Game machine

Abstract

To improve game amusement.SOLUTION: A game machine is provided with a first game state advantageous to a game player and a second game state more advantageous to the game player than the first game state. The first game state is a game state controlled in an advantageous section and the second game state is a game state controlled in the advantageous section. In the advantageous section, a stipulated amount as an upper limit is fixed. When the advantageous section is completed by approaching the stipulated amount in the second game state and a new advantageous section is started, the game machine sometimes shifts to the second game state without shifting to the first game state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a game table represented by a rotary gaming machine (slot machine) or a pachinko machine (pinball machine).

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there are game tables provided with various game states in order to enhance the amusement of the game (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in enhancing the amusement of the game.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a game table capable of enhancing the amusement of the game.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, the game table of the present invention is a game table including a first game state advantageous to a player and a second game state more advantageous to the player than the first game state, wherein the first game state is a game state controlled in an advantageous section, the second game state is a game state controlled in the advantageous section, a specified amount serving as an upper limit is defined for the advantageous section, After the advantageous section ends as it approaches the specified amount in the second gaming state and a new advantageous section is formed, there may be a transition to the second gaming state without a transition to the first gaming state. It is characterized by this.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, the amusement of the game can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, a slot machine according to an embodiment of the gaming table of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] The slot machine of the present embodiment described below starts rotating when a predetermined number of gaming media are inserted and a plurality of reels each having a plurality of types of symbols are given a predetermined rotation start instruction operation, and based on receiving the rotation start instruction operation, it determines whether or not there is an internal winning of a plurality of types of combinations by lottery, and each of the plurality of reels stops rotating individually by receiving a predetermined rotation stop instruction operation, and if the conditions determined by the combination of symbols when the combination based on the lottery result and the plurality of reels stop match the predetermined payout conditions, the gaming media are paid out and the game ends, and if they do not match, the game proceeds with a series of games that end without paying out the gaming media.

[0011] First, the basic configuration of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (the player side). FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a winning line.

[0012] The slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to an example of the gaming table of the present invention, and includes a main body 101 and a front door 102 attached to the front side of the main body 101 and openable and closable with respect to the main body 101. Inside the center of the main body 101 (not shown), three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) having a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface are housed and configured to be rotatable inside the slot machine 100. These reels 110 to 112 are rotationally driven by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

[0013] In this embodiment, a suitable number of each symbol is printed at equal intervals on a strip-shaped member, and this strip-shaped member is attached to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame member to form each reel 110 to 112. When viewed from the player, the symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are generally displayed in three rows vertically through the display window 113, and a total of nine symbols can be seen. Specifically described with reference to FIG. 2, the symbol displayed in the upper row (position 1 shown in the figure) of the left reel 110 is called the upper-row symbol of the left reel, the symbol displayed in the middle row (position 2 shown in the figure) of the left reel 110 is called the middle-row symbol of the left reel, and the symbol displayed in the lower row (position 3 shown in the figure) of the left reel 110 is called the lower-row symbol of the left reel. The symbol displayed in the upper row (position 4 shown in the figure) of the middle reel 111 is called the upper-row symbol of the middle reel, the symbol displayed in the middle row (position 5 shown in the figure) of the left reel 111 is called the middle-row symbol of the middle reel, and the symbol displayed in the lower row (position 6 shown in the figure) of the middle reel 111 is called the lower-row symbol of the middle reel. The symbol displayed in the upper row (position 7 shown in the figure) of the right reel 112 is called the upper-row symbol of the right reel, the symbol displayed in the middle row (position 8 shown in the figure) of the right reel 112 is called the middle-row symbol of the right reel, and the symbol displayed in the lower row (position 9 shown in the figure) of the right reel 112 is called the lower-row symbol of the right reel. Each symbol on each of the reels 110 to 112 is displayed in three rows vertically, a total of nine symbols, through the display window 113 on each of the reels 110 to 112. By rotating each of the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols visible to the player changes. That is, each of the reels 110 to 112 functions as a display device that can variably display a plurality of types of symbol combinations. In addition to reels, an electronic image display device such as a liquid crystal display device can also be adopted as such a display device. Further, in this embodiment, three reels are provided inside the center of the slot machine 100, but the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

[0014] On the back of each of the reels 110 to 112, a backlight (not shown) for illuminating the individual symbols displayed in the display window 113 is arranged. It is desirable that the backlight is shielded for each symbol so that each symbol can be evenly irradiated. Inside the slot machine 100, in the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112, an optical sensor (not shown) composed of a light projecting part and a light receiving part is provided, and a light shielding piece of a certain length provided on the reel is configured to pass between the light projecting part and the light receiving part of this optical sensor. Based on the detection result of this optical sensor, the rotational direction position of the symbol on the reel is judged, and the reels 110 to 112 are stopped so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line.

[0015] The winning line display lamp 120 is a lamp indicating the effective winning line. The winning line is a line on which it is determined whether or not a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination is displayed. In this embodiment, there are provided three lines: a middle winning line L1 composed of the middle symbol of the left reel, the middle symbol of the middle reel, and the middle symbol of the right reel; an upward-right winning line L2 composed of the lower symbol of the left reel, the middle symbol of the middle reel, and the upper symbol of the right reel; and a downward-right winning line L3 composed of the upper symbol of the left reel, the middle symbol of the middle reel, and the lower symbol of the right reel. These winning lines L1 to L3 are shown in FIG. 2. The effective winning line (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as the "effective line") is predetermined according to the number of medals (prescribed number) bet as a game medium. The slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 requires three medals. When the number of inserted medals is less than three, none of the winning lines become effective. When three medals are bet, the winning lines L1 to L3 become effective. When the winning line becomes effective, the start lever 135 can be operated to start the game. Note that the number of winning lines is not limited to three. For example, only the winning line L1 may be set as the effective winning line, or the number of winning lines corresponding to the bet number may be set as the effective winning line.

[0016] The notification lamp 123 is a lamp that notifies the player that, for example, it has internally won a specific winning combination in the internal lottery described later, or that it is in a specific gaming state. The game medal insertable lamp 124 is a lamp for notifying the player that the player can insert game medals. The replay lamp 122 is a lamp that notifies the player that the current game can be replayed (i.e., medal insertion is not required) when winning a replay combination, which is one of the winning combinations, in the previous game. The reel panel lamp 128 is an effect lamp.

[0017] The bet buttons 130 to 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals (referred to as credits) electronically stored in the slot machine 100. In this embodiment, each time the bet button 130 is pressed, one medal is inserted, when the bet button 131 is pressed, two medals are inserted, and when the bet button 132 is pressed, three medals are inserted. Hereinafter, the bet button 132 is also referred to as the MAX bet button. Note that the game medal insert lamp 129 lights up a number of lamps corresponding to the number of inserted medals, and when the specified number of medals is inserted, the game start lamp 121, which notifies that the game start operation is possible, lights up.

[0018] The medal insertion port 141 is an insertion port for the player to insert medals when starting the game. That is, the medal can be inserted electronically by the bet buttons 130 to 132, or actual medals can be inserted (insertion operation) from the medal insertion port 141, and "insertion" means including both.

[0019] The stored number indicator 125 is a display for displaying the number of medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for displaying various internal information numerically. The paid-out number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of medals paid out to the player as a result of winning a prize in some winning combination. Hereinafter, in the same meaning as being paid out to the player, it may be expressed as being given to the player. In the present embodiment, the stored number indicator 125, the game information display 126, and the paid-out number display 127 are each composed of a 7-segment (SEG) display.

[0020] The start lever 135 is a lever-type switch for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, when a desired number of medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 141 or the start lever 135 is operated by operating the bet buttons 130 to 132, the reels 110 to 112 start to rotate. The operation on the start lever 135 is referred to as a game start operation.

[0021] The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139 composed of a left stop button 137, a middle stop button 138, and a right stop button 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by operating the start lever 135, and are associated with the respective reels 110 to 112. More specifically, the left reel 110 can be stopped by operating the left stop button 137, the middle reel 111 can be stopped by operating the middle stop button 138, and the right reel 112 can be stopped by operating the right stop button 139. Hereinafter, the operation on the stop buttons 137 to 139 is referred to as a stop operation, the first stop operation is referred to as the first stop operation, the next stop operation is referred to as the second stop operation, and the last stop operation is referred to as the third stop operation. Also, the reels stopped corresponding to these stop operations are sequentially referred to as the first stop reel, the second stop reel, and the third stop reel. Furthermore, the order of operating the stop buttons 137 to 139 to stop all of the rotating reels 110 to 112 is referred to as the operation order or the pressing order. Furthermore, the operation order in which the first stop operation is the stop operation of the left reel 110 is referred to as the "forward pressing operation order" or simply "forward pressing", and the stop operation in which the first stop operation is the stop operation of the right reel 112 is referred to as the "reverse pressing operation order" or simply "reverse pressing". Note that a light emitter may be provided inside each of the stop buttons 137 to 139, and when the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter can be lit to notify the player.

[0022] The medal return button 133 is a button for pressing to remove the inserted medals when they are jammed. The settlement button 134 is a button for settling the medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100 and the bet medals and discharging them from the medal payout port 155. The door keyhole 140 is a hole into which a key for unlocking the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 is inserted.

[0023] Below the stop button unit 136, a title panel 162 for displaying the model name and attaching various certificates is provided. Below the title panel 162, a medal payout port 155 and a medal tray 161 are provided.

[0024] The sound hole 145 is a hole for outputting the sound of the speaker 277 (see Fig. 3) provided below the inside of the slot machine 100 to the outside. The side lamps 144 provided on the left and right parts of the front door 102 are decorative lamps for enlivening the game. An effect device 160 is disposed above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 for outputting the sound of the speaker 272 (see Fig. 3) provided above the inside of the slot machine 100 to the outside is provided above the effect device 160. This effect device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 composed of two right shutters 163a and left shutters 163b that can be opened and closed in the horizontal direction, and an effect image display device 157 (liquid crystal display device) disposed on the back side of this shutter 163. When the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b open outward in the horizontal direction in front of the effect image display device 157, the display screen of the effect image display device 157 appears on the front (player side, front side) of the slot machine 100. Note that it may be any display device that can display various effect images and various game information, not necessarily a liquid crystal display device. For example, a multi-segment display (7-segment display), a dot matrix display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, a reel (drum), or a display device composed of a projector and a screen may be used. Also, the display screen is rectangular, and the entire screen is configured to be visible to the player. In the case of this embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but it may also be square. Also, by providing a decoration (not shown) at the periphery of the display screen, a part of the periphery of the display screen is hidden by the decoration, and the display screen can be made to look irregular. In the case of this embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but it may also be a curved surface.

[0025] <Circuit Configuration of the Control Unit> Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be described in detail. Note that this figure shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

[0026] The control unit of the slot machine 100 is roughly divided into a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game, a first sub-control unit 400 that controls main effects according to a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as "command") transmitted by the main control unit 300, and a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on the command transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400. Here, regarding the main control unit 300, when the data capacity becomes large, it becomes difficult to check the program, and there is also a problem of security degradation such as becoming a breeding ground for unauthorized modification. Therefore, restrictions are imposed on the data capacities of the ROM 306 and RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

[0027] <Main control unit> First, the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The main control unit 300 includes a basic circuit 302 that controls the entire main control unit 300. This basic circuit 302 includes a CPU 304, a ROM 306 that stores control program data, lottery data used during the internal lottery of winning combinations, and the symbol arrangement and stop positions of the reels, a RAM 308 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 310 for controlling the input and output of various devices, a counter timer 312 for measuring time, number of times, etc., and a WDT (watchdog timer) 314. Note that other storage devices may be used for the ROM 306 and RAM 308, and the same applies to the first sub-control unit 400 and the second sub-control unit 500, which will be described later. The CPU 304 of this basic circuit 302 operates by inputting a clock signal with a predetermined period output by the crystal oscillator 315b as a system clock. Furthermore, when the power is turned on, the CPU 304 transmits the frequency division data stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 306 to the counter timer 312. The counter timer 312 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 304 every this interrupt time. The CPU 304 executes monitoring of each sensor, etc. and transmission of drive pulses in response to this interrupt request. For example, when the clock signal output by the crystal oscillator 315b is set to 8 MHz, the frequency division value of the counter timer 312 is set to 1 / 256, and the frequency division data of the ROM 306 is set to 47, the reference time for the interrupt is 256×47÷8 MHz = 1.504 ms.

[0028] The main control unit 300 includes a random number generation circuit 316 that is used as a hardware random number counter that varies a numerical value within the range of 0 to 65535 based on the clock signal input from the crystal oscillator 315a, and a start signal output circuit 338 that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. When the CPU 304 receives the start signal from this start signal output circuit 338, it starts game control (starts the main control unit main process described later).

[0029] In addition, the main control unit 300 includes a sensor circuit 320, and the CPU 304 monitors the states of various sensors 318 (bed button 130 sensor, bed button 131 sensor, bed button 132 sensor, medal reception sensor for medals inserted from the medal insertion port 141, start lever 135 sensor, left stop button 137 sensor, middle stop button 138 sensor, right stop button 139 sensor, settlement button 134 sensor, medal payout sensor for medals paid out from the medal payout device 180, optical sensor for the left reel 110, optical sensor for the middle reel 111, optical sensor for the right reel 112, etc.) at each interrupt time.

[0030] When the sensor circuit 320 detects the H level of the start lever sensor, it outputs a signal indicating this detection to the random number generation circuit 316. The random number generation circuit 316 that receives this signal latches the value at that timing and stores it in a register that stores the random number value used for the lottery.

[0031] Two medal reception sensors are installed in the internal passage of the medal insertion port 141 to detect the presence or absence of medals passing through. Two start lever 135 sensors are installed inside the start lever 135 to detect the start operation by the player. The left stop button 137 sensor, the middle stop button 138 sensor, and the right stop button 139 sensor are installed on the corresponding stop buttons 137 to 139 respectively to detect the operation of the stop button by the player.

[0032] The bed button 130 sensor, the bed button 131 sensor, and the bed button 132 sensor are installed on their corresponding bed buttons 130 to 132 respectively, and detect the insertion operation when inserting the medals electronically stored in the RAM 308 as the medals inserted into the game. The settlement button 134 sensor is provided on the settlement button 134. When the settlement button 134 is pressed once, the electronically stored medals are settled (the value stored in the RAM 308 is cleared and the same number of medals are discharged). The medal payout sensor is a sensor for detecting the medals paid out by the medal payout device 180. Note that each of the above sensors may be a non-contact sensor or a contact sensor.

[0033] The optical sensor of the left reel 110, the optical sensor of the middle reel 111, and the optical sensor of the right reel 112 are installed at predetermined positions on the mounting bases of the respective reels 110 to 112, and become at the L level each time the light-shielding piece provided on the reel frame passes. The rotation position information indicating how much the reel has rotated from the reference position between the time it once becomes at the L level and the next time it becomes at the L level is calculated based on the value obtained by counting the clock signal output by the crystal oscillator 315b. When the CPU 304 detects the above L-level signal, it determines that the reel has made one rotation and resets the rotation position information of the reel to zero. This rotation position information is stored in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

[0034] The main control unit 300 includes a drive circuit 322 for driving the stepping motors provided in the reel devices 110 to 112, a drive circuit 324 for driving the solenoid provided in the medal selector 170 for sorting the inserted medals, a drive circuit 326 for driving the motor provided in the medal payout device 180, and a drive circuit 328 for driving various lamps 336 (the winning line display lamp 120, the notification lamp 123, the game medal insertable lamp 124, the replay lamp 122, the game medal insert lamp 129, the game start lamp 121, the stored number display 125, the game information display 126, the payout number display 127).

[0035] In addition, an information output circuit 334 is connected to the basic circuit 302, and the main control unit 300 outputs the game information (for example, information indicating the game state) of the slot machine 100 to an information input circuit 652 provided in an external host computer (not shown) or the like via this information output circuit 334.

[0036] Further, the main control unit 300 includes a voltage monitoring circuit 330 that monitors the voltage value of the power supply supplied to the main control unit 300 from a power management unit (not shown). When the voltage value of the power supply is less than a predetermined value (9V in this embodiment), the voltage monitoring circuit 330 outputs a low voltage signal indicating that the voltage has dropped to the basic circuit 302.

[0037] In addition, the main control unit 300 includes an output interface for transmitting commands to the first sub-control unit 400, enabling communication with the first sub-control unit 400. Note that the information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400 is one-way communication. The main control unit 300 is configured to be able to transmit signals such as commands to the first sub-control unit 400, but the first sub-control unit 400 is configured not to be able to transmit signals such as commands to the main control unit 300.

[0038] <Sub-control unit> Next, the first sub-control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 receives the control commands transmitted by the main control unit 300 via the input interface. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a basic circuit 402 that controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on this control command. This basic circuit 402 is equipped with a CPU 404, a RAM 408 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 410 for controlling the input and output of various devices, and a counter timer 412 for measuring time, number of times, etc. The CPU 404 of the basic circuit 402 operates by inputting a clock signal with a predetermined period output by the crystal oscillator 414 as a system clock. The ROM 406 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400, data for controlling the lighting pattern of the backlight and various displays, and the like.

[0039] The CPU 404 transmits the data for frequency division stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 406 to the counter timer 412 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 412 determines the interrupt time based on the received data for frequency division, and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each of these interrupt times. The CPU 404 controls each IC and each circuit based on the timing of this interrupt request.

[0040] Also, a sound source IC 418 is provided in the first sub-control unit 400, and speakers 272 and 277 are provided to the sound source IC 418 via an output interface. The sound source IC 418 controls the sound output from the amplifier and the speakers 272 and 277 in response to an instruction from the CPU 404. An S-ROM (Sound ROM) storing audio data is connected to the sound source IC 418, and the audio data acquired from this ROM is amplified by an amplifier and output from the speakers 272 and 277.

[0041] Also, a drive circuit 422 is provided in the first sub-control unit 400, and various lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, side lamp 144, title panel lamp, bed button lamp, reel backlight, etc.) are connected to the drive circuit 422 via an input / output interface.

[0042] Also, a drive circuit 424 for driving the motor of the shutter 163 is provided in the first sub-control unit 400, and the shutter 163 is provided to the drive circuit 424 via an output interface. This drive circuit 424 outputs a drive signal to a stepping motor (not shown) provided to the shutter 163 in response to an instruction from the CPU 404.

[0043] Also, a sensor circuit 426 is provided in the first sub-control unit 400, and a shutter sensor 428 is connected to the sensor circuit 426 via an input interface. The CPU 404 monitors the state of the shutter sensor 428 at each interrupt time.

[0044] Also, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to and from the second sub-control unit 500 via an output interface. The second sub-control unit 500 performs various controls of the effect device 160 including the display control of the effect image display device 157. Note that the second sub-control unit 500 may be composed of a plurality of control units, such as a control unit that controls the display of the effect image display device 157 and a control unit that controls various effect driving devices (for example, a control unit that controls the motor drive of the shutter 163).

[0045] The second sub-control unit 500 includes a basic circuit 502 that receives the control command transmitted by the first sub-control unit 400 via an input interface and controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on this control command. This basic circuit 502 is equipped with a CPU 504, a RAM 508 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 510 for controlling the input and output of various devices, and a counter timer 512 for measuring time, number of times, etc. The CPU 504 of the basic circuit 502 operates by inputting a clock signal with a predetermined period output by the crystal oscillator 514 as a system clock. The ROM 506 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire second sub-control unit 500, data for image display, etc.

[0046] The CPU 504 transmits the data for frequency division stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 506 to the counter timer 512 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 512 determines the interrupt time based on the received data for frequency division and transmits an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 504 controls each IC and each circuit based on the timing of this interrupt request.

[0047] Also, a VDP 516 (Video Display Processor) is provided in the second sub-control unit 500, and the ROM 506 and the VRAM 518 are connected to the VDP 516 via a bus. The VDP 516 reads out the image data and the like stored in the ROM 506 based on the signal from the CPU 504, generates a display image using the work area of the VRAM 518, and displays the image on the effect image display device 157.

[0048] <Symbol Arrangement> Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the symbol arrangement applied to each of the above-described reels 110 to 112 will be described. Note that this figure is a diagram showing the arrangement of symbols applied to each reel (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) in a planar development.

[0049] On each of the reels 110 to 112, a plurality of types (10 types in this embodiment) of symbols shown on the right side of this figure are arranged for a predetermined number of frames (20 frames numbered 0 to 19 in this embodiment). Also, the numbers 0 to 19 shown at the left end of this figure are numbers indicating the arrangement positions of the symbols on each of the reels 110 to 112. For example, in this embodiment, a "bell symbol" is arranged in the frame numbered 0 of the left reel 110, a "replay symbol" is arranged in the frame numbered 0 of the middle reel 111, and a "seven 2 symbol" is arranged in the frame numbered 3 of the right reel 112.

[0050] In order to improve the amusement of the game, the slot machine 100 in this embodiment is configured to stop the corresponding reels 110 to 112 within the maximum draw range (less than 5 frames in this embodiment) from the position where the stop operation is performed.

[0051] <Internal Winning Combinations and Paying Combinations> In the slot machine 100, an internal winning combination is drawn in response to a game start operation (operation of the start lever 135), and a paying combination is determined based on the result of the draw. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, an example of the internal winning combination of the slot machine 100 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the internal winning combination.

[0052] In the left column of Fig. 5, as internal winning combinations, there are shown losing, normal replay 8, chance RepCLR1, chance RepCLR2, chance RepCRL1, chance RepCRL2, CLR bell 1, CRL bell 1, RLC bell 1, RCL bell 1, CLR bell 2, CRL bell 2, RLC bell 2, RCL bell 2, blue CLR bell, blue CRL bell, blue RLC bell, blue RCL bell, red CLR bell, red CRL bell, red RLC bell, red RCL bell, blue bell, and red bell. Also, in the upper column of Fig. 5, six types of pressing orders (LCR means left, center, right; LRC means left, right, center; CLR means center, left, right; CRL means center, right, left; RLC means right, left, center; RCL means right, center, left) are shown. Among the above internal winning combinations, CLR bell 1, CRL bell 1, RLC bell 1, RCL bell 1, CLR bell 2, CRL bell 2, RLC bell 2, and RCL bell 2 may be referred to as pressing-order bells. Also, among the above internal winning combinations, blue CLR bell, blue CRL bell, blue RLC bell, blue RCL bell, red CLR bell, red CRL bell, red RLC bell, and red RCL bell may be referred to as eye-pressing-order bells. Also, among the above internal winning combinations, blue bell and red bell may be referred to as eye-pressing bells.

[0053] In the game in which each internal winning combination is determined, stop control of reels 110 to 112 is performed so that a symbol combination (display mode) corresponding to the pressing order is obtained. These display modes are shown in Fig. 5.

[0054] When losing is internally won, a display mode (losing) in which no prize is won for any combination is obtained.

[0055] When normal replay 8 is internally won, a prize is won for replay. However, the display mode at that time is that it is a replay alignment in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), and it is a reach state in other stop operations.

[0056] When chance RepCLR1 or chance RepCLR2 is internally won, a prize is won for replay. However, the display mode at that time is that it is reach states 1 and 2 in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it is a chance replay for the pressing order in the center, left, right (CLR), it is a replay alignment in the center, right, left (CRL), and it is a scattered replay in the first right stop (RLC, RCL).

[0057] If you win internally in Chance RepCRL1 or Chance RepCRL2, you will win in the replay. In this case, the display mode is as follows: for the left first stop (LCR, LRC), it is the 3rd and 4th reach positions; for the center left right (CLR), it is a full replay; for the center right left (CRL), it is a push order chance replay; for the right first stop (RLC, RCL), it is a scattered replay.

[0058] If you win internally in CLR Bell 1 or CLR Bell 2, at the left first stop (LCR, LRC), you will win with a scattered 1 card (payout of 1 card); at the center left right (CLR), you will win in the middle bell (payout of 8 cards); at the center right left (CRL), you will win in the bottom right 1 - card bell (payout of 1 card); at the right first stop (RLC, RCL), depending on the operation timing, you will either win with a scattered 1 card or lose.

[0059] If you win internally in CRL Bell 1 or CRL Bell 2, at the left first stop (LCR, LRC), you will win with a scattered 1 card; at the center left right (CLR), you will win in the bottom right 1 - card bell; at the center right left (CRL), you will win in the middle bell; at the right first stop (RLC, RCL), depending on the operation timing, you will either win with a scattered 1 card or lose.

[0060] If you win internally in RLC Bell 1 or RLC Bell 2, at the left first stop (LCR, LRC), you will win with a scattered 1 card; at the center first stop (CLR, CRL), depending on the operation timing, you will either win with a scattered 1 card or lose; at the right left center (RLC), you will win in the bottom bell (payout of 8 cards); at the right center left (RCL), you will win in the bottom right 1 - card bell.

[0061] If you win internally in RCL Bell 1 or RCL Bell 2, at the left first stop (LCR, LRC), you will win with a scattered 1 card; at the center first stop (CLR, CRL), depending on the operation timing, you will either win with a scattered 1 card or lose; at the right left center (RLC), you will win in the bottom right 1 - card bell; at the right center left (RCL), you will win in the bottom bell.

[0062] When winning internally in the blue CLR bell or red CLR bell, in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it wins a single scattered prize. In the center left right (CLR), if the operation timing of the seven 1 symbols or seven 2 symbols is appropriate, it wins the middle bell; if not appropriate, it wins the one-step-down single bell. In the center right left (CRL), it wins the one-step-down single bell. In the first right stop (RLC, RCL), it wins a single scattered prize or loses according to the operation timing.

[0063] When winning internally in the blue CRL bell or red CRL bell, in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it wins a single scattered prize. In the center left right (CLR), it wins the one-step-down single bell. In the center right left (CRL), if the operation timing of the seven 1 symbols or seven 2 symbols is appropriate, it wins the middle bell; if not appropriate, it wins the one-step-down single bell. In the first right stop (RLC, RCL), it wins a single scattered prize or loses according to the operation timing.

[0064] When winning internally in the blue RLC bell or red RLC bell, in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it wins a single scattered prize. In the first center stop (CLR, CRL), it wins a single scattered prize or loses according to the operation timing. In the right left center (RLC), if the operation timing of the seven 1 symbols or seven 2 symbols is appropriate, it wins the lower bell; if not appropriate, it wins the one-step-down single bell. In the right center left (RCL), it wins the one-step-down single bell.

[0065] When winning internally in the blue RCL bell or red RCL bell, in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it wins a single scattered prize. In the first center stop (CLR, CRL), it wins a single scattered prize or loses according to the operation timing. In the right left center (RLC), it wins the one-step-down single bell. In the right center left (RCL), if the operation timing of the seven 1 symbols or seven 2 symbols is appropriate, it wins the lower bell; if not appropriate, it wins the one-step-down single bell.

[0066] When winning internally on the blue bell, if the operation timing of the seven-1 symbol is appropriate in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it wins on the blue-eye push bell (8 payouts), and if not, it wins on the one-chip bell with a downward right trend. When it is other than the first left stop (CLR, CRL, RLC, RCL), if the operation timing of the seven-1 symbol on the left reel is appropriate, it wins on the blue-eye push bell, and if not, it wins on the one-chip bell with an upward right trend.

[0067] When winning internally on the red bell, if the operation timing of the seven-1 symbol or the seven-2 symbol is appropriate in the first left stop (LCR, LRC), it wins on the red-eye push bell (8 payouts), and if not, it wins on the one-chip bell with a downward right trend. When it is other than the first left stop (CLR, CRL, RLC, RCL), if the operation timing of the seven-2 symbol on the left reel is appropriate, it wins on the red-eye push bell, and if not, it wins on the one-chip bell with an upward right trend.

[0068] Note that the internal winning probability of the internally winning combination can be arbitrarily set.

[0069] Also, the middle bell, the lower bell, the blue-eye push bell, and the red-eye push bell are all set to 8 payouts, but this is not limited, and the number of payouts can be different. For example, the middle bell, the blue-eye push bell, and the red-eye push bell can be set to 12 payouts, and the lower bell can be set to 8 payouts, and there can be two types of payouts exceeding the bet amount. Also, like the blue-eye push bell and the red-eye push bell being 12 payouts, the middle bell being 8 payouts, and the lower bell being 6 payouts, there can be three types of payouts exceeding the bet amount. Also, any one of these bells can be set to 3 payouts, and the number of payouts can be the same as the bet amount.

[0070] <Types of game states> Next, the types of game states of the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 and the transition of the game states will be described. FIG. 6 is a transition diagram of the game states of the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming states of the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 include normal, CZ-A, CZ-B, normal AT, upper AT-A, upper AT-B, and bonus during normal times. These states are configured to be switched when the transition conditions are met. Note that normal AT, upper AT-A, upper AT-B, and bonus are all AT gaming states. In the AT gaming state, when an internal winning occurs for the push-order bell, the eye-push order bell, or the eye-push bell, the operation sequence and operation timing are notified. By following this notification (hereinafter sometimes referred to as operation navigation), more profits can be obtained.

[0072] Hereinafter, each gaming state will be described. Note that the transition conditions between each gaming state are not limited to the described conditions, and various conditions (for example, the passage of the number of games, a predetermined number of payouts, winning in a transition lottery, winning a specific internal winning combination, winning a specific winning combination, stopping and displaying a specific symbol combination) can be adopted.

[0073] During normal times, it is set in the first game after setting changes or after RAM clearing, and is the main gaming state to stay in. From this normal state, when winning the CZ lottery, it transitions to CZ-A (condition (a) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). Note that the CZ lottery is executed periodically every predetermined number of games or when an internal winning occurs for a rare combination.

[0074] In CZ-A, when winning the transition lottery to the AT state before CZ-A ends (for example, before 10 games are completed), it transitions to normal AT (condition (c) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). If it does not win the transition lottery until the end of CZ-A, it transitions to normal times (condition (i) in FIG. 6 is satisfied).

[0075] Normal AT is a gaming state where two pure increases are expected per game. In normal AT, the remaining number of normal AT games is managed. The remaining number of normal AT games is added by a bonus lottery according to the internal winning combinations (for example, rare combinations or push-order bells). When the remaining number of normal AT games becomes 0, it transitions to normal times (condition (g) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). Also, when winning the transition lottery to upper AT-A (for example, executed when an internal winning occurs for a rare combination), it transitions to upper AT-A (condition (e) in FIG. 6 is satisfied).

[0076] The upper AT-A is a game state where a net increase of 4 medals per game can be expected. In the upper AT-A, the remaining number of games of the upper AT-A is managed. The remaining number of games of the upper AT-A is added by a supplementary lottery according to internal winning combinations (e.g., rare combinations or push-order bells), and when the remaining number of games of the upper AT-A becomes 0, it shifts to the normal AT (condition (o) in Fig. 6 is satisfied). Note that when shifting from the upper AT-A to the normal AT, a result screen is displayed, and the number of played games and the number of acquired medals in the upper AT-A are configured to be displayed. By this display, the player can be informed that the number of medals has increased in the upper AT-A, and the player can feel the feeling of getting more balls.

[0077] From the normal AT and the upper AT-A, when winning the transfer lottery to the upper AT-B, it transfers to the upper AT-B (condition (ka) in Fig. 6 is satisfied). This transfer lottery is executed, for example, when an internal winning combination is a rare combination or according to the number of played games in the upper AT-A. In the transfer lottery according to the number of played games, the higher the number of played games, the higher the winning probability, and it becomes easier to transfer to the upper AT-B. For example, when transfer lotteries a, b, and c are executed with the number of played games being 50, 100, and 150 respectively, the winning probabilities are in the relationship of "a < b < c". Also, when the difference in the number of medals in the AT game state becomes a predetermined number (e.g., 2000 medals) or more, or when the difference in the number of medals during the advantageous period becomes a predetermined number or more, the transfer lottery to the upper AT-B is also executed. When these conditions based on the difference in the number of medals are satisfied, the transfer lottery may be executed in each game, or the winning probability may be set to 100%.

[0078] From the normal AT and the upper AT-A, when winning the transfer lottery to the bonus, it transfers to the bonus (condition (ki) in Fig. 6 is satisfied). This transfer lottery is executed, for example, when an internal winning combination is a rare combination. In the bonus, when the payout (or the difference in the number of medals) exceeds 100, it transfers to the state before the bonus transfer (normal AT or upper AT-A) (condition (ku) in Fig. 6 is satisfied).

[0079] The upper AT-B is a game state in which a net increase of 4 sheets per game can be expected. In the upper AT-B, the remaining number of sets of the upper AT-B that continue for 20 games per set is managed. This remaining number of sets of the upper AT-B is added by a bonus lottery according to an internal winning combination (for example, a rare combination). Also, in the upper AT-B, a transfer right lottery to CZ-B is executed according to an internal winning combination (for example, a rare combination).

[0080] In the upper AT-B, when the number of continuous games becomes 0, there is a 3-game continuous judgment period. At the end of this continuous judgment period, if the remaining number of sets of the upper AT-B is not 0, the number of sets is decremented by 1 and a new number of continuous games of 20 games is given, and the game in the upper AT-B can be continued. Also, even if the remaining number of sets of the upper AT-B is 0, a continuation lottery based on an internal winning combination is executed during the 3-game continuous judgment period, and if the lottery is won, the game in the upper AT-B can also be continued for a new set (20 games). In this embodiment, the winning probability of the continuation lottery is about 80%, and it is configured to stay in the upper AT-B easily. When both the number of continuous games in the upper AT-B and the remaining number of sets of the upper AT-B become 0 and the continuation lottery is not won, if there is a right to transfer to CZ-B, transfer to CZ-B (condition (c) in Fig. 6 is satisfied), and if there is no such transfer right, transfer during normal times (condition (g) in Fig. 6 is satisfied). When transferring to CZ-B, the advantageous section is reset once (becomes a non-advantageous section), and it starts from CZ-B at the start of a new advantageous section.

[0081] Also, even when the advantageous period ends in the upper AT-B, if it has the right to shift to CZ-B, it will shift to CZ-B (the next advantageous period starts from CZ-B and the condition (c) in FIG. 6 is satisfied), and if it does not have such a right to shift, it will shift during normal times (the next advantageous period starts from normal times and the condition (g) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). When the advantageous period ends, an ending effect may be executed in the upper AT-B, and then it may shift to CZ-B or during normal times (the next advantageous period starts from CZ-B or normal times). Also, when it shifts to the upper AT-B due to the condition based on the difference in the number of remaining games being satisfied, the right to shift to CZ-B may be granted.

[0082] Note that the upper AT-B is in a state where the net increase rate and the continuation rate are higher compared to the normal AT and the upper AT-A. However, for example, it may be in a state where the net increase rate is the same as that of the normal AT (the net increase rate does not change) and the continuation rate is high.

[0083] In CZ-B, if it wins the lottery for shifting to the AT state before CZ-B ends (for example, until 10 games are completed), it will shift to the upper AT-B through a bonus specialization zone (not shown) (the condition (j) in FIG. 6 is satisfied), and if it does not win the lottery for shifting until CZ-B ends, it will shift during normal times (the condition (s) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). In the bonus specialization zone (for example, 10 games), the number of continuous games when shifting to the upper AT-B can be obtained. Note that the bonus specialization zone is not limited to, for example, a fixed state of 10 games. For example, if there are 5 games as the minimum guaranteed number of games, it may continue until it loses the continuation lottery for the bonus specialization zone itself after 6 games, or it may continue until it loses the bonus lottery after 6 games. Also, if there is no minimum guaranteed number of games provided, it may continue until it loses the continuation lottery for the bonus specialization zone itself, or it may continue until it loses the bonus lottery.

[0084] In the slot machine 100, apart from the respective game states described above, a non-favorable section and a favorable section are set. After the setting is changed or after the RAM is cleared, it is in the non-favorable section, and when winning on a certain internal winning combination, it shifts to the favorable section. In the favorable section, upper limit values (limiters) are provided for both the number of staying games and the number of payout coins so that the probability of winning does not become too high. When this limiter is reached, it returns to the non-favorable section (the favorable section is reset). In the AT game state, when the number of staying games or the number of payout coins approaches this limiter, an effect (for example, an ending effect) is executed to notify that it is near the end. Also, in this embodiment, when shifting from the upper-level AT-B to CZ-B, the favorable section is once reset (the non-favorable section is set). Note that for the upper limit value of the favorable section, it may be only the number of payout coins without including the number of staying games, or only the number of staying games without including the number of payout coins. Also, as the upper limit value of the number of payout coins, for example, 2400 coins can be considered, but it may also be the difference in coins based on the lowest value of the difference in coins (the so-called MY value, which goes from -3000 coins to 2400 coins and finally ends at -600 coins), or the difference in coins after entering the positive range (which goes from -3000 coins to 5400 coins and finally ends at +2400 coins).

[0085] Note that the favorable section may end not only when reaching the upper limit value (when reaching or exceeding the upper limit value), but also at a value before the upper limit value (for example, the difference in coins is 2200 coins).

[0086] <Overview of the process> Hereinafter, the processes of the main control unit 300, the first sub-control unit 400, and the second sub-control unit 500 will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0087] <Main process of the main control unit> First, with reference to FIG. 7, the main process of the main control unit 300 executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described. Note that this figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main process of the main control unit.

[0088] As described above, the main control unit 300 is provided with a start signal output circuit (reset signal output circuit) 338 that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 of the basic circuit 302 that receives this start signal starts reset by a reset interrupt and executes the main control unit main process shown in FIG. 7 according to the control program stored in advance in the ROM 306.

[0089] When the power is turned on, first, the main control unit initial setting process is performed in step S101. In this main control unit initial setting process, the stack initial value is set to the stack pointer (SP) of the CPU 304, the interrupt prohibition is set, the initial setting of the I / O 310, the initial setting of various variables stored in the RAM 308, the operation permission and the initial value are set to the WDT 314, etc.

[0090] In step S103, the game start process is executed. In this process, the presence or absence of medal insertion (manual insertion or operation of the bet buttons 130 to 132) is checked, and when a medal is inserted, preparation for transmitting an insertion command indicating this is performed. In addition, if a replay win occurred in the previous game, since the process of inserting the same number of medals as the number of medals inserted in the previous game is performed, it becomes unnecessary for the player to insert medals. Also, it is checked whether the start lever 135 has been operated with a specified number (for example, 3) of medals used. If the start lever 135 has been operated, the number of inserted medals and the valid winning lines are determined, and the game is started.

[0091] In step S105, the internal winning combination lottery table stored in the ROM 306 is read out according to the current lottery state, and an internal lottery (winning combination lottery) is performed using this and the random number value obtained from the random number generation circuit 316 to determine the internal winning combination and execute various lottery processes related to the transition of the game state (various lottery processes).

[0092] In step S107, based on the result of the internal winning combination lottery, the reel stop data corresponding to the first stop operation is prepared. This reel stop data is stored in the ROM 306 of the main control unit 300.

[0093] In step S109, the rotation of reels 110 to 112 is started on the condition that the game interval timer (subtracted in the timer update process described later) is 0, and an initial value is set in the game interval timer. Also, preparations are made to send a reel rotation start command to the first sub-control unit 400 at the start of the rotation of reels 110 to 112. After that, when reels 110 to 112 reach a predetermined rotation speed and the optical sensors provided on each reel are detected to grasp the symbol positions of each reel, the stop operations for stop buttons 137 to 139 are enabled. Note that the above game interval counter ensures the minimum time required for one game (4.1 s in this embodiment) and suppresses the probability of winning.

[0094] Step S111 executes the reel stop control process. In this process, after the stop operation is enabled, when any of stop buttons 137 to 139 is pressed, the corresponding reel 110 to 112 among reels 110 to 112 is stopped. Specifically, each time a stop operation is performed, the stop table of the reel stop data is referred to, and reels 110 to 112 corresponding to the stop operation are stopped according to the number of retraction commands set in the stop table. Also, for the first stop operation, the reel stop data corresponding to the second stop operation is prepared, and for the second stop operation, the reel stop data corresponding to the third stop operation is prepared. Note that for each stop operation, preparations are made to send the corresponding command (first to third press commands) to the first sub-control unit 400, and for each time reels 110 to 112 stop, preparations are made to send the corresponding command (first to third stop commands) to the first sub-control unit 400. When all reels 110 to 112 stop, the process proceeds to step S113.

[0095] In step S113, a winning determination process is performed. Here, when a symbol combination corresponding to any winning combination is displayed on the enabled winning line, it is determined that a win has occurred for that winning combination. Note that after the determination of the winning combination, preparations are made to send a winning command to the first sub-control unit 400.

[0096] In step S115, if a winning combination with a payout is won, medals corresponding to the number of that winning combination are awarded (payout), and the number of awarded medals is displayed using the payout number display 127.

[0097] In step S117, state update processing is executed. Specifically, processing such as the transition of the game state is executed.

[0098] Thus, one game ends. Thereafter, the game progresses by returning to step S103 and repeating the above-described processing.

[0099] <Main control unit 300 timer interrupt processing> Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the main control unit timer interrupt processing executed by the CPU 304 of the main control unit 300 will be described. Note that this figure is a flowchart showing the flow of the main control unit timer interrupt processing.

[0100] The main control unit 300 includes a counter timer 312 that generates a timer interrupt signal at a predetermined period (once every approximately 2 ms in this embodiment), and starts the main control unit timer interrupt processing at a predetermined period using this timer interrupt signal as a trigger.

[0101] In step S201, timer interrupt start processing is performed. In this timer interrupt start processing, processing such as temporarily saving the values of each register of the CPU 304 in the stack area is performed.

[0102] In step S203, the WDT 314 is restarted periodically (once every approximately 2 ms, which is the period of the main control unit timer interrupt in this embodiment) so that the count value of the WDT 314 does not exceed the initial setting value (32.8 ms in this embodiment) and no WDT interrupt occurs (no abnormality in the processing is detected).

[0103] In step S205, input port state update processing is performed. In this input port state update processing, detection signals from the sensor circuits 320 of various sensors 318 are input via the input ports of I / O 310, the presence or absence of the detection signals is monitored, and the signals are stored in the signal state storage areas provided in the RAM 308, partitioned for each of the various sensors 318. Note that the state of the optical sensor is confirmed in this processing.

[0104] In step S207, various game processes are executed, and processes according to the interrupt status are executed.

[0105] In step S209, timer update processing is performed. For example, processing is executed to update various timers in their respective time units, such as subtracting the game interval timer.

[0106] In step S211, command setting transmission processing is performed, and various commands prepared for transmission in the main processing of the main control unit 300, timer interrupt processing, etc. are transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400. Note that the output schedule information to be transmitted to the first sub-control unit 400 consists of strobe information (when on, indicating that data is being set), command type (in this embodiment, basic command, insert command, start lever reception command, internal winning command, effect command associated with effect lottery processing, reel rotation start command associated with the start of rotation of reels 110 to 112, first to third press commands associated with the reception of operations of stop buttons 137 to 139, first to third stop commands associated with the stop of reels 110 to 112, winning command, payout number command and payout end command associated with medal payout processing, state update command, setting change command, power restoration command), and command data (predetermined information corresponding to the command type).

[0107] In the first sub-control unit 400, depending on the command type included in the received output schedule information, it becomes possible to determine the effect control according to changes in game control in the main control unit 300, and based on the information of the command data included in the output schedule information, it becomes possible to determine the effect control content.

[0108] In step S213, external signal setting processing is performed. In this external signal setting processing, the game information stored in the RAM 308 is output to an information input circuit 652 separate from the slot machine 100 via the information output circuit 334.

[0109] In step S215, device monitoring processing is performed. In this device monitoring processing, first, the signal states of the various sensors 318 stored in the signal state storage area in step S205 are read out, the presence or absence of errors related to medal insertion abnormalities and medal payout abnormalities is monitored, and when an error is detected, error processing (not shown) is executed. Further, according to the current game state, settings are made for the medal selector 170 (medal blocker in which the solenoid provided in the medal selector 170 operates), the various lamps 339, and the various 7-segment (SEG) displays.

[0110] In step S217, it is monitored whether a low voltage signal is on. When a low voltage signal is received (when power-off is detected), the process proceeds to step S221, and when a low voltage signal is not received (when power-off is not detected), the process proceeds to step S219.

[0111] In step S219, timer interrupt end processing is performed. In this timer interrupt end processing, processing such as setting the values of the respective registers temporarily saved in step S201 back to the original respective registers is performed. Then, the process returns to the main control unit main processing shown in FIG. 7.

[0112] On the other hand, in step S221, information such as specific variables and stack pointers that need to be saved for restoring the state at the time of power-off at the time of power restoration is saved in a predetermined area of the RAM 308, a checksum value for a predetermined area including at least the used area of the RAM 308 is derived and stored in the RAM 308, and a power flag indicating that power-off processing has been performed is set to on.

[0113] <Processing of the First Sub-Control Unit 400> Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described. Note that FIG. 9(a) is a flowchart of the main processing executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400. FIG. 9(b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400. FIG. 9(c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400.

[0114] First, in step S301, various initial settings are performed. This initial setting is executed when the power is turned on. In this process, initial settings of input / output ports, initialization processing of storage areas in the RAM 408, and the like are performed. In this process, an area for storing internal winning information, which is information representing the result of internal winning, and an area for storing information representing the game state are provided in the RAM 408, respectively.

[0115] In step S303, it is determined whether the timer variable is 10 or more, and this process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to the process of step S305.

[0116] In step S305, 0 is assigned to the timer variable.

[0117] In step S307, command processing, which is processing corresponding to each command received from the main control unit 300, is executed.

[0118] In step S309, effect control processing is performed. Here, processes such as expanding effect data, setting device data in the effect execution area provided in the RAM 408, setting effect data in the effect reservation area provided in the RAM 408, and further setting effect data or executing control processing based on the received command and the information included in the command are performed. Note that the effect data set in the effect reservation area and the device data set in the effect execution area may be updated (overwritten) with other data. In this case, the effect content is changed based on the overwritten data.

[0119] In step S311, sound control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, control data is acquired from the device data set in the production execution area corresponding to the speakers 272 and 277, and the acquired control data is output to the sound source IC 418, thereby executing a production by sound.

[0120] In step S313, lamp control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, control data is acquired from the device data set in the production execution area corresponding to the various lamps 420, and the acquired control data is output to the drive circuit 422, thereby executing a production by the lamp.

[0121] In step S315, shutter control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S309. For example, control data is acquired from the device data set in the production execution area corresponding to the shutter 163, and the acquired control data is output to the drive circuit 424, thereby executing a production by the shutter 163.

[0122] In step S317, information output processing for performing a setting to transmit a control command to the second sub-control unit 500 based on the processing result of step S309 is performed. For example, if there is device data set in the production execution area corresponding to the production image display device 157, preparation is made to transmit this device data to the second sub-control unit 500, and the process returns to step S303.

[0123] Next, with reference to FIG. 9(b), the command reception interrupt processing of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described. This command reception interrupt processing is a process executed when the first sub-control unit 400 detects a strobe signal output by the main control unit 300. In step S321 of the command reception interrupt processing, the command output by the main control unit 300 is stored as an unprocessed command in the command storage area provided in the RAM 408.

[0124] Next, with reference to FIG. 9(c), the first sub-control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined cycle (once every 2 ms in this embodiment), and based on this timer interrupt, the timer interrupt process is executed at a predetermined cycle.

[0125] In step S331, 1 is added to the value in the timer variable storage area of the RAM 408 described in step S303 in the first sub-control unit main process shown in FIG. 9(a), and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step S303, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10).

[0126] In step S333, transmission of device data to the second sub-control unit 500 set in step S315, update processing of the rendering random number value, and the like are performed.

[0127] <Processing of the Second Sub-Control Unit 500> Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the processing of the second sub-control unit 500 will be described. Note that FIG. 10(a) is a flowchart of the main process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 10(b) is a flowchart of the command reception interrupt process of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 10(c) is a flowchart of the timer interrupt process of the second sub-control unit 500. FIG. 10(d) is a flowchart of the image control process of the second sub-control unit 500.

[0128] First, in step S401 of FIG. 10(a), various initial settings are performed. When the power is turned on, first, the initialization process is executed in step S401. In this initialization process, initial setting of the input / output port, initialization process of the storage area in the RAM 508, and the like are performed.

[0129] In step S403, it is determined whether the timer variable is 10 or more, and this process is repeated until the timer variable becomes 10. When the timer variable becomes 10 or more, the process proceeds to the process of step S405.

[0130] In step S405, assign 0 to the timer variable.

[0131] In step S407, command processing is performed. In the command processing, the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500 determines whether a command has been received from the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400.

[0132] In step S409, effect control processing is performed. Specifically, when there is a new command in step S407, the process corresponding to this command is performed. For example, a process of reading out effect data for performing image control on the background image from the ROM 506 is executed. Also, processes such as reading out other effect data from the ROM 506 are performed, and when the update of the effect data is necessary, the update process of the effect data is included.

[0133] In step S411, image control processing is performed based on the processing result of step S409. For example, when there is an image control command in the effect data read out in step S409, the image control corresponding to this command is performed. For example, image control regarding the display image (notification image, background image) is executed. This image control processing will be described later with reference to FIG. 10(d). When this image control processing is completed, the process returns to step S403.

[0134] Next, with reference to FIG. 10(b), the command reception interrupt processing of the second sub-control unit 500 will be described. This command reception interrupt processing is a process executed when the second sub-control unit 500 detects a strobe signal output by the first sub-control unit 400. In step S415 of the command reception interrupt processing, the command output by the first sub-control unit 400 is stored in the command storage area provided in the RAM 508 as an unprocessed command.

[0135] Next, with reference to FIG. 10(c), the second sub-control unit timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 504 of the second sub-control unit 500 will be described. The second sub-control unit 500 includes a hardware timer that generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined period (once every 2 ms in this embodiment), and based on this timer interrupt, the timer interrupt process is executed at a predetermined period.

[0136] In step S417, 1 is added to the value in the timer variable storage area of the RAM 508 described in step S403 in the second sub-control unit main process shown in FIG. 10(a), and the result is stored in the original timer variable storage area. Therefore, in step S403, the value of the timer variable is determined to be 10 or more every 20 ms (2 ms × 10).

[0137] In step S419, the process of updating the effect random number value and the like is performed.

[0138] Next, with reference to FIG. 10(d), the image control process in step S411 in the main process of the second sub-control unit 500 will be described. This figure shows a flowchart indicating the flow of the image control process.

[0139] In step S421, an instruction to transfer image data is issued. Here, first, the CPU 504 swaps the designation of the drawing areas of the display areas A and B in the VRAM 518. As a result, one frame of the image stored in the display area not designated as the drawing area is displayed on the effect image display device 157. Next, the CPU 504 sets the ROM coordinates (transfer source address of the ROM 506), VRAM coordinates (transfer destination address of the VRAM 518), etc. in the attribute register of the VDP 516 based on the position information and other tables, and then sets an instruction to start the transfer of image data from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 518. The VDP 516 transfers the image data from the ROM 506 to the VRAM 518 based on the instruction set in the attribute register. After that, the VDP 516 outputs a transfer end interrupt signal to the CPU 504.

[0140] In step S423, it is determined whether a transfer end interrupt signal from the VDP516 has been input. If the transfer end interrupt signal has been input, the process proceeds to step S425. Otherwise, it waits for the transfer end interrupt signal to be input.

[0141] In step S425, parameter settings are performed based on the production scenario configuration table, attribute data, etc. Here, the CPU504 instructs the VDP516 on information of the image data constituting the display image (coordinate axes of the VRAM518, image size, VRAM coordinates (placement coordinates), image overlay and transparency, etc.) in order to form a display image in display area A or B of the VRAM518 based on the image data transferred to the VRAM518 in step S421. The VDP516 performs parameter settings according to the attributes based on the instructions stored in the attribute register.

[0142] In step S427, a drawing instruction is issued. In this drawing instruction, the CPU504 instructs the VDP516 to start drawing an image. The VDP516 starts drawing the image in the frame buffer according to the instruction of the CPU504.

[0143] In step S429, it is determined whether a generation end interrupt signal from the VDP516 based on the end of image drawing has been input. If the generation end interrupt signal has been input, the process proceeds to step S431. Otherwise, it waits for the generation end interrupt signal to be input.

[0144] In step S431, the scene display counter that is set in a predetermined area of the RAM508 and counts which scene's image has been generated is incremented (+1), and the process ends.

[0145] ≪Explanation of operation example≫ Hereinafter, the features of the slot machine 100 described above will be explained using an operation example.

[0146] [Operation example (1) regarding transition of game state] Among the game states described in FIG. 6, the upper AT-B is a state in which a game that continues for 20 games in one set has a high probability of continuing, making it easy to obtain profits. Players aim to transition to this upper AT-B.

[0147] To transition to the upper AT-B, it is necessary to win the lottery for transitioning to the upper AT-B in the normal AT or upper AT-A. Therefore, the goal is to first stay in the normal AT or upper AT-A via CZ-A. In particular, in the upper AT-A, not only is the net increase set high, but the more the number of games played, the easier it is to win the lottery for transitioning to the upper AT-B. Thus, even as the number of games increases, the game maintains an element of anticipation and the interest in the game does not decline.

[0148] Even if one has once transitioned to the upper AT-B, there is a possibility of transitioning from this state to CZ-B or the normal state (when the conditions (c) and (d) in FIG. 6 are satisfied). Among these, CZ-B is a game state that can transition to the upper AT-B without passing through the routes of CZ-A or the normal AT (when the condition (g) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). That is, even if the upper AT-B has once ended, it is possible to transition to the upper AT-B without passing through CZ-A, the normal AT, or the upper AT-A.

[0149] From the above, the gameplay is such that starting from the normal state, one aims to transition to the upper AT-B via CZ-A, the normal AT, and the upper AT-A, and when transitioning from the upper AT-B to CZ-B, one aims to transition back to the upper AT-B again.

[0150] Fig. 11(a) is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a game. In this example, in the first advantageous section (advantageous section 1), condition (K) is satisfied by the upper AT-A and the process proceeds to the upper AT-B. Subsequently, it is shown that condition (S) is satisfied in the upper AT-B. In this case, as shown in Fig. 11(a), once the advantageous section ends and becomes a non-advantageous section, the game state becomes CZ-B at the start of a new advantageous section (advantageous section 2). Also, in this example, an effect indicating that CZ-B is in preparation is executed while the non-advantageous section is set, and an effect indicating that CZ-B has started is executed at the timing when CZ-B starts in advantageous section 2. The effect indicating that it is in preparation is just an example, and it may be made clear that it is "in preparation" by displaying the title screen of CZ-B. In this way, by indicating that CZ-B is in preparation even during the non-advantageous section, it is possible to prevent the player from quitting the game. Also, at the end screen (so-called result screen) when the upper AT-B ends, a display or effect suggesting a transition to CZ-B may be provided, and it is possible to prevent the player from quitting the game in the game where the end screen is displayed.

[0151] Furthermore, in the example of Fig. 11(a), in the second advantageous section (advantageous section 2), condition (Shi) is satisfied in CZ-B, the process proceeds to the upper AT-B via the bonus specialization zone, and subsequently, it is shown that condition (S) is satisfied in the upper AT-B. In this case, similar to the end of the second advantageous section, once the advantageous section ends and becomes a non-advantageous section, the game state becomes CZ-B at the start of a new advantageous section (advantageous section 3). Although not shown in the figure, in the non-advantageous section here, the same effect as the non-advantageous section between the first and second advantageous sections is executed. Furthermore, in the third advantageous section (advantageous section 3), it is shown that condition (Shi) is satisfied in CZ-B and the process proceeds to the upper AT-B via the bonus specialization zone.

[0152] In the example of Fig. 11(a), it is shown that the upper AT-B that has shifted from CZ-B at the beginning of the advantageous section continues until the end of the advantageous section. Thus, in this embodiment, the ending (reaching the upper limit of the advantageous section) is reached while remaining in the upper AT-B, and when the transition condition (shi) of the upper AT-B is satisfied at the next CZ-B, a configuration enabling a loop of the upper AT-B is achieved.

[0153] In the above example, the advantageous section is reset at the end of the upper AT-B, and an example in which a new advantageous section starts from CZ-B after going through the preparation (1 to 3G spent on transitioning to the advantageous section, non-advantageous section) has been described. However, the new advantageous section may be started from the upper AT-B. By doing so, the player can be made not to feel the break of the advantageous section and can seamlessly experience the feeling of the appearance of the upper AT-B.

[0154] In the above example, the case where the transition is made to the upper-level AT-B through a state with a higher degree of advantage than normal, such as CZ-B or the overlaid specialization zone, in the new advantageous section, was described. However, after the transition to the new advantageous section, it may be possible to make the transition to the upper-level AT-B after a predetermined number of games in the normal state. By doing so, excessive payouts can be suppressed. Note that the predetermined number of games is preferably not a large number of games, such as 32 games. In addition, in the case of a mode management type game property where a plurality of types (super paradise with a maximum ceiling of 32 games, paradise with a maximum ceiling of 128 games, normal C with a maximum ceiling of 250 games, normal B with a maximum ceiling of 650 games, normal A with a maximum ceiling of 1200 games, etc.) are provided as the ceiling for transitioning to an advantageous game state, it is preferable to make the transition to the upper-level AT-B through super paradise or paradise, and not to determine normal A to C. Also, it may be possible to make the transition to the upper-level AT-B after a fixed number of games, such as 32 games or 128 games, or to make the transition to the upper-level AT-B within the range of 32 games or within the range of 128 games, and make the transition to the upper-level AT-B after a certain number of games (variable number of games) within the range of the predetermined number of games. In the case of a cycle management type game property where there is an opportunity to periodically transition to an advantageous game state, it is preferable to make the transition to the upper-level AT-B in the first cycle. In a state where it is certain that the transition to the upper-level AT-B is made as described above, a special effect that can identify or suggest that fact may be executed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player from quitting the game halfway and maintain the sense of exhilaration of transitioning to the upper-level AT-B.

[0155] [Operation Example (2) Regarding Transition of Game State] In Fig. 11(a), an example of the transition from CZ-B to the upper AT-B via the overlaid specialization zone in the second advantageous section (advantageous section 2) was described. However, in this CZ-B, it may not win the lottery for the transition to the AT state and may transition during normal times (when the condition (s) in Fig. 6 is satisfied). In this case, it may be configured such that it always wins the CZ lottery during normal times and further always wins the lottery for the transition to the AT state in CZ-A, so that the transition to the normal AT is determined (the conditions (a) and (u) in Fig. 6 are always satisfied). Fig. 11(b) shows an example of the case of transitioning from CZ-B to CZ-A and the normal AT via normal times. In this configuration, even if it cannot transition from CZ-B to the upper AT-B, it can always transition to CZ-A in the first-cycle CZ lottery, and further always transition to the normal AT in the said CZ-A. Therefore, even if it cannot transition to the upper AT-B, it can obtain the benefits at the time of advantageous section reset.

[0156] [Operation Example (3) Regarding Transition of Game State] In Figs. 11(a) and (b), the configuration of transitioning to CZ-B at the beginning of a new advantageous section after once resetting the advantageous section was described. This CZ-B is a game state located in the previous stage for transitioning to a more advantageous game state (upper AT-B). Thus, the configuration starting from the beginning of a new advantageous section with the game state located in the previous stage for transitioning to a more advantageous game state is not limited to the examples in Figs. 11(a) and (b). Hereinafter, examples adopting such a configuration will be described.

[0157] Fig. 11(c) shows an example in which a CZ during AT is provided. In this example, after obtaining the right to transition from the normal AT to the CZ during AT, the advantageous section is reset, and the beginning of the new advantageous section is the CZ during AT. And when it succeeds (wins the lottery) in the said CZ during AT, it transitions to the upper AT, and even if it fails (does not win the lottery), it transitions to the normal AT.

[0158] FIG. 11(d) shows an example in which a CZ is provided that shifts to either the upper AT or the normal AT. In this example, during the CZ, the advantageous section is reset, and the start of a new advantageous section is the CZ. And, if a success (winning the lottery) occurs at the CZ, it shifts to the upper AT, and even if it fails (not winning the lottery), it shifts to the normal AT. Note that it may be configured to shift to the normal state when it fails. Also, when the right to the upper CZ is obtained at the CZ before the advantageous section is reset, the start of the new advantageous section may be configured to be the upper CZ (a gaming state more advantageous than the CZ).

[0159] [Technical ideas in operation examples (1) to (3) regarding the transition of the gaming state] Hereinafter, the technical ideas based on the above-described embodiment will be described while referring to the corresponding configurations.

[0160] In the above description, a first gaming state advantageous to the player (for example, normal AT), and a second gaming state more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state (for example, upper AT-B), a gaming table comprising: the first gaming state is a gaming state controlled in an advantageous section, the second gaming state is a gaming state controlled in the advantageous section, the advantageous section has a specified quantity (for example, an upper limit value) as an upper limit, after the advantageous section approaches the specified quantity and ends to become a new advantageous section in the second gaming state (for example, after reaching the upper limit value and the advantageous section ends to become a new advantageous section, or after reaching a value before the upper limit value and the advantageous section ends to become a new advantageous section, etc.), there may be a case of shifting to the second gaming state without shifting to the first gaming state (for example, FIG. 11(a)), A gaming table characterized by the above has been described.

[0161] In this gaming machine, even if the advantageous section is reset in a more advantageous second gaming state, it is possible to shift to the second gaming state without going through the first gaming state in the new advantageous section. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the gaming interest when the upper limit of the advantageous section is reached.

[0162] Also, a first gaming state advantageous to the player (e.g., normal AT), and a second gaming state more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state (e.g., upper AT-B), the gaming machine comprising: the first gaming state is a gaming state controlled in an advantageous section; the second gaming state is a gaming state controlled in the advantageous section; the advantageous section is defined with a specified quantity (e.g., upper limit value) serving as the upper limit; after the advantageous section approaches the specified quantity and ends in the second gaming state to become a new advantageous section (e.g., after reaching the upper limit value and the advantageous section ends to become a new advantageous section, or after reaching a value before the upper limit value and the advantageous section ends to become a new advantageous section), etc., there may be a case of shifting to the second gaming state through a gaming state different from both the first gaming state and the second gaming state (e.g., CZ-B, bonus-specialized, or normal state). The gaming machine characterized by the above is described.

[0163] In this gaming machine, even if the advantageous section is reset in a more advantageous second gaming state, it is possible to shift to the second gaming state without going through the first gaming state in the new advantageous section. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the gaming interest when the upper limit of the advantageous section is reached.

[0164] Also, the gaming machine described above, wherein the second gaming state is a gaming state whose continuation is managed using the number of sets corresponding to a plurality of games (e.g., 20 games per set), when the second gaming state ends at the boundary of the number of sets, the advantageous section may end (e.g., when the condition (c) in FIG. 6 is satisfied). The gaming machine characterized by the above has been described.

[0165] In this gaming machine, it is possible to clearly show the end of the advantageous section. Also, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling regretful as if they have lost a large bonus due to the end of the advantageous section.

[0166] Also, for the gaming machine described above, the first gaming state is a gaming state that notifies the player of the operation mode (for example, executes an operation navigator). the second gaming state is a gaming state that notifies the player of the operation mode (for example, executes an operation navigator). the second gaming state is a gaming state with a higher expected value of obtaining gaming value (for example, a higher net increase in the number of medals, a higher continuation rate) than the first gaming state. The gaming machine characterized by the above has been described.

[0167] Also, for the gaming machine described above, after the advantageous section ends approaching the specified amount in the second gaming state and a new advantageous section is formed, there may be a case of transitioning to the second gaming state when a specific condition is satisfied (for example, winning a transition lottery to the AT state) in the third gaming state (for example, CZ - B). The gaming machine characterized by the above has been described.

[0168] In this gaming machine, after the advantageous section ends, by enabling a transition to the second gaming state when a specific condition is satisfied, it is possible to suppress excessive payout of medals while increasing the sense of expectation in the third gaming state and improving the interest of the game.

[0169] Also, for the gaming machine described above, when the specific condition is not satisfied in the third gaming state, it does not transition to the second gaming state and is more likely to transition to the first gaming state. The gaming machine characterized by the above has been described.

[0170] Even when the specific conditions are not met, in this gaming machine, the interest of the game can be made less likely to decline by making it easier to shift to the first gaming state.

[0171] [Operation Navi Operation Example (1)] The operation example of the operation navi will be described below with reference to FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b). These figures are diagrams showing the operation example of the operation navi.

[0172] Normal AT is a gaming state in which the remaining game count of AT is subtracted for each game, and the operation navi and additional lotteries are executed. In this example, as a type of operation navi when winning internally in the pressing order bell, "×??" which notifies not to make the first left stop is provided (hereinafter referred to as the left prohibited navi). In the game in which this left prohibited navi is displayed, by not making the first left stop, it is configured not to lose the winning opportunities for the middle bell or the lower bell. When winning internally in the visual pressing order bell or the visual pressing bell, this left prohibited navi is not displayed.

[0173] FIG. 12(a) shows an example in which normal AT continues following the left prohibited navi (without making the first left stop). On the other hand, when not following the left prohibited navi (making the first left stop), as shown in FIG. 12(b), until the left prohibited navi is displayed next, although the remaining game count of AT is not subtracted, it is configured to be in a state where the operation navi and additional lotteries are not executed (hereinafter referred to as the restricted state). The period of the restricted state may be until the CLR1 bell to the RCL2 bell win next, or may be until the CLR1 bell to the RCL2 bell win after at least a predetermined number of games (for example, 10 games). Also, as shown in FIG. 12(b), this restricted state is configured to be released by following the instruction (not making the first left stop) in the game in which the left prohibited navi is displayed.

[0174] In the slot machine having the above configuration, beginners may not understand the intention of the left prohibition navigation and may perform the first left stop without following the left prohibition navigation, resulting in a restricted state. Therefore, for example, an upper limit may be set on the number of game times in which the restricted state is set in one normal AT, and the restricted state may be released after this upper limit has elapsed. Also, when the number of times of not following the left prohibition navigation (performing the first left stop) exceeds a predetermined number, the same processing as when following the left prohibition navigation (not performing the first left stop) may be executed thereafter.

[0175] In addition, when following the left prohibition navigation or winning a predetermined combination (for example, the upper bell or the middle bell) after following it, a favorable privilege such as a point that allows the normal AT to proceed advantageously may be provided.

[0176] [Operation Example (2) of the Operation Navigation] The operation example of the operation navigation will be described below with reference to FIG. 12(c). This figure is a diagram showing the operation example of the operation navigation.

[0177] In a game in which the push-order bell, the eye-push-order bell, or the eye-push bell is internally elected, when the operation navigation is executed by the effect image display device 157 or the like, the content corresponding to this operation navigation is further displayed on the instruction monitor (for example, the payout number display 127). The content of this instruction monitor is shown in FIG. 12(c).

[0178] On the other hand, in the normal replay 8, Chance RepCLR1, Chance RepCLR2, Chance RepCRL1, and Chance RepCRL2, the reach target may be displayed depending on the operation order. Therefore, for example, by executing an operation guide for displaying the reach target when in an internally advantageous state, it is possible to notify the player that the player is in an internally advantageous state. At this time, if nothing is displayed on the instruction monitor, the behavior will be different from the case of an internal win on the push-order bell or the like, so there is a possibility that the internal state may be guessed when the operation guide is executed. Therefore, when executing an operation guide for stopping and displaying the reach target in a game with an internal win in the normal replay 8 or the like, the content corresponding to this operation guide may be displayed on the instruction monitor in the same manner as in the case of an internal win on the push-order bell. For example, when notifying the operation order of left, center, and right with the operation guide, any one of 01, 05, and 09 can be displayed on the instruction monitor of FIG. 12(c). Note that the content corresponding to the left prohibition guide (15 on the instruction monitor of FIG. 12(c)) is not displayed. Also, when wanting to stop the reach target in a game with an internal win in the normal replay 8, the reach target is displayed by operating any one of CLR to RCL as the push order, but which operation guide to perform is determined by the main control means and may be determined by an equal lottery from the four types of push orders of CLR to RCL. Further, among Chance RepCLR1, Chance RepCLR2, Chance RepCRL1, and Chance RepCRL2, when there is a reach including the seven-two symbol on the left reel, a display corresponding to a red instruction may be performed on the instruction monitor of FIG. 12(c).

[0179] <<Embodiment 2>> Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, a gaming table (slot machine) according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described.

[0180] <Overall Configuration> First, the overall configuration of the slot machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 as seen from the front side (player side).

[0181] This slot machine 100 corresponds to an example of the gaming table of the present invention, and includes a main body 101 and a front door 102 attached to the front of the main body 101 and capable of opening and closing with respect to the main body 101. Inside the center of the main body 101, three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) with a plurality of types of symbols arranged on the outer peripheral surface (not shown) are housed and configured to be rotatable inside the slot machine 100. These reels 110 to 112 are rotationally driven by a driving device such as a stepping motor.

[0182] In the present embodiment, appropriate numbers of each symbol are printed at equal intervals on a strip-shaped member, and this strip-shaped member is attached to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame member to form each of the reels 110 to 112. The symbols on the reels 110 to 112 are generally displayed in three in the vertical direction from the reel window 113 as seen by the player, and a total of nine symbols can be seen. By rotating each of the reels 110 to 112, the combination of symbols visible to the player changes. That is, each of the reels 110 to 112 functions as a display device that can variably display combinations of a plurality of types of symbols. In addition to reels, an electronic image display device such as a liquid crystal display device can also be adopted as such a display device. Further, in the present embodiment, three reels are provided inside the center of the slot machine 100, but the number of reels and the installation position of the reels are not limited to this.

[0183] On the back of each of the reels 110 to 112, a backlight (not shown) for illuminating the individual symbols displayed in the reel window 113 is arranged. It is desirable that the backlight be shielded for each individual symbol so that each individual symbol can be evenly irradiated. In addition, inside the slot machine 100, an optical sensor (index sensor; not shown) composed of a light projecting part and a light receiving part is provided in the vicinity of each of the reels 110 to 112, and it is configured such that a light shielding piece of a certain length provided on the reel passes between the light projecting part and the light receiving part of this optical sensor. Based on the detection result of this sensor, the rotational direction position of the symbol on the reel is judged, and the reels 110 to 112 are stopped so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line.

[0184] The winning line indicator lamp 120 is a lamp that indicates the winning lines 114 that are valid. The winning lines 114 that are valid are determined in advance by the number of medals bet as game media. There are five winning lines 114. For example, when one medal is bet, the horizontal winning line in the middle row is valid, when two medals are bet, three lines including the upper horizontal winning line and the lower horizontal winning line are valid, and when three medals are bet, five lines including the right-downward winning line and the right-upward winning line are valid. The number of winning lines 114 is not limited to five, and may be one of the horizontal winning lines in the middle row. Also, for example, when one medal is bet, five lines may be set as valid winning lines: the middle horizontal winning line, the upper horizontal winning line, the lower horizontal winning line, the downward-right winning line, and the upward-right winning line, and the same number of winning lines may be set as valid winning lines regardless of the number of bets.

[0185] The notification lamp 123 is a lamp that notifies the player that, for example, a specific winning combination (specifically, a bonus combination) has been internally won in an internal winning combination lottery described below, or that a bonus game is being played. The game medal insertion possible lamp 124 is a lamp that notifies the player that a game medal can be inserted. The replay lamp 122 is a lamp that notifies the player that the current game can be replayed (no medal insertion is required) if a replay, which is one of the winning combinations, was won in the previous game. The reel panel lamp 128 is a lamp for presentation purposes.

[0186] The bet buttons 130 to 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of medals (referred to as credits) electronically stored in the slot machine 100. In the present embodiment, each time the bet button 130 is pressed, one medal is inserted up to a maximum of three medals, two medals are inserted when the bet button 131 is pressed, and three medals are inserted when the bet button 132 is pressed. Hereinafter, the bet button 132 is also referred to as the MAX (max) bet button. The game medal insertion lamp 129 lights up a number of lamps corresponding to the number of inserted medals, and when the specified number of medals are inserted, the game start lamp 121, which notifies that the game start operation is possible, lights up.

[0187] The medal insertion slot 141 is an insertion slot for the player to insert medals when starting the game. That is, medals can be inserted electronically (bet operation) by the bet buttons 130 to 132, or actual medals can be inserted (insertion operation) from the medal insertion slot 141, and "insertion" means including both.

[0188] The stored number display 125 is a display for displaying the number of medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100. The game information display 126 is a display for numerically displaying various internal information (for example, the number of medals paid out during the bonus game). The payout number display 127 is a display for displaying the number of medals paid out to the player as a result of winning a certain winning combination. In the present embodiment, the stored number display 125, the game information display 126, and the payout number display 127 are composed of 7-segment (SEG) displays. The payout number display 127 of the present embodiment also functions as an effect device for notifying information related to the stop operation (for example, the operation order of the stop buttons 137 to 139).

[0189] The start lever 135 is a lever-type switch for starting the rotation of the reels 110 to 112. That is, when a desired number of medals are inserted into the medal insertion slot 141 or the bet buttons 130 to 132 are operated to operate the start lever 135, the reels 110 to 112 start rotating. The operation on the start lever 135 is called the start operation of the game.

[0190] The stop button unit 136 is provided with stop buttons 137 to 139. The stop buttons 137 to 139 are button-type push switches for individually stopping the reels 110 to 112 that have started rotating by the operation of the start lever 135, and are respectively provided in association with the respective reels 110 to 112. More specifically, the left reel 110 can be stopped by operating the stop button 137 (sometimes referred to as the left stop button), the middle reel 111 can be stopped by operating the stop button 138 (sometimes referred to as the middle stop button), and the right reel 112 can be stopped by operating the stop button 139 (sometimes referred to as the right stop button).

[0191] Hereinafter, the operation on the stop buttons 137 to 139 is referred to as the stop operation, the first stop operation is referred to as the first stop operation, the next stop operation is referred to as the second stop operation, and the last stop operation is referred to as the third stop operation. In some cases, the reel targeted by the first stop operation is referred to as the first stop reel, the reel targeted by the second stop operation is referred to as the second stop reel, and the reel targeted by the third stop operation is referred to as the third stop reel.

[0192] Furthermore, the order of operating the stop buttons 137 to 139 for stopping all of the reels 110 to 112 during rotation is referred to as the operation order or the pressing order. The operation order for the stop operation with the first stop reel being the left reel 110 is called the "forward pressing operation order" or simply "forward pressing", the operation order for the stop operation with the first stop reel being the middle reel 111 is called the "middle pressing operation order" or simply "middle pressing", and the operation order for the stop operation with the first stop reel being the right reel 112 is called the "reverse pressing operation order" or simply "reverse pressing".

[0193] In addition, in this embodiment, there may be cases where the stop operation and the operation order by the combination of the first stop operation, the second stop operation, and the third stop operation are abbreviated. For example, the stop operation with the first stop reel being the left reel 110 may be denoted as "left", and the stop operation with the first stop reel being the left reel 110, the second stop reel being the middle reel 111, and the third stop reel being the right reel 112 may be denoted as "left middle right". In addition, a light emitter may be provided inside each of the stop buttons 137 to 139, and when the stop buttons 137 to 139 can be operated, the light emitter can also be lit to notify the player.

[0194] The medal return button 133 is a button for pressing to remove jammed inserted medals. The settlement button 134 is a button for settling the medals electronically stored in the slot machine 100 and the bet medals and discharging them from the medal payout opening 155. The door keyhole 140 is a hole into which a key for unlocking the front door 102 of the slot machine 100 is inserted. The medal payout opening 155 is a payout opening for paying out medals.

[0195] Below the stop button unit 136, a title panel 162 for displaying the model name and attaching various certificates is provided. Below the title panel 162, a medal payout opening 155 and a medal tray 161 are provided.

[0196] A sound hole 181 is provided beside the medal payout outlet 155. The side lamps 144 provided on the left and right parts of the front door 102 are decorative lamps for enlivening the game. An effect device 160 is disposed above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 is also provided above the effect device 160. The sound holes 181 and 143 are holes for outputting the sound of a speaker provided inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The effect device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 composed of two right shutters 163a and left shutters 163b that can be opened and closed in the horizontal direction, and a liquid crystal display device 157 (not shown, effect image display device) disposed on the back side of the shutter 163. When the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b open outward in the horizontal direction in front of the liquid crystal display device 157, the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 157 appears in front of the slot machine 100 (on the player side).

[0197] The liquid crystal display device (effect image display device) 157 of the present embodiment also functions as an effect device that executes effects described later. For example, it executes an operation navigator that notifies information related to a stop operation (for example, the operation order and operation timing of the stop buttons 137 to 139).

[0198] The information display button 191 is an operation button for calling and operating a user menu (for example, a menu for setting various information by the player). The information display button 191 is composed of a cross key button 191a and an OK button 191b. The cross key button 191a is a selection button used when the player selects one from a plurality of options. The cross key button 191a is composed of up, down, left, and right arrow keys, and by operating each arrow key, the cursor can be moved in the direction of the arrow. The OK button 191b is a button for determining the option where the cursor is positioned. In the present embodiment, for example, in the case of information setting by the user menu, when performing volume setting, light amount setting, etc., or when selecting a character (stage) of an effect executed after a bonus winning, it is used. In the present embodiment, the information display button 191 may be referred to as the cross button 191.

[0199] The performance button 192 is a button that can be operated when performing a performance that prompts the operation of the button. In the present embodiment, when the performance button 192 is operated, as a response performance, a performance suggesting the granting of benefits such as the number of additional sheets in the AT is executed.

[0200] Note that even if it is not a liquid crystal display device, it may be configured to be able to display various performance images and various game information. For example, a plurality of segment displays (7-segment displays), dot matrix displays, organic EL displays, plasma displays, reels (drums), or display devices composed of a projector and a screen may be used. Further, the display screen is rectangular, and the entire screen is configured to be visible to the player. In the case of the present embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but it may also be square. Further, a decoration (not shown) may be provided at the periphery of the display screen, and as a result, a part of the periphery of the display screen is hidden by the decoration, so that the display screen may appear to have an irregular shape. In the case of the present embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but it may also have a curved surface.

[0201] <Internal Configuration> FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the slot machine 100. FIG. 14(a) is a front view showing the slot machine 100 with the front door 102 opened, and FIG. 14(b) is an enlarged view of the door relay board 290 disposed on the front door 102.

[0202] The main body 101 is a box body surrounded by an upper panel 261, a left side panel 260, a right side panel 260, a lower panel 264, and a back panel 242, and is open at the front. Inside the main body 101, at a position that does not overlap with the ventilation opening 249 provided at the upper part of the back panel 242, a main control board storage case 210 for storing the main control board inside is arranged. Below this main control board storage case 210, a reel unit 700 including three reels 110 to 112 is arranged. On the side of the main control board storage case 210 and the reel unit 700, that is, on the left side panel 260 facing it, a sub-control board storage case 220 for storing the sub-control board inside is disposed. Also, on the right side panel 260 facing it, an information output circuit 334 connected to the main control board and outputting the information of the slot machine 100 to an external device is attached.

[0203] Also, on the right side of the reel unit 700, a setting key switch 281 for changing the setting value (also referred to as the game mode) of the slot machine 100 and for checking the changed setting value is provided. Here, the setting value is a value for adjusting the ratio of the total number of game media paid out by the game table to the total number of game media used by the player as the bet number on the game table when playing games for a predetermined period, and is what is so-called the "payout rate", and multiple-stage setting values, for example, can be set from setting "1" to setting "6".

[0204] The setting key switch 281 is a key switch that is electrically turned on / off by inserting and rotating a predetermined setting key (not shown). Specifically, when a predetermined setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 281 and rotated to the right, the setting key switch sensor provided in the setting key switch 281 detects the ON state, and when rotated to the left, the setting key switch sensor detects the OFF state.

[0205] And, on the lower surface plate 264, a hopper unit 180 (a device for paying out medals accumulated in the bucket) is disposed. Above this hopper unit 180, that is, below the reel unit 700, a power supply device 252 having a voltage monitoring circuit 330 (see FIG. 32) is disposed. A power switch 244 is disposed on the front surface of the power supply device 252. The power switch 244 is a toggle switch electrically connected to the power supply device 252. By this power switch 244, the power supply of the slot machine 100 can be turned on (power ON) or turned off (power OFF). The power supply device 252 converts the AC power supply externally supplied to the slot machine 100 into DC power, converts it into a predetermined voltage, and supplies it to each control unit such as the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400, and each device. Further, even after the external power supply is cut off, it is provided with a power storage circuit (for example, a capacitor) for supplying power to a predetermined component (for example, the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300) for a predetermined period (for example, 10 days).

[0206] On the right side of the hopper unit 180, a medal auxiliary storage 240 for storing medals overflowed from the hopper unit 180 is disposed, and an overflow terminal is disposed behind this (not shown). The power supply device 252 is provided with a power cord connection portion for connecting a power cord 265, and the power cord 265 connected here extends to the outside through a power cord hole 262 formed in the rear surface plate 242 of the main body 101.

[0207] The front door 102 is hinged to the left side panel 260 of the main body 101 via a hinge device 276. Above the reel window 113, there are provided an effect device 160, an effect control board (not shown) for controlling the effect device 160, and an upper speaker 272. Below the reel window 113, there are provided a medal selector 170 for sorting the inserted medals, a passage 266 through which the medals pass when the medal selector 170 drops an illegal medal or the like onto the medal tray 161, and the like. Further, a bass speaker 277 is provided at a position corresponding to the sound hole 181. An open sensor 294 is provided on the back surface of the front door 102. The open sensor 294 is configured to be at L (OFF) when the front door 102 is closed and at H (ON) when it is open.

[0208] <Internal Structure / Door Relay Board> On the back surface of the front door 102, a door relay board 290 is disposed below the reel window 113. As shown in FIG. 14(b), the door relay board 290 is provided with a reset switch 291, a setting change button 292, and a set value indicator 293.

[0209] The reset switch 291 is a push-button type switch. By pressing down (short-term pressing) this reset switch 291, the error of the slot machine 100 can be cleared.

[0210] The setting change button 292 is also a push-button type switch similar to the reset switch 291. The operation procedure for changing the set value by the setting change button 292 will be described later.

[0211] The set value indicator 293 is a display such as a 7-segment LED. This set value indicator 293 can display the set values (game modes) 1 to 6 set by the setting change button 292 in numbers.

[0212] Note that when the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 281 and turned clockwise (from setting key OFF to ON) in the power-on state (power ON), the currently set value is displayed numerically, so it can be used to check the currently set value. That is, when the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 281 and turned clockwise (from setting key OFF to ON) in the power-on state (power ON), the setting value confirmation process that enables the confirmation of the setting value is started. When the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 281 and turned counterclockwise (from setting key ON to OFF), the setting value confirmation process ends.

[0213] Here, the operation procedure for changing the setting value will be described. Insert the setting key (not shown) into the setting key switch 281 and turn it clockwise (from setting key OFF to ON), and turn the power switch 244 from the power-off state (power OFF) to the power-on state (power ON), so that the setting value change becomes effective (the setting value change process is started). Each time the setting change button 292 is pressed, the setting value changes in order from 1 to 6, and a desired setting value can be selected. Note that by operating the start lever 135, the setting value selected at that time is determined. Finally, by turning the setting key counterclockwise (from setting key ON to OFF), the setting value change process ends.

[0214] <Front Door> FIG. 15 is an external view of a part of the front door 1102 provided in the medal-less slot machine as viewed from the front side (the player side).

[0215] The medal-less slot machine (not shown) includes a main body 1101 (not shown) having substantially the same shape as the main body 101 of the slot machine 100 described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, and a front door 1102 attached to the front of the main body 1101 and capable of opening and closing with respect to the main body 1101.

[0216] At the lower part of the front door 1102, a lower plate 1200 (described later with reference to FIG. 16) on which articles can be placed is provided, and a ticket attachment unit 1250 (described later with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19) capable of holding tickets is attached.

[0217] <Lower dish> Next, the lower dish 1200 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 16. FIG. 16(a) is an exploded perspective view showing the members constituting the lower dish 1200 disassembled.

[0218] The lower dish 1200 includes a lower dish base (base member) 1202 that can be attached to the lower part of the front door 1102, a lower dish design sheet upper (first decorative member) 1204 that is fitted onto the upper part of the lower dish base 1202, a lower dish design sheet lower (second decorative member) 1206 that is fitted into the lower part of the lower dish base 1202, and a lower dish cover (cover member) 1208 that is attached to the lower dish base 1202 in a state of covering the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206.

[0219] The lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 are each provided with a predetermined decoration, and the decorations applied to the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 are visible from the front side (player side) through the lower dish cover 1208 made of a transparent member.

[0220] In this example, since the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 of the lower dish 1200 are configured to be detachable, a plurality of lower dish design sheet uppers 1204 and lower dish design sheet lowers 1206 with different decorations are prepared, and by exchanging the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206, decorations corresponding to the model of the gaming table can be applied, the variations of the decorations of the gaming table can be increased, and since the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 can be exchanged simply by removing the lower dish cover 1208, the design of the lower dish can be easily changed, improving convenience.

[0221] <Lower dish / Lower dish base> Next, the lower dish base (base member) 1202 of the lower dish 1200 will be described.

[0222] As shown in Fig. 16(a), the lower dish base 1202 is composed of a bottom surface 1202a which is a plate-shaped member of a substantially rectangular shape, a standing wall 1202b which is a plate-shaped member extending upward with the long side on the back side of the bottom surface 1202a as the base end, and a left frame 1202c and a right frame 1202d which support both ends of the bottom surface 1202a and the standing wall 1202b.

[0223] In the standing wall 1202b, a rectangular opening 1202b1 which allows the certificate attachment unit 1250 arranged at the rear to be visible, a sound hole 1202b2 through which sound from a speaker (not shown) is output, and locking holes 1202b3 into which the locking claws 1208b2 of the lower dish cover 1208 are locked are formed one by one at both longitudinal ends.

[0224] The left frame 1202c is composed of a member having a substantially L-shaped side view, a bottom left support portion 1202c1 which supports the left side of the bottom surface 1202a in a front view, a standing wall left support portion 1202c2 which supports the left side of the standing wall 1202b in a front view, and a left locking claw 1202c3 which can be locked to the left bottom of the front door 1102.

[0225] A left claw locking hole 1202e into which the left claw 1206a of the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 can be locked is formed in the bottom left support portion 1202c1 of the left frame 1202c, and a left claw locking hole 1202g into which the left claw 1204a of the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 can be locked is formed in the standing wall left support portion 1202c2 of the left frame 1202c.

[0226] The right frame 1202d is composed of a member having a substantially L-shaped side view, a bottom right support portion 1202d1 which supports the right side of the bottom surface 1202a in a front view, a standing wall right support portion 1202d2 which supports the right side of the standing wall 1202b in a front view, and a right locking claw 1202d3 which can be locked to the right bottom of the front door 1102.

[0227] On the bottom right support portion 1202d1 of the right frame 1202d, a right claw locking hole (not shown) into which the right claw 1206b of the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 can be locked is formed, and on the vertical wall right support portion 1202d2 of the right frame 1202d, a right claw locking hole (not shown) into which the right claw 1204b of the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 can be locked is formed.

[0228] Although details will be described later, the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 has a shape that is asymmetric left and right in a front view, and the left claw 1206a and the right claw 1206b have different shapes from each other. For this reason, the left claw locking hole 1202g into which the left claw 1206a can be locked and the right claw locking hole (not shown) into which the right claw 1206b can be locked also have different shapes from each other.

[0229] <Lower dish / Lower dish design sheet upper> Next, the lower dish design sheet upper (first decorative member) 1204 of the lower dish 1200 will be described.

[0230] As shown in FIG. 16(a), the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 is a translucent plate-like member having substantially the same shape as the vertical wall 1202b of the lower dish base 1202, and is configured to be detachable from the vertical wall 1202b.

[0231] The lower dish design sheet upper 1204 includes a left claw 1204a (protruding piece) that can be locked into the left claw locking hole 1202g of the left frame 1202c, a right claw 1204b (protruding piece) that can be locked into the right claw locking hole of the right frame 1202d, a cover portion 1204c that covers the rectangular opening 1202b1 of the vertical wall 1202b, and a circular sound hole 1204d formed at a position corresponding to the sound hole 1202b2 of the vertical wall 1202b.

[0232] After the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 is placed and positioned on the vertical wall 1202b of the lower dish base 1202, the left claw 1204a is locked into the left claw locking hole 1202g of the left frame 1202c, and the right claw 1204b is locked into the right claw locking hole of the right frame 1202d, whereby it can be attached to the lower dish base 1202.

[0233] On the other hand, the lower dish design sheet 1204 can be removed from the lower dish base 1202 by removing the left claw 1204a from the left claw locking hole 1202g of the left frame 1202c and removing the right claw 1204b from the right claw locking hole of the right frame 1202d.

[0234] The lower dish design sheet 1204 in this example has an asymmetrical shape in the vertical direction when viewed from the front, and the shapes of the upper claws and lower claws of the left claw 1204a and the right claw 1204b are different.

[0235] According to this example, since the shapes of the upper claws and lower claws of the left claw 1204a and the right claw 1204b on the lower dish design sheet 1204 are different, when attaching the lower dish design sheet 1204 to the vertical wall 1202b, it is possible to prevent an attachment mistake (reverse assembly) such that the lower dish design sheet 1204 is attached upside down, and the working efficiency can be improved.

[0236] In addition, since two left claws 1204a and right claws 1204b are provided on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the lower dish design sheet 1204, when the lower dish design sheet 1204 is forcibly removed, etc., the left claws 1204a and right claws 1204b are likely to be damaged, and traces at the time of removal can be left, making it easy to detect illegal acts, etc.

[0237] In this example, the lower dish design sheet 1204 has a symmetrical shape in the left - right direction when viewed from the front, and the shapes of the left claw 1204a and the right claw 1204b are the same. However, similar to the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 described later, the shapes of the left claw 1204a and the right claw 1204b may be made different.

[0238] <Lower dish / Lower dish design sheet lower> Next, the lower dish design sheet lower (second decorative member) 1206 of the lower dish 1200 will be described.

[0239] As shown in Fig. 16(a), the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 is a translucent plate - shaped member having substantially the same shape as the bottom surface 1202a of the lower dish base 1202, and is configured to be detachable from the bottom surface 1202a.

[0240] The lower dish design sheet lower 1206 is configured to have a left claw 1206a (protruding piece) that can be locked to the left claw locking hole 1202e of the left frame 1202c and a right claw 1206b (protruding piece) that can be locked to the right claw locking hole of the right frame 1202d.

[0241] After the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 is placed and positioned on the bottom surface 1202a of the lower dish base 1202, it can be attached to the lower dish base 1202 by locking the left claw 1206a to the left claw locking hole 1202e of the left frame 1202c and locking the right claw 1206b to the right claw locking hole of the right frame 1202d.

[0242] On the other hand, the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 can be removed from the lower dish base 1202 by removing the left claw 1206a from the left claw locking hole 1202e of the left frame 1202c and removing the right claw 1206b from the right claw locking hole of the right frame 1202d.

[0243] The lower dish design sheet lower 1206 in this example has a left-right asymmetric shape when viewed from the front, and the size of the left claw 1206a is larger than the size of the right claw 1206b.

[0244] According to this example, since the shapes of the left claw 1206a and the right claw 1206b of the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 are different, when attaching the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 to the bottom surface 1202a, it is possible to prevent an attachment mistake (reverse assembly) such that the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 is attached in the opposite left-right direction, and the working efficiency can be improved.

[0245] Also, since two left claws 1206a and right claws 1206b are provided on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the lower dish design sheet lower 1206, when the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 is forcibly removed, etc., the left claws 1206a and right claws 1206b are likely to be damaged, and traces can be left when removed, making it easy to detect improper acts, etc.

[0246] In addition, the lower dish design sheet 1206 in this example has an asymmetrical shape when viewed from the front, and the left claws 1206a and the right claws 1206a are formed only at the upper part of the lower dish design sheet 1206.

[0247] According to this example, since the left claws 1206a and the right claws 1206a are formed only at the upper part of the lower dish design sheet 1206, when attaching the lower dish design sheet 1206 to the bottom surface 1202a, it is possible to prevent an attachment error (reverse assembly) such that the lower dish design sheet 1206 is attached upside down, and the work efficiency can be improved.

[0248] In this example, the lower dish design sheet 1206 has an asymmetrical shape both horizontally and vertically when viewed from the front, and the shapes of the left claw 1206a and the right claw 1206b are made different. However, similar to the upper dish design sheet 1204, by making the shape symmetrical horizontally when viewed from the front, the shapes of the left claw 1206a and the right claw 1206b may be made the same.

[0249] <Lower dish / Lower dish cover> Next, the lower dish cover (cover member) 1208 of the lower dish 1200 will be described.

[0250] As shown in Fig. 16(a), the lower dish cover 1208 is a dish-shaped member that can be accommodated in the space formed by the bottom surface 1202a, the standing wall 1202b, the left frame 1202c, and the right frame 1202d of the lower dish base 1202.

[0251] The lower dish cover 1208 is composed of a bottom surface 1208a made of a plate-shaped member with a substantially rectangular shape, a rear standing wall 1208b made of a plate-shaped member extending upward with the long side on the back side of this bottom surface 1208a as the base end, a front standing wall 1208c made of a plate-shaped member extending vertically with the long side on the front side of the bottom surface 1208a as the base end, left and right frames 1208d and 1208e disposed at both longitudinal ends of the bottom surface 1208a, and a support piece 1208f extending rearward with the lower end of the front standing wall 1208c as the base end.

[0252] The back vertical wall 1208b is configured to have a sound hole 1208b1 formed at a position corresponding to the sound hole 1202b2 of the lower dish base 1202, and two locking claws 1208b2 that can be locked to the vertical wall 1202b of the lower dish base 1202.

[0253] The lower dish cover 1208 is positioned with respect to the lower dish base 1202 with the lower dish design sheet upper 1204 and the lower dish design sheet lower 1206 attached, such that the bottom surface 1208a and the support piece 1208f sandwich the upper and lower sides of the bottom surface 1202a of the lower dish base 1202. After positioning, the two locking claws 1208b2 are respectively locked to the locking holes 1202b3 formed at both ends of the vertical wall 1202b, enabling attachment to the lower dish base 1202.

[0254] <Lower dish / Lower dish cover / Locking claw> Figure 16(b) is a partially enlarged view of the locking claw 1208b2 of the lower dish base 1202 as viewed from above.

[0255] The locking claw 1208b2 is composed of a base portion 1208b21 made of a plate-shaped member, and a locking portion 1208b22 that protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction of the back vertical wall 1208b with the tip of this base portion 1208b21 as the base end.

[0256] In this example, the angle α formed by the base portion 1208b21 and the locking portion 1208b22 is approximately 90 degrees.

[0257] When the angle α formed by the base portion 1208b21 and the locking portion 1208b22 is an obtuse angle (e.g., 135 degrees) rather than 90 degrees, when pulling out the locking claw 1208b2 to remove the lower dish cover 1208 from the lower dish base 1202, the locking claw 1208b2 of the lower dish cover 1208 can be easily removed from the locking hole 1202b3 of the lower dish base 1202, and no trace of removing the lower dish cover 1208 from the lower dish base 1202 can be left on the locking claw 1208b2.

[0258] On the one hand, according to this example, since the angle α formed by the base portion 1208b21 and the locking portion 1208b22 is an acute angle (about 85 degrees in this example), when pulling out the locking claw 1208b2 to remove the lower dish cover 1208 from the lower dish base 1202, it is possible to make it difficult to remove the locking claw 1208b2 of the lower dish cover 1208 from the locking hole 1202b3 of the lower dish base 1202, thereby preventing unauthorized removal of the lower dish cover 1208. In addition, traces of removing the lower dish cover 1208 from the lower dish base 1202 can be left on the locking claw 1208b2, making it possible to notice unauthorized acts and the like.

[0259] Note that the angle α of this formed angle is not limited to this example and may be an acute angle (e.g., 70 degrees) smaller than 85 degrees or an obtuse angle (e.g., 100 degrees).

[0260] <Lower dish / Lower dish cover / Bottom surface and rear vertical wall> FIG. 16(c) is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the bottom surface 1208a and the rear vertical wall 1208b of the lower dish cover 1208.

[0261] In this example, the thickness a of the corner portion (R portion) spanning from the bottom surface 1208a to the rear vertical wall 1208b is configured to be larger than the thickness b of the bottom surface 1208a (a > b).

[0262] Specifically, the inner wall of the corner portion has a higher curvature than the outer wall of the corner portion in order to make the volume of the lower dish cover 1208 as large as possible.

[0263] On the other hand, the outer wall of the corner portion has a lower curvature than the inner wall of the corner portion in order to ensure that when the lower dish cover 1208 is attached and detached, it does not come into contact with and damage the upper 1204 and lower 1206 of the lower dish design sheet, while at the same time providing thickness to the corner portion to ensure the strength of the lower dish cover 1208.

[0264] <Lower dish / Summary> As described above, the gaming table (e.g., medal-less slot machine) according to this embodiment includes a lower plate (e.g., the lower plate 1200 shown in FIG. 15) on which an article can be placed. The lower plate includes a base member (e.g., the lower plate base 1202 shown in FIG. 16(a)) that can be attached to a door body (e.g., the front door 1102 shown in FIG. 15), a first decorated member (e.g., the upper part of the lower plate design sheet 1204 shown in FIG. 16(a)), a second decorated member (e.g., the lower part of the lower plate design sheet 1206 shown in FIG. 16(a)), and a cover member (e.g., the lower plate cover 1208 shown in FIG. 16(a)) that can be attached to the base member in a state of covering the first decorated member and the second decorated member. It is a gaming table characterized by this.

[0265] According to the gaming table of this embodiment, by preparing a plurality of sets of first and second decorated members with different decorations and exchanging the first and second decorated members, it is possible to apply decorations according to the model of the gaming table, increase the variations of the decorations of the gaming table, and since the first and second decorated members can be exchanged simply by removing the cover member, it is possible to easily change the design of the lower plate and improve convenience.

[0266] Further, the first decorated member or the second decorated member (e.g., the lower part of the lower plate design sheet 1206 shown in FIG. 16(a)) has a first protruding piece (e.g., the left claw 1206a shown in FIG. 16(a)) on one side in the longitudinal direction and a second protruding piece (e.g., the right claw 1206b shown in FIG. 16(a)) on the other side in the longitudinal direction, and the first protruding piece and the second protruding piece may have different shapes.

[0267] With such a configuration, when attaching the first decorated member or the second decorated member to the base member, it is possible to prevent an attachment mistake (reverse assembly) such that they are attached in the opposite left and right directions, and improve work efficiency.

[0268] Further, the cover member is made of a box-shaped member, and the inner wall of the corner where the bottom surface and the back surface of the cover member intersect may have a higher curvature than the outer wall of the corner.

[0269] With such a configuration, it is possible to make the volume of the cover member as large as possible, and when attaching and detaching the cover member from the base member, it is possible to prevent damage to the first and second decorative members, and at the same time, by providing thickness at the corners, the strength of the base member can be ensured.

[0270] Further, the cover member is provided with a locking claw (for example, the locking claw 1208b2 shown in FIG. 16(a)) that can be locked to the base member. The locking claw is composed of a base portion (for example, the base portion 1208b21 shown in FIG. 16(b)) and a locking portion (for example, the locking portion 1208b22 shown in FIG. 16(b)) that protrudes with the tip of the base portion as the base end. The angle (for example, the angle α shown in FIG. 16(b)) formed by the base portion and the locking portion may be an acute angle (an angle smaller than 90 degrees. Preferably, 75 degrees or more and less than 90 degrees).

[0271] With such a configuration, when pulling out the locking claw to remove the cover member from the base member, it is possible to make it difficult to remove the locking claw of the cover member from the base member, prevent unauthorized removal of the cover member, and leave a trace of removing the cover member from the base member on the locking claw, making it possible to notice unauthorized acts and the like.

[0272] <Certificate attachment unit> Next, the certificate attachment unit 1250 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19.

[0273] FIG. 17(a) is an external perspective view of the certificate attachment unit 1250 seen from the front, and FIG. 17(b) is an external perspective view of the certificate attachment unit 1250 seen from the back.

[0274] The certificate attachment unit 1250 is configured to include a transparent sheet 1252 (certificate holding means) capable of holding a certificate and a certificate cover 1254 (attachment means) to which the transparent sheet 1252 can be attached.

[0275] Here, the "certificate" refers to a paper medium on which information regarding the gaming table is displayed. For example, it corresponds to a combined certificate issued by Nihon Denki Kyokai (a pachislot manufacturers' group) or Nihon Kogyo Kumiai (a pachinko manufacturers' association), a patent certificate, etc.

[0276] <Certificate attachment unit / transparent sheet> Next, the transparent sheet 1252 (certificate holding means) of the certificate attachment unit 1250 will be described.

[0277] As shown in Fig. 17(a), the transparent sheet 1252 is made of a resin sheet having a substantially rectangular shape in plan view, and one or a plurality of certificates 1252a can be pasted on the front surface (or the back surface).

[0278] Note that the material of the "certificate holding means" according to the present invention is not particularly limited, and for example, it may be paper, a metal plate, or the like. Also, the method of holding by the "certificate holding means" is not particularly limited, and for example, the certificate may be pasted using double-sided tape or the like, or pockets, slits, or the like for holding the certificate may be formed.

[0279] <Certificate attachment unit / certificate cover> Next, the certificate cover 1254 (attachment means) of the certificate attachment unit 1250 will be described.

[0280] The certificate cover 1254 includes a front surface 1254a made of a plate-like member, an upper frame 1254b extending rearward with the upper end of the front surface 1254a as a base end, a lower frame 1254c extending rearward with the lower end of the front surface 1254a as a base end, and a left frame 1254d and a right frame 1254e extending rearward with both ends of the front surface 1254a as base ends.

[0281] Fitting grooves 1254a1 into which the upper and lower edges of the transparent sheet 1252 can be fitted are formed on both sides in the short side direction of the front surface 1254a, extending from one side to the other side in the long side direction of the front surface 1254a. Also, a clamping portion 1254a2 capable of clamping the transparent sheet 1252 is formed on the left side of the front surface 1254a in a front view.

[0282] The transparent sheet 1252 is configured to be slidable leftward in the front view along the upper and lower fitting grooves 1254a1 on the upper and lower sides of the front surface 1254a with its upper and lower edges fitted therein. When the transparent sheet 1252 is slid leftward in the front view along the fitting groove 1254a1 of the front surface 1254a, the left edge of the transparent sheet 1252 is clamped by the clamping portion 1254a2 of the front surface 1254a, whereby the transparent sheet 1252 is held by the document cover 1254.

[0283] On the other hand, when the transparent sheet 1252 clamped by the clamping portion 1254a2 of the front surface 1254a is slid rightward in the front view, the clamping of the transparent sheet 1252 is released, and the upper and lower ends of the transparent sheet 1252 are pulled out from the fitting groove 1254a1 of the front surface 1254a and removed, whereby the transparent sheet 1252 is removed from the document cover 1254.

[0284] According to the document attachment unit 1250 of this example, since it has a document holding means (transparent sheet 1252) capable of holding a document and an attachment means (document cover 1254) to which the document holding means (transparent sheet 1252) can be attached, the document can be easily exchanged, and the convenience of the operator performing the exchange operation can be improved.

[0285] At the longitudinal center of the upper edge 1254b of the document cover 1254, as shown in FIGS. 17(a) and (b), a door fixing portion 1254b1 (fixing portion) for fixing the document cover 1254 to the attachment base 1280 of the front door 1102 is formed, and on both sides of this fixing portion 1254b1, insertion portions 1254b2 through which the protruding portions 1288 formed on the attachment base 1280 of the front door 1102 are inserted are respectively formed.

[0286] As shown in FIG. 17(b), the left frame 1254d has two fitting concave portions 1254d1 (fitting portions) that can be fitted to two fitting convex portions 1282 (portions to be fitted) formed on the front door 1102, and the right frame 1254e has a fixing claw 1254e1 (locking portion) that can be locked to a fixing claw engaged portion 1284 (portion to be locked) formed on the front door 1102.

[0287] <Paper attachment unit / Attachment base> Next, with reference to FIG. 18, the attachment base 1280 to which the paper attachment unit 1250 can be attached will be described.

[0288] FIG. 18 is an external perspective view of the lower part of the front door 1102 as seen from the back.

[0289] At the lower part of the front door 1102, an attachment base 1280 to which the paper attachment unit 1250 can be attached is provided.

[0290] The attachment base 1280 is formed with a fitting convex portion 1282 (fitted portion) into which the fitting concave portion 1254d1 of the left frame 1254d of the paper cover 1254 can be fitted, a fixed claw engaged portion 1284 (engaged portion) with which the fixed claw 1254e1 of the right frame 1254e of the paper cover 1254 can be locked, a cover fixing portion 1286 (fixed portion) to which the door fixing portion 1254b1 of the paper cover 1254 can be fixed, and a protruding portion 1288 through which the insertion portion 1254b2 of the paper cover 1254 can be inserted.

[0291] <Paper attachment unit / Attachment method> Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the attachment method of the paper attachment unit 1250 will be described.

[0292] FIG. 19(a) is an external perspective view and a schematic diagram showing the state before attaching the paper attachment unit 1250 to the front door 1102, and FIG. 19(b) is an external perspective view and a schematic diagram showing the state after attaching the paper attachment unit 1250 to the front door 1101.

[0293] First, the front door 1102 is rotated in the X direction with respect to the main body 1101 about the rotation axis L1, and with the front door 1102 in a half - open state, the fitting concave portion 1254d1 of the left frame 1254d of the paper attachment unit 1250 is fitted to the fitting convex portion 1282 of the attachment base 1280 of the front door 1101, thereby positioning the left frame 1254d of the paper attachment unit 1250 (corresponding to the attachment operation of circle 1 in the figure).

[0294] Subsequently, using the contact point between the fitting recess 1254d1 of the left frame 1254d of the paper attachment unit 1250 and the fitting protrusion 1282 of the attachment base 1280 of the front door 1101 as the rotation axis L2, the right frame 1254e of the paper attachment unit 1250 is rotated in the Y direction toward the front door 1102. The insertion portion 1254b2 of the paper attachment unit 1250 is inserted into the protruding portion 1288 of the attachment base 1280, and the door fixing portion 1254b1 of the paper attachment unit 1250 is inserted into the cover fixing portion 1286 of the attachment base 1280.

[0295] Subsequently, with the rotation axis L2 as the center, the right frame 1254e of the paper attachment unit 1250 is further rotated in the Y direction, and the fixing claw 1254e1 of the right frame 1254e is locked to the fixing claw engaged portion 1284 of the attachment base 1280 of the front door 1101 to temporarily fix the paper attachment unit 1250 (corresponding to the attachment operation of circle 2 in the figure).

[0296] Finally, the door fixing portion 1254b1 of the paper attachment unit 1250 and the cover fixing portion 1286 of the attachment base 1280 are fixed with screws 1290, thereby fixing the paper attachment unit 1250 to the attachment base 1280 of the front door 1102.

[0297] According to this example, by fitting the fitting recess 1254d1 of the paper attachment unit 1250 to the fitting protrusion 1282 of the attachment base 1280, the positioning of the paper attachment unit 1250 can be performed. Therefore, the operation of attaching the paper attachment unit 1250 is easy, the burden on the operator can be reduced, and operation errors can be prevented.

[0298] In addition, since the fitting recess 1254d1 of the certificate attachment unit 1250 is disposed at a position closer to the rotation axis L1 of the front door 1102 than the fixing claw 1254e1 of the certificate attachment unit 1250, when attaching the certificate attachment unit 1250, it is not necessary for the operator to stand behind the front door 1102 to perform the work. It is sufficient to insert a hand behind the front door 1102 and perform the work with the front door 1102 slightly opened. Therefore, the opening amount of the front door 1102 during the attachment work can be minimized, and the work efficiency of attaching and detaching the certificate attachment unit 1250 can be improved.

[0299] Moreover, since the rotation direction (X direction) when the front door 1102 is opened and the rotation direction (Y direction) when the certificate attachment unit 1250 is attached to the front door 1102 are the same direction, when attaching the certificate attachment unit 1250, it is not necessary for the operator to stand behind the front door 1102 to perform the work. It is sufficient to insert a hand behind the front door 1102 and perform the work with the front door 1102 slightly opened. Therefore, the opening amount of the front door 1102 during the attachment work can be minimized, and the work efficiency of attaching and detaching the certificate attachment unit 1250 can be improved.

[0300] In addition, since the certificate attachment unit 1250 can be fixed to the front door 1102 only with the fixing claw 1254e1 and the screw 1290, the work of attaching and detaching the certificate attachment unit 1250 is easy, and the burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0301] <Summary of Certificate Attachment Unit> As described above, the gaming table according to this example (for example, a medal-less slot machine, the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 13) includes a door body (for example, the front door 1102 shown in FIG. 15) where a certificate (for example, the certificate 1252a shown in FIG. 17(a)) on which information about the gaming table is displayed can be placed, a certificate holding means (for example, the transparent sheet 1252 shown in FIG. 17(a)) that can hold the certificate, and an attachment means (for example, the certificate cover 1254 shown in FIG. 17(a)) to which the certificate holding means can be attached. The attachment means includes a locking portion (for example, the fixed claw 1254e1 shown in FIG. 19(a)) that can be locked to the attachment portion (for example, the attachment base 1280) of the door body on one side in the longitudinal direction. The attachment means includes a fitting portion (for example, the fitting recess 1254d1 shown in FIG. 19(a)) that can be fitted to the attachment portion of the door body on the other side in the longitudinal direction. The attachment means includes a fixing portion (for example, the door fixing portion 1254b1 shown in FIG. 19(a)) for fixing the attachment means to the attachment portion of the door body. The attachment portion includes a locked portion (for example, the fixed claw locked portion 1284 shown in FIG. 18) to which the locking portion of the attachment means can be locked. The attachment portion includes a fitted portion (for example, the fitting convex portion 1282 shown in FIG. 19(a)) to which the fitting portion of the attachment means can be fitted. The attachment portion includes a fixed portion (for example, the cover fixing portion 1286 shown in FIG. 19(a)) to which the fixing portion of the attachment means is fixed. By fitting the fitting portion of the attachment means to the fitted portion of the attachment portion of the door body, rotating the attachment means toward the attachment portion of the door body with the fitted portion as the rotation axis, and locking the locking portion of the attachment means to the locked portion of the attachment portion of the door body, the attachment means can be attached to the door body. This is a gaming table characterized by this.

[0302] According to the gaming table according to this embodiment, the work of attaching and detaching the attachment means is easy, and the burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0303] Also, the fitting portion of the attachment means may be disposed at a position closer to the rotation axis (for example, the rotation axis L1 shown in FIG. 19(a)) of the door body than the locking portion of the attachment means.

[0304] With such a configuration, when attaching the mounting means to the door body, it is not necessary for the operator to stand behind the door body to perform the work. It is sufficient to insert a hand behind the door body and perform the work with the door body slightly opened. Therefore, the opening amount of the door body during the attachment work can be minimized, and the work efficiency of attaching and detaching the mounting means can be improved.

[0305] Further, the rotation direction when the door body is opened (for example, the X direction shown in FIG. 19(a)) and the rotation direction when the mounting means is attached to the door body (for example, the Y direction shown in FIG. 19(a)) may be the same direction.

[0306] With such a configuration, when attaching the mounting means to the door body, it is not necessary for the operator to stand behind the door body to perform the work. It is sufficient to insert a hand behind the door body and perform the work with the door body slightly opened. Therefore, the opening amount of the door body during the attachment work can be minimized, and the work efficiency of attaching and detaching the mounting means can be improved.

[0307] <Door relay board> Next, with reference to FIGS. 20 to 23, the door relay board 1300 of the medal-less slot machine will be described.

[0308] FIG. 20(a) is a front view showing a part of the door relay board 1300 of the medal-less slot machine.

[0309] As shown in FIG. 20(a), the medal-less slot machine (not shown) includes a door relay board 1300 (substrate) and a substrate cover 1302 (cover member) disposed so as to cover one surface 1300a (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "component mounting surface") of the door relay board 1300.

[0310] The door relay board 1300 is a board corresponding to the door relay board 290 of the slot machine 100 described with reference to FIG. 14, and is provided on the back side (rear side) of the front door 1102 (see FIG. 15) of the medal-less slot machine. In FIG. 20(a), the two-dot chain line indicated by the reference symbol L3 indicates the rotation axis of the front door 1102. The right side in the front view in the longitudinal direction of the door relay board 1300 is the side closer to the rotation axis L3 side of the front door 1102, and the left side in the front view in the longitudinal direction of the door relay board 1300 is the side farther from the rotation axis L3 side of the front door 1102.

[0311] Further, the door relay board 1300 is a board on which operating means is arranged on the component mounting surface 1300a (one surface). In this example, as the operating means, instead of the setting change button 292 and the reset switch 291 of the door relay board 290 described with reference to FIG. 14, a clear switch 1304 and a reset switch 1306 are provided. These clear switch 1304 and reset switch 1306 are arranged on the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay board 1300 on the side farther from the rotation axis L3 side of the front door 1102.

[0312] Note that the "plate part" according to the present invention is not limited to a board, and any plate-shaped member may be used. Therefore, the "operating means" according to the present invention is not limited to the operating means arranged on the board. For example, the operating means arranged on a plate part separate from the board, the operating means arranged on a plate part adjacent to the longitudinal direction (or short-side direction) of the board, the operating means arranged on a plate part laminated on the front surface (or back surface) of the board, the operating means arranged on a plate part electrically connected to the board via a connector or the like may be used. Further, although the door relay board 1300 is provided on the back side of the front door 1102, the present invention is not limited thereto. A board provided with some operating means (such as a push-type switch or a rotary switch) may be provided on a main body frame that can be opened and closed (rotated) around a rotation axis or on a door frame provided on the main body frame, and the present invention can also be applied to a pachinko game table having such a configuration.

[0313] <Door relay board / Clear switch> Next, the clear switch 1304 mounted on the door relay board 1300 will be described with reference to FIG. 20(b).

[0314] FIG. 20(b) is a partial enlarged view showing an enlarged periphery of the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306 on the door relay board 1300.

[0315] The clear switch 1304 is an operating means capable of clearing game information (for example, information on the number of game values, error information, etc.) related to the progress of a game at least on a gaming table (in this example, a medal-less slot machine). In this example, it is composed of a push-button type switch having an operation surface 1304a for receiving an operation.

[0316] The outer diameter (diameter) W1 of the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 is larger than the inner diameter W2 of the clear switch opening 1330c1 formed in the substrate cover 1302 described later (W1>W2). Only a part of the central operation surface of the clear switch 1304 is exposed to the outside from the clear switch opening 1330c1.

[0317] In this example, by pressing the clear switch 1304, the information on the number of game values (information corresponding to the number of medals) and error information stored in the storage means (RWM, etc.) are cleared (initialized).

[0318] In the vicinity above the clear switch 1304 on the door relay board 1300, clear switch function information 1308 indicating the function of the clear switch 1304 (in this example, the character string "CLEAR" indicating that it is a clear switch and a rectangle surrounding this character string) is printed (in this example, silk printing).

[0319] Below the clear switch function information 1308, there is also printed (silk printed in this example) a clear switch identification information 1310 indicating the identification information of the clear switch 1304 (in this example, the character string "SW3" indicating that the identification symbol is SW3), and a clear switch installation position information 1312 indicating the installation position (mounting location) of the clear switch 1304 (a square shape in this example). Also, near the clear switch 1304 on the board cover 1302 (cover member), the characters "Medal count clear" are engraved.

[0320] Note that the ratio of the outer diameter (diameter) W1 of the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 to the inner diameter W2 of the clear switch opening 1330c1 is not limited to the ratio shown in FIG. 20(b). The inner diameter of the clear switch opening 1330c1 may be of a size such that the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 can be operated with a human finger or the like. Also, the shapes of the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 and the clear switch opening 1330c1 are not limited to circular, and may be, for example, elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, or a polygon with five or more sides.

[0321] <Door relay board / Reset switch> Next, the reset switch 1306 mounted on the door relay board 1300 will be described.

[0322] The reset switch 1306 is an operating means capable of clearing error information (for example, door open error) related to errors in at least the gaming table (in this example, a medal-less slot machine). In this example, it is composed of a push-button type switch having an operation surface 1306a for receiving an operation.

[0323] The outer diameter (diameter) W1 of the operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306 is the same as the outer diameter W1 of the clear switch 1304 and is also the same as the inner diameter W1 of the reset switch opening 1330a1 formed in the board cover 1302 described later. The operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306 is in a state where the whole is exposed to the outside from the reset switch opening 1330a1.

[0324] In this example, by pressing this reset switch 1306, error information and the like stored in the storage means (such as RWM) are cleared (initialized), and the error is eliminated. Note that by operating this reset switch 1306, it may be possible to switch the set value in the setting change state.

[0325] In the vicinity above the reset switch 1306 on the door relay board 1300, reset switch function information 1314 indicating the function of the reset switch 1306 (in this example, the character string "RESET" indicating that it is a reset switch and a rectangle surrounding this character string) is printed (in this example, silk printing).

[0326] Also, below this reset switch function information 1314, reset switch identification information 1316 indicating the identification information of the reset switch 1306 (in this example, the character string "SW2" indicating that the identification symbol is SW2) and reset switch arrangement position information 1318 indicating the arrangement position (mounting position) of the reset switch 1306 (in this example, a quadrangular figure) are printed (in this example, silk printing). Also, near the clear switch 1306 on the board cover 1302 (cover member), the characters "RESET SETTING" are engraved.

[0327] Note that in this example, the outer diameters of the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306 are the same W1, but the present invention is not limited to this, and they may have different outer diameters. Also, the shape of the operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306 and the reset switch opening 1330a1 is not limited to a circular shape, and may be, for example, an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, or a polygon with five or more sides. Also, the outer diameter of the operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306 and the inner diameter of the reset switch opening 1330a1 are the same W1, but a structure similar to the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 and the clear switch opening 1330c1 may be adopted.

[0328] <Door Relay Board / Parts> Next, the components mounted on the door relay board 1300 will be described.

[0329] As shown in Fig. 20(a), a plurality of components are mounted (arranged) on the door relay board 1300.

[0330] The "components" mounted on the "substrate" according to the present invention are not particularly limited. On the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay board 1300 in this example, there are a display 1320 composed of a 7-segment LED, active components such as various ICs 1322, passive components 1324 such as resistors, collective resistors, capacitors, coils, and mechanical components such as connectors 1326.

[0331] Among the passive components 1324, the resistor is a component with the symbol "R" printed (silk-printed) in the vicinity, the collective resistor among the passive components 1324 is a component with the symbol "RA" printed (silk-printed) in the vicinity, and the capacitor among the passive components 1324 is a component with the symbol "C" printed (silk-printed) in the vicinity.

[0332] In this example, the connector 1326 is provided from the clear switch 1304 through a predetermined area in the longitudinal direction of the door relay board 1300 (leaving a space), and in this predetermined area, the longitudinal direction of the passive components 1324 (certain components. In this example, the elongated resistors R26, R29 to R31, R36 to R38, the elongated capacitors C12 to C14, and the elongated collective resistor RA1) is provided parallel to the short side direction of the door relay board 1300 (the vertical direction in Fig. 20(a)).

[0333] According to this example, when a cable or the like is inserted into or removed from the connector 1326, or when the clear switch 1304 (operating means) is pressed, stress during the pressing operation is applied to the door relay board 1300, causing distortion (deformation) in the door relay board 1300, and a situation where the components mounted on the door relay board 1300 are indirectly damaged can be avoided, and deterioration and failure of the components can be prevented.

[0334] <Substrate cover> Next, the substrate cover 1302 (cover member) will be described with reference to FIG. 21(a).

[0335] FIG. 21(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X in FIG. 20(a).

[0336] The substrate cover 1302 is a dish-shaped transparent member disposed so as to cover the entire component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay substrate 1300. In this example, it is made of colorless and transparent plastic.

[0337] Note that the "cover member" according to the present invention only needs to be a member that "covers at least a part of one surface side of a substrate (for example, the door relay substrate 1300)". For example, it does not cover the connectors 1326, the reset switch 1306, the display 1320, etc. arranged on the door relay substrate 1300, but may be a member that covers the clear switch 1304.

[0338] The substrate cover 1302 is composed of an upper surface 1330 having a rectangular shape in plan view and side surfaces 1332 extending from the four sides of this upper surface 1330 as base ends.

[0339] The upper surface 1330 of the substrate cover 1302 includes a base surface 1330a extending in a direction orthogonal to the uppermost part of the side surface 1332 (horizontal direction in side view), an inclined surface 1330b extending from the end of this base surface 1330a as a base end in the thickness direction of the base surface 1330a and in a direction opposite to the clear switch 1304, and a raised surface 1330c formed at the uppermost part of this inclined surface 1330b.

[0340] Hereinafter, the inclined surface 1330b and the raised surface 1330c that bulge (protrude) in the thickness direction with reference to the flat base surface 1330a may be collectively referred to as raised portions 1330b and 1330c.

[0341] On the base surface 1330a of the upper surface 1330, a circular reset switch opening 1330a1 that enables the operation of the reset switch 1306 is formed. This reset switch opening 1330a1 is an opening having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter W1 of the operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306. When the substrate cover 1302 is attached to the door relay substrate 1300, the operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306 is exposed to the outside from the reset switch opening 1330a1, and the pressing operation of the reset switch 1306 is possible.

[0342] In this example, the base surface 1330a of the upper surface 1330 and the operation surface 1306a of the reset switch 1306 are substantially flush, but the present invention is not limited to this, and one surface may be higher or lower than the other surface.

[0343] On the raised surface 1330c of the upper surface 1330, a circular clear switch opening 1330c1 that enables the operation of the clear switch 1304 is formed. This clear switch opening 1330c1 is an opening having an inner diameter W2 smaller than the outer diameter W1 of the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304. When the substrate cover 1302 is attached to the door relay substrate 1300, the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 is not exposed to the outside from the clear switch opening 1330c1, but is located below the clear switch opening 1330c1 (below the raised portions 1330b and 1330c).

[0344] That is, the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 is covered by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c, but it can contact the central portion of the clear switch 1304 through the clear switch opening 1330c1 formed in the raised surface 1330c, and the clear switch 1304 can be pressed by a human finger or the like.

[0345] According to this example, since the raised portions 1330b and 1330c are formed around the opening 1330c1 (opening) for the clear switch that enables the operation of the clear switch 1304 (operating means), even without visually seeing the clear switch 1304 (operating means), it is possible to operate the clear switch 1304 (operating means) by groping using the raised portions 1330b and 1330c as a clue, which can improve the convenience for store clerks and the like in the game parlor.

[0346] In addition, since the board cover 1302 includes the raised surface 1330c (covering portion) that covers a part of the operation surface 1304a of the clear switch 1304 (operating means), it is possible to prevent unauthorized operations, and it is possible to make it difficult to insert an unauthorized jig through the opening 1330c1 (opening) for the clear switch. Also, even if the clothing or equipment of the operator accidentally hits the clear switch 1304 (operating means), the operation by the clear switch 1304 (operating means) can be prevented, troubles during the business hours of the game parlor can be avoided, and unintended operations during maintenance work after business hours can be prevented.

[0347] Note that the "operating means" according to the present invention is not limited to an operating means (for example, the clear switch 1304) that can clear game information related to the progress of the game on the game table. For example, it may be a reset switch (for example, the reset switch 1306 described with reference to FIG. 20) that can cancel an error, a setting change button (for example, the setting change button 292 described with reference to FIG. 13) that can perform an operation for changing settings, or the like.

[0348] In addition, the "raised portion" according to the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, with the end of the base surface 1330a as the base end, it may be a portion that bulges in the thickness direction of the base surface 1330a and toward the direction of the clear switch 1304 (that is, a portion that bulges in the direction opposite to the raised portions 1330b and 1330c in this example). Also, with the end of the base surface 1330a as the base end, it may be a portion that bulges on both sides in the thickness direction of the base surface 1330a. Thus, when the "raised portion" is configured to bulge from the substrate case toward the substrate (clear switch 1304), the functional information displayed on the substrate is configured to be located across the raised portion and the upper surface of the substrate case. The visibility of the functional information in the first portion where the functional information and the raised portion overlap is reduced, and the second portion where the functional information and the upper surface of the substrate case overlap (the portion where the functional information and the raised portion do not overlap) may be configured such that the visibility of the functional information is not lower than that of a specific portion. Note that not only functional information but also identification information such as "SW3" can be applied. Further, in the present invention, the functional information is configured to be located across the raised portion and the base surface 1330a, but it is not limited to this. The functional information may be configured to be displayed across the exposed portion not covered by the substrate case and the raised portion. In the case of such a configuration, the visibility of the first portion where the functional information and the raised portion overlap is reduced, and the second portion where the functional information is exposed by the exposed portion may be configured such that the visibility is not lower than that of the first portion. Note that this may be a configuration in which the "raised portion" bulges in the direction opposite to the substrate, and the same applies to a configuration in which it bulges toward the substrate. Also, not only functional information but also identification information such as "SW3" can be applied.

[0349] Also, as an example of bulging toward the clear switch 1304, it may be as shown in FIG. 22. For example, a recessed portion 1330d may be formed from the base surface 1330a toward the clear switch 1304, and raised portions 1330b and 1330c may be formed from the deepest part of the recessed portion 1330d toward the base surface 1330a. By doing so, when the base surface 1330a is slid with the hand, the finger can enter the recessed portion 1330d, making it easier to identify the position of the clear switch 1304, and the opening can be grasped by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c. Also, the dimension of the recessed portion 1330d is D1, the dimension of the raised portion 1330b is D3, and the dimension of the depth into which the finger can enter as the difference is D2. At this time, the magnitude relationship of "D1 > D2 > D3" is obtained, and since D2 is larger in dimension than D3, it becomes easier to recognize that it is recessed. Note that "D2 < D3" may also be the case, and by doing so, it becomes easier to access the clear switch 1304 even when the finger is thick. Furthermore, the operation surface of the clear switch 1304 is covered by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c, and since the operation surface appears large due to the deformation by the raised portions, it is easy to recognize the clear switch 1304 even when viewed visually. In the illustrated example, the innermost part (lower end part) of the recessed portion 1330d is formed at the outer periphery of the operation surface of the clear switch 1304 (it can also be said that the connecting portion between the recessed portion 1330d and the raised portion 1330b is formed at the outer periphery of the operation surface), and the raised portions 1330b and 1330c are configured to be formed on the operation surface of the clear switch 1304, and even if the raised portions 1330b and 1330c are strongly pushed in, they are prevented from reaching the operation surface by bending to prevent unintended operation detection.However, not limited to such a configuration, the innermost part (lower end part) of the recessed part 1330d is formed on the operation surface of the clear switch 1304 (it can also be said that the connecting part between the recessed part 1330d and the raised part 1330b is formed on the operation surface), and the raised parts 1330b and 1330c may also be formed on the operation surface of the clear switch 1304. By doing so, even if a finger cannot be inserted into the opening having the inner diameter W2, the operation surface can be operated at the connecting part between the recessed part 1330d and the raised part 1330b by strongly pushing in the raised parts 1330b and 1330c to cause deflection, and the operability of the clear switch 1304 can be ensured even for an operator with large fingers.

[0350] Also, the shape of the raised part is not particularly limited. For example, it may be a tapered shape that becomes thinner toward the tip, or a part composed of a vertical plane and a horizontal plane in a side view, or a part composed only of an inclined plane in a side view, or a part composed only of a vertical plane in a side view.

[0351] FIG. 21(c) is a diagram showing a modified example of the "raised part" according to the present invention.

[0352] The cover member 1352 in this example includes a rectangular opening 1352a that enables the operation of the clear switch 1354 (operating means), and a lid body 1352b (raised part) having a predetermined thickness that is disposed so as to cover the opening 1352a and is attached to the opening 1352a in an openable and closable manner. That is, in this example, the opening 1352a and the lid body 1352b (raised part) are separate bodies.

[0353] In this example, by hooking and opening the lid body 1352b with a fingertip or the like, the pressing operation of the clear switch 1354 can be performed through the opening 1352a.

[0354] According to this example, since the lid 1352b (protrusion) is formed around the opening 1352a that enables the operation of the clear switch 1354 (operating means), even without visually seeing the clear switch 1354 (operating means), it is possible to operate the clear switch 1354 (operating means) by groping with the lid 1352b (protrusion) as a clue, which can improve the convenience for store clerks of the game parlor and the like.

[0355] Also, in this example, the rotation axis of the lid 1352b is the left end of the lid 1352b and is on the side opposite to the rotation axis L3 of the front door 1102 (because the direction of opening the lid 1352b is different from the direction of opening the front door 1102). When performing the pressing operation of the clear switch 1354 with the front door 1102 open, it is possible to easily hook the lid 1352b with a fingertip or the like, improving the operability.

[0356] Note that the configuration of the cover member is not limited to this example. For example, it may be a cover member having a circular opening 1352a' that enables the operation of the clear switch 1354 (operating means), a ring-shaped protrusion 1352b' formed along the outer periphery of the circular opening 1352a', and a planar portion 1352c arranged around the ring-shaped protrusion 1352b'.

[0357] In this cover member, the inner diameter of the circular opening 1352a' is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the clear switch 1354, and the ring-shaped protrusion 1352b' has a shape that protrudes upward (in the front direction in FIG. 21(c)) from the operation surface of the clear switch 1354.

[0358] Therefore, in the state where the cover member is closed, the pressing operation of the clear switch 1354 is possible through the opening 1352a'. On the other hand, since the protrusion 1352b' is arranged at the outer edge of the opening 1352a', it is possible to prevent the accidental operation of the clear switch 1354.

[0359] In addition to such examples, a lid body 1352b may be provided. When the lid body 1352b is provided, it is configured such that the lid body 1352b and the raised portion 1352b' are in contact with each other, and the lid body 1352b and the operation surface of the clear switch 1354 are not in contact with each other. That is, since the raised portion 1352b' is configured to contact the lid body 1352b before the operation surface of the clear switch 1354, it may be possible to prevent the clear switch 1354 from being pressed while the lid body 1352b is closed.

[0360] In a state where the cover member is closed, a part of the clear switch function information 1358 (for example, the lower half of "CLEAR") is located below the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member. Therefore, the clear switch function information 1358 and the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member overlap each other in the vertical direction (the first part).

[0361] Therefore, when the clear switch function information 1358 is viewed in a plan view through the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member, the visibility is reduced by the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member, and a part of the clear switch function information 1358 (the lower half of "CLEAR") looks blurred compared to when viewed through the flat portion 1352c that is not raised.

[0362] On the other hand, another part of the clear switch function information 1358 (for example, the upper half of the characters of "CLEAR") is not located below the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member but is located below the flat portion 1352c that is not raised. Therefore, the clear switch function information 1358 and the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member do not overlap each other in the vertical direction (the second part).

[0363] Therefore, when the clear switch function information 1358 is viewed in a plan view through the flat portion 1352c that is not raised, the visibility is not reduced by the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member, and another part of the clear switch function information 1358 (the upper half of the characters of "CLEAR") looks clearer compared to when viewed through the raised portion 1352b' of the cover member.

[0364] The clear switch function information 1358 indicating the function of the clear switch 1354 (operating means) is difficult to understand its function if it is not arranged near the clear switch 1354 (operating means). However, if the clear switch 1354 (operating means) is too close, there is a risk that the visibility will be reduced by the raised portion 1352b'. On the other hand, if the clear switch function information 1358 is arranged in a portion where the visibility is not reduced by the raised portion 1352b', the distance from the clear switch 1354 (operating means) will be increased, and there is a risk that it will be impossible to know what function is being displayed.

[0365] However, according to this example, since the clear switch function information 1358 is composed of a first portion (a portion where the clear switch function information 1358 and the raised portion 1352b' overlap each other) where the visibility is reduced by the raised portion 1352b' and a second portion (a portion where the clear switch function information 1358 and the raised portion 1352b' do not overlap each other) with higher visibility than the first portion, even if the clear switch function information 1358 overlaps with the raised portion 1352b', it is possible to ensure the discriminability of the clear switch function information 1358 and also to identify whether it is a function display of the clear switch function information 1358, thereby maintaining the maintainability.

[0366] <Substrate cover / parts> Next, with reference to Fig. 21(a), the relationship between the substrate cover 1302 and the parts mounted on the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay substrate 1300 will be described.

[0367] Here, the "maximum height" described in this example is the maximum value of the height with respect to the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay substrate 1300. Let the maximum height of the resistor R31 of the passive component 1324 be h1, the maximum height of the display 1320 be h2, the maximum height of the collective resistor RA1 of the passive component 1324 be h3, the maximum height of the connector 1326 be h4, the maximum height (height when not pressed) of the clear switch 1304 be h5, and the maximum height of the substrate cover 1302 be h6.

[0368] In this example, the relationship of the maximum heights is h1 < h2 < h3 < h4 < h5 < h6, and the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay board 1300 is configured such that no component with a height greater than the maximum height h5 of the clear switch 1304 is provided.

[0369] According to this example, since no component that obstructs the visibility and operability of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) is disposed on the door relay board 1300 (board), the visibility and operability of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) can be improved. Further, when the display 1320 emits light, since it is lower than the maximum height (height when not pressed) h5 of the clear switch 1304, a shadow is likely to be formed and the light emission is made conspicuous. Note that since the height of the display 1320 is lower than the height when pressed, the light emission is conspicuous even during pressing. On the other hand, even when the height of the display 1320 is set higher than the connector 3126, the collective resistance RA1 of the passive components 1324, and the clear switch 1304 (operating means), the visibility is not obstructed and the visibility is easy.

[0370] In particular, on the side farther from the rotation axis L3 of the front door 1102 than the clear switch 1304 (operating means) (the left side of the clear switch 1304 in FIG. 21(a)), since it is configured such that no component with a height greater than the maximum height h5 of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) is provided, when a store clerk or the like of a game parlor opens the front door 1102 and operates the clear switch 1304 (operating means), the components mounted on the board do not get in the way, the visibility in front of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) can be enhanced, and the operability of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) can be improved.

[0371] Note that the "parts with high (height) back" may include all of active parts such as diodes and ICs, passive parts such as resistors and capacitors, and mechanical parts such as connectors and switches, or at least any of them. Also, the "side farther from the rotation axis L3 of the front door 1102 than the clear switch 1304 (operating means)" may be the side farther from the rotation axis L3 of the front door 1102 in the left - right direction of the clear switch 1304 (operating means), or the side farther from the rotation axis L3 of the front door 1102 in the up - down direction of the clear switch 1304 (operating means), or it may include both or either of them. Even when an unauthorized part that is not regular is provided at the mounting part (connection part) of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) to the substrate, the visual recognition around the operating means can be ensured, making the inspection work easy. Also, it contributes to suppressing such unauthorized acts because the inspection work becomes easy.

[0372] <Visual recognition of function information> Next, with reference to FIG. 21(b), the visual recognition of function information will be described. FIG. 21(b) is a cross - sectional view taken along the Y - Y line in FIG. 20(a).

[0373] As described with reference to FIG. 20(b), in the vicinity of the clear switch 1304 on the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay substrate 1300, a clear switch function information 1308 (in this example, the character string "CLEAR" indicating that it is a clear switch and a rectangle enclosing this character string) and a clear switch arrangement position information 1312 (in this example, a square figure) are printed (silk - printed).

[0374] Note that the function information is silk - printed, but it is not limited to this. It may be a character string by engraving (laser engraving), a character string by etching with copper foil, a character string with a coating film applied on top of the character string by etching with copper foil so that it floats, a coating film (resist) may or may not be applied in the shape of a character string, and generally speaking, it can be said that a character string indicating function information is displayed on the substrate.

[0375] In the assembled state where the door relay board 1300 and the board cover 1302 are assembled, a part of the clear switch function information 1308 (for example, the lower half of the character 'リ' in 'クリア') is located below the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302. Therefore, it is the part (the first part) where the clear switch function information 1308 and the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302 overlap each other in the vertical direction.

[0376] For this reason, as shown by reference sign A in FIG. 21(b), when the clear switch function information 1308 is viewed in a plan view through the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302, the visibility is reduced by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302. Compared with the case of viewing through the base surface 1330a of the board cover 1302, a part of the clear switch function information 1308 (the lower half of the character 'リ' in 'クリア') appears blurred.

[0377] On the other hand, another part of the clear switch function information 1308 (for example, the upper half of the character 'リ' in 'クリア') is not located below the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302 but is located below the base surface 1330a. Therefore, it is the part (the second part) where the clear switch function information 1308 and the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302 do not overlap each other in the vertical direction.

[0378] For this reason, as shown by reference sign B in FIG. 21(b), when the clear switch function information 1308 is viewed in a plan view through the base surface 1330a of the board cover 1302, the visibility is not reduced by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302. Compared with the case of viewing through the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302, another part of the clear switch function information 1308 (the upper half of the character 'リ' in 'クリア') appears clearer.

[0379] Note that the "assembled state in which the door relay board 1300 and the board cover 1302 are assembled" may be a state in which they are removed from the game table or a state in which they are installed on the game table. Also, in the state of being removed from the game table, a part of the clear switch function information 1308 (for example, the lower half of the character "ri" in "clear") will be located below the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302. Needless to say, in the state of being installed on the game table, a part of the clear switch function information 1308 (for example, the lower half of the character "ri" in "clear") will be located in the back direction of the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302.

[0380] The clear switch function information 1308 indicating the function of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) needs to be arranged near the clear switch 1304 (operating means) so that its function can be easily understood. However, if the clear switch 1304 (operating means) is too close, there is a risk that the visibility will be reduced by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c. On the other hand, if the clear switch function information 1308 is arranged in a part where the visibility is not reduced by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c, the distance from the clear switch 1304 (operating means) will increase, and there is a risk that it will be impossible to tell what kind of function display it is.

[0381] However, according to this example, since the clear switch function information 1308 is composed of a first part where the visibility is reduced by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c (the part where the clear switch function information 1308 and the raised portions 1330b and 1330c overlap each other) and a second part where the visibility is higher than that of the first part (the part where the clear switch function information 1308 and the raised portions 1330b and 1330c do not overlap each other), even if the clear switch function information 1308 overlaps with the raised portions 1330b and 1330c, it is possible to ensure the discriminability of the clear switch function information 1308 and also to identify whether it is a function display of the clear switch function information 1308, thus maintaining the maintainability.

[0382] Note that for the first part where visibility decreases (the part where the clear switch function information 1308 overlaps with the raised portions 1330b and 1330c) and the second part where visibility is higher than that of the first part (the part where the clear switch function information 1308 does not overlap with the raised portions 1330b and 1330c), the first part may be larger than the second part (with more overlapping parts), the second part may be larger than the first part (with more non - overlapping parts), or the sizes of the first part and the second part may be equal. As long as there are at least both overlapping parts and non - overlapping parts, an effect can be achieved. Also, as shown by reference symbol B in FIG. 21(b), the case where the clear switch function information 1308 is viewed in plan view through the base surface 1330a of the substrate cover 1302 has been described. However, when looking from an oblique direction (for example, an obliquely upward direction), the first part may be larger than the second part (with more overlapping parts), the second part may be larger than the first part (with more non - overlapping parts), or the sizes of the first part and the second part may be equal. As long as there are at least both overlapping parts and non - overlapping parts, it is sufficient. In this case, when looking obliquely upward, the discriminability and maintainability can be improved when the administrator stands and works with the gaming table installed on the island equipment or the mounting table. Also, when looking obliquely downward, the discriminability and maintainability can be improved when the administrator squats and works with the gaming table installed on the island equipment or the mounting table. Note that when looking from an oblique direction (for example, an obliquely upward direction), if the raised portions 1330b and 1330c and the clear switch function information 1308 partially or entirely overlap in the front view, then when looking from the oblique direction, a first part where visibility decreases (the part where the clear switch function information 1308 overlaps with the raised portions 1330b and 1330c) and a second part where visibility is higher than that of the first part (the part where the clear switch function information 1308 does not overlap with the raised portions 1330b and 1330c) will occur. Also, even if the raised portions 1330b and 1330c and the clear switch function information 1308 do not overlap in the front view, if the raised portions and the function information are close to each other in the front view, then when looking from the oblique direction, a first part and a second part will occur.Here, "proximity" means that, for example, the distance X in the front view between the lower end of the raised portion (the end closer to the identification information) and the upper end of the function information (the end closer to the raised portion) is 0, or preferably shorter than the shortest distance Y between the function information and the clear switch 1304. This is because if the distance X is longer than the distance Y, the clear switch, raised portion, and function information will be separated, resulting in poor identification. Note that although the visibility is reduced by the raised portion, this is not the only case. Instead of the raised portion, or in combination, the visibility may be reduced by performing embossing, applying a smoke film, or the like.

[0383] Also, according to this example, while it is possible to manually operate the clear switch function information 1308 (operating means) using the raised portions 1330b and 1330c as a guide, at the same time, by ensuring the visibility of a part of the clear switch function information 1308, it becomes easier to identify the function of the clear switch function information 1308 (operating means). Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability while preventing a decrease in maintainability.

[0384] Also, in the assembled state where the door relay board 1300 and the board cover 1302 are assembled, the clear switch arrangement position information 1312 (in this example, a rectangular figure) is located below the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302, and the clear switch arrangement position information 1312 and the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302 are configured to overlap each other in the vertical direction.

[0385] For this reason, when the clear switch arrangement position information 1312 is viewed in a plan view through the board cover 1302, the visibility is reduced by the raised portions 1330b and 1330c of the board cover 1302, and the clear switch arrangement position information 1312 (rectangular figure) appears blurred compared to when viewed visually through the base surface 1330a of the board cover 1302.

[0386] <Arrangement of Clear Switch> Next, the arrangement of the clear switch 1304 will be described with reference to FIG. 23. FIG. 23 is a plan view schematically showing the door relay board 1300.

[0387] Here, assuming that the length of the long side of the door relay board 1300 is L and the central position on the long side is M, the length from one end E of the long side to the central position M is 1 / 2L, and half of that length is 1 / 4L.

[0388] In this example, the length L11 from one end E of the long side to the center of the reset switch 1306 is shorter than 1 / 4L (L11 < 1 / 4L), and the length L12 from one end E of the long side to the center of the clear switch 1304 is shorter than 1 / 4L (L12 < 1 / 4L). Both the reset switch 1306 and the clear switch 1304 are disposed eccentrically toward one end E of the long side of the door relay board 1300 (at a position closer to one end E) than the central position M on the long side of the door relay board 1300.

[0389] That is, the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306 are disposed eccentrically toward one end E (at a position closer to one end E) than the central position M in the longitudinal direction on the door relay board 1300.

[0390] Also, the display 1320 is disposed eccentrically toward one end E than the central position M in the longitudinal direction on the door relay board 1300, but is arranged closer to the central position M than the reset switch 1306 and the clear switch 1304, so as to be hidden when an operator operates the reset switch 1306 or the clear switch 130.

[0391] According to this example, when the clear switch 1304 (operating means) or the reset switch 1306 (operating means) is pressed, stress is applied to the door relay board 1300, causing distortion (deformation) in the door relay board 1300, and a situation where components mounted on the door relay board 1300 are indirectly damaged can be avoided, and deterioration and failure of the components can be prevented. Also, since the display 1320 is arranged such that it is easily hidden by the operator's hand, it is possible to prevent the value displayed on the display 1320 from being peeked at.

[0392] Also, the length L11 from one end E of the long side to the center of the reset switch 1306 is shorter than the length L12 from one end E of the long side to the center of the clear switch 1304 (L11 < L12). The reset switch 1306 is disposed more eccentrically (at a position closer to one end E of the long side) with respect to one end E of the long side of the door relay board 1300 than the clear switch 1304.

[0393] Also, as described with reference to Fig. 20(a), the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306 are disposed on the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay board 1300 on the side farther from the rotation axis L3 of the front door 1102.

[0394] According to this example, when performing the pressing operation of the clear switch 1304 or the reset switch 1306, it is not necessary for the operator to stand behind the front door 1102 to perform the operation. With the front door 1102 slightly opened, it is sufficient to insert a hand behind the front door 1102 to perform the operation. Therefore, the opening amount of the front door 1102 during the pressing operation can be minimized, and the work efficiency can be improved.

[0395] Also, even without visually observing the clear switch 1304 (operating means), it is possible to operate the clear switch 1304 (operating means) by groping using the raised portions 1330b and 1330c as clues, which can improve the convenience for store clerks of the game parlor or the like.

[0396] Furthermore, since no components that obstruct the visibility or operability of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) are disposed on the door relay board 1300 (substrate), the visibility and operability of the clear switch 1304 (operating means) can be improved.

[0397] Note that the arrangement position of the "operation means" according to the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, at least one of the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306 (or only one of the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306) may be arranged eccentrically to the other end portion F (at a position closer to the other end portion F) from the central position M in the longitudinal direction on the door relay board 1300, or may be arranged on the component mounting surface 1300a of the door relay board 1300 on the side closer to the rotation axis L3 side of the front door 1102. With such a configuration, when operating the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306, since it is required to increase the opening degree of the front door 1102, it is possible to easily notice that the door is open and in use.

[0398] Also, at least one of the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306 (or only one of the clear switch 1304 and the reset switch 1306) may be provided eccentrically (at a position close to one end portion in the short side direction) to one end portion in the short side direction of the door relay board 1300.

[0399] <Door relay board / Summary> As described above, the gaming table according to the present embodiment (for example, a medal-less slot machine, the slot machine 100 shown in FIG. 13) is a gaming table including a plate portion (for example, the door relay board 1300 shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 21(a)), a cover member (for example, the board cover 1302 shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 21(a)), and operation means (for example, the clear switch 1304, the reset switch, and the setting change button shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 21(a)). The operation means is means located on one surface side of the plate portion, the cover member is a member that covers at least a part of the one surface side of the plate portion, the cover member is a member in which an opening (for example, the clear switch opening 1330c1 shown in FIG. 21(a)) enabling operation of the operation means is formed, and the cover member is a member in which a raised portion (for example, the raised portions 1330b and 1330c shown in FIG. 21(a)) is formed in the vicinity of the opening (for example, at least a part of the periphery of the opening over the entire circumference of the opening). This is a characteristic of the gaming table.

[0400] In a gaming machine, initialization operations and maintenance are routinely performed by the operation of store employees or the like of the game parlor. For example, as an example, in the initialization operation, there are some that can be initialized (RWM clear) by turning on the power while pressing a specific operation switch inside the gaming machine. Also, as another example, when an error occurs or when replenishing medals, by pressing a specific operation switch inside the gaming machine, the error can be cleared or the medal replenishment can be completed. The specific operation switch inside the gaming machine is one with a high operation frequency in the maintenance and inspection of the gaming machine.

[0401] However, the arrangement of such a specific operation switch varies depending on the gaming machine manufacturer, and even for the same manufacturer, the arrangement may vary depending on the cabinet model. For store employees or the like of the game parlor, it takes time to grasp the specific operation switches with different arrangements for each model, lacking in usability. Also, such a specific operation switch may be accidentally operated during work, or the equipment worn on the body may touch the switch, resulting in unintentional initialization, wasting time in maintenance after business hours or causing trouble with game customers during business hours, and there is room for improvement regarding accidental operation.

[0402] According to the gaming machine according to this embodiment, since a raised portion is formed around the opening that enables the operation of the operation means, even without visually observing the operation means, it is possible to operate the operation means by groping using the raised portion as a clue, improving the convenience for store employees or the like of the game parlor. Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine with an operation switch that is effective in improving the usability of store employees or the like of the game parlor and preventing accidental operation.

[0403] Further, the plate portion is a substrate on which identification information (for example, the clear switch function information 1308 shown in FIGS. 20(b) and 21(b) (the character string "CLEAR" indicating that it is a clear switch and a rectangle surrounding this character string)) capable of identifying the operation means is displayed (printed) in the vicinity of the operation means. In a front view in the assembled state where the plate portion and the cover member are assembled, the identification information has a first portion (for example, the lower half of the character "RI" in "CLEAR") whose visibility is reduced by the raised portion, and a second portion (for example, the upper half of the character "RI" in "CLEAR") with higher visibility than the first portion.

[0404] If the function information indicating the function of the operation means is not arranged in the vicinity of the operation means, it becomes difficult to grasp its function. However, if it is too close to the operation means, there is a risk that the visibility will be reduced by the raised portion. On the other hand, if the function information is arranged in a portion where the visibility is not reduced by the raised portion, the distance from the operation means will increase, and it will become unclear what function is being displayed. However, if the function information is composed of a first portion whose visibility is reduced by the raised portion and a second portion with higher visibility than the first portion, even if the function information overlaps with the raised portion, it is possible to ensure the discriminability of the function display and also to identify which operation means the function display belongs to, thereby maintaining the maintainability.

[0405] Also, the first portion may be a portion where the identification information and the raised portion overlap each other in a front view in the assembled state, and the second portion may be a portion where the identification information and the raised portion do not overlap each other in a front view in the assembled state. Further, the identification information may be information indicating the function of the operation means.

[0406] With such a configuration, it is possible to operate the operation means by groping using the raised portion as a clue. At the same time, by ensuring the visibility of a part of the function information, it becomes easy to specify the function of the operation means. Therefore, it is possible to improve the operability while preventing the maintainability from decreasing.

[0407] Further, the operation means is a means having an operation surface for receiving an operation (for example, the operation surface 1304a shown in FIGS. 20(b) and 21(a)), and the cover member may be a member having a covering portion (for example, the raised surface 1330c shown in FIG. 21(a)) that covers at least a part of the operation surface.

[0408] With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent unauthorized operations and make it difficult to insert an unauthorized jig through the opening. Further, even if the clothing or equipment of the operator accidentally hits the operation means, the operation by the operation means can be prevented, troubles during the business hours of the game parlor can be avoided, and unintentional operations can be prevented during maintenance work after business hours.

[0409] Further, the operation means may be provided eccentrically on one end side rather than the center in the longitudinal direction of the plate portion.

[0410] With such a configuration, when the operation means is pressed down, a situation where stress is applied to the substrate and the substrate is distorted (deformed), and the components mounted on the substrate are indirectly damaged can be avoided, and deterioration and failure of the components can be prevented.

[0411] Further, it includes an opening / closing body that can be opened and closed (for example, the front door 1102 shown in FIG. 15), the plate portion is a substrate provided on the back side of the opening / closing body, and the substrate is a substrate on which no component taller than the operation means is provided on the side farther from the rotation axis of the opening / closing body (for example, the rotation axis L3 shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 21(a)) than the operation means.

[0412] With such a configuration, when a store clerk of a game parlor opens the front door and operates the operation means, the components mounted on the substrate do not get in the way, the visibility in front of the operation means can be enhanced, and the operability of the operation means can be improved.

[0413] Further, the board portion is a substrate provided with a connector (for example, the connector 1326 shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 21(a)) via a predetermined region in the longitudinal direction from the operation means, the board portion is a substrate provided with a certain component in the predetermined region, and the certain component is a component (for example, elongated resistors R29 to R31, R36 to R38, R26, elongated capacitors C12 to C14, and elongated collective resistor RA1) provided such that the longitudinal direction of the certain component is parallel to the short side direction of the board portion).

[0414] With such a configuration, when inserting or removing a cable or the like with respect to the connector, or when performing a pressing operation on the operation means, stress is applied to the substrate and the substrate is distorted (deformed), and a situation where the components mounted on the substrate are indirectly damaged can be avoided, and deterioration and failure of the components can be prevented.

[0415] Further, the operation means may be an operation means (for example, the clear switch 1304 shown in FIGS. 20(a) and 21(a)) capable of clearing at least game information related to the progress of the game on the game table.

[0416] If game information related to the progress of the game on the game table (for example, error information or information corresponding to the number of medals) can be easily cleared, it may be impossible to notice fraudulent behavior, or the player's medals may be initialized, which will cause disadvantages to the player and may also cause troubles in the game arcade. However, by configuring the operation means so that it cannot be easily operated, the occurrence of troubles and the like can be prevented in advance, and stable operation can be performed.

[0417] Further, the opening may have an inner diameter (e.g., inner diameter W2 shown in FIG. 20(b)) smaller than the outer diameter of the operation surface of the operation means (e.g., outer diameter W1 shown in FIG. 20(b)), or may be an opening having a shape different from that of the operation surface of the operation means. Further, the cover member may be a member that covers at least a part of the operation surface of the operation means. Further, the substrate may be a substrate on which the operation means is disposed on at least one surface side.

[0418] ≪Others≫ Note that the gaming table according to the present invention can also be applied to gaming tables typified by enclosed gaming machines or medal-less slot machines. Here, an "enclosed gaming machine" circulates and uses gaming balls enclosed in the gaming machine. Further, the main control unit, the first sub-control unit, and the second sub-control unit may be configured on a single chip, or the main control unit and the first sub-control unit may be configured to enable two-way communication. Further, while enabling two-way communication between the main control unit and the first sub-control unit, the communication from the first sub-control unit to the second sub-control unit may be one-way communication.

[0419] Note that a slot machine may be a slot machine that operates on a portable terminal (smartphone, game machine) or a personal computer by a program that simulates the operation based on the above configuration, and only exchanges electronic data without using medals. In this case, the gaming medium includes electronic data corresponding to medals, the input of the gaming medium includes inputting the electronic data from a predetermined external device (electronic storage device), and the payout of the gaming medium includes outputting the electronic data to a predetermined external device (electronic storage device).

[0420] Further, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the present invention merely list the most suitable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. Further, among the plurality of configurations described in the examples, there may be cases where the content described in one configuration can be applied to other configurations to further expand the range of games.

Explanation of Signs

[0421] 100 Slot Machine 110 - 112 Reels 113 Display Window 130 - 132 Bet Buttons 135 Start Lever 137 - 139 Stop Buttons 157 Effect Image Display Device 272, 277 Speakers 420 Various Lamps 300 Main Control Unit 400 First Sub - control Unit 500 Second Sub - control Unit

Claims

1. A gaming machine having a first gaming state advantageous to a player and a second gaming state more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state, wherein the first gaming state is a gaming state controlled in an advantageous section, the second gaming state is a gaming state controlled in the advantageous section, a specified amount serving as an upper limit is defined for the advantageous section, and there may be a case where, after approaching the specified amount in the second gaming state, the advantageous section ends and a new advantageous section is formed, and then the gaming state shifts to the second gaming state without shifting to the first gaming state. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

2. A gaming machine having a first gaming state advantageous to a player and a second gaming state more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state, wherein the first gaming state is a gaming state controlled in an advantageous section, the second gaming state is a gaming state controlled in the advantageous section, a specified amount serving as an upper limit is defined for the advantageous section, and there may be a case where, after approaching the specified amount in the second gaming state, the advantageous section ends and a new advantageous section is formed, and then the gaming state shifts to the second gaming state via a gaming state different from both the first gaming state and the second gaming state. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

3. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second gaming state is a gaming state whose continuation is managed using the number of sets corresponding to a plurality of games, and the advantageous section may end when the second gaming state ends at the boundary of the number of sets. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

4. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first gaming state is a gaming state that notifies the player of an operation mode, the second gaming state is a gaming state that notifies the player of an operation mode, and the second gaming state is a gaming state having a higher expected value of obtaining gaming value than the first gaming state. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

5. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the first gaming state is a gaming state that notifies the player of an operation mode, the second gaming state is a gaming state that notifies the player of an operation mode, and the second gaming state is a gaming state having a higher expected value of obtaining gaming value than the first gaming state. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

6. The gaming machine according to claim 4, ​ ​ After the advantageous section ends as it approaches the specified amount in the second gaming state and a new advantageous section is formed, there may be a transition to the second gaming state when specific conditions are met in the third gaming state. The gaming table characterized by this.

7. The gaming table according to claim 5, After the advantageous section ends as it approaches the specified amount in the second gaming state and a new advantageous section is formed, there may be a transition to the second gaming state when specific conditions are met in the third gaming state. The gaming table characterized by this.

8. The gaming table according to claim 6, When the specific conditions are not met in the third gaming state, there is no transition to the second gaming state, and it becomes easier to transition to the first gaming state. The gaming table characterized by this.

9. The gaming table according to claim 7, When the specific conditions are not met in the third gaming state, there is no transition to the second gaming state, and it becomes easier to transition to the first gaming state. The gaming table characterized by this.

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