Game machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of preventing breakage of a front door.SOLUTION: In a game machine, when a vertical dimension between a right lower end of a front door and a mounting surface of a housing in a first state is a first dimension, a vertical dimension between the right lower end of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in a second state is a second dimension, a vertical dimension between the right lower end of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in the 22nd state is a 22nd dimension, and a vertical dimension between the right lower end of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in a third state is a third dimension, the second dimension is smaller than the third dimension and thicker than a game token, the third dimension is smaller than the first dimension and is thicker than the game token, the 22nd dimension is larger than the first dimension, and the first dimension, the second dimension and the third dimension are smaller than a diameter of a game ball.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 21

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Background Art

[0002] As a gaming machine, a slot machine equipped with a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are arranged, a start lever, a stop button, etc. is known. In a slot machine, after gaming value (medals) is inserted, rotation of the plurality of reels starts based on operation of the start lever. Also, rotation of the reel corresponding to the stop button stops based on operation of the stop button.

[0003] In a slot machine, when the reels start rotating with the start of the game, an internal lottery using a lottery table is performed. Also, when the reels stop, a symbol combination corresponding to a winning combination won in the internal lottery is displayed by the plurality of reels, and when this winning combination wins, as processing corresponding to the winning combination that has won, for example, medal payout processing for paying out a predetermined number of medals or replay processing that enables a new game without newly consuming medals is performed, and a gaming profit is given to the player.

[0004] A slot machine includes a main control board that controls the progress of the game, and a monitor lamp (monitor LED) is provided on the main control board (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The monitor lamp is composed of a plurality of LED elements, and each LED element emits light according to the operating state of each part. Thereby, it is possible to confirm the presence or absence of a failure or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] By the way, in a gaming machine, it is required to improve the work efficiency of inspection work.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine with improved work efficiency of inspection work.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine including a housing and control means provided inside the housing, wherein the control means includes a monitor light emitting part formed by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements, among the plurality of light emitting elements, when a light emitting element that lights up based on the signal state of detection means related to gaming value is defined as a specific light emitting element, a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light emitting part is formed by arranging the specific light emitting elements, when a gaming value is inserted into the insertion port, the specific light emitting elements are lit up in order toward a predetermined direction. The predetermined row (or the predetermined column) in the monitor light emitting part is formed by arranging the specific light emitting elements, and when a gaming value (medal) is inserted into the insertion port, the specific light emitting elements are lit up in order toward a predetermined direction. For this reason, when an operator inspects the detection means related to gaming value, the operator only needs to look at the predetermined row (or the predetermined column) where the specific light emitting elements are arranged and move the line of sight in one direction along it. Thereby, the efficiency of the inspection work for inspecting the operating state of the parts can be improved (the work can be performed efficiently). Also, the burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0009] Also, a gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine including a housing and control means provided inside the housing, wherein the control means includes a monitor light emitting part formed by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements, Among the plurality of light-emitting elements, there are a first group of light-emitting elements, a second group of light-emitting elements, and a third group of light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements of the first group are arranged side by side in a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit, and the lighting state can be maintained based on the operation of the player. The light-emitting elements of the second group are arranged side by side in a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit, and are configured to light up based on the signal state of the detection means related to the game value. The light-emitting elements of the third group are arranged side by side in a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit, and the frequency of maintaining the lighting state based on the operation of the player is lower than that of the light-emitting elements of the first group. The plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the monitor light-emitting unit are divided into the first group of light-emitting elements, the second group of light-emitting elements, and the third group of light-emitting elements according to the differences related to lighting, and each is arranged side by side in a different row or column. In other words, the light-emitting elements belonging to the same group are arranged in the same row or the same column. For this reason, the operator only needs to check a predetermined row or column according to the content (parts) to be inspected, and the efficiency of the inspection work for inspecting the operating state of the parts can be improved. Also, the burden on the operator can be reduced. For example, when inspecting a predetermined detection related to the game value, the operator only needs to check the row or column in which the light-emitting elements of the second group are arranged.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, the work efficiency of the inspection work can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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[0012] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, a slot machine, which is one type of gaming machine, will be described. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a slot machine, and may be a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a medal-less gaming machine. In the following description, basically, "front and back" means that when a player is on the front side of the slot machine, the player side is "front" and the slot machine side is "back", "up and down" means that the upper surface side of the slot machine is "up" and the lower surface side is "down", and "left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing the slot machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right". It should be noted that within the scope of the present invention, free combinations of each component, arbitrary modifications of each component, or omissions of each component are possible.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a slot machine X. Further, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the inside of the housing 1 of the slot machine X. This slot machine X includes a housing (game machine housing) 1. The housing 1 includes a top plate 2, a back plate 3, a bottom plate 4, and left and right side plates 5 and 6, and is formed in a box shape having a front opening that opens to the front side of the housing 1. Note that the back plate 3 may be thinner than the top plate 2, the bottom plate 4, and the left and right side plates 5 and 6.

[0014] Hereinafter, the lower surface of the top plate 2, the front surface of the back plate 3, the upper surface of the bottom plate 4, the right surface of the left side plate 5, and the left surface of the right side plate 6, that is, the plate surface facing the inside of the housing 1 in the top plate 2, the back plate 3, the bottom plate 4, the side plate 5, or the side plate 6 may be referred to as the "inner surface". Further, the upper surface of the top plate 2, the back surface of the back plate 3, the lower surface of the bottom plate 4, the left surface of the left side plate 5, and the right surface of the right side plate 6, that is, the plate surface facing the outside of the housing 1 in the top plate 2, the back plate 3, the bottom plate 4, the side plate 5, or the side plate 6 may be referred to as the "outer surface". The housing 1 is made of wood, synthetic resin, metal, or the like. Further, the material of the housing 1 is not limited to one type. For example, a part (the top plate 2) may be made of wood, and the other parts (the back plate 3, the bottom plate 4, and the left and right side plates 5 and 6) may be made of resin. Further, for example, the top plate 2 may be composed of two types of materials (resin and metal).

[0015] On the front side of the housing 1, a front door 20 is provided to closably block the front opening of the housing 1. The front door 20 is rotatably connected to the housing 1 via a hinge 29 and is configured to open and close the opening of the housing 1. Note that the front door 20 may be divided into a plurality of doors, such as being divided into an upper portion and a lower portion. Further, the slot machine X may be of a so-called separable housing type in which, when the game machine type in the game hall is changed, the housing 1, the lower portion of the front door 20, the power supply unit 10, the hopper unit 11, etc. inside the housing 1 remain attached to the island equipment in the game hall, and the upper portion of the front door 20, the reel unit 14, etc. are replaceable. When the front door 20 is divided into an upper door and a lower door, the upper door and the lower door are each openable and closable with respect to the housing 1. The upper door is rotatably connected via a hinge 29 and is configured to open and close the upper part of the opening of the housing 1. Also, the lower door is rotatably connected via a hinge 29 and is configured to open and close the lower part of the opening of the housing 1.

[0016] On the upper side of the front door 20, a flat panel 21 is provided. On the back of the panel 21, a display device (display means, liquid crystal display) as an effect device is provided. Various images (effect images) for assisting the game or livening up the game are displayed on the liquid crystal display. Also, in the central part of the front door 20, a transparent display window (window part) 22 is provided.

[0017] It is shown that three reels 15a to 15c (see FIG. 2) are provided in a row at the back of the display window 22. A part of the reels 15a to 15c is visible through the display window 22. On the outer peripheral surfaces of the respective reels 15a to 15c, a plurality of types of symbols are arranged in a row along the circumferential direction. When the reels 15a to 15c stop, three consecutive symbols (upper-stage symbol, middle-stage symbol, and lower-stage symbol) per reel are displayed through the display window 22. Further, in the display window 22, upper, middle, and lower stages are provided as display positions for viewing the symbols of the reels 15a to 15c, and a winning line is set according to the combination of the display positions of the reels 15a to 15c. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the winning line is constituted by the middle stage of the first reel 15a, the middle stage of the second reel 15b, and the middle stage of the third reel 15c. Also, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the number of medals (prescribed number) required for one game is set to "3", and when the prescribed number of medals is inserted, the winning line is activated. When the three reels 15a to 15c stop, it is displayed whether or not the winning combination has won according to the combination of the symbols displayed through the display window 22. In the slot machine X, when the reels 15a to 15c start rotating with the start of the game, an internal lottery is executed, and either a win or a loss (non-winning) of any of the winning combinations is determined. Then, when the combination of symbols corresponding to the winning combination won in the winning combination lottery is displayed on the winning line when the reels 15a to 15c stop, this winning combination wins, and a process (winning process) corresponding to the winning combination that has won is executed.

[0018] The front door 20 is provided with lighting devices (lighting means) 24 and 25, which are lighting devices for performing effects (notifications) and the like, speakers (sound output means), and the like. The lighting device 24 is provided on the upper side of the panel 21 of the front door 20. Also, the lighting devices 25 and 25 are provided at both left and right ends of the front door 20. A decorative member 26 having a light-emitting or non-light-emitting three-dimensional shape including these lighting devices 24 and 25 is provided at a predetermined portion of the front door 20, and the outer shape on the front side of the gaming machine has irregularities. That is, the gaming machine is decorated by the decorative member 26.

[0019] A plurality of speakers (not shown) are provided on the front door 20, for example, at the upper and lower portions. The speakers output various effect sounds (music, BGM, sound effects, voices, etc.) for assisting and enlivening the game. In addition, as an effect device, in addition to the lighting devices 24 and 25 and the speakers, a display device (liquid crystal display) for displaying various effect images (moving images, still images) and a movable accessory that can be operated by an actuator or the like may be provided.

[0020] An operation unit 30 for operating the slot machine X is provided at the central portion in the vertical direction of the front door 20. On this operation unit 30, there are a settlement button 60 operated when settling medals (game media, game values), a start lever 32 operated when starting the game, stop buttons 33 (three stop buttons 33a, 33b, 33c) operated when stopping the rotation of each of the three reels 15a to 15c, a medal insertion port 34 for inserting medals, a reject button 70 operated when eliminating a jammed medal generated below the medal insertion port 34, a MAX bet button 35 (bet button) operated when betting (investing) the credited medals (operated when setting the maximum number of bets), an effect button 36 operated when advancing the effect (changing the mode of the effect), and the like. Also, although not shown, as a bet button, a 1-bet button operated when betting one medal is provided. Note that the effect button 36 may be provided at a predetermined location (front door 20) other than the operation unit 30.

[0021] Also, at the lower part of the front door 20, there are provided a medal payout opening 50 for discharging medals from inside the slot machine, and a tray 38 for storing the medals discharged from the medal payout opening 50. Further, a lower panel 39 for decorating the appearance of the gaming machine is provided between the operation unit 30 and the tray 38. On the back side of this lower panel 39, a light source (LED) for illumination is provided, and the lower panel 39 is illuminated from behind by the light from this light source. Note that the lower panel 39 may be formed to be pushable and may serve as an effect operation unit having the same function as the effect button.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, inside the housing 1, a reel unit 14 and the like are provided. The reel unit 14 has three reels 15a, 15b, 15c that display a plurality of symbols around them, a drive motor (stepping motor) for rotating the reels 15a to 15c, and a reel frame (frame member) 13 to which these reels 15a to 15c and the drive motor and the like are attached and which integrally supports them.

[0023] Also, on the upper surface of the bottom plate 4, there are provided a power supply unit (power supply means) 10 for supplying power to each component, a hopper unit (payout means) 11 (medal payout device 11) as a payout device for storing and paying out medals, a cash box 12 for sending out surplus medals when the medals stored in the medal payout device 11 reach a certain amount, and the like. Note that the one in which components such as the power supply unit 10 are arranged inside (inside) the housing 1 may be referred to as a back box unit. The power supply unit 10 is provided with a power switch, and when the power switch is in the ON state, power is supplied from the power supply unit 10 to each component. Note that power may be supplied to some components even when the power supply unit 10 is in the OFF state.

[0024] Also, on the upper side inside the housing 1, there is provided a main control means unit 300 that houses the main control board (main control means, first control means, main control board) 72 inside. Although not shown in the figure, on the back side of the front door 20, there is provided a sub-control means unit that houses the sub-control board (sub-control means, second control means, sub-control board) inside.

[0025] The main control board 72 is provided with a setting change key cylinder (not shown), a setting change button (not shown), etc. Note that the setting change key cylinder and the setting change button may be provided, for example, on the power unit 10.

[0026] The front door 20 is provided with a door key cylinder 66, and a door key can be inserted into the door key cylinder 66 to unlock the front door 20. Specifically, by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 clockwise from the initial position, the front door 20 can be unlocked. Also, by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 counterclockwise from the initial position, an error release operation can be performed.

[0027] In the gaming machine of this embodiment, when medals are inserted into the medal insertion port 34, with the operation of the insertion detection sensor 78 (FIG. 25) in the medal selector 67 (FIG. 25), the inserted medals are set to the inserted state (bet state) up to a specified number (specified insertion number). The gaming machine of this embodiment can credit-store (store and retain) up to 50 medals at most. When the MAX bet button 35 is pressed in a state where medals are credit-stored in the gaming machine, the credit-stored medals are set to the inserted state up to the specified number.

[0028] Figure 3 shows the gaming medal M used in the game. Here, let the diameter of the gaming medal M be dimension L1, and the thickness of the gaming medal M be dimension L2. Dimension M1 is φ25 (diameter of approximately 25 mm), and dimension M2 is approximately 1.6 mm. Hereinafter, the description will be made on the premise of using the gaming medal M (medal) having a diameter of approximately 25 mm and a thickness of approximately 1.6 mm.

[0029] (Payout button 60) Figure 4 is a perspective view of a part of the operation unit 30 as seen from the front. The payout button 60 is attached to the panel portion 90 of the operation unit 30 provided on the front door 20. The payout button 60 is provided to calculate (pay out) the medals electronically stored in the slot machine X or the medals that have been bet but not used in the game, and discharge them to the tray 38 through the medal discharge port. "Payout" means returning the medals used in the game to the player.

[0030] The payout button 60 is formed so as to be operable by pressing. When the payout button 60 is operated (pressed), a payout process is executed. In the payout process, at least one of the stored (credited) or bet medals is paid out. In other words, the objects of payout based on the operation of the payout button 60 include not only the medals set in the credit but also the medals set in the bet. When medals are set in both the bet and the credit, as payout patterns based on the operation of the payout button 60, for example, there are the following two patterns. The first pattern is a pattern in which both the medals set in the bet and the medals set in the credit are paid out all at once by one operation of the payout button 60. The second pattern is a pattern in which only the medals set in the bet are paid out by the first operation of the payout button 60, and the medals set in the credit are paid out by the second operation of the payout button 60 after the payout of the medals set in the bet.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view (axial cross-sectional view) of the settlement button 60. In FIG. 5, the hatching indicating a cross-section is omitted. When the settlement button 60 is operated, specifically, it means that the operation portion 61 (first operation portion) of the settlement button 60 is pushed in. In other words, the settlement button 60 is formed such that the operation portion 61 can be pushed in. Hereinafter, the side where the operation portion 61 in the non-pushed state is located is referred to as the front side, the side where the operation portion 61 in the pushed state is located is referred to as the back side, and the direction from the front side to the back side may be referred to as the pushing direction.

[0032] The settlement button 60 includes an operation portion 61, an elastic member 62, an operation detection portion (not shown), a case portion 64, a connector portion 65, etc. The case portion 64 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with resin or the like. Inside the case portion 64, the operation portion 61, the elastic member 62, the operation detection portion, etc. are accommodated.

[0033] The operation portion 61 has a circular outer shape when viewed from the pushing direction (operation direction) and is formed with resin or the like. Here, the visible surface (exposed surface) of the operation portion 61, which can be touched with a finger or the like, is defined as the surface (operation surface). In FIG. 5, the surface of the operation portion 61 is in a slightly concave shape (concave curved surface), but it is not limited to this, and it may be a flat surface or slightly convex (convex curved surface).

[0034] As the elastic member 62, for example, there is a spring. The elastic member 62 is provided on the back side of the operation portion 61, is in contact with the operation portion 61, and biases the operation portion 61 in a direction opposite to the pushing direction. The operation portion 61 biased from the back side by the elastic member 62 is in contact with a predetermined portion of the case portion 64 at a predetermined location so as not to protrude from the case portion 64. When the operation portion 61 is pushed in this state, the elastic member 62 bends and the operation portion 61 moves (enters) to the back side.

[0035] As the operation detection unit, for example, there is a sensor (photo sensor). The operation detection unit includes a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and light is output from the light emitting element and input to the light receiving element. When the operation detection unit detects a change in the light, it outputs a predetermined signal (ON signal). In the present embodiment, when the operation unit 61 is pushed in and the operation unit 61 moves to a predetermined position (referred to as the detection position), a predetermined portion of the operation unit 61 blocks the light. As a result, the operation detection unit detects a change in the light and outputs an ON signal. The ON signal can be said to be a signal indicating that the operation unit 61 has been operated (the operation of the operation unit 61 has been detected).

[0036] A connector portion 65 is provided at the inner end of the case portion 64. Although not shown, a mating connector having wiring is inserted into the connector portion 65, and the settlement button 60 is electrically connected via this wiring. Also, signals (ON signal and OFF signal) from the operation detection unit are transmitted to a predetermined control board (main control board) via the wiring.

[0037] On the inner side (inner peripheral surface) of the case portion 64, a stopper portion 66 (mechanical end) (first stopper portion) having a smaller diameter (inner diameter) than other portions is provided. The stopper portion 66 has a plane orthogonal to the axial direction and is formed so as to be able to contact (abut) a predetermined portion on the back side of the operation unit 61. The stopper portion 66 has a function of restricting the movement of the operation unit 61 toward the inner side. In other words, when the operation unit 61 contacts the stopper portion 66, it cannot be pushed further inward.

[0038] Here, as shown in FIG. 6A, the position of the operation unit 61 in the non-operated (not pushed-in) state is defined as the "initial position" (non-operation position).

[0039] As shown in FIG. 6B, when the operation unit 61 is pushed in from the state shown in FIG. 6A, the operation unit 61 moves toward the inner side.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 6C, when the operation unit 61 is further pushed in from the state shown in FIG. 6B and the operation unit 61 reaches a predetermined position, the operation detection unit detects that the operation unit 61 has been operated. In this way, the position of the operation unit 61 where the operation is detected is defined as the "detection position" (first detection position). Also, the movement amount of the operation unit 61 from the "initial position" to the "detection position" is defined as the movement amount T1.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 6D, when the operation unit 61 is further pushed in from the state shown in FIG. 6C, the operation unit 61 contacts (abuts) the stopper unit 66 and stops. In this way, the position of the operation unit 61 that has contacted and stopped at the stopper unit 66 is defined as the "stop position" (first stop position) (maximum push-in position). When the operation unit 61 contacts and stops at the stopper unit 66, the operation unit 61 is located at the deepest side and the push-in amount of the operation unit 61 is maximized. Also, the movement amount of the operation unit 61 from the "initial position" to the "stop position" is defined as the movement amount T2.

[0042] Note that when the operation (pressing) of the operation unit 61 is released in the states shown in FIGS. 6B to 6D, the operation unit 61 returns to the "initial position" shown in FIG. 6A by the biasing force of the elastic member 62.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 4, at one end portion (front side end portion) of the case portion 64, the shape of the portion surrounding the operation unit 61 is exposed (visible) (constitutes a design). Here, the end portion of the case portion 64 is defined as the button surrounding portion 64a (button edge portion). As shown in FIG. 5, the button surrounding portion 64a has a predetermined width in the radial direction, the inner portion in the radial direction is a plane, and the outer portion in the radial direction is an inclined surface that inclines downward (rear side) toward the outside. Note that the button surrounding portion 64a and the operation surface of the operation unit 61 are substantially at the same height. Substantially at the same height means that, for example, when the upper surface of the panel portion 90 is used as a reference, the protrusion from the upper surface of the panel portion 90 is substantially the same. Also, it can be said that the button surrounding portion 64a and the operation surface of the operation unit 61 are on substantially the same plane.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 5, the diameter of the operation unit 61 is approximately 11.5 mm. Note that the diameter of the operation unit 61 refers to the diameter of the portion on the operation surface side (in this example, the outermost portion) of the operation unit 61. Also, the inner diameter of the button peripheral portion 64a is approximately 12 mm. A predetermined gap (a slight gap) is provided in the radial direction between the button peripheral portion 64a and the operation unit 61. The operation unit 61 can be pushed in, and the button peripheral portion 64a cannot be pushed in.

[0045] Next, the case of operating the operation unit 61 using a medal will be described. A medal has a front surface, a back surface, and a side surface (side portion, outer peripheral surface). Hereinafter, when referring to the "end portion of the medal", it shall refer to the side surface of the medal. Note that, as will be described later, when referring to the "surface of the medal", it shall refer to the front surface or the back surface.

[0046] FIG. 7A shows a state where the end portion of the medal is in contact with the operation surface of the operation unit 61. In other words, it is possible to bring the end portion of the medal into contact with the operation unit 61 (the operation surface thereof). At this time, the end portion of the medal is not in contact with the button peripheral portion 64a.

[0047] FIG. 7B shows a state where the operation unit 61 is pushed in with the end portion of the medal from the state shown in FIG. 7A, the end portion of the medal contacts a predetermined location (button peripheral portion 64a), and the operation unit 61 stops at a predetermined position. The amount of movement of the operation unit 61 from its initial position at this time is less than the movement amount T2 shown in FIG. 6D. That is, the operation unit 61 does not contact the stopper portion 66 and has not reached the stop position. In other words, when using the end portion of the medal (when pushing in the operation unit 61 with the end portion of the medal), the operation unit 61 cannot be moved to the stop position. It can also be said that the end portion of the medal comes into contact with the button peripheral portion 64a before the operation unit 61 contacts the stopper portion 66.

[0048] When performing a malicious operation by strongly hitting the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal instead of a finger, if the operation unit 61 contacts the stopper unit 66, a greater force (excessive force) than when operating with a finger is applied to the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66. Therefore, there is a risk that the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66 may be damaged.

[0049] In the present embodiment, when the operation unit 61 is operated (pushed in) with the end of the medal to which a greater force is likely to be applied than with a finger, the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66 are prevented from coming into contact. For this reason, excessive force due to operation with the end of the medal is not applied to the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66. Thereby, breakage of parts can be prevented. When operating with a medal having a larger width (diameter) than a finger, it can also be said that since the end of the medal contacts the peripheral portion 64a of the button, the operation unit 61 cannot be pushed in all the way. In the present embodiment, the stroke amount when operating the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal and the shape of the periphery of the button (button peripheral portion 64a) with respect to the size of the medal are preferably designed so that the stroke amount is such that the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66 do not come into contact.

[0050] Also, in FIG. 7B, although the movement amount of the operation unit 61 is less than the movement amount T2, it may be assumed that the movement amount can be equal to or greater than the movement amount T1 shown in FIG. 6C. That is, it may be assumed that the operation unit 61 does not reach the stop position but can reach the detection position. In other words, when using the end of the medal (when pushing in the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal), it may be assumed that the operation unit 61 cannot be moved to the stop position, but the operation unit 61 can be moved to the detection position.

[0051] In this case, since the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66 do not come into contact, it is possible to prevent breakage of parts due to excessive force being applied, and there is an effect that even when operating with the end of the medal, the settlement process can be executed.

[0052] FIG. 7C shows a state in which, in the state shown in FIG. 7B, the operation unit 61 is moved to a position (stop position) where it contacts the stopper unit 66. In this case, a predetermined gap is formed between the end of the medal and the operation surface of the operation unit 61.

[0053] In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the settlement button 60 is provided on the upper surface of the operation unit 30 (the surface on the side where the MAX bet button 35 and the like are provided) (FIG. 4) is shown, but the settlement button 60 may be provided on the front surface of the operation unit 30 (the surface on the side where the start lever 32 is provided). In that case, the pushing direction of the operation unit 61 is a direction from the front to the rear.

[0054] Also, in this embodiment, the case where the button peripheral part 64a is constituted by the case part 64 is shown, but it is not limited to this, and the button peripheral part 64a may be formed by a part of the panel part 90 (design member).

[0055] (Reject Button 70) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a part of the operation unit 30 as viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the reject button 70 is provided near (on the left side of) the medal insertion port 34 of the operation unit 30 provided on the front door 20. Specifically, a through hole 85 for the reject button 70 is provided in the medal insertion port base 80 having the medal insertion port 34, and the operation part 71 of the reject button 70 is inserted through the through hole 85. The reject button 70 is provided to eliminate medal jams and return (remove) the medal when the medal inserted through the medal insertion port 34 gets jammed below the medal insertion port 34.

[0056] FIG. 9 is a front view of the reject button 70. In FIG. 9, the medal insertion port base 80 is also shown. The reject button 70 is formed such that the operation portion 71 (second operation portion) can be pushed in. As shown in FIG. 9, the reject button 70 includes an operation portion 71, an elastic member (not shown), a rotating member 73, a bracket 74, and the like. The operation portion 71 has a circular outer shape when viewed from the pushing direction (operation direction) and is formed of metal or the like. Here, the surface of the operation portion 71 that is visible (the exposed surface) and can be touched by a finger or the like is defined as the front surface (operation surface).

[0057] The rotating member 73 has two arm portions 73a and 73b formed at positions substantially opposite to each other in the left - right direction via a rotating shaft portion provided at the central portion. One arm portion 73a contacts the back - side end of the operation portion 71 (supports the operation portion 71 from below), and the other end portion 73b engages with the end portion (upper end portion) of the bracket 74. The rotating member 73 is rotatably supported and is biased in the direction of lifting the operation portion 71 (counterclockwise in FIG. 9) by a torsion spring (not shown) serving as an elastic member. The operation portion 71 is configured not to protrude from the through - hole 85 when a predetermined portion thereof contacts a predetermined portion of the medal insertion port base 80. When the operation portion 71 is pushed in this state, the rotating member 73 rotates against the biasing force of the torsion spring, the operation portion 71 moves deeper, and the bracket 74 moves upward. Then, when the operation portion 71 is pushed in and moves to a predetermined position, the moving amount of the bracket 74 reaches a predetermined moving amount, and the medal jam is resolved.

[0058] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view (axial cross-sectional view) of a part (operation part 71) of the reject button 70 and the medal insertion port base 80. In FIG. 10, the hatching indicating that it is a cross-section is omitted. Inside (inner peripheral surface) of a through-hole 85 provided in the medal insertion port base 80, a stopper part 86 (mechanical end) (second stopper part) having a smaller diameter (inner diameter) than other parts is provided. The stopper part 86 has a plane orthogonal to the axial direction and is formed so as to be able to contact (abut) a predetermined location on the back surface side of the operation part 71. The stopper part 86 has a function of restricting the movement of the operation part 71 toward the back side. In other words, when the operation part 71 contacts the stopper part 86, it cannot be pushed further back. The stopper part may be a part of the reject button 70.

[0059] Here, as shown in FIG. 9, the position of the operation part 71 in a state where it is not operated (pushed in) is defined as the "initial position" (non-operation position). When the operation part 71 is pushed in, it moves toward the back side. When the operation part 71 reaches a predetermined position, the moving amount of the bracket 74 reaches a predetermined moving amount, and the medal jam is resolved. In this way, the position of the operation part 71 when the moving amount of the bracket 74 reaches a predetermined moving amount is defined as the "operating position" (second detection position). Also, the moving amount of the operation part 71 from the "initial position" to the "operating position" is defined as the moving amount V1. When the operation part 71 is further pushed in, the operation part 71 contacts (abuts) the stopper part 86 (FIG. 10) and stops. In this way, the position of the operation part 71 that has contacted the stopper part 86 and stopped is defined as the "stop position" (second stop position) (maximum push-in position). When the operation part 71 contacts the stopper part 86 and stops, the operation part 71 is located at the most back side, and the push-in amount of the operation part 71 is the maximum. Also, the moving amount of the operation part 71 from the "initial position" to the "stop position" is defined as the moving amount V2.

[0060] When the operation (push-in) of the operation part 71 is released while the operation part 71 is pushed in, the rotating member 73 rotates by the biasing force of the elastic member, and the operation part 71 returns to the "initial position".

[0061] As shown in FIG. 8, the portion surrounding the operation unit 71 is formed by the medal insertion port base 80. Here, the portion surrounding the operation unit 71 in the medal insertion port base 80 is referred to as the button surrounding portion 83 (button surrounding portion). In the present embodiment, the button surrounding portion 83 is an inclined surface (a surface inclined in the front-rear direction) that slopes downward from the rear to the front.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 10, the diameter of the operation unit 71 is approximately 10 mm. Note that the diameter of the operation unit 71 is the diameter of the portion on the operation surface side (the outermost shape portion in this example) of the operation unit 71. Also, the inner diameter of the button surrounding portion 83 (through hole 85) is approximately 10.5 mm. A predetermined gap (a slight gap) is provided in the radial direction between the button surrounding portion 83 and the operation unit 71. The operation unit 71 can be pushed in, and the button surrounding portion 83 cannot be pushed in. Also, in the present embodiment, the operation unit 71 protrudes from the button surrounding portion 83 by a predetermined length.

[0063] Next, the case of operating the operation unit 71 using the end of the medal will be described. Here, as shown in FIG. 11, a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the left-right direction is referred to as a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal faces the left-right direction (left direction or right direction). Also, a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the front-rear direction is referred to as a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal faces the front-rear direction (front direction or rear direction). Also, a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the up-down direction is referred to as a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal faces the up-down direction (up direction or down direction). Also, although not shown, the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal may be inclined with respect to a predetermined direction (predetermined axis) (left-right direction, front-rear direction, or up-down direction), and in that case, it is referred to as a state in which the surface (front and back surfaces) of the medal faces the diagonal direction. The predetermined direction in the case of a state in which the medal surface faces a predetermined direction includes the left-right direction, the front-rear direction, the up-down direction, or the diagonal direction.

[0064] FIG. 12A is a view in which a medal is added to the cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X shown in FIG. 8 (a cross-sectional view along the left-right direction). In FIG. 12A, the hatching indicating that it is a cross-section is omitted. FIG. 12A shows a state in which the surface of the medal faces a predetermined direction (front-rear direction), and the end of the medal is in contact with the surface (operation surface) of the operation unit 71. In other words, the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation unit 71 (the operation surface thereof). At this time, the end of the medal is not in contact with the button peripheral portion 83.

[0065] FIG. 12B shows a state in which the operation unit 71 is pushed in with the end of the medal from the state shown in FIG. 12A, the end of the medal comes into contact with a predetermined location (button peripheral portion 83), and the operation unit 71 stops at a predetermined position. The amount of movement of the operation unit 71 from its initial position at this time is less than the movement amount V2. That is, the operation unit 71 does not contact the stopper portion 86 and has not reached the stop position.

[0066] FIG. 12C shows a state in which, in the state shown in FIG. 12B, the operation unit 71 is moved to a position (stop position) where it contacts the stopper portion 86. In this case, a predetermined gap is formed between the end of the medal and the operation surface of the operation unit 71.

[0067] Further, FIG. 13A is a view in which a medal is added to the cross-sectional view taken along the line Y-Y shown in FIG. 8 (a cross-sectional view along the front-rear direction). In FIG. 13A, the hatching indicating that it is a cross-section is omitted. FIG. 13A shows a state in which the surface of the medal faces a predetermined direction (left-right direction), and the end of the medal is in contact with the surface (operation surface) of the operation unit 71. In other words, the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation unit 71 (the operation surface thereof). At this time, the end of the medal is not in contact with the button peripheral portion 83.

[0068] FIG. 13B shows a state where the operation unit 71 is pushed in at the end of the medal from the state shown in FIG. 13A, the end of the medal contacts a predetermined location (button peripheral portion 83), and the operation unit 71 stops at a predetermined position. The amount of movement of the operation unit 71 from its initial position at this time is less than the movement amount V2. That is, the operation unit 71 does not contact the stopper portion 86 and has not reached the stop position.

[0069] FIG. 13C shows a state where, in the state shown in FIG. 13B, the operation unit 71 is hypothetically moved to a position (stop position) where it contacts the stopper portion 86. In this case, a predetermined gap is formed between the end of the medal and the operation surface of the operation unit 71.

[0070] In the above, the case where the surface of the medal faces the front-rear direction and the case where the surface of the medal faces the left-right direction are shown. However, in the present embodiment, when pushing in the operation unit 71 with the end of the medal, (1) it is possible to bring the end of the medal into contact with the operation unit 71 regardless of the direction in which the surface of the medal faces. Also, when pushing in the operation unit 71 with the end of the medal, (2) it is not possible to move the operation unit 71 to the stop position regardless of the direction in which the surface of the medal faces. In other words, before the operation unit 71 contacts the stopper portion 86, the end of the medal comes into contact with a predetermined location (button peripheral portion 83).

[0071] Note that the amount of movement of the operation unit 71 when the surface of the medal faces the front-rear direction and the operation unit 71 is pushed in with the end of the medal, and the amount of movement of the operation unit 71 when the surface of the medal faces the left-right direction and the operation unit 71 is pushed in with the end of the medal may be different. For example, when the surface of the medal faces the left-right direction (the direction along the inclination), the operation unit 71 may be able to be moved deeper (pushed in deeper) than when the surface of the medal faces the front-rear direction (the direction orthogonal to the inclination).

[0072] When the operation unit 71 is maliciously (mischievously) operated by hitting it strongly with the end of the medal instead of a finger, if the operation unit 71 comes into contact with the stopper unit 86, a greater force (excessive force) than when operated with a finger is applied to the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86. Therefore, there is a risk that the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86 may be damaged.

[0073] In the present embodiment, when the operation unit 71 is operated (pushed in) with the end of the medal to which a greater force is more likely to be applied than with a finger, the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86 are prevented from coming into contact. For this reason, an excessive force due to the operation with the end of the medal is not applied to the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86. Thereby, breakage of the parts can be prevented. When operating with a medal having a width (diameter) larger than that of a finger, since the end of the medal comes into contact with the button peripheral part 83, it can also be said that the operation unit 71 cannot be pushed in all the way. In the present embodiment, the stroke amount when the operation unit 71 is operated with the end of the medal and the shape of the periphery of the button (button peripheral part 83) with respect to the size of the medal are preferably designed so that the stroke amount is such that the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86 do not come into contact.

[0074] Also, although the movement amount of the operation unit 71 is set to be less than the movement amount V2, it may be set to be equal to or greater than the movement amount V1. That is, it may be such that the operation unit 71 does not reach the stop position but can reach the operating position. In other words, when using the end of the medal (when pushing in the operation unit 71 with the end of the medal), it may be such that the operation unit 71 cannot be moved to the stop position, but the operation unit 71 can be moved to the operating position.

[0075] In this case, since the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86 do not come into contact, it is possible to prevent breakage of the parts due to the application of an excessive force, and there is an effect that the jam of the medal can be eliminated even when operating with the end of the medal.

[0076] (Modification example) In this embodiment, the case where the reject button 70 is provided on the upper surface of the operation unit 30 (on the left side of the medal insertion slot 34) has been shown. However, the reject button 70 may be provided at a position away from the medal insertion slot 34, for example, on the front surface of the operation unit 30 (front door 20) (the surface on the side where the stop buttons 33a, 33b, 33c are provided). In that case, the medal insertion slot base 80 in this embodiment may be the panel unit 90. Hereinafter, it will be described with reference to FIG. 14.

[0077] FIG. 14(a) is a view of the reject button 70 of this modification as seen from the front side (front side). FIG. 14(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line E1-E1 shown in FIG. 14(a). FIG. 14(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line E2-E2 shown in FIG. 14(a). The panel unit 90 is provided with a recess 99 that has a circular shape when viewed from the front and is recessed on the rear side. A through hole is provided in the bottom surface of the recess 99, and the reject button 70 (operation unit 71) is inserted through this through hole. The tip of the operation unit 71 protrudes forward by a predetermined length from the front surface of the panel unit 90. The operation unit 71 can be pushed in from the front to the rear. Although not shown, the stopper portion 86 is provided at a predetermined location inside the panel unit 90 (front door 20).

[0078] In this modification, even when the surface of the medal faces any direction, the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation surface of the operation unit 71. However, since the end of the medal contacts a predetermined location (the end of the panel unit 90) (the periphery of the button), the operation unit 71 cannot be pushed in to a predetermined position (for example, the operating position or the stop position). Therefore, even when operating with the end of the medal, the operation unit 71 and the stopper portion 86 do not come into contact, and damage to the components due to excessive force can be prevented.

[0079] The gaming machine of this embodiment has a front door, and a settlement button provided on the front door, the settlement button includes an operation unit formed to be pushable, When the position at which the pushed-in operation unit contacts the stopper unit and stops is defined as the stop position, With the surface of the medal facing in a predetermined direction, when pushing in the operation unit with the end of the medal, The end of the medal can contact the operation unit, but the operation unit cannot be moved to the stop position.

[0080] If, when pushing in the operation unit with the end of the medal, the operation unit moves to the stop position, excessive force is applied to the operation unit and the stopper unit compared to when operating with a finger, which may cause damage. According to the gaming machine of the present embodiment, when pushing in the operation unit with the end of the medal, the end of the medal can contact the operation unit, but the operation unit cannot be moved to the stop position. For this reason, even when the operation unit is operated with the end of the medal, the operation unit and the stopper unit do not contact each other. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the damage of the settlement button due to excessive force when operating with the end of the medal.

[0081] Also, the gaming machine of the present embodiment When the position at which the operation of the pushed-in operation unit is detected is defined as the detection position, With the surface of the medal facing in a predetermined direction, when pushing in the operation unit with the end of the medal, The operation unit can be moved to the detection position.

[0082] Since the operation unit and the stopper unit do not contact each other, it is possible to prevent damage to the components due to excessive force being applied, and it is possible to execute the settlement process even when operating with the end of the medal.

[0083] Also, the gaming machine of the present embodiment A front door, A reject button provided on the front door, and The reject button includes an operation unit formed to be pushable. When the position where the pushed-in operation part contacts the stopper part and stops is defined as the stop position, with the medal surface facing a predetermined direction, when pushing in the operation part with the end of the medal, the end of the medal can contact the operation part, but the operation part cannot be moved to the stop position.

[0084] If, when pushing in the operation part with the end of the medal, the operation part moves to the stop position, excessive force is applied to the operation part and the stopper part compared to when operating with a finger, which may cause damage. According to the gaming machine of this embodiment, when pushing in the operation part with the end of the medal, the end of the medal can contact the operation part, but the operation part cannot be moved to the stop position. For this reason, even when the operation part is operated with the end of the medal, the operation part and the stopper part do not contact each other. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the reject button from being damaged by excessive force when operating with the end of the medal.

[0085] Also, the gaming machine of this embodiment includes a front door, a settlement button and a reject button provided on the front door, the settlement button includes a first operation part formed to be pushable, the reject button includes a second operation part formed to be pushable, when the position where the pushed-in first operation part contacts the first stopper part and stops is defined as the first stop position, when the position where the pushed-in second operation part contacts the second stopper part and stops is defined as the second stop position, with the medal surface facing a first predetermined direction, when pushing in the first operation part with the end of the medal, the end of the medal can contact the first operation part, but the first operation part cannot be moved to the first stop position, With the surface of the medal facing the second predetermined direction, when pushing in the second operation part at the end of the medal, the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the second operation part, but the second operation part cannot be moved to the second stop position. Note that the first predetermined direction and the second predetermined direction may be the same direction (same orientation) or different directions (different orientations).

[0086] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, the description of the same configuration as that of the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the settlement button 60 is provided at a predetermined position (for example, on the left side of the MAX bet button 35) on the upper surface of the operation part 30. The settlement button 60 is attached to the panel part 90.

[0088] FIG. 15(a) is a view of the settlement button 60 of the present embodiment as seen from above. FIG. 15(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1 - A1 shown in FIG. 15(a). FIG. 15(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2 - A2 shown in FIG. 15(a). The operation part 61 is formed in a horizontally long rectangular shape and can be pushed in. Note that the operation part 61 may be, for example, a horizontally long trapezoidal shape or the like. The button peripheral part 64a is formed so as to surround the periphery of the operation part 61 (along the periphery of the operation part 61) and has a horizontally long rectangular shape. In the present embodiment, the button peripheral part 64a protrudes above the operation surface of the operation part 61. In other words, the operation surface of the operation part 61 is located deeper than the button peripheral part 64a. Note that the button peripheral part 64a may be formed as a part of a design member (panel part 90) configured separately from the settlement button 60, or may be formed of a component (case part 64) of the settlement button 60.

[0089] In addition, in this embodiment, the settlement button 60 is elongated in the left - right direction (horizontal direction), but it is not limited to this, and it may be elongated in the front - rear direction (vertical direction) (that is, vertically long).

[0090] Here, the direction along the longitudinal direction of the settlement button 60 is defined as the first direction, and the direction along the short - hand direction of the settlement button 60 is defined as the second direction. Note that the second direction may be said to be perpendicular to the first direction.

[0091] When pushing in the operation part 61 at the end of the medal, regardless of the direction in which the surface of the medal faces (regardless of the direction in which the surface of the medal faces including the first direction and the second direction), the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation surface of the operation part 61.

[0092] On the other hand, when pushing in the operation part 61 at the end of the medal, in the state where the surface of the medal faces the second direction (front - rear direction), it is possible to move the operation part 61 to the stop position with the end of the medal, but in the state where the surface of the medal faces the first direction (left - right direction), it is not possible to move the operation part 61 to the stop position with the end of the medal. That is, there are a direction in which the operation part 61 can be moved to the stop position and a direction in which the operation part 61 cannot be moved to the stop position depending on the orientation of the medal. When the orientation of the medal is a predetermined orientation, even if the medal is operated at its end, the operation part 61 and the stopper part 66 do not come into contact, so damage to the parts due to excessive force can be prevented.

[0093] Also, although illustration of the reject button 70 of this embodiment is omitted, in this embodiment, when pushing in the operation part 71 at the end of the medal, it is possible to bring the end of the medal into contact with the operation surface of the operation part 71, but the operation part 71 cannot be moved to the stop position. Therefore, even when the medal is operated at its end, the operation part 71 and the stopper part 86 do not come into contact, and damage to the parts due to excessive force can be prevented.

[0094] (Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of this embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, the description of the same configuration as that of the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0095] In this embodiment, the settlement button 60 is provided at a predetermined position (on the left side of the start lever 32) on the front surface of the operation unit 30 (front door 20). The settlement button 60 is attached to the panel unit 90.

[0096] FIG. 16(a) is a view of the settlement button 60 of this embodiment as seen from the front side. FIG. 16(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B1-B1 shown in FIG. 16(a). FIG. 16(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B2-B2 shown in FIG. 16(a). The panel unit 90 is provided with a hole 91 for exposing the settlement button 60. The hole 91 is a hole that penetrates in the front-rear direction, and the settlement button 60 is disposed on the back side (rear side) of the hole 91. The diameter of the hole 91 is such that a finger can be inserted, and is smaller than the diameter of the medal.

[0097] In this embodiment, even when the surface of the medal faces any direction (regardless of the orientation of the medal), the end of the medal cannot be brought into contact with the operation unit 61 (operation surface thereof). In other words, when trying to push in the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal, there is no case where the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation unit 61 (operation surface thereof). Specifically, since the end of the medal contacts a predetermined location (end of the panel unit 90) (around the button) (part of the shape of the front door) and the medal cannot be inserted into the hole 91, the end of the medal cannot be brought into contact with the operation unit 61. Therefore, even when trying to operate with the end of the medal, the end of the medal does not contact the operation unit 61, and the operation unit 61 and the stopper unit 66 do not contact each other, so that damage to the components due to excessive force can be prevented.

[0098] Also, although illustration of the reject button 70 of the present embodiment is omitted, in the present embodiment, when pushing in the operation unit 71 at the end of the medal, it is possible to bring the end of the medal into contact with the operation surface of the operation unit 71, but the operation unit 71 cannot be moved to the stop position. Therefore, even when operating at the end of the medal, the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86 do not come into contact, and damage to components due to excessive force being applied can be prevented.

[0099] (Modification example) In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the hole portion 91 is circular when viewed from the front, but the hole portion 91 may be, for example, elliptical when viewed from the front. At this time, even when the medal can be inserted into the hole portion 91 in a state where the surface of the medal faces a specific direction (a state where the surface of the medal is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the minor axis direction of the ellipse). In that case, it may be possible to bring the end of the medal into contact with the operation surface of the operation unit 61, and further, it may be possible to move the operation unit 61 to the stop position with the end of the medal. Even if it is possible to push in the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal in such a state where the surface of the medal faces a specific direction, the operation unit 61 is provided on the back side of the hole portion 91 having a predetermined length in the front-rear direction. Therefore, since the finger holding the medal comes into contact with the end of the panel portion 90 and becomes an obstacle, it is difficult to vigorously operate the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal. Therefore, damage to components due to excessive force being applied when operating with the end of the medal can be suppressed.

[0100] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, the description of the same configuration as that of the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0101] In this embodiment, similar to the third embodiment, the settlement button 60 is provided at a predetermined position (for example, on the left side of the start lever 32) on the front surface of the operation unit 30 (front door 20). The settlement button 60 is attached to the panel unit 90.

[0102] FIG. 17(a) is a view of the settlement button 60 of this embodiment as seen from the front side. FIG. 17(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line C1-C1 shown in FIG. 17(a). FIG. 17(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line C2-C2 shown in FIG. 17(a). A hole 91 is provided in the panel unit 90. In this embodiment, the hole 91 is formed such that the opening (diameter) becomes larger (expands) as it goes from the rear to the front. In other words, the inner peripheral surface of the hole 91 has a tapered shape in which the opening becomes larger toward the front side. The hole 91 is formed to be large enough to insert a medal.

[0103] In this embodiment, regardless of the direction in which the surface of the medal faces, the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation surface of the operation unit 61, and the operation unit 61 can be moved to the stop position by the end of the medal. However, even if the operation unit 61 can be operated by the end of the medal, the operation unit 61 is provided on the back side of the hole 91 having a predetermined length in the front-rear direction, and the finger holding the medal contacts the end of the panel unit 90 and becomes an obstacle. Therefore, it is difficult to vigorously operate the operation unit 61 with the end of the medal. Thus, it is possible to suppress damage to parts due to excessive force applied by operating with the end of the medal.

[0104] Also, although illustration of the reject button 70 of this embodiment is omitted, in this embodiment, when pushing in the operation unit 71 with the end of the medal, it is possible to bring the end of the medal into contact with the operation surface of the operation unit 71, but the operation unit 71 cannot be moved to the stop position. Therefore, even when operating with the end of the medal, the operation unit 71 and the stopper unit 86 do not come into contact, and it is possible to prevent damage to parts due to excessive force applied.

[0105] (Fifth Embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the gaming machine of this embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment, the description of the same configuration as that of the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0106] In this embodiment, similar to the third and fourth embodiments, the settlement button 60 is provided at a predetermined position (for example, on the left side of the start lever 32) on the front surface of the operation unit 30 (front door 20). The settlement button 60 is attached to the panel unit 90.

[0107] FIG. 18(a) is a view of the settlement button 60 of this embodiment as seen from the front side. FIG. 18(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line D1-D1 shown in FIG. 18(a). FIG. 18(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line D2-D2 shown in FIG. 18(a). FIG. 18(d) is a cross-sectional view taken along line D3-D3 shown in FIG. 18(a). In this embodiment, the hole portion 91 is substantially square when viewed from the front. The hole portion 91 is formed to have a size into which a finger can be inserted, and the vertical length and the horizontal length are smaller than the diameter of the medal. Also, the length in the diagonal direction of the hole portion 91 is larger than the diameter of the medal on the front side and gradually decreases toward the rear. Here, the left-right direction when the hole portion 91 is viewed from the front is defined as the first direction, and the up-down direction is defined as the second direction. Also, a predetermined direction other than the first direction and the second direction (the direction along the diagonal line of the hole portion 91) is defined as the specific direction.

[0108] When the surface of the medal faces the first direction (left-right direction) and when the surface of the medal faces the second direction (up-down direction), the end portion of the medal contacts a predetermined location (the end portion of the panel unit 90) (the periphery of the button) (a part of the shape of the front door), and the medal cannot be inserted into the hole portion 91. Therefore, the end portion of the medal cannot be brought into contact with the operation unit 61.

[0109] On the one hand, when the surface of the medal faces a specific direction, it is possible to insert the medal into the hole 91 and bring the end of the medal into contact with the operation part 61 (operation surface). However, even in such a case, since the medal contacts the inner peripheral surface (inner wall) of the hole 91, it is impossible to move the operation part 61 to the stop position with the end of the medal. That is, when the surface of the medal faces a specific direction, the end of the medal can be brought into contact with the operation part 61, but the operation part 61 cannot be moved to the stop position.

[0110] Therefore, even when attempting to operate with the end of the medal, when the surface of the medal faces the first direction and when the surface of the medal faces the second direction, the end of the medal does not contact the operation part 61, and damage to components due to excessive force can be prevented. Also, when the surface of the medal faces a specific direction, even if the end of the medal contacts the operation part 61, since the operation part 61 and the stopper part 66 do not contact, damage to components due to excessive force can be prevented.

[0111] Although illustration of the reject button 70 of the present embodiment is omitted, for example, in the reject button 70 shown in FIG. 14, in the present embodiment, when pushing in the operation part 71 with the end of the medal, even when the surface of the medal faces the left - right direction or when the surface of the medal faces the up - down direction, the operation part 71 can be moved to the stop position.

[0112] (Sixth Embodiment) Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the same configuration as that of the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0113] FIG. 19A is a front view of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. FIGS. 19B, 19C, and 19D are cross-sectional views taken along the S-S line shown in FIG. 19A. The position of the S-S line is a position shifted (offset) to the left by a predetermined dimension (for example, a dimension corresponding to the diameter of a medal) from the right end of the gaming machine (the right side surface of the housing 1). The front door 20 is rotatably (openably and closably) connected to the housing 1 via a hinge provided on the left side of the housing 1, and is configured to open and close the opening (front opening) of the housing 1. Although details will be described later, FIG. 19B shows the case where the front door 20 is in the "first state", FIG. 19C shows the case where the front door 20 is in the "second state", and FIG. 19D shows the case where the front door 20 is in the "third state".

[0114] As shown in FIG. 19B, a supported portion 81 (protrusion) formed to protrude rearward is provided at a position on the back surface of the front door 20 that is opposite to the rotation axis side (the left side when facing the back surface of the front door 20). In the present embodiment, a roller portion is provided at the tip of the supported portion 81. Further, a support portion 82 is formed at a position on the right side when the inside of the housing 1 is viewed from the front and corresponding to the supported portion 81 when the front door 20 is closed. The support portion 82 is formed so as to be able to support the supported portion 81 from below.

[0115] In the present embodiment, the support portion 82 is formed in a plate shape and is arranged so as to have a plate surface perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction. The support portion 82 is fixed, for example, to the inner surface of the right side plate of the housing 1 by screwing or the like. When moving the front door 20 from the open state (open state) to the closed state (closed state), first, the roller portion of the supported portion 81 comes into contact (abuts) with the front side (front side) of the support portion 82, and then the roller portion of the supported portion 81 rides (mounts) on the support portion 82, and then the roller portion advances rearward on the support portion 82 and stops at a predetermined position.

[0116] The state (position) of the front door 20 includes a first state, a second state, and a third state. (First state) As shown in FIG. 19B, the first state is a state in which the front door 20 is closed (in a closed state), and the supported portion 81 of the front door 20 is supported by the support portion 82 of the housing 1. In the present embodiment, the supported portion 81 applies a load (loads) to the support portion 82. It can also be said that the support portion 82 lifts the supported portion 81 upward.

[0117] (Second state) As shown in FIG. 19C, the second state is a state in which the front door 20 is open (in an open state), and the supported portion 81 of the front door 20 is not in contact (not touching) with the support portion 82 of the housing 1 (a separated state).

[0118] (Third state) As shown in FIG. 19D, the third state is a state in which the front door 20 is open, and the supported portion 81 of the front door 20 is in contact (touching) with the support portion 82 of the housing 1. The third state is a state in which the supported portion 81 is in contact with the support portion 82, but the supported portion 81 is not supported by the support portion 82, and the front door 20 is in an open state without being completely closed (a semi-open state: a state of being open just a little). Note that the third state may be a state in which only the tip portion of the support portion 82 supports the supported portion 81 (a state in which the supported portion 81 is supported only by the tip portion of the support portion 82). Also, the third state can be said to be a state in which the opening angle of the front door 20 is smaller than that in the second state. The opening angle of the front door 20 is, for example, the angle formed between the front surface of the housing 1 and the rear surface of the front door 20.

[0119] The bottom surface 4b (the lower surface of the bottom plate 4) of the gaming machine (housing 1) is a surface (installation surface) that comes into contact with a mating member (such as island equipment). Therefore, the bottom surface 4b is defined as the mounting surface Z of the housing 1. The mounting surface Z of the housing 1 is flush with the upper surface of the installation table (platform). The installation table is formed to extend from the rear side to the front side and is also located below the saucer 38. Hereinafter, when referring to the mounting surface Z of the housing 1, it may refer to the entire surface that is flush with the mounting surface Z (including the upper surface of the installation table). Note that a player can place beverages or the like in the space, for example, on the left side of the saucer 38.

[0120] The lower end (bottom surface) of the front door 20 (tray 38) is located above the bottom surface 4b (placement surface Z) of the housing 1. As shown in FIG. 19B, in the first state (closed state), the dimension (vertical dimension) of the gap from the lower end (lower side) Y1 of the front door 20 (tray 38) to the placement surface Z of the housing 1 is the first dimension L1 (designed to be the first dimension L1). The first dimension L1 is about 3 to 5 mm.

[0121] Also, as shown in FIG. 19C, in the second state (open state), the dimension (vertical dimension) of the gap from the lower end (lower side) Y2 of the front door 20 (tray 38) to the placement surface Z of the housing 1 is the second dimension L2, which is smaller than the first dimension L1 (designed to be the second dimension L2). The second dimension L2 is about 2 to 3 mm.

[0122] Also, as shown in FIG. 19D, in the third state (semi-open state), the dimension (vertical dimension) of the gap from the lower end (lower side) Y3 of the front door 20 (tray 38) to the placement surface Z of the housing 1 is the third dimension L3, which is smaller than the first dimension L1 (designed to be the third dimension L3). The third dimension L3 is about 2 to 3 mm.

[0123] The first dimension L1 to the third dimension L3 can also be said to be the vertical distance (difference) between the lower end (bottom surface) of the front door 20 (tray 38) and the bottom surface 4b (placement surface Z) of the housing 1. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the tray 38 is a surface that slopes upward from the rear to the front in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the first dimension L1 to the third dimension L3 are the vertical distances between the rear end (lowest end) of the bottom surface of the tray 38 and the bottom surface 4b (placement surface Z) of the housing 1. Note that the thickness of the bottom plate 4 of the housing 1 is about 15 mm.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 20, the diameter of the game medal M is defined as dimension L4. Also, the thickness of the medal M is defined as dimension L5. The medal M used in the game on the gaming machine according to the present embodiment has a dimension L4 of φ25 (diameter of about 25 mm) and a dimension L5 of about 1.6 mm. However, the medal M may have a dimension L4 of φ30 (diameter of about 30 mm) and a dimension L5 of about 1.7 mm. Also, the diameter of the game ball B is defined as dimension L6. Dimension L6 is about 11 mm.

[0125] The first dimension L1 shown in FIG. 19B is smaller than the diameter L6 of the game ball B and larger than the thickness L5 of the medal M (designed to be larger). Also, the second dimension L2 shown in FIG. 19C is smaller than the diameter L6 of the game ball B and larger than the thickness L5 of the medal M (designed to be larger). Also, the third dimension L3 shown in FIG. 19D is smaller than the diameter L6 of the game ball B and larger than the thickness L5 of the medal M (designed to be larger).

[0126] As described above, in the state where the front door 20 is closed (the first state), the supported portion 81 is supported from below. On the other hand, in the state where the front door 20 is open (the second state and the third state), the support from below the supported portion 81 is released (opened). Therefore, the front door 20 in the open state that has lost the support from below is in a state where it has slightly dropped downward (downward) due to its own weight. In other words, the lower end Y2 (the second state) and the lower end Y3 (the third state) are located below the lower end Y1 (the first state), and the second dimension L2 and the third dimension L3 are smaller than the first dimension L1. Further in other words, in the open state rather than the closed state, the lower end of the front door 20 (the tray 38) approaches the upper surface of the base (the mounting surface Z of the housing 1).

[0127] (Relationship with the thickness of the medal M) When the gaming machine of the present embodiment is placed on the placement surface Z, regardless of the state of the front door 20, a gap (first dimension L1, second dimension L2, and third dimension L3) larger than the thickness of the medal M is formed between the lower end of the front door 20 (the tray 38) and the placement surface Z. In other words, the first dimension L1, the second dimension L2, and the third dimension L3 are larger than the thickness (dimension L5) of the medal M. Therefore, even if the front door 20 is opened and closed in a state where the medal M has entered (hidden) between the lower side of the front door 20 (the tray 38) and the base existing below the tray 38, the lower end of the front door 20 (the tray 38) and the medal M do not come into contact with each other. In other words, the medal M hidden in the gap between the tray 38 and the base does not prevent the opening and closing of the front door 20. For this reason, even when the medal M is present on the upper surface of the base (placement surface Z), the front door 20 can be smoothly opened and closed. Further, if the lower end of the front door 20 contacts the medal M when the front door 20 is opened, the medal M is pushed out and falls from the base, which causes trouble such as searching for the medal M. However, according to the present embodiment, such trouble can be prevented.

[0128] Further, according to the present embodiment, in a state where the medal M is placed on the placement surface Z (the upper surface of the base) of the housing 1 without overlapping, the front door 20 changing from the second state (open state) to the first state (closed state) is not blocked (prevented, hindered) by the medal M. The store clerk in the game hall (hall) may open the front door 20 to eliminate the cause of the empty error generated by the shortage (depletion) of the medal M in the hopper. However, when closing the opened front door 20, even when the medal M is placed on the placement surface Z of the housing 1, the front door 20 can be closed without the medal M contacting the front door 20. Thereby, it is possible to avoid a situation where the medal M is sandwiched in the gap between the front door 20 and the housing 1 (the front surface of the housing 1) and the front door 20 cannot be closed, and a situation where the front door 20 is damaged by the impact caused by the sandwiching of the medal M.

[0129] Also, in a state where the medal M is placed on the placement surface Z (the upper surface of the base) of the housing 1 without overlapping, the front door 20 can be changed from the first state (closed state) to the second state (open state) without being blocked by the medal M. When a store employee in the game arcade (hall) opens the closed front door 20 to eliminate the cause of an empty error generated by a shortage (depletion) of the medal M in the hopper, even when a medal M is placed on the placement surface Z of the housing 1, the front door 20 can be opened without the medal M contacting the front door 20. Thereby, it is possible to avoid a situation where the medal M is caught in the gap between the front door 20 and the placement surface Z (the upper surface of the base) and the front door 20 cannot be opened, and a situation where the front door 20 is damaged by forcibly opening the front door 20 with the medal M caught.

[0130] (Relationship with the game ball B) For example, consider a case where a slot machine and a pachinko machine are installed nearby, and a game ball B exists near the front door 20 (the tray 38). In a state where the front door 20 is closed (the first state), even if the game ball B rolls under the front door 20 (the tray 38), since the first dimension L1 is smaller than the diameter L6 of the game ball B, the game ball B does not enter to the back side (rear side) under the tray 38. The lower surface of the tray 38 is inclined upward toward the front, but the game ball B abuts (contacts) against the inclined surface and stops before reaching the lower end of the front door 20 (the tray 38). Then, when the front door 20 is opened in that state, the game ball B is pushed out to the front side and falls from the base. Also, since the game ball B falls in this way, it does not hinder closing the opened front door 20. It should be noted that the same applies when the game ball B rolls under the front door 20 (the tray 38) when the front door 20 is in the second state or the third state. That is, the game ball B contacts the inclined surface and stops before reaching the lower end of the front door 20 (the tray 38), and when the front door 20 is opened in that state, the game ball B is pushed out to the front side and falls. And since the game ball B falls, it does not hinder closing the opened front door 20.

[0131] In addition, although the gap (first dimension L1 to third dimension L3) between the lower end of the front door 20 (tray 38) and the placement surface Z is made smaller than the diameter L6 (about 11 mm) of the game ball B, it is more preferable that it is equal to or less than the thickness of two medals M (the thickness in a state where two medals M are stacked). The thickness of two medals M is about 3.2 mm. In that case, it is possible to more reliably prevent the game ball B from entering under the tray 38.

[0132] Also, in the present embodiment, the first dimension L1 is larger than the third dimension L3, the third dimension L3 is larger than the second dimension L2, and the second dimension L2 is larger than the dimension L5 (the thickness of the medal M). In other words, the following relationship holds. L1>L3>L2>L5 Note that the third dimension L3 may be equal to or greater than the second dimension L2 (L3≧L2). Also, the third dimension L3 may be substantially the same as the second dimension L2 (L3≒L2). Substantially the same means, for example, that the difference between the two is within 1 mm.

[0133] In the state shown in FIG. 19D (third state), the gap (the dimension of the distance (minimum distance) between the right side (right end) of the front door 20 and the right side (right end) of the housing 1) from the right side (right end) of the front door 20 to the right side (right end) of the housing 1 is defined as the fourth dimension L7. The fourth dimension L7 may be the opening dimension of the right end portion of the front door 20 in the third state. Although the fourth dimension L7 is shown in FIG. 19D, FIG. 19D is a cross-sectional view taken along the S-S line shown in FIG. 19A and does not strictly indicate the distance (dimension) between the right end of the front door 20 and the right end of the housing 1. The fourth dimension L7 is about 33 mm. This fourth dimension L7 is larger than the diameter dimension L4 of the medal M (designed to be larger) (L7>L4).

[0134] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the second dimension L2 and the third dimension L3 are designed to be larger than the thickness L5 of the medal M. However, due to factors such as the accuracy (variation) of the component dimensions, the deterioration of the quality (durability) of the hinge 29 (see FIG. 2), and assembly errors, the second dimension L2 or the third dimension L3 may be less than or equal to (less than) the thickness L5 of the medal M. Even in such a case, in the process of the front door 20 moving from the third state (FIG. 19D) to the first state (FIG. 19B), the supported portion 81 of the front door 20 is supported (loaded onto the support portion 82) so as to rest (ride) on the support portion 82 of the housing 1, and a dimension corresponding to the thickness of the medal M is ensured between the lower end of the front door 20 and the placement surface Z (bottom surface 4b). Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation where the front door 20 cannot be closed or a situation where the front door 20 is damaged due to the sandwiching of the medal M.

[0135] (Modification example) In the second state (open state) shown in FIG. 19C, it is assumed that the second state 21 in which the opening angle of the front door 20 is the first opening angle and the second state 22 in which the opening angle of the front door 20 is greater than the first opening angle are included. The first opening angle is a predetermined angle of 10° (ten degrees) or less. Also, in the second state 21, the distance (gap) between the end (right end) of the front door 20 and the end (right end) of the housing 1 on the side opposite to the rotation axis side is the distance between one end and the other end when two to three medals are arranged in a row on a horizontal plane (the distance for two to three medals, for example, about 50 mm to about 75 mm). In this modification example, in the second state 21, the lower end (right lower end) of the front door 20 approaches the placement surface Z, and the second dimension L2 becomes smaller than the first dimension (the first state: closed state) (in other words, the second state includes the second state 21 in which the second dimension L2 is smaller than the first dimension L1). However, in the second state 21, the second dimension is larger than the thickness L5 of the medal M.

[0136] In this modification example, when the opening angle of the front door 20 is larger than the first opening angle, the lower end (the lower end on the right side) of the front door 20 gradually separates from the placement surface Z as the opening angle increases. In this case, if the vertical dimension between the lower end on the right side (the side opposite to the rotation axis side) of the front door 20 and the placement surface Z is defined as the second dimension L2, in the 22nd state (for example, the state where the opening angle of the front door 20 is maximum (the fully open state shown in FIG. 21)), the second dimension L2 is larger than the first dimension.

[0137] The gaming machine of this embodiment is provided with a housing and a front door provided to be openable and closable with respect to the housing, and includes the state of the front door includes a first state and a second state, the first state is a state where the front door is closed, the second state is a state where the front door is open, when the vertical dimension between the lower end of the front door and the placement surface of the housing in the first state is defined as the first dimension, and the vertical dimension between the lower end of the front door and the placement surface of the housing in the second state is defined as the second dimension, the second dimension is smaller than the first dimension and larger than the thickness of the gaming medal.

[0138] According to such a configuration, the second dimension when the front door is in the second state (open state) is smaller than the first dimension when the front door is in the first state (closed state). However, even in such a case, the second dimension is larger than the thickness of the gaming medal. Therefore, even when the front door is opened and closed with gaming medals present on the mounting surface of the housing, the lower end of the front door does not come into contact with the gaming medals. Thus, the front door can be opened and closed smoothly. Also, the presence of the gaming medals can prevent problems such as the front door being unable to be opened and closed and damage to components caused by pinching the gaming medals. In other words, the possibility of component failure when opening and closing the front door can be reduced. Also, since the second dimension is smaller than the first dimension, the gap between the lower end of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing when the front door is in the open state is narrower than the gap in the state where the front door is closed. Therefore, it is more difficult to insert members or the like through the gap when the front door is open. Thus, fraudulent acts can be suppressed. In other words, the anti-fraud performance can be improved.

[0139] Also, in the gaming machine of the present embodiment, the state of the front door further includes a third state, the third state is a state where the front door is open and the opening angle of the front door is smaller than that in the second state, assuming that the vertical dimension between the lower end of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in the third state is the third dimension, the third dimension is smaller than the first dimension and larger than the thickness of the gaming medal.

[0140] When the front door is in the third state (semi-open state), the third dimension is smaller than the first dimension when the front door is in the first state (closed state). However, even in this case, the third dimension is larger than the thickness of the gaming medal. This can prevent problems such as the front door being unable to be opened or closed due to the presence of the gaming medal, or parts being damaged by pinching the gaming medal. In other words, the front door can be opened and closed smoothly, and the possibility of parts malfunctioning when opening and closing the front door can be reduced.

[0141] Also, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, The first dimension, the second dimension, and the third dimension are smaller than the diameter of the gaming ball.

[0142] Since the first dimension, the second dimension, and the third dimension are smaller than the diameter of the gaming ball, it is possible to prevent the gaming ball from entering below the front door to a position where it reaches the lower end of the front door. Also, when the front door is opened with the gaming ball stopped in front of the lower end of the front door, the gaming ball is pushed forward and falls from the placement surface. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the gaming ball from interfering with the next closing of the front door.

[0143] Also, the gaming machine of this embodiment includes a housing, and a front door provided to be openable and closable with respect to the housing, The states of the front door include a first state and a second state, The first state is a state where the front door is closed, The second state is a state where the front door is open, The vertical dimension between the lower end of the front door and the placement surface of the housing in the first state is defined as the first dimension, If the vertical dimension between the lower end of the front door and the placement surface of the housing in the second state is defined as the second dimension, The second state includes a 21st state where the second dimension is smaller than the first dimension, In the 21st state, the second dimension is larger than the thickness of the gaming medal.

[0144] According to such a configuration, in the 21st state, the second dimension becomes smaller than the first dimension. However, even in that case, the second dimension is larger than the thickness of the gaming medal. For this reason, even when the front door is opened and closed with gaming medals existing on the mounting surface of the housing, the lower end of the front door does not contact the gaming medals. Therefore, the front door can be opened and closed smoothly. In addition, it is possible to prevent problems such as the front door being unable to be opened and closed due to the presence of the gaming medals and problems such as components being damaged by pinching the gaming medals. In other words, the possibility of component failure when opening and closing the front door can be reduced. Also, in the 21st state, since the second dimension becomes smaller than the first dimension, it becomes more difficult to insert members or the like through the gap between the lower end of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing. Therefore, fraudulent acts can be suppressed. In other words, the anti-fraud performance can be improved.

[0145] (Seventh Embodiment) Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. The gaming machine of this embodiment basically has the same configuration as the gaming machine of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description of the same configuration as that of the gaming machine of the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0146] As shown in FIG. 2, the main control means unit 300 is arranged above the inside of the housing 1. FIG. 22 is a view of the main control means unit 300 seen from the front side. The main control means unit 300 is substantially rectangular when viewed from the front, specifically, substantially rectangular with the longitudinal direction being the left-right direction. The main control means unit 300 includes a main control board (main control means) 72 (see FIG. 23), a main board case that houses (encases) the main control board 72 inside, and the like. The main board case includes a first board case (front side case member) that covers the front side (front surface side) of the main control board 72 and a second board case (rear side case member) that covers the rear side (rear surface side) of the main control board 72. The main board case is formed of a transparent resin, and the main control board 72 arranged inside is visible.

[0147] Here, the front side (front surface side) of the main control board 72 is defined as the first surface, and the rear side (rear surface side) is defined as the second surface. FIG. 23 is a view of the first surface of the main control board 72 seen from the front side. The main control board 72 is arranged inside the housing 1 such that the long side extends along the left-right direction, the short side extends along the up-down direction, and the normal direction of the board surface is the front-rear direction. One of the long sides of the main control board 72 is located on the upper side, the other long side is located on the lower side, one of the short sides is located on the right side, and the other short side is located on the left side.

[0148] A plurality of components (electronic components) are mounted (arranged) on the first surface of the main control board 72. Examples of the plurality of components include ICs, connectors, resistors, capacitors, diodes, and switches. Although not shown, a plurality of through holes (via holes) are provided in the main control board 72. In this embodiment, the main control board 72 is a green board. In other words, the color of the resist on the main control board 72 is green.

[0149] On the main control board 72, identification information (identification codes) for identifying (specifying) each electronic component (enabling the identification of each electronic component, corresponding to each electronic component) is provided in the vicinity of the arrangement position of each electronic component. The identification information is composed of a predetermined character or a predetermined character string (the characters of the character string include numbers). For example, in the case of a connector to which the number "1" is assigned, it is a character string "CN1" formed by combining the alphabet "CN" representing the connector and the number "1". The identification information is formed (indicated) by silk printing and is white in this embodiment. The identification information can also be called silk characters.

[0150] The main control board 72 is provided with a monitor LED 200. The monitor LED 200 can also be referred to as the main board monitor LED, the monitor lamp, or the monitor light-emitting part. In this embodiment, the monitor LED 200 is provided in a predetermined range (area) on the left side of the first surface of the main control board 72. Also, in this embodiment, the monitor LED 200 is composed of 21 LEDs (LED1 to LED21: the first LED to the 21st LED), and the 21 LEDs (light-emitting elements, light sources) are arranged together. LEDs 1 to 20 have a red emission color (a color that is easy to attract human attention), and LED 21 has a green emission color. The vertical arrangement of the monitor LED 200 is referred to as "row", and the horizontal arrangement is referred to as "column". In this embodiment, the "row" of the monitor LED 200 is 5 rows, with the lowermost row being the first row and the uppermost row being the fifth row. Also, the "column" of the monitor LED 200 is 5 columns, with the leftmost column being the first column and the rightmost column being the fifth column. The first row has 5 columns, and the second to fifth rows have 4 columns.

[0151] In the first row, LED1 is arranged in the first column, LED2 is arranged in the second column, LED3 is arranged in the third column, LED4 is arranged in the fourth column, and LED21 is arranged in the fifth column. In the second row, LED5 is arranged in the first column, LED6 is arranged in the second column, LED7 is arranged in the third column, and LED8 is arranged in the fourth column. In the third row, LED9 is arranged in the first column, LED10 is arranged in the second column, LED11 is arranged in the third column, and LED15 is arranged in the fourth column. In the fourth row, LED12 is arranged in the first column, LED13 is arranged in the second column, LED14 is arranged in the third column, and LED16 is arranged in the fourth column. In the fifth row, LED20 is arranged in the first column, LED19 is arranged in the second column, LED18 is arranged in the third column, and LED17 is arranged in the fourth column.

[0152] LEDs 1 to 20 (red LED group) with a light emission color of red are arranged (arrayed) in a 5-row 4-column matrix. Also, LED21 with a light emission color of green is arranged to the right of LED4 at the corner (corner part) of the red LED group. LED21 is arranged at a position (a non-overlapping position) distinguishable from LEDs 1 to 20.

[0153] Near LED1, identification information "LED1" that can identify that it is LED1 is marked. The same applies to LEDs 2 to 21. Note that in the fifth row (the uppermost row), the identification information is in ascending order from the right (the number gets larger from right to left).

[0154] The monitor LED200 is provided to indicate (notify) the states (operating states) of various parts (each part) provided in the gaming machine. Specifically, through the lighting / extinguishing of the monitor LED200, an operator can confirm the operating states of various parts. Put another way, through the lighting / extinguishing of the monitor LED200, an operator can confirm the presence or absence of abnormalities (failures). Put another way, through the lighting / extinguishing of the monitor LED200, an operator can identify the location where an abnormality (failure) has occurred.

[0155] LED1 is the LED corresponding to the first reel sensor (first reel index sensor). In other words, LED1 is the LED corresponding to the detection of the rotation of the first reel 15a. In the present embodiment, a first reel sensor corresponding to the first reel 15a is provided, and the lighting or extinguishing of LED1 is controlled based on the signal state of the first reel sensor. When the first reel 15a is rotating normally, LED1 blinks in red (red blinking). Specifically described as follows. The first reel 15a includes an index portion formed in a semi-circular belt shape along the circumferential direction of the reel. When the irradiation of light is blocked by the index portion, the signal state of the first reel sensor becomes, for example, the ON state, and when the irradiation of light is not blocked by the index portion, the signal state becomes, for example, the OFF state, and the ON state and the OFF state are alternately repeated. Note that the first reel sensor can detect the edge of the index portion, and based on the detection of the edge, the signal state (ON state or OFF state) may change. For example, during the rotation of the first reel 15a, based on the detection of the first edge, the signal state becomes the ON state, based on the detection of the next edge, the signal state becomes the OFF state, based on the detection of the next edge, the signal state becomes the ON state, and the ON state and the OFF state may be alternately repeated. Therefore, when the first reel 15a is rotating normally, the ON state and the OFF state of the first reel sensor are alternately repeated, and LED1 blinks. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that LED1 lights up when the first reel sensor is in the ON state and LED1 goes out when the first reel sensor is in the OFF state. However, it may be that LED1 lights up when the first reel sensor is in the OFF state and LED1 goes out when the first reel sensor is in the ON state. Note that, although the description is omitted for duplication, the same applies to the following LED2 (second reel sensor) and LED3 (third reel sensor). Therefore, when LED1 is constantly lit while the first reel 15a is rotating, or when LED1 is off even though the first reel 15a is rotating, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0156] LED2 is an LED corresponding to the second reel sensor (second reel index sensor). In other words, LED2 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the rotation of the second reel 15b. When the second reel 15b is rotating normally, LED2 is configured to blink in red (red blink). Therefore, if LED2 is constantly lit while the second reel 15b is rotating, or if LED2 is turned off even though the second reel 15b is rotating, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0157] LED3 is an LED corresponding to the third reel sensor (third reel index sensor). In other words, LED3 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the rotation of the third reel 15c. When the third reel 15c is rotating normally, LED3 is configured to blink in red (red blink). Therefore, if LED3 is constantly lit while the third reel 15c is rotating, or if LED3 is turned off even though the third reel 15c is rotating, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0158] The left - right arrangement order of LED1, LED2, and LED3 on the main control board 72 is the same as the left - right arrangement order of the first reel 15a, the second reel 15b, and the third reel 15c when looking at the front door 20 from the front. In other words, LED1 - LED3 are arranged to correspond to the arrangement of the first reel 15a - the third reel 15c. This makes it easier for the operator to grasp which reel the corresponding LED is for.

[0159] LED4 is an LED corresponding to disconnection detection. In the present embodiment, a predetermined terminal in a predetermined connector provided on a predetermined substrate (such as a relay substrate) and a predetermined input terminal A1 in a predetermined IC provided on the main control board 72 are connected via a wiring (signal line) C1. The wiring C1 includes at least one of a pattern provided on the substrate and a harness connecting between substrates. Also, the wiring C1 may have electronic components arranged therein. The cathode of the LED4 is connected to the wiring C1 (pattern) on the main control board 72, and the anode of the LED4 is pulled up by a power line via a current limiting resistor. When the wiring C1 is disconnected, the input terminal A1 becomes Low and the LED4 lights up in red. That is, disconnection of the wiring C1 is detected. Therefore, when the LED4 is lit, the operator can recognize that an abnormality (disconnection of the wiring C1) has occurred. Note that disconnection of the wiring C1 includes a case where the harness is not properly connected (inserted).

[0160] The gaming machine according to the present embodiment includes three reels 15a to 15c and three stop buttons 33a to 33c corresponding thereto. However, as shown in FIG. 24, there is a gaming machine that includes four reels 15a to 15d and four stop buttons 33a to 33d (a four-reel gaming machine). In the case of a four-reel gaming machine, the LED 4 is an LED corresponding to the fourth reel sensor (fourth reel index sensor) of the fourth reel 15d (the reel arranged on the rightmost side). In other words, the LED 4 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the rotation of the fourth reel 15d. In this case, the sensor signal terminal IDXSIG4 of the fourth reel sensor and a predetermined input terminal A1 in a predetermined IC provided on the main control board 72 are connected via a wiring (signal line) C1. The cathode of the LED 4 is connected to the wiring C1, and the anode of the LED 4 is pulled up by a power line via a current limiting resistor. When the signal state of the sensor signal terminal IDXSIG4 becomes the ON state (when an ON signal is output) based on the rotation of the fourth reel 15d, the input terminal A1 becomes Low and the LED 4 lights up. That is, in the case of a four-reel gaming machine, the LED 4 functions in the same manner as the LEDs 1 to 3. The LED 4 blinks in red (red blinking) when the fourth reel 15d is rotating normally. Therefore, when the LED 4 is constantly lit while the fourth reel 15d is rotating, or when the LED 4 is turned off even though the fourth reel 15d is rotating, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0161] LED 5 is an LED that corresponds to the detection of the depression of the stop button 33a. The gaming machine of the present embodiment is configured to be able to detect the depression of the stop button 33a, and the LED 5 is configured to light up in red (red lighting) while the stop button 33a is being depressed (while in the ON state). Specifically, a detection sensor for detecting the depression of the stop button 33a is provided, and this detection sensor includes a light emitting part formed so as to be able to irradiate light (infrared light) and a light receiving part formed so as to be able to receive the light from the light emitting part. Further, the stop button 33a includes a part (member) that can block the light from the light emitting part when depressed. The detection sensor, for example, has a signal state that is in the OFF state when the light receiving part is receiving the light from the light emitting part, and the signal state is in the ON state when the light from the light emitting part is blocked and the light receiving part is not receiving the light. Therefore, when the LED 5 is constantly lit even though the stop button 33a is not depressed, or when the LED 5 does not light up (remains off) even though the stop button 33a is depressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0162] LED 6 is an LED that corresponds to the detection of the depression of the stop button 33b. The gaming machine of the present embodiment is configured to be able to detect the depression of the stop button 33b (a detection sensor corresponding to the stop button 33b is provided), and the LED 6 is configured to light up in red (red lighting) while the stop button 33b is being depressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, when the LED 6 is constantly lit even though the stop button 33b is not depressed, or when the LED 6 does not light up (remains off) even though the stop button 33b is depressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0163] LED7 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the depression of the stop button 33c. The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to be able to detect the depression of the stop button 33c (a detection sensor corresponding to the stop button 33c is provided), and the LED7 is configured to light up in red (red light) while the stop button 33c is being depressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, when the LED7 is constantly lit even though the stop button 33c is not depressed, or when the LED7 does not light up (remains off) even though the stop button 33c is depressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0164] The left - right arrangement order of the LEDs 5, 6, and 7 is the same as the left - right arrangement order of the stop buttons 33a, 33b, and 33c when the front door 20 is viewed from the front. In other words, the LEDs 5 - 7 are arranged to correspond to the arrangement of the stop buttons 33a - 33c. This makes it easier for the operator to grasp which LED corresponds to which stop button. Also, the LEDs 5 - 7 corresponding to the stop buttons for each reel are arranged immediately above (in the same column) the LEDs 1 - 3 corresponding to each reel (each reel sensor). For this reason, the correspondence relationship between the LEDs corresponding to the reels and the LEDs corresponding to the stop buttons is clear and easy to grasp at a glance.

[0165] LED8 is an LED corresponding to disconnection detection. In the present embodiment, a predetermined terminal in a predetermined connector provided on a predetermined substrate (such as a relay substrate) and a predetermined input terminal A2 in a predetermined IC provided on the main control board 72 are connected via a wiring (signal line) C2. The wiring C2 includes at least one of a pattern provided on the substrate and a harness connecting between substrates. Also, the wiring C2 may have electronic components arranged therein. The cathode of the LED8 is connected to the wiring C2 (pattern) on the main control board 72, and the anode of the LED8 is pulled up by a power line via a current limiting resistor. When the wiring C2 is disconnected, the input terminal A2 becomes Low and the LED8 lights up in red. That is, disconnection of the wiring C2 is detected. Therefore, when the LED8 is lit, the operator can recognize that an abnormality (disconnection of the wiring C2) has occurred. Note that disconnection of the wiring C2 includes a case where the harness is not properly connected (inserted). Note that in the case of a 4-reel gaming machine, the LED8 becomes an LED corresponding to detection of pressing of the stop button 33d (the stop button arranged on the rightmost side). In this case, the sensor signal terminal STPSIG4 of the stop button 33d and a predetermined input terminal A2 in a predetermined IC provided on the main control board 72 are connected via a wiring (signal line) C2. The cathode of the LED8 is connected to the wiring C2, and the anode of the LED8 is pulled up by a power line via a current limiting resistor. When the signal state of the sensor signal terminal STPSIG4 becomes the ON state (when an ON signal is output) based on pressing of the stop button 33d, the input terminal A2 becomes Low and the LED8 lights up. That is, in the case of a 4-reel gaming machine, the LED8 functions in the same manner as the LEDs 5 to 7. The LED8 lights up in red while the stop button 33d is being pressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, when the LED8 is constantly lit even though the stop button 33d is not pressed, or when the LED8 does not light up (remains off) even though the stop button 33d is pressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0166] LED9 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the depression of the MAX bet button 35. The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to be able to detect the depression of the MAX bet button 35 (a detection sensor corresponding to the MAX bet button 35 is provided), and LED9 is configured to light up in red (red light) while the MAX bet button 35 is being depressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, if LED9 is constantly lit even though the MAX bet button 35 is not being depressed, or if LED9 does not light up (remains off) even though the MAX bet button 35 has been depressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0167] LED10 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the depression of the start lever 32. The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to be able to detect the depression of the start lever 32 (a detection sensor corresponding to the start lever 32 is provided), and LED10 is configured to light up in red (red light) while the start lever 32 is being depressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, if LED10 is constantly lit even though the start lever 32 is not being depressed, or if LED10 does not light up (remains off) even though the start lever 32 has been depressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0168] LED11 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the depression of the settlement button 60 (cancel button). The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to be able to detect the depression of the settlement button 60 (a detection sensor corresponding to the settlement button 60 is provided), and LED11 is configured to light up in red (red light) while the settlement button 60 is being depressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, if LED11 is constantly lit even though the settlement button 60 is not being depressed, or if LED11 does not light up (remains off) even though the settlement button 60 has been depressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0169] LED 15 is an LED corresponding to the detection of an error cancellation operation. In the present embodiment, LED 15 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of a setting change button (reset switch). The gaming machine of the present embodiment is configured to be able to detect the pressing of the setting change button (a detection sensor corresponding to the setting change button is provided), and LED 15 lights up in red (red lights up) while the setting change button is being pressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, when LED 15 is constantly lit even though the setting change button is not being pressed, or when LED 15 does not light up (remains off) even though the setting change button has been pressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0170] Note that LED 15 may be an LED corresponding to the detection of an operation of rotating a door key inserted into the door key cylinder 66 counterclockwise (leftward) as an error cancellation operation. In other words, the gaming machine of the present embodiment may include a door sensor capable of detecting the operation, and LED 15 may be an LED corresponding to the door sensor. In this case, LED 15 lights up in red while the operation of rotating the door key counterclockwise is being detected by the door sensor (while in the ON state). Therefore, when LED 15 is constantly lit even though the door key is not being rotated counterclockwise, or when LED 15 does not light up (remains off) even though the door key has been rotated counterclockwise, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0171] LED12 is the LED corresponding to the door opening / closing switch. In other words, LED12 is the LED corresponding to the detection of the opening and closing of the front door 20. The door opening / closing switch is configured to be able to detect the opening and closing of the front door 20. For example, when the front door 20 is closed, the front door 20 contacts and presses the pressing part, thereby turning on, and when the front door 20 is open, the front door 20 separates and the pressing of the pressing part is released, thereby turning off. LED12 is configured to light red (red light on) while the front door 20 is open and the door opening / closing switch is in the OFF state (non-pressed state). In other words, when the opening of the front door 20 is detected by the door opening / closing switch, LED12 lights red. Therefore, if LED12 does not light even when the door opening / closing switch is in the OFF state (the front door 20 is open), or if LED12 does not turn off even when the door opening / closing switch is in the ON state (pressed state), the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred. In addition, when the front door 20 is divided into an upper door and a lower door, the door opening / closing switch may be configured to be able to detect the opening and closing of the lower door. Also, door opening / closing switches corresponding to each of the upper door and the lower door may be provided, and the opening and closing of the upper door and the opening and closing of the lower door may each be configured to be detectable.

[0172] LED14 is the LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the 1-bit button. The gaming machine of this embodiment is configured to be able to detect the pressing of the 1-bit button (a detection sensor corresponding to the 1-bit button is provided), and LED14 is configured to light red (red light on) while the 1-bit button is being pressed (while in the ON state). Therefore, if LED14 is constantly lit even though the 1-bit button is not pressed, or if LED14 does not light (remains off) even though the 1-bit button is pressed, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0173] Here, the medal passage (medal path) will be described. As shown in FIG. 25, the medals inserted from the medal insertion port 34 pass through the medal selector 67 where the medals are identified and the number of medals is counted, and then are sent to the hopper unit 11 via the medal chute 69. The medal selector 67 includes an insertion detection sensor (insertion sensor) 78, a first medal passage sensor 51, and a second medal passage sensor 52. The first medal passage sensor 51 is provided upstream (the entrance side of the medal path) of the second medal passage sensor 52 in the medal selector 67. The second medal passage sensor 52 is provided downstream (the exit side of the medal path) of the first medal passage sensor 51 in the medal selector 67. Also, the medal chute 69 is provided with a chute sensor 54. Further, the hopper unit 11 is provided with a payout sensor 58. In addition, an overflow sensor 56 is provided in the portion of the housing 1 where the cash box 12 is disposed.

[0174] The medals inserted from the medal insertion port 34 are detected by the insertion detection sensor 78, the first medal passage sensor 51, the second medal passage sensor 52, and the chute sensor 54 in this order. During the game or when the number of bet medals and credit medals reaches the maximum, the medal blocker 68 built in the medal selector 67 operates to block the flow path from the medal selector 67 to the medal chute 69. Therefore, the medals inserted through the medal insertion port 34 at this time are returned from the medal selector 67 to the medal payout port 50.

[0175] Also, when the amount of medals stored in the hopper unit 11 exceeds a predetermined amount (when the predetermined amount is reached, the medals sent to the hopper unit 11 are sent to the cash box 12).

[0176] Return to FIG. 23. LED 16 is an LED corresponding to the detection of an overflow (an LED corresponding to the overflow sensor 56). When it is detected by the overflow sensor 56 that the medals stored in the cash box 12 have reached a predetermined amount, LED 16 lights up in red (red lighting). Therefore, when LED 16 is constantly lit even though the medals stored in the cash box 12 have not reached the predetermined amount, or when LED 16 does not light up (remains off) even when the overflow sensor 56 is turned on (described later), the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred. The overflow sensor 56 is composed of, for example, two bar-shaped sensors. When a medal exists (intervenes) between them and electrical conduction is achieved, the signal state becomes the ON state, and it is configured to detect that the stored medals have reached the predetermined amount.

[0177] The insertion detection sensor 78, the first medal passage sensor 51, the second medal passage sensor 52, and the shoot sensor 54 are capable of detecting the passage of medals in the medal passage. Each sensor is provided for anti-fraud measures and the like. Each sensor includes a light-emitting part formed to be able to irradiate light (infrared light) and a light-receiving part formed to be able to receive the light from the light-emitting part. The light-emitting part and the light-receiving part are arranged at positions facing each other with the medal passage or the like interposed therebetween. In a state where the light-receiving part receives the light from the light-emitting part, each sensor has a signal state of the OFF state (a state where the passage of a medal is not detected). When the light from the light-emitting part is blocked due to the passage of a medal and the light-receiving part does not receive the light, the signal state becomes the ON state (a state where the passage of a medal is detected). Note that the payout sensor 58 capable of detecting the payout of a medal also includes a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part and is configured in the same way.

[0178] LED 17 is the LED corresponding to the coin insertion detection sensor 78. In other words, LED 17 is the LED corresponding to the detection of coin insertion (passage) through the coin insertion slot 34. When one coin is inserted through the coin insertion slot 34 and the coin insertion (passage) of one coin is detected by the coin insertion detection sensor 78, LED 17 lights up in red (red lights up). In other words, LED 17 lights up in red each time one coin is inserted through the coin insertion slot 34. Therefore, when LED 17 is constantly lit even though no coin is inserted through the coin insertion slot 34, or when LED 17 does not light up (remains off) even though a coin is inserted through the coin insertion slot 34, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0179] LED 18 is the LED corresponding to the first coin passage sensor 51. In other words, LED 18 is the LED corresponding to the detection of coin passage. When the passage of one coin is detected by the first coin passage sensor 51, LED 18 lights up in red (red lights up). In other words, LED 18 lights up in red each time one coin passes through the coin selector 67. Therefore, when LED 18 is constantly lit even though no coin is passing, or when LED 18 does not light up (remains off) even though a coin passes through the coin selector 67, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0180] LED 19 is the LED corresponding to the second coin passage sensor 52. In other words, LED 19 is the LED corresponding to the detection of coin passage. When the passage of one coin is detected by the second coin passage sensor 52, LED 19 lights up in red (red lights up). In other words, LED 19 lights up in red each time one coin passes through the coin selector 67. Therefore, when LED 19 is constantly lit even though no coin is passing, or when LED 19 does not light up (remains off) even though a coin passes through the coin selector 67, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0181] LED 20 is an LED corresponding to the shoot sensor (R shoot sensor) 54. In other words, LED 20 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the passage of a medal. When the passage of one medal is detected by the shoot sensor 54, LED 20 is turned on in red (red lit). In other words, LED 20 is turned on in red each time one medal passes through the medal shoot 69. Therefore, if LED 20 is constantly lit even though no medal is passing, or if LED 20 does not light up (remains off) even when a medal passes through the medal shoot 69, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0182] LED 13 is an LED corresponding to the payout sensor (hopper sensor) 58. In other words, LED 13 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the payout of a medal. When the payout of one medal is detected by the payout sensor 58, LED 13 is turned on in red (red lit). In other words, LED 13 is turned on in red each time one medal is paid out. Therefore, if LED 13 is constantly lit even though no medal is being paid out, or if LED 13 does not light up (remains off) even when a medal is paid out, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred.

[0183] LED 21 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the supply of power (5V power supply). When power (5V) is normally supplied to the main control board 72, LED 21 is turned on in green (green lit). In other words, when the power switch provided in the power unit 10 is turned on to turn on the power of the gaming machine, and the 5V power supply is normally supplied to the main control board 72, LED 21 is turned on in green (constantly lit). Therefore, if LED 21 does not light up even though the power of the gaming machine is turned on, the operator can recognize that an abnormality has occurred. Note that LED 21 may be referred to as an LED that is constantly lit, and the above-mentioned LEDs 1 to 20 may be referred to as LEDs that are lit as needed.

[0184] (Monitor LED Chart) As shown in FIG. 2, a monitor LED chart 400 is provided on the left side inside the housing 1 (the inner surface of the left side plate 5 of the housing 1) that can be visually recognized when the front door 20 is opened. The monitor LED chart 400 can also be referred to as the main board monitor LED chart, the monitor lamp chart, or the monitor chart. The monitor LED chart 400 is formed of, for example, a sealing member and is attached to the inside of the housing 1.

[0185] FIG. 26 is a view of the monitor LED chart 400 as seen from the front. The monitor LED chart 400 serves as a corresponding chart (corresponding table) for the monitor LEDs 200 provided on the main control board 72. By looking at (comparing) the monitor LEDs 200 and the monitor LED chart 400, an operator can grasp which component (or error) each LED (LED1 to LED21) of the monitor LEDs 200 corresponds to.

[0186] Explanation information (information) regarding each LED (LED1 to LED21) is written on the monitor LED chart 400. In the present embodiment, each piece of explanation information is composed of a symbol part that represents which LED (which numbered LED) it is with a symbol (diagram, symbol), and a character part (character information) that represents which component the LED corresponds to with characters. The symbol part has the LED number "n" (n is any one of 1 to 21) written inside a round shape that imitates the outer shape of the LED (the outer shape as seen from above). Also, the character part is arranged (written) below the symbol part (right below it). Note that the position where the character part is written is not limited to this, and it may be on the right side or the upper side of each symbol part, etc.

[0187] Hereinafter, the explanatory information corresponding to LEDn (where n is any one of 1 to 21) is defined as the nth explanatory information. In the monitor LED table 400, the positions where each explanatory information is written correspond to the positions where each LED is arranged on the main control board 72. In other words, the writing of each explanatory information in the monitor LED table 400 corresponds to the arrangement of each LED on the main control board 72. For example, on the main control board 72, LED1 is arranged at the lower left, and the first explanatory information corresponding to LED1 is written at the lower left of the monitor LED table 400.

[0188] The character part in the first explanatory information is "Reel Sensor 1". By looking at the first explanatory information, the operator can recognize that LED1 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the first reel sensor. Also, the character part in the second explanatory information is "Reel Sensor 2". By looking at the second explanatory information, the operator can recognize that LED2 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the second reel sensor. Also, the character part in the third explanatory information is "Reel Sensor 3". By looking at the third explanatory information, the operator can recognize that LED3 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the third reel sensor. Also, the character part in the fourth explanatory information is "Open Circuit Detection 1 / Reel Sensor 4". By looking at the fourth explanatory information, when the gaming machine is a 3-reel gaming machine, the operator can recognize that LED4 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the open circuit detection, and when the gaming machine is a 4-reel gaming machine, the operator can recognize that LED4 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the fourth reel sensor.

[0189] The character part in the fifth explanatory information is "Stop Button 1". By looking at the fifth explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED5 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the stop button 33a. Also, the character part in the sixth explanatory information is "Stop Button 2". By looking at the sixth explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED6 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the stop button 33b. Also, the character part in the seventh explanatory information is "Stop Button 3". By looking at the seventh explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED7 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the stop button 33c. Also, the character part in the eighth explanatory information is "Disconnection Detection 2 / Stop Button 4". By looking at the eighth explanatory information, when the gaming machine is a 3-reel gaming machine, the operator can recognize that the LED8 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the disconnection detection, and when the gaming machine is a 4-reel gaming machine, the operator can recognize that the LED8 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the stop button 33d.

[0190] The character part in the ninth explanatory information is "Max Bet Button". By looking at the ninth explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED9 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the MAX bet button 35. Also, the character part in the tenth explanatory information is "Start Lever". By looking at the tenth explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED10 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the start lever 32. Also, the character part in the eleventh explanatory information is "Cancel Button". By looking at the eleventh explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED11 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the settlement button 60. Also, the character part in the fifteenth explanatory information is "Reset Switch". By looking at the fifteenth explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED15 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the setting change button (or door sensor).

[0191] The character part in the 12th explanatory information is "door open / close switch". By looking at the 12th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED12 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the door open / close switch. Also, the character part in the 13th explanatory information is "hopper sensor". By looking at the 13th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED13 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the payout sensor 58. Also, the character part in the 14th explanatory information is "1-bet button". By looking at the 14th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED14 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the 1-bet button. Also, the character part in the 16th explanatory information is "overflow". By looking at the 16th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED16 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the over error (overflow sensor 56).

[0192] Also, the character part in the 17th explanatory information is "input sensor". By looking at the 17th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED17 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the input detection sensor 78. Also, the character part in the 18th explanatory information is "medal sensor 1". By looking at the 18th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED18 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the first medal passing sensor 51. Also, the character part in the 19th explanatory information is "medal sensor 2". By looking at the 19th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED19 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the second medal passing sensor 52. Also, the character part in the 20th explanatory information is "R shoot sensor". By looking at the 20th explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED20 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the shoot sensor 54. Also, the character part in the 21st explanatory information is "5V power supply". By looking at the 21st explanatory information, the operator can recognize that the LED21 on the main control board 72 is the LED corresponding to the 5V power supply.

[0193] The gaming machine of this embodiment is A gaming machine including a housing, a plurality of reels provided inside the housing, and control means provided inside the housing, The main control means includes a monitor light emitting unit configured by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements in parallel, The housing includes a monitor front provided inside, On the monitor front, explanatory information regarding the plurality of light emitting elements is indicated so as to correspond to the arrangement of each light emitting element in the control means, The plurality of light emitting elements include a first light emitting element (LED4) and a second light emitting element (LED8), The first light emitting element corresponds to detection of disconnection of a predetermined wiring, (and in a gaming machine in which the number of the plurality of reels is 4, it can correspond to detection of rotation of a predetermined reel (the fourth reel),) The second light emitting element corresponds to detection of disconnection of a predetermined wiring, (and in a gaming machine in which the number of the plurality of reels is 4, it can correspond to detection of pressing of a predetermined stop button (the fourth stop button),) When the explanatory information corresponding to the first light emitting element is defined as first explanatory information, The first explanatory information includes information indicating correspondence to a predetermined detection performed in the gaming machine (information indicating correspondence to detection of disconnection) and information indicating correspondence to a predetermined detection not performed in the gaming machine (information indicating correspondence to detection of rotation of a predetermined reel), When the explanatory information corresponding to the second light emitting element is defined as second explanatory information, The second explanatory information includes information indicating correspondence to a predetermined detection performed in the gaming machine (information indicating correspondence to detection of disconnection) and information indicating correspondence to a predetermined detection not performed in the gaming machine (information indicating correspondence to detection of pressing of a predetermined stop button).

[0194] The first explanatory information and the second explanatory information are presented with the four-reel gaming machine (four-reel housing) in view. In other words, the first explanatory information and the second explanatory information include information on the case where the gaming machine is a three-reel gaming machine in addition to information on the case where the gaming machine is a four-reel gaming machine (both pieces of information are shown together). For this reason, the same monitor display can be used for both the three-reel gaming machine and the four-reel gaming machine. In other words, the monitor display can be shared as a common part between the three-reel gaming machine and the four-reel gaming machine, and the versatility of the parts can be improved. Thereby, compared with the case of manufacturing monitor displays corresponding to the three-reel gaming machine and the four-reel gaming machine respectively, costs can be reduced. Also, since there is no need to attach separate monitor displays to the three-reel gaming machine and the four-reel gaming machine, the burden on the operator can be reduced, and the occurrence of pasting errors can be prevented.

[0195] In the present embodiment, the monitor LED 200 is provided on the left side of the first surface of the main control board 72, and the monitor LED display 400 is provided on the inner surface of the left side plate 5 of the housing 1. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the monitor LED 200 may be provided on the right side of the first surface of the main control board 72, and the monitor LED display 400 may be provided on the inner surface of the right side plate 6 of the housing 1. Since the position where the monitor LED 200 is provided and the position where the monitor LED display 400 is attached are on the same side (left side or right side) and are close to each other, visual recognition (confirmation) by the operator becomes easy, and work efficiency can be improved.

[0196] In this embodiment, an insertion detection sensor 78, a first medal passage sensor 51, a second medal passage sensor 52, and a shoot sensor 54 are provided as sensors for detecting the passage of medals in the medal passage. In the monitor LED 200, LEDs 7, 18, 19, and 20 corresponding to these sensors (these are referred to as first specific LEDs (specific LEDs)) are arranged side by side in the same row (the uppermost row). Specifically, LEDs 17, 18, 19, and 20 are arranged in this order from right to left in the uppermost row. The first specific LED is an LED whose lighting is controlled based on detection of the passage of a game value inserted into the medal insertion port 34.

[0197] When a medal is inserted into the medal insertion port 34, LEDs 17, 18, 19, and 20 are lit in this order. In other words, when a medal is inserted into the medal insertion port 34, the LEDs (the LEDs constituting the first specific LEDs) in the uppermost row are lit in order from right to left. LEDs 17 to 20 are lit continuously (in a series of flows) based on the insertion of one medal.

[0198] Also, in the monitor LED table 400, the respective explanatory information corresponding to LEDs 17 to 20 (first specific LEDs, specific light-emitting elements) is arranged side by side (arranged in one row) in the same row (the uppermost row). In the uppermost row, the 17th explanatory information corresponding to LED 17, the 18th explanatory information corresponding to LED 18, the 19th explanatory information corresponding to LED 19, and the 20th explanatory information corresponding to LED 20 are arranged in this order from right to left.

[0199] The arrangement positions of LEDs 17 to 20 in the monitor LED 200 correspond to the positions where the respective sensors are arranged when the front door 20 is viewed from the front side. When the front door 20 is viewed from the front side, the insertion detection sensor 78, the first medal passing sensor 51, the second medal passing sensor 52, and the shoot sensor 54 are arranged in this order from right to left, and the arrangement positions of LEDs 17 to 20 correspond to this. Since LEDs 17 to 20 are arranged to correspond to the arrangement relationship of the actual respective sensors, it is easier for the operator to grasp which LED corresponds to which sensor. Also, it is possible to infer the position where the sensor is provided through the arrangement position of the LED. Also, although LEDs 17 to 20 are arranged side by side horizontally, this is the same direction as the direction (horizontal direction) in which LEDs 1 to 3 corresponding to each reel and LEDs 5 to 7 corresponding to each stop button are arranged. Therefore, there is a sense of unity and it is easy for the operator to confirm.

[0200] Here, the timing when LED 17 lights up based on the insertion of one medal is defined as the first timing, the timing when LED 18 lights up is defined as the second timing, the timing when LED 19 lights up is defined as the third timing, and the timing when LED 20 lights up is defined as the fourth timing. Also, the period from the first timing to the second timing is defined as the first period, the period from the second timing to the third timing is defined as the second period, and the period from the third timing to the fourth timing is defined as the third period. In the present embodiment, the second period (about 0.02 s) < the first period (about 0.2 s) < the third period (about 0.3 s). In other words, the second period is a shorter period than the first period and the third period, the first period is longer than the second period and shorter than the third period, and the third period is longer than the first period and the second period.

[0201] Since the lengths of the first period to the third period are different, the operator can estimate the distance between the sensors through the lengths of those periods. Also, when a predetermined period (for example, the first period) is longer than normal, it can be determined that there is a problem (such as the presence of dust or deformation of parts) in the medal passage between the input detection sensor 78 and the first medal passing sensor 51, and inspection, repair (cleaning), etc. are necessary.

[0202] In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the LEDs 17 to 20 (first specific LEDs) are arranged in the uppermost row (the fifth row) of the monitor LED 200. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, they may be arranged in the fourth row. Also, it is assumed that the LEDs 17 to 20 are arranged in order from right to left so as to correspond to the arrangement positions of the sensors. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and they may be arranged in order from left to right. That is, the LEDs 17, 18, 19, and 20 may be arranged in this order from left to right.

[0203] Also, the LEDs 1 to 20 may be arranged in a matrix of, for example, 4 rows and 5 columns, and the LEDs 17 to 20 may be arranged in the vertical direction (up and down direction) in a predetermined column (for example, the rightmost column). The case of "arranged in a row" may include arranging in a column, and the case of "arranged in a column" may include arranging in a row. In the present embodiment, the monitor LED 200 provided on the main control board 72 and the corresponding monitor LED table 400 are shown. However, the present invention is not limited to the monitor LED on the main control board 72, and it may be a monitor LED provided on other control boards (for example, sub-control boards). In other words, the control board may be a control board other than the main control board 72. Also, in the present embodiment, the LEDs 1 to 21 are bullet-type (lead type) LEDs, but they may be chip-type LEDs.

[0204] The gaming machine of the present embodiment is a gaming machine including a housing and control means provided inside the housing. The control means includes a monitor light emitting unit formed by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements side by side, the housing includes a monitor surface provided inside, on the monitor surface, explanation information regarding the plurality of light emitting elements is indicated so as to correspond to the arrangement of each light emitting element in the control means, the plurality of light emitting elements includes a predetermined number of specific light emitting elements, the lighting of the specific light emitting elements is controlled based on detection of passage of game values input through the input port, a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light emitting unit is formed by arranging the specific light emitting elements side by side, a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor surface is formed by arranging the explanation information corresponding to the specific light emitting elements side by side, when a game value is input into the input port, the specific light emitting elements are lit in order toward a predetermined direction.

[0205] When inspecting the operation of the component corresponding to the specific light-emitting element, for example, in the control board, if the specific light-emitting elements are not arranged side by side in a predetermined row (or a predetermined column), and the specific light-emitting elements are arranged across multiple rows (or multiple columns), it becomes difficult to identify the specific light-emitting element among the plurality of light-emitting elements. In other words, it is necessary to carefully check the monitor table to identify (search for) which specific light-emitting element it is. For this reason, there is a problem that it takes time to inspect the operating state of the component. According to the present embodiment, a predetermined row (or a predetermined column) in the monitor light-emitting unit is configured by arranging the specific light-emitting elements side by side, and a predetermined row (or a predetermined column) in the monitor table is configured by arranging the explanatory information corresponding to the specific light-emitting elements side by side. Therefore, it is only necessary to check a predetermined row (or a predetermined column) in each of them, and the specific light-emitting element can be easily identified from among the plurality of light-emitting elements. Also, when light-emitting elements other than the specific light-emitting element are arranged in a predetermined row (or a predetermined column), the specific light-emitting element is buried among other light-emitting elements, and it becomes difficult to grasp which part is the specific light-emitting element. However, in the present embodiment, since a predetermined row (or a predetermined column) is configured by arranging only the specific light-emitting elements (the specific light-emitting elements and the light-emitting elements other than the specific light-emitting elements are not mixed), the specific light-emitting element can be easily identified. Therefore, the burden of the work for inspecting the operating state of the component is reduced, and the efficiency of the inspection work can be improved. In other words, the work (confirmation) can be performed efficiently.

[0206] Also, the specific light-emitting elements are arranged side by side in a predetermined row (or a predetermined column), and when a medal is inserted into the insertion port, the specific light-emitting elements are lit in order in a predetermined direction (from one end to the other end). For this reason, when the operator inspects the detection of the passage of the medal inserted through the insertion port, it is only necessary to check (gaze at) a predetermined row (or a predetermined column) and turn the eyes from one side to the other side (move the line of sight in one direction). Thereby, the efficiency of the inspection work can be improved.

[0207] In this embodiment, regarding the input detection sensor 78, the first medal passing sensor 51, the second medal passing sensor 52, the shoot sensor 54, and the payout sensor 58, in the above description, when the light receiving part receives the light from the light emitting part, the signal state is the OFF state, and as the medal passes, the light from the light emitting part is blocked. When the light receiving part does not receive the light, the signal state is the ON state, and the corresponding LED lights up when in the ON state. However, it is not limited to this. When the light receiving part receives the light from the light emitting part, the signal state may be the ON state, and as the medal passes, the light from the light emitting part is blocked. When the light receiving part does not receive the light, the signal state may be the OFF state, and the corresponding LED may light up when in the OFF state. Also, regarding the overflow sensor 56, in the above description, when the stored medals reach a predetermined amount, the signal state becomes the ON state and the corresponding LED lights up. However, when the stored medals reach a predetermined amount, the signal state may become the OFF state and the corresponding LED may light up. Thus, whether to light up the LED when the sensor is in the ON state or when the sensor is in the OFF state may be set as appropriate.

[0208] Also, regarding LED1 corresponding to the first reel sensor, LED2 corresponding to the second reel sensor, and LED3 corresponding to the third reel sensor, in the above description, they are turned off while the reel is not rotating, and it is assumed that the blinking starts when the rotation of the reel starts. However, they may be lit while the reel is not rotating (but the power is on), and the blinking may start when the rotation of the reel starts (when the rotation of the reel stops, it returns to the lit state). In other words, the lighting modes of LED1 to LED3 may be different from those of other LEDs (LED4 to LED20) that are normally off and light up when a predetermined detection is made. In this case, in the monitor LED table 400, the notation modes of the first explanation information corresponding to LED1, the second explanation information corresponding to LED2, and the third explanation information corresponding to LED3 may be different from the notation modes of the explanation information regarding other LEDs. When the notation modes are different, it becomes possible to grasp at a glance that the lighting modes of LED1 to LED3 are different from those of other LEDs, and they can be distinguished from other LEDs. That the notation modes of the explanation information are different means, for example, that the color of the symbol part (numbers) or the color of the character part is different.

[0209] (Modification Example 1) Next, Modification Example 1 of the present embodiment will be described. In Modification Example 1, a monitor LED 200 is provided on the right side of the first surface of the main control board 72, and a monitor LED table 400 (described later) is provided on the inner surface of the right side plate 6 of the housing 1.

[0210] In Modification Example 1, the monitor LED 200 is composed of 20 LEDs (LED1 to LED20), and the emission colors of LED1 to LED20 are red. LED1 to LED20 are arranged in a vertical column in the vertical direction with a predetermined (constant) interval. LED1 to LED20 are arranged in order from top to bottom (in ascending order from the top).

[0211] On the main control board 72, identification information "LED1" is marked near the LED1. Similarly, identification information is provided near the LEDs LED2 to LED20. The identification information may be provided on the right side or the left side of each LED. Also, the orientation of the identification information may be horizontal (the longitudinal direction of the character string is the left - right direction) or vertical (the longitudinal direction of the character string is the up - down direction).

[0212] Here, among the monitor LEDs 200, the LED1 arranged at the uppermost (upper) end is defined as the upper - end LED, and the LED20 arranged at the lowermost (lower) end is defined as the lower - end LED. Also, the dimension (dimension in the up - down direction) from the upper - end LED to the lower - end LED is defined as the first dimension. The first dimension is, for example, the dimension from the upper - side end (upper end) of the upper - end LED to the lower - side end (lower end) of the lower - end LED, and is about 100 mm.

[0213] Figure 27 shows the monitor LED table 400 according to Modification 1. Explanation information regarding the LEDs LED1 to LED20 is respectively marked on the monitor LED table 400, and the marking of each explanation information corresponds to the arrangement of each LED on the main control board 72. That is, 20 pieces of each explanation information are arranged vertically and marked. In other words, the arrangement order of each LED in the monitor LED 200 and the marking order of each explanation information in the monitor LED table 400 are the same. In the monitor LED table 400, character information "LEDn" (n is from 1 to 20) indicating which LED it is (which numbered LED it is) is marked on the left side (left - hand column), and character information indicating which component each LED corresponds to is marked on the right side (right - hand column). In Modification 1, the first explanation information consists of the character "LED1" and the character "Reel sensor 1". Note that the monitor LED table 400 is pasted on the inner side of the right - hand plate 6 of the housing 1. By marking "LEDn" in the left - hand region of the monitor LED table 400, the distance from the monitor LED 200 can be made closer, making it easier for the operator to check.

[0214] In the monitor LED table 400, the first explanatory information to the twentieth explanatory information are each surrounded by a frame line (delimited by a frame line). Also, between the characters on the left side and the characters on the right side in each explanatory information, a line (separator line) that separates the two is provided. Hereinafter, the cell in which the nth explanatory information is written is referred to as the nth cell (n is from 1 to 20). For example, the first explanatory information is written in the first cell. The nth cell (in its entirety) in which the nth explanatory information is written can be referred to as the notation range of the nth explanatory information.

[0215] In the monitor LED table 400, the dimension (vertical dimension) from the range (area, region, area) in which the explanatory information (first explanatory information) regarding the upper - end LED is written to the range (area, region, area) in which the explanatory information (twentieth explanatory information) regarding the lower - end LED is written is defined as the second dimension. The second dimension is, for example, the dimension from the upper side (outer side) of the first cell to the lower side (outer side) of the twentieth cell, and is approximately 100 mm.

[0216] In this modified example, the first dimension and the second dimension are the same. Note that "the same" is not limited to being exactly the same, but includes being approximately the same. "The same or approximately the same" means a state in which when LED1 is arranged at a predetermined position (predetermined height) between the upper side and the lower side of the first cell, LED20 is arranged at a predetermined position (predetermined height) between the upper side and the lower side of the twentieth cell. In other words, it means a state in which the center of each LEDn (n is from 1 to 20) is within the range between the upper side and the lower side of the corresponding nth cell (within the range of the nth cell). Note that "substantially the same" may be as follows. For example, if the monitor LED table 400 shown in FIG. 27 is placed on top of the monitor LED 200 such that, for example, LED1 fits inside the first cell, and when viewed from the front (translucently), each LED (LED1 to LED20) may be in a state where it fits within the corresponding cell (the first cell to the twentieth cell) (inside the frame). Note that fitting within the cell does not require that the entire LED (one) be completely within the frame (the cell corresponding to the LED). For example, it is sufficient if the portion within the frame is larger than the portion not within the frame (the portion protruding from the frame). For example, it may be sufficient if about 80% to 90% is within the frame. Also, in the above, the first dimension is defined as the dimension from the upper end of the upper LED to the lower end of the lower LED. However, the first dimension may be as follows. The first dimension may be the dimension from the first position, which is a position shifted upward by α / 2 from the upper end of the upper LED, to the second position, which is a position shifted downward by α / 2 from the lower end of the lower LED, where α is the distance (in the vertical direction) between adjacent LEDs. Also, the first dimension may be the dimension from the center of the upper LED to the center of the lower LED, and the second dimension may be the dimension from the center (vertical center) of the first cell to the center (vertical center) of the twentieth cell. Note that each piece of explanatory information corresponding to the LED is indicated at the vertical center of each cell. Also, the first dimension may be the dimension from the lower end of the upper LED to the upper end of the lower LED (the dimension of the shortest distance between the upper LED and the lower LED), and the second dimension may be the dimension from the lower side of the first cell to the upper side of the twentieth cell (the dimension of the shortest distance between the first cell and the twentieth cell).

[0217] In Modification 1, it is assumed that the monitor LED 200 is provided in a single vertical row. However, if the first dimension of the monitor LED 200 and the second dimension of the monitor LED table 400 are the same (substantially the same), the monitor LED 200 may be provided in two or more vertical rows. In that case, the monitor LED table 400 is provided corresponding to the monitor LED 200, and the horizontal width of the monitor LED table 400 is larger.

[0218] In the first modification, the monitor LEDs 200 (LEDs 1 to 20) are arranged in ascending order from the top on the main control board 72. However, the monitor LEDs 200 may be arranged in ascending order from the bottom. In that case, each explanatory information in the monitor LED table 400 is also in ascending order from the bottom. In the first modification, the monitor LEDs 200 are provided so as to be arranged in the vertical direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and they may be arranged in the horizontal direction. In that case, the monitor LED table 400 becomes horizontally long so as to correspond to this. The first dimension is, for example, the dimension from the left end (left end) of the leftmost LED (LED 1) to the right end (right end) of the rightmost LED (LED 20). The second dimension is, for example, the dimension from the left side of the first cell to the right side of the 20th cell. And the first dimension and the second dimension are the same (including substantially the same).

[0219] The gaming machine of the first modification is a gaming machine including a housing and control means provided inside the housing, wherein the control means includes a monitor light emitting unit configured by arranging a plurality of light emitting elements in a predetermined direction, the housing includes a monitor table provided inside, information regarding the plurality of light emitting elements is written on the monitor table so as to correspond to the arrangement of each light emitting element in the control means, a dimension from a light emitting element at one end to a light emitting element at the other end in the monitor light emitting unit is defined as a first dimension, when a dimension from a notation range of information regarding the light emitting element at one end to a notation range of information regarding the light emitting element at the other end in the monitor table is defined as a second dimension, the first dimension and the second dimension are the same or substantially the same.

[0220] Since the first dimension and the second dimension are the same or substantially the same, the relationship between each light-emitting element constituting the monitor light-emitting unit and the information corresponding to each light-emitting element becomes clearer. In other words, it is easier for an operator to grasp at a glance. Therefore, the operator can more easily identify the light-emitting element to be inspected. As a result, the efficiency of the work of inspecting the operating state of the component can be improved. Also, the burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0221] For example, when the predetermined direction is the vertical direction, if the nth LED from the top (for example, n is from 1 to 20) is defined as LEDn, the distance from the top LED to LEDn and the distance from the explanatory information of the top LED to the explanatory information of LEDn are the same (or substantially the same). Therefore, in the monitor light-emitting unit, LEDn is located at a position a predetermined distance below from the top, and in the monitor display, the explanatory information of LEDn is located at a position a predetermined distance below from the top. Therefore, while comparing the monitor light-emitting unit and the monitor display, a predetermined LED and its explanatory information can be easily identified.

[0222] Also, although not shown in the drawings, an external terminal board unit including an external terminal board and an external terminal board case for accommodating the external terminal board inside is provided on the inner side of the right side plate 6 of the housing 1. The monitor LED meter 400 can be attached in the region between the upper end of the external terminal board unit (the upper surface of the upper side plate of the external terminal board case) and the upper end of the right side plate 6 of the housing 1 (the boundary portion with the top plate 2). In the vertical direction (height direction), it is preferable that the position where the monitor LED 200 is provided and the position where the monitor LED meter 400 is attached (the start (end) point of the first dimension and the start (end) point of the second dimension) are the same or substantially the same. Substantially the same means that the difference between the two is within the range of the height of about one cell. In other words, it is preferable that the monitor LED meter 400 is attached to the inside (right side plate 6) of the housing 1 so as to be at the same height (substantially the same height) as the monitor LED 200. In this case, each LED of the monitor LED 200 and each explanatory information corresponding to each LED are at the same height (substantially the same height). Furthermore, the center of the LEDn and the center (vertical center) of the nth cell may be at the same height (substantially the same height). When the monitor LED 200 and the monitor LED meter 400 are at the same height, a predetermined LED and the explanatory information corresponding to it are easier to grasp, and the work efficiency can be further improved.

[0223] Note that in the vertical direction, the position where the monitor LED meter 400 is attached may be above the position where the monitor LED 200 is provided. Even in that case, it is preferable that there is a range (overlapping range) where the monitor LED 200 and the monitor LED meter 400 overlap in the vertical direction.

[0224] (Modification 2) Next, Modification 2 of the present embodiment will be described. In Modification 2, the monitor LED 200 is provided on the left side on the first surface of the main control board 72, and the monitor LED meter 400 is provided on the inner surface of the left side plate 5 of the housing 1.

[0225] The monitor LED 200 is composed of 20 LEDs (LED1 to LED20), and the emission colors of LED1 to LED20 are red. LED1 to LED20 are arranged (arrayed) in three vertical columns along the vertical direction of the main control board 72 with a predetermined interval. Among the three columns, the leftmost column is defined as the first column (left column), the middle column is defined as the second column (middle column), and the rightmost column is defined as the third column (right column). Seven LEDs (LEDs of the first group) are arranged in the first column, six LEDs (LEDs of the second group) are arranged in the second column, and seven LEDs (LEDs of the third group) are arranged in the third column.

[0226] In each column, the LEDs are arranged in order from top to bottom (in ascending order from the top). The uppermost LED in the first column is LED1, the LED with the next number after the lowermost LED in the first column becomes the uppermost LED in the second column, and the LED with the next number after the lowermost LED in the second column becomes the uppermost LED in the third column. Note that the LEDs in the three columns may be arranged with the positions of the uppermost LEDs aligned, or may be arranged such that the position of the uppermost LED is higher in the right column (it may be in a stepped shape rising to the upper right).

[0227] On the main control board 72, the identification information "LED1" is marked in the vicinity (above) of the uppermost LED1 in the first column, the identification information "LED8" is marked in the vicinity (above) of the uppermost LED8 in the second column, and the identification information "LED14" is marked in the vicinity (above) of the uppermost LED14 in the third column. Also, the LED numbers (only numbers) as identification information are marked in the vicinity (e.g., lower right) of the LEDs other than the uppermost LEDs in each column. That is, for the LEDs other than the uppermost LEDs in each column, the character "LED" is omitted and only the number is marked.

[0228] The monitor LED table 400 has explanatory information about LEDs 1 to 20 respectively noted thereon, and the notation of each explanatory information corresponds to the arrangement of each LED on the main control board 72. The explanatory information corresponding to each column (one column) of the monitor LED 200 is noted in two columns respectively in the monitor LED table 400. Character information "LEDn" (n is 1 to 20) indicating which LED (which numbered LED) is in the left column, and character information indicating which component each LED corresponds to is noted in the right column. For example, the first explanatory information consists of "LED1" noted on the left and "Stop button 1" noted on the right. Hereinafter, the group of explanatory information corresponding to the first group of LEDs (LEDs 1 to 7) is referred to as explanatory information group A, the group of explanatory information corresponding to the second group of LEDs (LEDs 8 to 13) is referred to as explanatory information group B, and the group of explanatory information corresponding to the third group of LEDs (LEDs 14 to 20) is referred to as explanatory information group C. In the monitor LED table 400, explanatory information group A is noted on the leftmost side, explanatory information group C is noted on the rightmost side, and explanatory information group B is noted between explanatory information group A and explanatory information group C.

[0229] Explanatory information group A, explanatory information group B, and explanatory information group C are each surrounded by a frame line and do not touch each other. In the left - right direction, a predetermined gap is provided respectively between the frame line (outer frame) of explanatory information group A and the frame line (outer frame) of explanatory information group B, and between the frame line (outer frame) of explanatory information group B and the frame line (outer frame) of explanatory information group C. Also, regarding explanatory information group A, the first to seventh explanatory information are each surrounded by a frame line (separated by a frame line). Regarding explanatory information group B, the eighth to thirteenth explanatory information are each surrounded by a frame line. Regarding explanatory information group C, the fourteenth to twentieth explanatory information are each surrounded by a frame line. Also, a line (separator line) separating the left and right characters in each explanatory information is provided.

[0230] (The first group of LEDs and explanatory information group A) LED1 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the stop button 33a. In the monitor LED table 400, the first explanatory information corresponding to LED1 is denoted as "LED1" in the left column and "Stop button 1" in the right column. LED2 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the stop button 33b. In the monitor LED table 400, the second explanatory information corresponding to LED2 is denoted as "LED2" in the left column and "Stop button 2" in the right column. LED3 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the stop button 33c. In the monitor LED table 400, the third explanatory information corresponding to LED3 is denoted as "LED3" in the left column and "Stop button 3" in the right column. LED4 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the start lever 32. In the monitor LED table 400, the fourth explanatory information corresponding to LED4 is denoted as "LED4" in the left column and "Start lever" in the right column. LED5 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the MAX bet button 35. In the monitor LED table 400, the fifth explanatory information corresponding to LED5 is denoted as "LED5" in the left column and "Max bet button" in the right column. LED6 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the 1 bet button. In the monitor LED table 400, the sixth explanatory information corresponding to LED6 is denoted as "LED6" in the left column and "1 bet button" in the right column. LED7 is an LED corresponding to the detection of the pressing of the settlement button 60. In the monitor LED table 400, the seventh explanatory information corresponding to LED7 is denoted as "LED7" in the left column and "Cancel button" in the right column.

[0231] The LEDs in the first group are the LEDs corresponding to the above-described predetermined operation unit (operation means). In other words, the LEDs in the first group are the LEDs corresponding to the detection of the predetermined operation unit. The predetermined operation unit is an operation unit capable of maintaining (holding) the ON state for a certain period of time based on the operation (pressing) of the player. In other words, it is an operation unit that the player can normally operate at the game hall. Since the signal output based on the pressing of the predetermined operation unit is input to the main control board 72, the predetermined operation unit may be referred to as the main system operation unit. The LEDs in the first group (first group) are LEDs capable of maintaining the lighting state for a certain period of time based on the operation of the player. A predetermined column (left column) of the monitor LED 200 is arranged with the LEDs in the first group (the left column is unified by the LEDs in the first group).

[0232] (The LEDs in the second group and the explanation information group B) LED8 is the LED corresponding to the insertion detection sensor 78. In the monitor LED table 400, the 8th explanation information corresponding to LED8 is marked as "LED8" in the left column and "Insertion sensor" in the right column. LED9 is the LED corresponding to the first medal passage sensor 51. In the monitor LED table 400, the 9th explanation information corresponding to LED9 is marked as "LED9" in the left column and "Medal sensor 1" in the right column. LED10 is the LED corresponding to the second medal passage sensor 52. In the monitor LED table 400, the 10th explanation information corresponding to LED10 is marked as "LED10" in the left column and "Medal sensor 2" in the right column. LED11 is the LED corresponding to the shoot sensor 54. In the monitor LED table 400, the 11th explanation information corresponding to LED11 is marked as "LED11" in the left column and "R shoot sensor" in the right column. LED12 is the LED corresponding to the payout sensor 58. In the monitor LED table 400, the 12th explanatory information corresponding to LED12 is marked as "LED12" in the left column and "hopper sensor" in the right column. LED13 is the LED corresponding to the overflow sensor 56. In the monitor LED table 400, the 13th explanatory information corresponding to LED13 is marked as "LED13" in the left column and "overflow" in the right column.

[0233] The LEDs in the second group (specific LEDs (second specific LEDs, specific light-emitting elements)) are the LEDs corresponding to the above-mentioned predetermined sensors (detection means). In other words, the lighting of the LEDs in the second group (second group) is controlled based on predetermined detection regarding the medals. Examples of the predetermined detection include detection of medal insertion through the medal insertion port 34, detection of medal passage in the medal passage, detection of medal payout through the hopper unit 11, detection that the amount of medals stored in the cash box 12 has reached a predetermined amount, and so on. Further in other words, the lighting of the LEDs in the second group is controlled based on the signal state of the detection means for medals (detection means for detecting medals). A predetermined column (middle column) of the monitor LED 200 is arranged with the LEDs in the second group (the middle column is unified by the LEDs in the second group).

[0234] (The LEDs in the third group and the explanatory information group C) LED14 is the LED corresponding to the first reel sensor. In the monitor LED table 400, the 14th explanatory information corresponding to LED14 is marked as "LED14" in the left column and "reel sensor 1" in the right column. LED15 is the LED corresponding to the second reel sensor. In the monitor LED table 400, the 15th explanatory information corresponding to LED15 is marked as "LED15" in the left column and "reel sensor 2" in the right column. LED16 is the LED corresponding to the third reel sensor. In the monitor LED table 400, the 16th explanatory information corresponding to LED16 is marked as "LED16" in the left column and "Reel sensor 3" in the right column. LED17 is the LED corresponding to the door opening / closing switch of the lower door. In the monitor LED table 400, the 17th explanatory information corresponding to LED17 is marked as "LED17" in the left column and "Lower door opening / closing switch" in the right column. LED18 is the LED corresponding to the door opening / closing switch of the upper door. In the monitor LED table 400, the 18th explanatory information corresponding to LED18 is marked as "LED18" in the left column and "Upper door opening / closing switch" in the right column. LED19 is the LED corresponding to the door sensor. In the monitor LED table 400, the 19th explanatory information corresponding to LED19 is marked as "LED19" in the left column and "Door sensor" in the right column. LED20 is the LED corresponding to the setting change button. In the monitor LED table 400, the 20th explanatory information corresponding to LED20 is marked as "LED20" in the left column and "Setting key switch" in the right column.

[0235] The LEDs in the third group are the LEDs corresponding to the above-mentioned predetermined sensors (switches) and the above-mentioned predetermined operation parts. This predetermined sensor and predetermined operation part (operation part that the player does not usually operate in the game hall) have a lower frequency (chance) of maintaining the ON state for a certain period of time (holding) based on the player's operation than the predetermined operation part corresponding to the LEDs in the first group. Note that a low frequency includes those that never become ON based on the player's operation (i.e., zero).

[0236] In other words, the LEDs of the third group have a lower frequency of maintaining a lighting state (including a blinking state) for a certain period of time based on the player's operation than the LEDs of the first group. Note that a low frequency includes those that do not light up (i.e., zero) based on the player's operation. Also, it is not necessary for all the LEDs of the third group to be lower than those of the first group. It is sufficient that, when viewed as a whole group, the LEDs of the third group are lower than those of the first group, and there may be some LEDs in the third group that are equivalent to those of the first group. A predetermined column (right column) of the monitor LED 200 is arranged with the LEDs of the third group lined up (the right column is unified with the LEDs of the third group).

[0237] LEDs 14 to 16 light up (blink) when the reel is rotating normally, but this lighting (blinking) is not maintained while the player is performing a predetermined operation (pressing the operation unit). That is, the lighting state is not maintained based on the player's operation. Also, in order to turn on LEDs 17 to 20, it is necessary to open the front door 20, that is, insert the door key into the door key cylinder 66 and rotate it counterclockwise, but the door key is held by an administrator such as a casino staff member. Therefore, the frequency of maintaining the lighting state of LEDs 17 to 20 based on the player's operation is low (including zero). It can also be said that the LEDs of the third group have a relatively high frequency of maintaining the lighting state for a certain period of time based on the administrator's operation.

[0238] In Modification 2, each column of the monitor LEDs 200 is arranged in ascending order from the top, but it may be arranged in ascending order from the bottom. In that case, each piece of identification information in the monitor LED table 400 is also in ascending order from the bottom. Also, in Modification 2, for the monitor LEDs 200, the LEDs of the first group are in the left column, the LEDs of the second group are in the middle column, and the LEDs of the third group are in the right column. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the LEDs of each group may be arranged in a predetermined column (any one of the left, middle, and right columns). Also, in Modification 2, the monitor LEDs 200 are configured to have three vertical columns, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, it may be configured to have three horizontal rows. That is, for example, the LEDs of the first group may be arranged in the first row from the top, the LEDs of the second group may be arranged in the second row from the top, and the LEDs of the third group may be arranged in the third row from the top. In that case, for example, each LED is in ascending order from left to right. Also, the monitor LED table 400 is in the order of identification information group A, identification information group B, and identification information group C from top to bottom. Also, for example, the LEDs of the first group and the LEDs of the third group may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, and the LEDs of the second group may be arranged side by side in the vertical direction.

[0239] Also, in Modification 2, the first group consists of seven LEDs (LED1 to LED7), the second group consists of six LEDs (LED8 to LED13), and the third group consists of seven LEDs (LED14 to LED20). However, each group does not necessarily have all of those LEDs. For example, the second group (specific LEDs) may be composed of LED8 to LED11. When the second group consists of LED8 to LED11, as medals are inserted into the medal insertion port 34, the LEDs LED8 to LED11 in the middle column light up in order. When the second group consists of LED8 to LED13, as medals are inserted into the medal insertion port 34, some of the LEDs (a predetermined number of LEDs) in the middle column light up in order.

[0240] The gaming machine of Modification 2 is a gaming machine including a housing and control means provided inside the housing. The control means includes a monitor light-emitting unit formed by arranging a plurality of light-emitting elements in a row, Among the plurality of light-emitting elements, if a light-emitting element that lights up based on the signal state of the detection means regarding the game value is defined as a specific light-emitting element, A predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit is formed by arranging the specific light-emitting elements, When a game value is inserted into the insertion port, the specific light-emitting elements light up in order in a predetermined direction.

[0241] The predetermined row (or the predetermined column) in the monitor light-emitting unit is formed by arranging the specific light-emitting elements (LEDs of the second group). When a game value (medal) is inserted into the insertion port, the specific light-emitting elements light up in order in a predetermined direction. Therefore, when an operator inspects the detection means regarding the game value, the operator only needs to look at the predetermined row (or the predetermined column) where the specific light-emitting elements are arranged and move the line of sight in one direction along it. As a result, the efficiency of the inspection work for inspecting the operating state of the components can be improved (the work can be carried out efficiently). Also, the burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0242] The gaming machine of Modification 2 is a gaming machine including a housing and control means provided inside the housing, The control means includes a monitor light-emitting unit formed by arranging a plurality of light-emitting elements in a row, Among the plurality of light-emitting elements, there are a first group of light-emitting elements, a second group of light-emitting elements, and a third group of light-emitting elements, The first group of light-emitting elements are arranged in a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit, and the lighting state can be maintained based on the operation of the player, The second group of light-emitting elements are arranged in a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit, and light up based on the signal state of the detection means regarding the game value, The light-emitting elements of the third group are arranged side by side in a predetermined row or a predetermined column in the monitor light-emitting unit, and the frequency of maintaining the lighting state based on the operation of the player is lower than that of the light-emitting elements of the first group.

[0243] The plurality of light-emitting elements constituting the monitor light-emitting unit are divided into the light-emitting elements of the first group, the light-emitting elements of the second group, and the light-emitting elements of the third group according to differences regarding lighting, and each is arranged side by side in a different row or column. In other words, the light-emitting elements belonging to the same group are arranged in the same row or the same column. For this reason, an operator only needs to check a predetermined row or column according to the content (parts) to be inspected, and the efficiency of the inspection work for inspecting the operating state of the parts can be improved. Also, the burden on the operator can be reduced. For example, when inspecting a predetermined detection regarding game value, the operator only needs to check the row or column in which the light-emitting elements of the second group are arranged.

[0244] In addition, in Modification 2, although the notation positions of the explanatory information of each of the monitor LED tables 400 are assumed to correspond (completely correspond) to the arrangement positions of the respective LEDs on the main control board 72, they may not all correspond. For example, the eighth explanatory information located at the top of the explanatory information group B may be written below the bottom (below the seventh explanatory information) of the explanatory information group A, and the ninth explanatory information may be moved up and written at the top of the explanatory information group B. Also, the fourteenth explanatory information and the fifteenth explanatory information, which are the top two from the explanatory information group C, may be written below the bottom (below the thirteenth explanatory information) of the explanatory information group B, and the sixteenth explanatory information may be moved up and written at the top of the explanatory information group C.

[0245] Note that the present invention is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments, and within the scope not departing from the gist thereof, deformation of any component or omission of any component is possible. In other words, the configuration of the gaming machine and the like is not limited to that of each of the above-described embodiments. Also, within the scope of the present invention, free combinations of the embodiments are possible.

Explanation of Signs

[0246] 1 Housing 34 Medal Insertion Slot (Insertion Port) 72 Main Control Board (Control Means) 200 Monitor LEDs (Monitor Light Emitting Unit)

Claims

【Claim 1】 A housing, and a front door provided so as to be openable and closable about an axis on the left side with respect to the housing, wherein the states of the front door include a first state, a second state, a twenty-second state, and a third state, the first state being a state in which the front door is closed and the supported portion of the front door is supported by the support portion of the housing, the second state being a state in which the front door is open and the supported portion of the front door is not in contact with the support portion of the housing, the twenty-second state being a state in which the front door is more open than in the second state and the supported portion of the front door is not in contact with the support portion of the housing, the third state being a state in which the front door is open and the supported portion of the front door is in contact with the support portion of the housing, wherein a vertical dimension between the right lower end portion of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in the first state is defined as a first dimension, a vertical dimension between the right lower end portion of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in the second state is defined as a second dimension, a vertical dimension between the right lower end portion of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in the twenty-second state is defined as a twenty-second dimension, and a vertical dimension between the right lower end portion of the front door and the mounting surface of the housing in the third state is defined as a third dimension, the second dimension being smaller than the third dimension and larger than the thickness of a gaming medal, the third dimension being smaller than the first dimension and larger than the thickness of a gaming medal, the twenty-second dimension being larger than the first dimension, and the first dimension, the second dimension, and the third dimension being smaller than the diameter of a gaming ball. A gaming machine characterized by the above.

Images