the payout side storage means for paying out the game medium, it is specified that the output of the payout command information is not permitted by the main control means. As a result, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output and the prize payout number information being stored in the payout side storage means when the game medium is paid out based on the loan number information. It becomes.

Even if the game medium is paid out based on the loan number information, in the case of a game machine in which the payout command information is output and the prize payout number information is stored in the payout side storage means, the payout side storage means. Both the prize payout number information and the loan number information will be stored in. In this case, if the power is cut off, both the loan number information and the prize payout number information may be deleted. According to this means, when the game medium corresponding to the loan number information is paid out, the prize payout number information is not stored in the payout side storage means because the payout command information is not output.

Means G5. In the means G3 or G4, when the permission identification information output means has input the loan command information, the output state of the permission identification information is changed to the output disapproval state of the payout command information. A gaming machine characterized in that it is set to an output state that can be specified by the main control means.

According to the means G5, when the lending command information is input, it is specified that the output of the payout command information is not permitted by the main control means. As a result, when the loan command information is input, the payout command information is output, and the loan number information based on the loan command information and the prize payout number information based on the payout command information are output to the payer side storage means. It is possible to prevent both of them from being memorized. Therefore, even if the power is cut off, it is possible to prevent both the prize payout number information and the loan number information from being deleted.

Further, according to this means, it is possible to suppress the output of the payout command information at the timing when the loan command information is input. As a result, it is possible to prevent the payout command information from being output between the time when the loan command information is output and the time when the loan number information is stored in the payer side storage means based on the loan command information. Therefore, as compared with the configuration in which the output of the payout command information is not permitted depending on whether or not the payout side storage means stores the unpaid loan number information, the unpaid loan number information and It is possible to further prevent both the prize payout number information from being stored in the payout side storage means.

Means G6. In any one of the means G3 to G5, the permission specifying information output means changes the output state of the specific information so that the main control means can specify that the output permission state is present. When the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is larger than the permission reference number, the main control means is in a state where the output of the payout command information is not permitted. A gaming machine characterized in that the output state of the identification information is changed so that the identification information can be specified.

According to the means G6, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means exceeds the permission standard number, the output is disallowed, and the main control means changes to the payout control means. The payout command information is not output. As a result, it is possible to store a part of the unpaid information that is paid out for the paid-out game content in the payout side storage means and the rest in the main side storage means. Further, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means becomes equal to or less than the permission reference number, the output permission state is set. As a result, the prize payout number information is smoothly replenished to the payout side storage means, and the game medium is smoothly paid out accordingly.

Means G7. In the means G6, when the payout command information is input, the payout control means updates the information of the payout side storage means so that the number of game media corresponding to the payout command information is reflected. (A function to execute the process of step S1809 in the payout side CPU 331) is provided.
In a situation where the prize information is stored in the main storage means, when the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information of the payout side storage means is equal to or less than the permitted reference number, the number of game media of the permitted reference number is reached. Is paid out and the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means and the prize is paid out by the input update means before all the game media corresponding to the prize payout number information are exhausted. A gaming machine characterized in that it is configured to update numerical information.

According to the means G7, in a situation where the game medium is paid out by the payout means, when the game content becomes a new payout game content or when the prize information is already stored in the main storage means. , With respect to the current payout, the payout command information is output from the main control means before the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout side storage means is exhausted, and the payout storage means prize. Information on the number of new game media is added to the information on the number of payouts. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the above-mentioned excellent effect while making the payout of the game medium continuous.

In this case, when the payout of the game medium based on the prize payout number information is started, the prize information stored in the main storage means and the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means are supported. All the game media will be paid out. That is, when the payout of the game medium is started based on the prize payout number information and the prize information is stored in the main storage means, the payout is based on the prize information stored in the main storage means. The loan command information is not input until all the command information is output. If the payout command information and the loan command information are input at the same time, both the prize payout number information and the loan number information are stored in the payout side storage means in order to pay out the game medium, and the power is cut off. Both the prize payout number information and the loan number information will be deleted. According to this means, when the payout of the game medium based on the prize payout number information is started, the prize information stored in the main storage means and the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means Since all the game media corresponding to the above are paid out, the lending command information is input after all the game media have been paid out. As a result, since the lending command information is input after the payout command information is no longer output, it is possible to suppress the simultaneous input of the payout command information and the lending command information.

In addition, the payout command information is the payout game content and is output when the prize information is stored. On the other hand, the lending command information is output from the lending means. Generally, the player can pay out the game medium based on the loan command information at any time, and when the game medium in possession is exhausted or almost exhausted, the player is based on the loan command information. It is conceivable that the game medium will be paid out, and if the game medium is paid out based on the loan command information, the game medium will be paid out again based on the loan command information. It is conceivable that the content of the payout game will occur multiple times. As a result, it is considered that the frequency of paying out the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is higher than the frequency of paying out the game medium corresponding to the loan number information by inputting the lending command information. According to this means, when the payout of the game medium based on the prize payout number information is started, the game medium is paid out based on the prize payout number information until all the unpaid prize information is exhausted. It is possible to prevent the prize information stored in the main storage means from becoming enormous.

It should be noted that "the payout command information is configured so that the payout command information is newly output by the payout command information output means and the prize payout number information is updated by the input update means". The processing time required to identify the output permission state by the output means and output the payout command information, and the prize payout number information by the input update means after the payout command information is output. The total processing time of the processing time required to be updated is shorter than the time required for the permitted standard number of game media to be paid out and the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information to be completely exhausted. It is conceivable that the configuration is set to be.

Means G8. In any one of means G3 to G7, the payout drive control means is
An inhibition status specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S2201 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying an inhibition status that inhibits the payout of the game medium by the payout means, and
A drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the obstruction state is specified by the obstruction status specifying means.
Is equipped with
The permission-specific information output means sets the output state of the permission-specific information so that the main control means can specify that the output is not permitted in the case of the obstruction situation. A featured game machine.

According to the means G8, the payout of the game medium by the payout means may be restricted depending on the inhibition situation that hinders the payout of the game medium. In this case, in the obstruction situation, the output disallowed state is set so that the payout command information is not output from the main control means to the payout control means. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output in the obstruction situation. When the payout command information is output in the obstruction situation, if the obstruction situation is not resolved and the power of the game machine is cut off while the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the newly output payout is performed. The prize payout number information corresponding to the command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

Further, as the "inhibition situation", in a configuration further including an outer storage portion for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means, the inhibition status may be that the outer storage portion is in a full tank state. Further, in a configuration in which an inner storage unit for storing the game medium is further provided inside the game machine, and the payout means discharges the game medium stored in the inner storage part, the game stored in the inner storage part is provided. The loss of the medium may be an inhibitory situation.

Means G9. In any one of the means G1 to G8, the payout drive control means is
An inhibition status specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1903 in the payout side CPU 331) for identifying an inhibition status that inhibits the payout of the game medium by the payout means, and
A drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the obstruction state is specified by the obstruction status specifying means.
Is equipped with
The game machine characterized in that the lending restriction means restricts the input of the lending command information in the case of the obstruction situation.

According to the means G9, the payout of the game medium by the payout means may be restricted depending on the inhibition situation that hinders the payout of the game medium. In this means, the lending command information is restricted from being input in the obstruction situation. If the lending command information is input in the obstruction situation, if the obstruction situation is not resolved and the power of the game machine is cut off while the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted, the lending command information is dealt with. The loaned number information is deleted without paying out the game medium based on the loaned number information. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

When applied to the means G8, the "inhibition situation specifying means" and the "drive control limiting means" in the means G8 and the "inhibition situation specifying means" and the "drive control limiting means" in the present means are the same, respectively. You may use it.

Means G10. In any one of the means G1 to G9, the game machine main body (main body frame 13 and back pack unit 15) on which the payout means is installed and
A display unit (window 21) provided so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine with respect to the game machine body so that the game content can be visually recognized from the front of the game machine, and a game medium paid out from the payout means are stored. The front body (front door frame 14) of the game machine with the outer storage part (lower plate 34) integrated,
Is further equipped with
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the front body of the game machine is open. ,
The main control means
It is provided with an open state specifying means (a function of executing a front door frame opening signal monitoring process in the main CPU 311) for specifying that the front body of the game machine is in the open state.
The game machine characterized in that the payout command information output means does not output the payout command information when the open state is specified by the open state specifying means.

In the game machine of the means G10, the display unit and the outer storage unit are integrated with respect to the front body of the game machine. As a result, a boundary leading to the game machine main body side does not occur between the display unit and the outer storage unit on the front surface of the game machine, and it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts using the boundary. Further, when the front body of the game machine is open, even if the game medium is paid out from the payout means, it cannot be received by the outer storage unit, so that the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted. ..

In this case, if the front body of the game machine is open, the payout command information is not output. As a result, it is possible to prevent new payout command information from being output when the front body of the game machine is open. If the payout command information is output when the front body of the game machine is open, the power of the game machine is cut off while the front body of the game machine is not closed and the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted. The prize payout number information corresponding to the newly output payout command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

In the configuration including the means G8 or G9, the "drive control limiting means" and the "drive control stopping means" may be the same. In this case, when the open state specifying means specifies that the open state is in the open state, the drive control of the payout means is stopped.

Means G11. In any one of the means G1 to G10, the game machine main body (main body frame 13 and back pack unit 15) on which the payout means is installed and
The front body (front door frame 14) of the game machine, which is provided so as to be openable and closable in front of the game machine with respect to the game machine main body and has an outer storage portion (lower plate 34) for storing the game medium paid out from the payout means. )When,
Is equipped with
The payout drive control means includes a drive control limiting means (a function of executing the process of step S2206 in the payout side CPU 331) that limits the drive control of the payout means when the front body of the game machine is open. ,
The payout control means
It is provided with a payout side open state specifying means (a function of executing the process of step S1903 in the ball lending setting process by the payout side CPU 331) for specifying that the front body of the game machine is in the open state.
The lending restriction means is a gaming machine characterized in that when the open state specifying means specifies that the lending state is in the open state, the lending command information is restricted from being input.

In the game machine of the means G11, when the front body of the game machine is open, even if the game medium is paid out from the payout means, it is not received by the outer storage portion, so that the game medium by the payout means is used. Payouts are restricted.

In this case, if the front body of the game machine is open, the lending command information is not input. If the lending command information is input when the front body of the game machine is open, the power of the game machine is cut off while the front body of the game machine is not closed and the payout of the game medium by the payout means is restricted. The game medium corresponding to the loan number information corresponding to the input loan command information is deleted without being paid out. On the other hand, according to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of such inconvenience.

In the configuration including the means G8 or G9, the "drive control limiting means" and the "drive control stopping means" may be the same. In this case, when the open state specifying means specifies that the open state is in the open state, the drive control of the payout means is stopped. Further, when applied to the means G10, the "drive control limiting means", the "game machine main body", the "outer storage portion" and the "game machine front body" in the means G10, and the "drive control limiting means", "the driving control limiting means" in the present means, " The same "game machine main body", "outer storage portion", and "game machine front body" may be used.

Means G12. In any one of the means G1 to G11, the information on the number of loans held by the lending means is held even if the gaming machine is in a power failure state.
The lending restriction means is a gaming machine characterized in that when a game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out, the output of the lending command information is stopped.

According to the means G12, when the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out, the output of the lending command information is stopped. As a result, it is not necessary to input the lending command information when the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out. Therefore, when the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out, the loan command information is input, and the loan number information and the prize payout number information are used to pay out the game medium to the payer side storage means. It is possible to prevent both from being stored.

Further, since the lending means can store and retain the information even if the game machine is in a power failure state, the output of the lending command information is stopped when the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out. Even so, it is possible to have the lending means store and retain the information. In this case, even if the power is cut off, the information is not erased, so that it is possible to reduce the damage caused to the player even if the power is cut off.

Means G13. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
The payout command information is input from the main control means, and the lending command information (ball lending request signal) output from the lending means (ball lending device Y) inside or outside the game machine is input, and the payout command information is input. Alternatively, a payout control means (payout control board 322) that drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the loan command information is paid out, and
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content has been obtained, the prize information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and the information is stored while power is being supplied to itself. A main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state, and
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
Information on the number of payouts corresponding to the payout command information or prize payout number information specifying means for specifying the information corresponding to the information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Lending number information specifying means (a function of inputting a ball lending request signal in step S1907 in the payout side CPU 331) for specifying the lending number information corresponding to the lending command information or the corresponding information, and
The prize payout number information is stored as the information on the number of payouts specified by the prize payout number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and as the information on the number of loans specified by the loan number information specifying means or the corresponding information. The payout side storage means (payout side RAM 333) that stores the loan number information, enables the storage of the information while the power is supplied to itself, and does not receive the power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state. Prize ball number storage area 374) and
The payout means is driven and controlled in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize payout number information stored in the payout side storage means, and the loan number information stored in the payout side storage means is used. A payout drive control means (a function of executing a payout information setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the corresponding number of game media.
When the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out, the lending restriction means for restricting the input of the lending command information (step S1904, step S1905 of the ball lending setting process in the payout side CPU 331). Function to execute processing) and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means G13, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the game content has become the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content. In addition, lending command information is output from the lending means. Based on the input of the lending command information, the payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the lending command information is paid out.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. Therefore, when the gaming machine is turned off, all the unpaid information of the paying side storage means up to that point is erased. If a large amount of unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means in the case of a power failure, the player may be greatly disadvantaged. On the other hand, in this means, when the game medium is paid out based on the prize payout number information, the lending command information is not input. As a result, it is possible to prevent the loan number information from being stored in the payout side storage means when the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out, and the unpaid information is excessively stored in the payout side storage means. It can be suppressed from being memorized. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the unpaid information that is deleted even if the power is cut off.

In the case of a game machine that inputs lending command information when the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out, the game medium corresponding to the prize payout number information is paid out. Instead, the loan number information is stored. While the payout command information is output based on the game content, the lending command information is output from the lending means. Since the output triggers of the payout command information and the loan command information are independent of each other, when the game medium is paid out based on the payout command information, the loan command information may be input and the loan number information may be stored. obtain. In this case, if the power is cut off, not only the unpaid prize payout number information but also all the unpaid loan number information will be deleted. In addition, the game media corresponding to the prize payout number information are paid out, and even if the game medium corresponding to the loan number information is preferentially paid out when the loan number information is stored, the unpaid amount is not paid out. All of the loan number information and prize payout number information will be deleted.

On the other hand, according to this means, when the payout corresponding to the prize payout number information is performed, the loan number information is not stored because the loan command information is not input. As a result, it is possible to prevent the unpaid loan number information from being deleted even if the power is cut off when the payout corresponding to the prize payout number information is performed.

From the above, in a game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means or the game medium is paid out by outputting the lending command information, the payout control means is stored in memory at the time of power failure. Even if the function is not provided, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

In addition, in the "payout game content", in a game machine having a game area in which a game ball flows down and a payout entry part where the game ball can enter is installed, the game ball is placed in the payout entry part. You may enter the ball. Further, in a game machine having a picture display means for executing variable display of a picture and the game medium is paid out according to the stop picture of the picture display means, the stop picture of the picture display means corresponds to the payout of the game medium. It may be a stop pattern.

In addition, any of the above-mentioned means G2 to G12 may be applied to the means G13.

Means G14. The main control means (main control board 301) that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content, and
Lending operation means (ball lending button 37) operated to lend game media, and
The payout command information is input from the main control means, and the lending command information output from the lending means inside or outside the game machine based on the operation of the lending operation means is input, and the payout command information is input. Alternatively, a payout control means (payout control board 322) that drives and controls the payout means (payout device 224) so that the number of game media corresponding to the lending command information is paid out.
Power supply means at the time of power failure (power supply unit 321c at the time of power failure) that supplies power at the time of power failure when power is not supplied to the game machine from an external power source.
With
The main control means
A game content specifying means (a function of executing a reading process in the main CPU 311) for identifying that the game content has become a payout game content, and
When it is specified by the game content specifying means that the payout game content has been obtained, the prize ball information corresponding to the specified payout game content is stored, and information is provided while power is being supplied to itself. The main storage means (main RAM 313) that enables memory retention and receives power at the time of power failure in the power failure state.
A payout command information output means (a function of executing a payout output process in the main side CPU 311) that outputs the payout command information to the payout control means based on the prize ball information stored in the main side storage means.
Is equipped with
The payout control means
Information on the number of prize balls corresponding to the payout command information or a prize ball number information specifying means for specifying the information corresponding to the information (a function of executing the prize ball number specifying process in step S1805 in the payout side CPU 331) and
Lending number information specifying means (a function of inputting a ball lending request signal in step S1907 in the payout side CPU 331) for specifying the lending number information corresponding to the lending command information or the corresponding information, and
The prize ball number information is stored as the prize ball number information specified by the prize ball number information specifying means or the corresponding information, and the loan number information specified by the loan number information specifying means or the corresponding information is stored. The loan number information is stored as, and the information can be stored and retained while the power is supplied to itself, and the payout side storage means (payout side RAM333) that does not receive the power at the time of the power failure in the power failure state. Prize ball number storage area 374) and
The payout means is driven and controlled in order to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the prize ball number information stored in the payout side storage means, and the loan number information stored in the payout side storage means is used. A payout drive control means (a function of executing a payout information setting process in the payout side CPU 331) that drives and controls the payout means in order to pay out the corresponding number of game media.
When the game medium corresponding to the prize ball number information is paid out, the lending restriction means for restricting the input of the lending command information (step S1904, step S1905 of the ball lending setting process in the payout side CPU 331). Function to execute processing) and
A game machine characterized by being equipped with.

According to the means G14, the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means based on the fact that the game content has become the payout game content. The payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the input payout command information is paid out. As a result, the game medium is paid out when the game content becomes the payout game content. In addition, lending command information is output when the lending operating means is operated. Based on the input of the lending command information, the payout control means drives and controls the payout means so that the number of game media corresponding to the lending command information is paid out.

In this configuration, power is supplied to the main storage means of the main control means at the time of power failure, whereas power is not supplied to the payout side storage means of the payout control means. As a result, the cost of the memory holding function at the time of power failure can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the power is supplied to both the main storage means and the payout side storage means.

However, in the configuration in which the power is not supplied to the payout side storage means at the time of power failure as described above, when the game machine is in the power failure state, the payout side storage means cannot store and hold the information. Therefore, when the gaming machine is turned off, all the unpaid information of the paying side storage means up to that point is erased. If a large amount of unpaid information is stored in the payout side storage means in the case of a power failure, the player may be greatly disadvantaged. On the other hand, in this means, when the game medium is paid out based on the prize ball number information, the lending command information is not input. As a result, it is possible to prevent the loan number information from being stored in the payout side storage means when the game medium corresponding to the prize ball number information is paid out, and the unpaid information is excessively stored in the payout side storage means. It can be suppressed from being memorized. Therefore, it is possible to minimize the unpaid information that is deleted even if the power is cut off.

In the case of a game machine that inputs lending command information when the game medium corresponding to the prize ball number information is paid out, the game medium corresponding to the prize ball number information is paid out. Instead, the loan number information is stored. While the payout command information is output based on the game content, the lending command information is output based on the operation of the payout operation means. Since the output triggers of the payout command information and the loan command information are independent of each other, when the game medium is paid out based on the payout command information, the loan command information may be input and the loan number information may be stored. obtain. In this case, if the power is cut off, not only the unpaid prize ball number information but also all the unpaid loan number information will be deleted. In addition, the game medium corresponding to the prize ball number information is paid out, and even if the game medium corresponding to the loan number information is preferentially paid out when the loan number information is stored, it is not paid out. All of the loan number information and the prize ball number information will be deleted.

On the other hand, according to this means, when the payout corresponding to the prize ball number information is performed, the loan number information is not stored because the loan command information is not input. As a result, it is possible to prevent the unpaid loan number information from being deleted even if the power is cut off when the payout corresponding to the prize ball number information is performed.

From the above, in a game machine in which the payout command information is output from the main control means to the payout control means or the game medium is paid out by outputting the lending command information, the payout control means is stored in memory at the time of power failure. Even if the function is not provided, the game medium can be paid out satisfactorily.

In addition, any one of the above means G2 to G13 may be applied to means G14.

10 ... Pachinko machine as a game machine, 13 ... Main body frame constituting the game machine main body, 14 ... Front door frame as the front body of the game machine, 15 ... Back pack unit constituting the game machine main body, 21 ... Window part, 26 ... Speaker unit, 34 ... Lower plate, 81 ... Game board, 82 ... General winning slot, 83 ... Variable winning device, 84a ... Upper operating port, 84b ... Lower operating port, 224 ... Payout device, 301 ... Main control board, 311 ... Main CPU, 313 ... Main RAM, 321c ... Power supply unit for power failure, 322 ... Payout control board, 331 ... Payout side CPU, 333 ... Payout side RAM, 374 ... Prize ball number storage area.

Claims (1)

The main control means that outputs the payout command information based on the game content becoming the payout game content,
A payout control means that controls the payout means so that a game medium having a payout number corresponding to the payout command information is paid out based on the input of the payout command information.
In a game machine equipped with
Payout command information is set for each of multiple types of payouts.
The payout control means
An information determination means for determining whether or not the input payout command information is normal, and
When it is determined by the information determination means that the input payout command information is normal, the information on the number of payouts of the game medium corresponding to the payout command information or the information corresponding to the payout order information is stored as the payout number information. With the means of storing the number of payouts,
A payout drive control means for driving and controlling the payout means to pay out the number of game media corresponding to the payout number information stored in the payout number storage means.
With
Each of the plurality of types of payout command information consists of a plurality of predetermined bits.
The information determination means is
Using the multi-bit information possessed by one payout command information, if the input payout command information is normal, any of the payout command information is set so as to have the same specific result. A first determination means for executing an arithmetic process and performing a first determination process for determining that the input payout command information is normal when the arithmetic result is the specific result.
The input when the number of game media paid out corresponding to the input payout command information is less than or equal to the number of game media paid out by inputting the largest number of payouts among the plurality of types of the payout command information. A second determination means for executing a second determination process for determining that the payout command information is normal, and
If it is determined that the input payout command information is not normal, a correction process is executed in which the information on the number of payouts for correction, which is predetermined as the payout number information corresponding to the payout command information, is stored in the payout number storage means. Means and
With
The correction means executes the correction process when it is determined by the first determination process by the first determination means that the input payout command information is not normal.
The second determination means is after the input payout command information is determined to be normal by the first determination process by the first determination means, or after the correction process is performed by the correction means. The second determination process is executed.
A gaming machine characterized in that the number of payouts for correction is the same as the number of payouts of game media set in the payout command information having the largest number of payouts of game media among a plurality of types of payout command information.

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