Gaming machines

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine with improved performance control. [Solution] A gaming machine comprising a plurality of speakers, a plurality of audio circuits connected to the plurality of speakers, and a first circuit board on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, wherein at least the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit of the plurality of audio circuits have a first component, a second component, and a third component arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range, and a certain audio circuit is arranged on the first circuit board towards the edge rather than the central part, the first component is an audio amplifier, the second component is a coil, and on the first circuit board, a solid pattern is formed near the audio amplifier, and wiring for transmitting audio signals is formed through interlayer conductive holes.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as one type of game table, for example, a slot machine is known. In such a slot machine, effects may be performed using a liquid crystal display device, a speaker, etc. according to the granting of privileges (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there is still room for improvement in effect control.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a game table capable of improving effect control.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a game table according to the present invention, in one aspect, a plurality of speakers of different types, a plurality of audio circuits electrically connected to each of the plurality of speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, and a first substrate on which the plurality of audio circuits are disposed, is a game table provided with at least a first audio circuit and a second audio circuit among the plurality of audio circuits each include a first component, a second component, and a third component, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are arranged such that the first component, the second component, and the third component are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range. At least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, is arranged on the first substrate towards the edge rather than the central portion. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The first substrate has the audio amplifier and the coil arranged in the first layer. The first substrate has a solid pattern formed on the first layer, The first substrate has a solid pattern formed near the audio amplifier. The first substrate has wiring formed on it for transmitting the audio signal. The aforementioned wiring is connected between the audio amplifier and the coil via interlayer conductive holes. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that improves the control of gameplay effects. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the appearance of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a circuit block diagram of the control unit of a slot machine relating to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] (A) is a time chart showing the transitions between demo screens of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a time chart showing the transitions between demo screens of a conventional slot machine. [Figure 4](A) is a time chart showing the transitions between demo screens of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a liquid crystal display device of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an example of a slump graph showing the trend in the number of tokens won or lost by a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a sequence diagram showing the process of updating the maximum number of tokens in a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] (A) is a flowchart showing the process of displaying the maximum number of coins in the demo screen display of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, (B) is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the liquid crystal command of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (C) is a diagram illustrating the display marker and the non-display marker of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] (A) is a functional block diagram of the first sub-control unit of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (B) is a diagram showing an example of the connection between the CPU and the drive circuit shown in Figure 8(A). [Figure 9] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing examples of LED drivers used as lamp drive circuits in the first sub-control unit of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] (A) and (B) are schematic diagrams showing the configuration of control data for controlling the lamps of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (C) is a diagram illustrating a method for communicating control data for a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is an external view of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the position of the speaker. [Figure 12] (a) is a top view of the first sub-control board of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; (b) is a diagram showing the arrangement of each component of the audio circuit shown in (a); (c) is a diagram showing the terminal arrangement of the audio amplifier IC shown in (a) and (b); and (d) is a cross-sectional view of (a) along the YY line. [Figure 13](a) is a circuit diagram showing the signal lines of the audio circuit shown in Fig. 12(a), and (b) is a circuit diagram showing the power lines of the audio circuit shown in Fig. 12(a). [Figure 14] (a) is a top view of the first sub-control board on which each component of the first sub-control unit of the slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is arranged, and (b) and (c) are diagrams for explaining the ground of the first sub-control board shown in (a). [Figure 15] It is a top view of the first sub-control board of the slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention (modified example). [Figure 16] (a) is a circuit diagram of the signal lines of the audio circuit shown in Fig. 15, and (b) is a circuit diagram of the power lines of the audio circuit shown in Fig. 15. [Figure 17] (a) is a diagram showing the first layer of the first sub-control board shown in Fig. 15, and (b) is a diagram showing the third layer of the first sub-control board shown in Fig. 15. [Figure 18] (a) is a diagram showing the fourth layer of the first sub-control board shown in Fig. 15, and (b) is a diagram showing the fifth layer of the first sub-control board shown in Fig. 15. [Figure 19] (a) is a diagram showing the seventh layer of the first sub-control board shown in Fig. 15, and (b) is a diagram showing the eighth layer of the first sub-control board shown in Fig. 15. [Figure 20] (a), (b) and (c) are diagrams for explaining the layout of the audio circuit provided on the first sub-control board of the slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] (a), (b) and (c) are diagrams for explaining the positions of the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC of the slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and (d), (e) and (f) are diagrams for explaining the arrangement configuration of each component of the audio circuit of the slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] (a), (b), (c) and (d) are schematic diagrams of the arrangement of each component of the audio circuit of the slot machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and are diagrams for explaining the arrangement relationship of each component. [Figure 23](a) and (b) are schematic diagrams illustrating the arrangement of each component in the audio circuit of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and are diagrams illustrating the arrangement relationships of each component. (c) is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement of each component in the audio circuit of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram illustrating the wiring pattern. [Figure 24] This is a top view (modified) of the first sub-control board of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram illustrating the silkscreen markings. [Figure 25] (a), (b), and (c) are diagrams illustrating the ventilation holes provided in the substrate case of the first sub-control board shown in Figure 12(a), and (d) is an external perspective view of the audio circuit as seen from direction A in Figure 25(a). [Figure 26] (a) is a diagram illustrating the ventilation holes provided in the substrate case of the first sub-control board shown in Figure 12(a) (modified version), and (b) and (c) are explanatory diagrams of the substrate case of the first sub-control board shown in Figure 12(a) (modified version). [Figure 27] (a) is a top view of the first sub-control board of a slot machine according to one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the arrangement of heat dissipation holes (thermal vias) provided on the first sub-control board. (b) is a diagram illustrating the audio signal line path of the audio amplifier IC and coil of the audio circuit shown in (a), and (c) is an arrangement diagram of each component of the monaural audio circuit shown in (a). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0010] The slot machines described below employ a so-called "coinless" configuration, using information equivalent to the actual number of tokens (virtual token count). However, in the following explanation, this information will be referred to as "token count."

[0011] [First Embodiment] The slot machine of this embodiment is a gaming machine that proceeds through a series of games in which a predetermined number of game tokens are inserted, and multiple reels, each decorated with multiple types of symbols, start to rotate when a predetermined rotation start instruction operation is received, and based on the receipt of the rotation start instruction operation, the success or failure of an internal win of one of multiple types of winning combinations is determined by lottery, each of the multiple reels stops rotating individually when a predetermined rotation stop instruction operation is received, and if the conditions determined by the winning combination based on the result of the lottery and the combination of symbols when the multiple reels stop match predetermined payout conditions, a process of paying out the number of game tokens is executed and the game ends, and if the conditions do not match, the process of paying out the number of game tokens is not executed and the game ends.

[0012] Traditionally, some gaming machines have displayed the number of coins won during advantageous gameplay states such as AT (Automatic Trigger) or bonus rounds, aiming to give players a sense of satisfaction. However, this sense of satisfaction can only be felt when a certain number of coins are won (for example, 500 or 1000 coins). Conversely, when the number of coins won is small (for example, 50 or 100 coins), displaying the number of coins won may not only fail to satisfy players but could even cause dissatisfaction, potentially irritating them.

[0013] Furthermore, previously, if a minimum number of bets was set that would prevent gameplay (a minimum number of bets below the specified limit), the demo screen was not displayed. As a result, game machines that ended with a minimum number of bets set that would prevent gameplay were not recognized as vacant and were left vacant for extended periods.

[0014] This embodiment provides a gaming machine that can solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0015] <Overall Structure> First, Figure 1 will be used to explain the basic configuration of the slot machine 100 and the dispensing machine 700. Figure 1 is an external perspective view of the slot machine 100 and the dispensing machine 700 as seen from the front (player side).

[0016] The slot machine 100 shown in Figure 1 is an example of a gaming machine according to the present invention, and comprises a main body 101 and a front door 102 attached to the front side of the main body 101 and which can be opened and closed relative to the main body 101. Inside the center of the main body 101 (not shown), there are three reels (left reel 110, middle reel 111, right reel 112) with multiple types of symbols arranged on their outer surfaces, and are configured to rotate inside the slot machine 100. These reels 110 to 112 are driven to rotate by a drive device such as a stepping motor.

[0017] In this embodiment, each design is printed at equal intervals in appropriate numbers on a strip-shaped member, and this strip-shaped member is attached to a predetermined circular cylindrical frame to constitute each reel 110 to 112. From the player's perspective, approximately three designs are displayed vertically through the display window 113 on the reels 110 to 112, so that a total of nine designs are visible. The symbols displayed on the upper part of the left reel 110 are called the left reel upper symbols, the symbols displayed on the middle part of the left reel 110 are called the left reel middle symbols, the symbols displayed on the lower part of the left reel 110 are called the left reel lower symbols, the symbols displayed on the upper part of the middle reel 111 are called the middle reel upper symbols, the symbols displayed on the middle part of the left reel 111 are called the middle reel middle symbols, the symbols displayed on the lower part of the middle reel 111 are called the middle reel lower symbols, the symbols displayed on the upper part of the right reel 112 are called the right reel upper symbols, the symbols displayed on the middle part of the right reel 112 are called the right reel middle symbols, and the symbols displayed on the lower part of the right reel 112 are called the right reel lower symbols. Each symbol for each reel 110 to 112 is displayed three times vertically on each reel from 110 to 112 through the display window 113, for a total of nine symbols. By rotating each of the reels 110-112, the combination of symbols visible to the player changes. In other words, each of the reels 110-112 functions as a display device that can display multiple combinations of symbols in a variable manner. In addition to reels, other electronic image display devices such as liquid crystal displays can also be used as such display devices. Furthermore, although the slot machine 100 shown in Figure 1 has three reels located inside the center of the slot machine 100, the number of reels and their placement are not limited to this.

[0018] A backlight (not shown) is positioned on the back of each reel 110-112 to illuminate the individual symbols displayed in the display window 113. It is desirable that the backlight be shielded for each symbol so that each symbol is illuminated evenly. Inside the slot machine 100, an optical sensor (not shown) consisting of a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part is provided near each reel 110-112, and a light-shielding piece of a certain length provided on the reel passes between the light-emitting and light-receiving parts of this optical sensor. Based on the detection results of this optical sensor, the rotational position of the symbols on the reels is determined, and the reels 110-112 are stopped so that the target symbol is displayed on the winning line.

[0019] The winning line indicator lamp 120 is a lamp that indicates the valid winning lines. A winning line is a line on which it is determined whether or not a combination of symbols corresponding to a winning combination has been displayed. The valid winning lines are predetermined by the number of medals bet as the game medium. There are five winning lines. For example, if one medal is bet, the middle horizontal winning line becomes valid. If two medals are bet, the upper horizontal winning line and the lower horizontal winning line are added, making a total of three lines valid. If three medals are bet, the lower right downward winning line and the upper right upward winning line are added, making a total of five lines valid as winning lines. Note that the number of winning lines is not limited to five lines. For example, if one medal is bet, the middle horizontal winning line, the upper horizontal winning line, the lower horizontal winning line, the lower right downward winning line, and the upper right upward winning line may all be considered valid winning lines. Hereafter, the valid winning lines may be referred to as "valid lines."

[0020] The notification lamp 123 is a lamp that informs the player that, for example, they have internally won a specific winning combination (e.g., a bonus combination, a special combination) in the internal lottery described later, or that this internally won state has been carried over. The coin insertion lamp 124 is a lamp that informs the player that they can insert coins. The replay lamp 122 is a lamp that informs the player that they can replay the game (no coin insertion is required) if they won a replay combination, which is one of the winning combinations, in the previous game. The reel panel lamp 128 is a lamp for visual effects.

[0021] The bet buttons 130 or 132 are buttons for inserting a predetermined number of tokens (called credits) electronically stored in the slot machine 100. In the slot machine 100 shown in Figure 1, one token is inserted each time the bet button 130 is pressed. One token is inserted when pressed once, an additional token is inserted when pressed again (total of 2 tokens), and an additional token is inserted when pressed again (total of 3 tokens). When the bet button 132 is pressed, 3 tokens are inserted. Hereinafter, the bet button 130 may be referred to as the 1-token bet button, and the bet button 132 may be referred to as the MAX bet button. The game token insertion lamp 129 lights up a number of lamps corresponding to the number of tokens inserted, and when the prescribed number of tokens has been inserted, the game start lamp 121 lights up to indicate that the game can be started. In this embodiment, the slot machine 100 is a game machine exclusively for 3-token bets, so the prescribed number of tokens is 3.

[0022] The game information display unit 126 is a display unit for displaying various internal information (for example, the number of medals dispensed during bonus gameplay) numerically. The payout display unit 127 is a display unit for displaying the number of medals dispensed to the player as a result of winning a prize. In the following, the expression "dispensed to the player" may be used interchangeably with "given to the player." The game information display unit 126 and the payout display unit 127 are composed of 7-segment (SEG) displays.

[0023] The start lever 135 is a lever-type switch used to initiate the rotation of reels 110-112. That is, by operating the bet button 130 or 132 and then operating the start lever 135, reels 110-112 will begin to rotate. The operation of the start lever 135 is referred to as the game start operation.

[0024] The stop button unit 136 is equipped with stop buttons 137-139, consisting of a left stop button 137, a middle stop button 138, and a right stop button 139. The stop buttons 137-139 are button-type switches for individually stopping the reels 110-112 that have started rotating by the operation of the start lever 135, and each is associated with a specific reel 110-112. More specifically, the left reel 110 can be stopped by operating the left stop button 137, the middle reel 111 can be stopped by operating the middle stop button 138, and the right reel 112 can be stopped by operating the right stop button 139. Hereinafter, operations on the stop buttons 137-139 will be referred to as stop operations, with the first stop operation being the first stop operation, the next stop operation being the second stop operation, and the last stop operation being the third stop operation. The reels that are stopped in response to these stop operations will be referred to as the first stop reel, the second stop reel, and the third stop reel, respectively. Furthermore, the order in which the stop buttons 137-139 are pressed to stop all of the rotating reels 110-112 is called the operation order or pressing order. Moreover, the operation order in which the first stop operation is the left reel 110, the second stop operation is the middle reel 111, and the third stop operation is the right reel 112 is called the "forward pressing order" or simply "forward pressing," and the operation order in which the first stop operation is the right reel 112, the second stop operation is the middle reel 111, and the third stop operation is the left reel 110 is called the "reverse pressing order" or simply "reverse pressing." In addition, a light-emitting element may be provided inside each of the stop buttons 137-139, and if the stop buttons 137-139 can be operated, the light-emitting element can be illuminated to inform the player.

[0025] The instruction monitor 125 is a display unit that shows information regarding the operation order (pressing order) of the stop buttons 137 to 139. This instruction monitor 125 is also composed of a 7-segment (SEG) display unit. For example, if the instruction is to operate the left stop button 137, the middle stop button 138, and the right stop button 139 in that order, "1" will be displayed on the instruction monitor 125. If the instruction is to operate the left stop button 137, the right stop button 139, and the middle stop button 138 in that order, "2" will be displayed on the instruction monitor 125.

[0026] The settlement button 134 is a button for returning the inserted game tokens (number of tokens wagered) to the token count control unit 350. The door keyhole 140 is a hole for inserting a key to unlock the front door 102 of the slot machine 100.

[0027] The game token count display device 170 is a 5-digit 7-segment (SEG) display that displays the number of game tokens recorded by the token count control unit 350 shown in Figure 2.

[0028] The counting button 171 is an operating means for transmitting information about the number of game tokens recorded in the token count control unit 350 shown in Figure 2 to the dispensing machine 700.

[0029] A title panel 162 is provided at the bottom of the stop button unit 136 for displaying the model name and for attaching various certification labels.

[0030] The sound hole 145 is a hole for outputting sound from the speaker 277 (see Figure 2) located inside the slot machine 100 to the outside. The side lamps 144 located on the left and right sides of the front door 102 are decorative lamps to enhance the gaming experience. A performance device 160 is located above the front door 102, and a sound hole 143 for outputting sound from the speaker 272 (see Figure 2) to the outside is provided above the performance device 160. This display device 160 includes a shutter (shielding device) 163 consisting of two horizontally opening and closing shutters, a right shutter 163a and a left shutter 163b, and a display image display device 157 (liquid crystal display device) positioned behind the shutter 163. When the right shutter 163a and the left shutter 163b are opened horizontally outward in front of the display image display device 157, the display screen of the display image display device 157 appears on the front (player side, front side) of the slot machine 100. Note that any display device capable of displaying various display images and various game information is acceptable, rather than a liquid crystal display device. For example, a multi-segment display (7-segment display), a dot matrix display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, a reel (drum), or a display device consisting of a projector and a screen may be used. The display screen is rectangular and configured so that the entire screen is visible to the player. In this embodiment, the display screen is rectangular, but it may also be square. Furthermore, decorative elements (not shown) can be placed around the periphery of the display screen, so that a portion of the periphery of the display screen is hidden by these elements, resulting in the display screen appearing to have an irregular shape. In this embodiment, the display screen is a flat surface, but it may also be a curved surface. Note that this presentation image display device 157 is an example of a presentation means.

[0031] The dispensing machine 700 shown in Figure 1 may also be referred to as a card unit and is an example of the gaming media management device of the present invention. This dispensing machine 700 is installed in a one-to-one relationship with the slot machine 100.

[0032] The rental machine 700 accepts cards. There are two types of "cards" referred to here. One is a visitor card (also called a general card), a prepaid gaming memory medium issued to general players who are not registered members. The other is a membership card, a gaming memory medium issued to registered players who have registered with the arcade. IC cards are used for both types of cards.

[0033] The cards store monetary value. This monetary value includes the "number of medals held" and the "money balance," which is the remaining balance of prepaid money.

[0034] The card-receiving dispensing machine 700 has a function to convert the "number of tokens held" stored on the card into "number of game tokens (credits)". The "number of game tokens (credits)" is data that can be used to set the number of bets and can also be converted into the "number of tokens held". The "number of game tokens" is obtained by deducting the "money balance" or "number of tokens held" from the card. The "number of game tokens" also includes the number of tokens won through winning. This "number of game tokens" is managed by the token count control unit 350 shown in Figure 2 and is the number of electronic tokens (amount of electronic game value) stored electromagnetically. The "number of game tokens" is decreased by performing the insertion operation using the bet buttons 130 and 132.

[0035] "Number of tokens held" is the value obtained by counting the "number of game tokens (number of credits)". This "number of tokens held" is stored in a identifiable way on the player's card. In other words, by operating the counting button 171, the "number of game tokens" can be converted to "number of tokens held" and stored on the card. Alternatively, the "number of tokens held" may be managed by a token count management device installed in the arcade.

[0036] The front of the lending machine 700 is provided with a banknote slot 701 at the top for inserting banknotes and a card slot 702 at the bottom for inserting cards. Member cards and visitor cards inserted into the card slot 702 are received by a card reader / writer, and the information stored on the card is read. Banknotes inserted into the banknote slot 701 are identified for authenticity and type, and the face value of the banknotes is stored as the "money balance" on the card inserted into the card slot 702.

[0037] Below the banknote slot 701, an information display 703 is provided. This information display 703 is a display that provides information such as operating instructions for the lending machine 700 and the status of the slot machine 100 in text and images. Alternatively, the surface may be configured as a touch panel, allowing various operations to be input by touching the displayed items with a finger.

[0038] Below the information display 703, the cash balance display 705 and the medal balance display 706 are arranged in two rows, one above the other. The cash balance display 705 displays the "cash balance" stored on the card inserted into the card slot 702 as an amount. On the other hand, the medal balance display 706 displays the "number of medals held" stored on the card inserted into the card slot 702 as the number of medals.

[0039] The central part of the dispensing machine 700 is provided with a dispensing button 707 and a card return button 708. The dispensing button 707 is an operating means for withdrawing the "money balance" stored in the card inserted into the card slot 702 and obtaining the "number of game tokens". Specifically, if there is a "money balance" on the card inserted into the card slot 702, the LED lamp built into the dispensing button 707 lights up to indicate that it is ready to withdraw. By operating the dispensing button 707 in this state, the "number of game tokens" will be added according to the amount of money to be withdrawn. For example, the "number of game tokens" equivalent to 1000 yen will be added as a predetermined amount. Also, if the "money balance" on the card is less than a predetermined amount (for example, less than 1000 yen), only the "number of game tokens" converted from the current balance at a predetermined rate will be added. Furthermore, even if the card's "money balance" is less than a predetermined amount, it may be replenished from the "number of tokens held" stored on the card, so that the predetermined amount of "game tokens" is added. The card return button 708 is operated when the player finishes playing, and is a means of operation to store the "number of tokens held" determined at the end of the game on the card inserted in the card slot 702 and eject it. The "number of tokens held" determined at the end of the game is the number of tokens obtained by subtracting the number of tokens converted to "game tokens" from the "number of tokens held" stored on the card inserted in the card slot 702, and then adding the number of game tokens counted by the counting operation. The "money balance," "number of tokens held," and "number of game tokens" data described above are converted in the following order: "money balance" and "number of tokens held" → "game tokens" → "number of tokens held." In this way, the "number of tokens held" identified by the card is converted into the "number of game tokens," and in the slot machine 100 of this embodiment, the number of tokens can be used to set the bet. Therefore, it is possible to provide a new type of slot machine (managed gaming machine) that does not use physical tokens, without confusing players who are accustomed to conventional slot machines where players receive physical tokens, insert those physical tokens to secure credits, and then use those credits to set the bet.

[0040] Although this specification does not mention "stored medals," this "stored medals" refers to the number of medals deposited with the arcade, not stored on the card. The arcade may manage the number of medals a player has acquired through gameplay as "points" for the day, and as "stored medals" from the following day onward, using a hall management terminal or other management computer. If both "stored medals" and "held medals" are stored, the "held medals" will be deducted first. Both "held medals" and "stored medals" may also be stored in a higher-level server (not shown) in association with the card number. In the case of visitor cards, the "held medals" are stored directly on the visitor card, but the "held medals" may also be stored in a higher-level server in association with the card number. When storing the information in the higher-level server in association with the card number, data that identifies the time the information was stored in the higher-level server may be written to the card (member card, visitor card) before it is dispensed. Furthermore, the "money balance" is written directly to the card (member card, visitor card) and dispensed. The timing for storing the "number of tokens held" on the card (member card, visitor card) or on the higher-level server is, for example, when the counting button 171 is operated and the counting process is performed. However, instead, the information may be stored all at once when the card is returned. Moreover, when a player finishes playing and returns the card from the dispensing machine 700, the "number of tokens held" that was stored in the dispensing machine 700 may be temporarily stored as stored tokens in the hall management terminal 800. When that player inserts the card into the same or a different dispensing machine 700 again on the same day the card was returned, only the "number of tokens held" for that day, which was temporarily stored as stored tokens, will be stored again in the dispensing machine 700, and the "number of tokens to play" will be added within the range of that "number of tokens held" so that the player can play.

[0041] Furthermore, the rental machine 700 may be equipped with an IR photosensitive unit that receives infrared signals from a remote control held by an employee of the gaming hall, converts them into electronic signals, and outputs them.

[0042] Furthermore, while the lending machine 700 shown in Figure 1 allowed for the lending of "game tokens" by operating the lending button 707 to withdraw the "money balance" stored on the card, it may also be possible to withdraw the "number of tokens held" recorded on the card and convert it into "game tokens." Specifically, the lending machine 700 is provided with a "number of tokens held" button, and if there are "number of tokens held" on the card inserted in the card slot 702, the built-in LED lamp on that "number of tokens held" button lights up in a manner indicating that it is ready to withdraw. In this state, by operating the "number of tokens held" button, if there are a predetermined number of tokens (for example, 50 tokens) or more, the predetermined number (for example, 50 tokens) of "game tokens" will be added. In addition, the number of tokens held by the player during gameplay, as described above, can be stored on the card as "points held" for the rest of the day, or managed by the hall management terminal 800 or other management computer, and the lending machine 700 is provided with a replay button. If there are "points remaining," the built-in LED lamp on the replay button lights up in a manner that indicates it is ready to be played. In this state, operating the replay button may add a predetermined number of "game tokens" (for example, 50 tokens).

[0043] <Control Unit Circuit Configuration> Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the slot machine 100 will be explained in detail using Figure 2. Note that Figure 2 shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit.

[0044] The control unit of the slot machine 100 is broadly composed of a main control unit 300 that controls the progress of the game, a first sub-control unit 400 that controls the main effects in accordance with command signals (hereinafter simply referred to as "commands") transmitted by the main control unit 300, and a second sub-control unit 500 that controls various devices based on commands transmitted from the first sub-control unit 400. Here, regarding the main control unit 300, since a large data capacity would make it difficult to verify the program and could also lead to security problems such as becoming a breeding ground for illegal modifications, the data capacity of the ROM 306 and RAM 308 of the main control unit 300 is limited.

[0045] <Main Control Unit> First, the main control unit 300 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The main control unit 300 has a game control unit 302 that controls the progress of the game and a medal count control unit 350 that controls the number of game medals owned by the player. The game control unit 302 is an example of a game control means, and the medal count control unit 350 is an example of a game value control means. The game control unit 302 is equipped with a CPU 304, a ROM 306 that stores control program data, lottery data used when internally drawing winning combinations, the arrangement of reel symbols and stopping positions, etc., a RAM 308 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 310 for controlling the input and output of various devices, a counter timer 312 for measuring time, number of times, etc., and a WDT (watchdog timer) which is not shown. Note that other storage devices may be used instead of ROM 306 and RAM 308, and the same applies to the medal count control unit 350, the first sub-control unit 400, and the second sub-control unit 500 which will be described later. The CPU 304 of the game control unit 302 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator (not shown) as the system clock. Furthermore, when the power is turned on, the CPU 304 sends frequency division data stored in a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 306 to the counter timer 312. The counter timer 312 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data and sends an interrupt request to the CPU 304 at each interrupt time. The CPU 304 then performs monitoring of various sensors and transmission of drive pulses based on this interrupt request. For example, if the clock signal output by the crystal oscillator 315b is set to 8MHz, the frequency division value of the counter timer 312 is set to 1 / 256, and the frequency division data in the ROM 306 is set to 47, the reference interrupt time will be 256 × 47 ÷ 8MHz = 1.504ms.

[0046] The main control unit 300 includes a random number generation circuit (not shown) used as a hardware random number counter that varies a value in the range of 0 to 65535 based on a clock signal input from a crystal oscillator (not shown), and a startup signal output circuit (not shown) that outputs a startup signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 304 of the game control unit 302 starts game control when it receives a startup signal from this startup signal output circuit.

[0047] Furthermore, the CPU 304 of the game control unit 302 monitors the status of each bet button 130, 132, start lever 135, each stop button 137-139, and payout button 134 at each interrupt time. For example, if it detects that the bet buttons 130 or 132 have been turned on, the medal count control unit 350 executes a process to electronically insert the medals electronically stored in the medal count control unit 350 as medals to be inserted into the game. If it detects that the start lever 135 has been turned on, it outputs a signal indicating this detection to the random number generation circuit. The random number generation circuit that receives this signal latches the value at that timing and stores it in a register that stores random values ​​to be used for the lottery. If it detects that the left stop button 137, middle stop button 138, or right stop button 139 has been turned on, and the reels 110-112 corresponding to each stop button are in a stopable state, it executes stop control for the reels 110-112. If it is detected that the settlement button 134 has been turned on, the system will execute a process to return the electronically inserted game tokens to the token count control unit 350.

[0048] Furthermore, the CPU 304 of the game control unit 302 also monitors the status of various sensors 318 (optical sensor for the left reel 110, optical sensor for the middle reel 111, optical sensor for the right reel 112, etc.) at each interrupt time. The optical sensors for the left reel 110, the middle reel 111, and the right reel 112 are installed at predetermined positions on the mounting bases of each reel 110-112, and each time a light-shielding piece provided on the reel frame passes over them, they reach an L level. The rotation position information, which indicates how much the reel has rotated from the reference position between the time it reaches an L level and the next time it reaches an L level, is calculated based on the value obtained by counting the clock signal output by the crystal oscillator 315b. When the CPU 304 detects the above L level signal, it determines that the reel has rotated once and resets the rotation position information of the reel to zero. This rotation position information is stored in the RAM 308 of the main control unit 300.

[0049] The main control unit 300 includes a drive circuit 322 that drives the motors provided on the reels 110 to 112, a drive circuit 324 that drives display devices such as the instruction monitor 125, the game information display 126, and the payout count display 127, and a drive circuit 326 that drives various lamps 336 (winning line indicator lamp 120, notification lamp 123, game token insertion ready lamp 124, replay lamp 122, game token insertion lamp 129, game start lamp 121).

[0050] Furthermore, slot machine 100 has different setting values ​​that affect the player's advantage. There are six setting values ​​available, from setting 1 to setting 6. Generally, the higher the setting value, the greater the player's advantage. Specifically, an internal winning probability is determined for each setting value. Even if the internal winning probability is the same for each setting value, there may be differences in the settings for AT-related lotteries such as AT transition lotteries and AT bonus lotteries, and for CZ-related lotteries such as CZ transition lotteries and high-probability transition lotteries that make CZ transitions more favorable. A setting change button 175 is connected to the game control unit 302, which is operated when changing these setting values.

[0051] Furthermore, an information output circuit 328 is connected to the game control unit 302, and the main control unit 300 outputs game information of the slot machine 100 (for example, information indicating the state of the game) to an information input circuit 650 provided by an external hall computer (not shown) via this information output circuit 328.

[0052] Furthermore, the main control unit 300 is equipped with a voltage monitoring circuit (not shown) that monitors the voltage value of the power supply supplied to the main control unit 300 from the power management unit (not shown). This voltage monitoring circuit outputs a low voltage signal to the game control unit 302 and the medal count control unit 350, respectively, when the voltage value of the power supply falls below a predetermined value (for example, 9V), indicating that the voltage has dropped.

[0053] Furthermore, the main control unit 300 is equipped with an output interface for sending commands to the first sub-control unit 400, enabling communication with the first sub-control unit 400. Information communication between the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400 is unidirectional; the main control unit 300 is configured to send signals such as commands to the first sub-control unit 400, but the first sub-control unit 400 is configured not to send signals such as commands to the main control unit 300.

[0054] The medal count control unit 350, like the game control unit 302, is equipped with a CPU 354, ROM 356, RAM 358, I / O 360 for controlling the input / output of various devices, and a counter timer 362 for measuring time, counts, etc. The CPUs 304 and 354 are mounted on the same board and connected via a buffer IC. This allows the CPU 304 to use ROM 306 and RAM 308 without using ROM 356 and RAM 358, and vice versa. A WDT (watchdog timer), not shown in the diagram, is also included. The CPU 354 of the medal count control unit 350 also operates by receiving a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator (not shown) as the system clock. Furthermore, when power is turned on, the CPU 354 transmits frequency division data stored in a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 356 to the counter timer 362. The counter timer 362 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data and sends an interrupt request to the CPU 354 at each interrupt time. The CPU 354 operates in response to this interrupt request. This medal count control unit 350 executes the interrupt processing every 0.745ms. It also communicates with the dispensing machine 700 every 300ms.

[0055] The CPU 354 of the medal count control unit 350 is also equipped with a startup signal output circuit (not shown) that outputs a startup signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on, and the CPU 354 of the medal count control unit 350 also starts medal count control when a startup signal is input from this startup signal output circuit.

[0056] The basic circuit of the medal count control unit 350 is connected to a game medal count display device 170 consisting of a 5-digit 7-segment (SEG) display, a counting button 171, and a game medal count clear button 172.

[0057] Furthermore, the basic circuit of the medal count control unit 350 is also connected to the lending machine 700 via the lending machine connection terminal board 790. The medal count control unit 350 communicates bidirectionally with the lending machine 700.

[0058] The medal count control unit 350 sends various commands to the game control unit 302. The game control unit 302 also sends various commands to the medal count control unit 350. In other words, communication between the medal count control unit 350 and the game control unit 302 is bidirectional.

[0059] Furthermore, the medal count control unit 350 stores the "number of game medals" in a predetermined area of ​​the RAM 358. Specifically, the "number of game medals" is stored in the credit counter. The medal count control unit 350 updates the "number of game medals" stored in the predetermined area of ​​the RAM 358 by addition or subtraction processing. Addition processing includes processing based on payout commands transmitted from the game control unit 302, processing based on settlement commands transmitted from the game control unit 302, and processing based on loan notifications transmitted from the loan machine 700. On the other hand, subtraction processing includes counting processing based on the operation of the counting button 171, and processing based on insert commands transmitted from the game control unit 302.

[0060] The game token count clear button 172 shown in Figure 2 is located in a position that cannot be operated by the player (for example, a position that cannot be operated without opening the front door 102), and is a means of clearing the "game token count" stored in a predetermined area of ​​the RAM 358. For example, if the game token count remains at "2" and the player is absent, it becomes difficult to determine whether the player who left "2" intends to continue playing or not, and another player may not be able to start playing. However, if the game token count can be cleared by an employee, another player can be welcomed sooner. Note that the game token count clear button 172 does not necessarily clear the "game token count" when it is operated. For example, it may be set to clear only when the game token count is 2 or less, and if there are 3 or more, the tokens may be counted in the same way as when the counting button 171 is operated. If the counting button 171 malfunctions and the system cannot recognize that it has been operated, it may become impossible to convert the "number of game tokens played" to the "number of tokens held," potentially causing disadvantage to the player. However, if counting is also possible through operation by a store employee, this disadvantage to the player can be avoided. Furthermore, there is no need to install a new counting button for employees, thus avoiding increased costs. In addition, instead of determining the number of game tokens to decide whether to clear or count, the clearing and counting actions could be determined by how the game token count clear button 172 is operated. For example, a short press could clear the tokens, and a long press could count them. This would allow for easy selection of either clearing or counting, regardless of the number of game tokens. Alternatively, if only the game token count clear button 172 is operated, the tokens would be cleared, and if the game token count clear button 172 and another button are operated simultaneously, the tokens would be counted. This would reduce the possibility of operational errors and allow for easy selection of either clearing or counting.

[0061] <Deputy Commander> Next, the first sub-control unit 400 of the slot machine 100 will be described. The first sub-control unit 400 receives control commands transmitted by the main control unit 300 (game control unit 302) via an input interface. The first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with a basic circuit 402 that controls the entire first sub-control unit 400 based on these control commands. This basic circuit 402 is equipped with a CPU 404, a RAM 408 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 410 for controlling the input and output of various devices, and a counter timer 412 for measuring time, number of times, etc. The CPU 404 of the basic circuit 402 operates by receiving a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator 414 as the system clock. The ROM 406 stores control programs and data for controlling the entire first sub-control unit 400, data for controlling the backlight lighting patterns and various indicators, etc.

[0062] The CPU 404 transmits frequency division data stored in a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 406 to the counter timer 412 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 412 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data and sends an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 404 controls each IC and circuit based on the timing of this interrupt request.

[0063] Furthermore, the first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with an audio amplifier IC 418, and speakers 272 and 277 are connected to the audio amplifier IC 418 via an output interface. The audio amplifier IC 418 controls the sound output from the amplifier and speakers 272 and 277 in response to commands from the CPU 404. An S-ROM (sound ROM) containing audio data is connected to the audio amplifier IC 418, and the audio data acquired from this ROM is amplified by the amplifier and output from speakers 272 and 277. These speakers 272 and 277 are examples of performance elements. Note that the audio amplifier IC is also called a digital amplifier IC (digital audio amplifier IC), and the term is synonymous with an integrated circuit that amplifies and adjusts audio signals.

[0064] Furthermore, the first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with a drive circuit 422, to which various lamps 420 (upper lamp, lower lamp, side lamp 144, title panel lamp, bet button lamp, reel backlight, etc.) are connected via an input / output interface. The various lamps 420 are examples of the effects and effects.

[0065] Furthermore, the first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with a drive circuit 424 that drives the motor of the shutter 163, and the shutter 163 is connected to the drive circuit 424 via an output interface. This drive circuit 424 outputs a drive signal to a stepping motor (not shown) provided on the shutter 163 in response to a command from the CPU 404.

[0066] Furthermore, the first sub-control unit 400 is equipped with a sensor circuit 426, to which a shutter sensor 428 is connected via an input interface. The CPU 404 monitors the status of the shutter sensor 428 at interrupt intervals.

[0067] Furthermore, the CPU 404 transmits and receives signals to the second sub-control unit 500 via an output interface. The second sub-control unit 500 performs various controls of the performance device 160, including the display control of the performance image display device 157. The second sub-control unit 500 may be composed of multiple control units, such as a control unit that controls the display of the performance image display device 157 and a control unit that controls various performance drive devices (for example, a control unit that controls the motor drive of the shutter 163).

[0068] The second sub-control unit 500 receives control commands transmitted by the first sub-control unit 400 via an input interface and includes a basic circuit 502 that controls the entire second sub-control unit 500 based on these control commands. This basic circuit 502 is equipped with a CPU 504, a RAM 508 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 510 for controlling the input and output of various devices, and a counter timer 512 for measuring time, counts, etc. The CPU 504 of the basic circuit 502 operates by receiving a clock signal of a predetermined period output by a crystal oscillator 514 as the system clock. The ROM 506 stores control programs and data for controlling the entire second sub-control unit 500, as well as data for image display, etc.

[0069] The CPU 504 transmits frequency division data stored in a predetermined area of ​​the ROM 506 to the counter timer 512 via the data bus at a predetermined timing. The counter timer 512 determines the interrupt time based on the received frequency division data and sends an interrupt request to the CPU 404 at each interrupt time. The CPU 504 controls each IC and circuit based on the timing of this interrupt request.

[0070] Furthermore, the second sub-control unit 500 is equipped with a VDP 516 (video display processor), to which a ROM 506 and a VRAM 518 are connected via a bus. Based on signals from the CPU 504, the VDP 516 reads image data stored in the ROM 506, generates a display image using the work area of ​​the VRAM 518, and displays the image on the image display device 157.

[0071] <Demo screen transition> Next, the demo screen transitions according to this embodiment will be explained using Figures 3 and 4. As mentioned above, the slot machine 100 is a machine exclusively for betting 3 coins.

[0072] In this embodiment, the demo screen is started when (A) the number of medals acquired on the day (MY) reaches a predetermined number L, and (1) a waiting time M has elapsed since all reels stopped, (2) a waiting time M has elapsed since medals were inserted when the number of bets (number of tokens wagered) is not the predetermined number, i.e., when the number of tokens wagered is 1 or 2, or (3) a waiting time M has elapsed since some operation was performed on the gaming machine.

[0073] Here, "any operation on the gaming machine" refers to operations on the counting button 171 or the payout button 143, or operations on the buttons for calling up the player menu screen or adjusting the volume and brightness of the effects. These operations are accepted during the period before the game starts (non-game period), and the demo screen starts when the waiting time M has elapsed since the last operation was performed. In this embodiment, the predetermined number of coins L is set to 1000 coins and the waiting time M is set to 1 minute, but it is not limited to these values.

[0074] Here, MY refers to the number of medals acquired from the point where the net number of medals for the day (the cumulative difference between the number of medals inserted and the number of medals paid out in a single game (paid out - inserted)) was minimized (the point where the losing streak was the worst). Also, the stopping of all reels refers to the state of waiting to start the game, and more precisely, it means that the game medal insertion ready lamp 124 is lit.

[0075] Figure 3(A) shows a time chart of the demo screen transition in the case of a bet of 0 in this embodiment (cases (A) and (1) above). In this case, as shown in Figure 3(A), the liquid crystal display device 157 continues to display the game screen d1 (Figure 4(B-1) described later) from the previous game, but since no medals are bet, the demo screen d2 (Figures 4(B-2) to (B-4) described later; the configuration of demo screen d2 will be described in detail later) is displayed at time t2, after the waiting time M has elapsed from time t1 when all reels stop. The demo screen d2 is displayed from time t1 until time t3 when the predetermined number of 3 medals are bet.

[0076] Figure 3(B) shows a time chart for the demo screen transition in the case of a bet of 2 in the conventional system. Conventionally, if the number of medals bet was less than the specified number, as shown in Figure 3(B), the demo screen d2 was not displayed even at time t5, after the waiting time M had elapsed from the time of bet t4, and the game screen d1 continued to be displayed. In other words, conventionally, the system was configured so that the demo screen d2 would not be displayed if the number of medals bet was less than the specified number.

[0077] Therefore, conventionally, even if a game was ended with fewer than the required number of tokens bet, the demo screen would not appear, making it difficult to recognize the machine as vacant, and resulting in the problem of machines being left vacant for extended periods.

[0078] In contrast, Figure 4(A) shows a time chart relating to the demo screen transition in the case of a bet of 2 in this embodiment (the case of (A) and (2) above). In this case, as shown in Figure 4(A), the liquid crystal display device 157 continues to display the game screen d1 from the previous game, but the demo screen d2 is displayed at time t5, after the waiting time M has elapsed from the time t4 when a number of medals less than the specified number is bet. The demo screen d2 is displayed until time t3 when the specified number of medals, 3, is bet, similar to Figure 3(A).

[0079] As a result, in this embodiment, even if the game ends with fewer than the specified number of tokens bet, the game transitions to demo screen d2, making it easier to recognize that the machine is vacant. In other words, it is possible to prevent machines from being left vacant for extended periods.

[0080] In this embodiment, the slot machine 100 allows the bet button 132 to be operated even if there are only one or two credits, and one or two tokens are inserted.

[0081] Here, we will explain the configuration and display examples of demo screen d2 using Figures 3(A), 4(A), and 4(B) mentioned above.

[0082] Figure 4(B-1) shows an example of the game screen d1 display, and Figures 4(B-2) to (B-4) show examples of the demo screen d2 display. In this embodiment, the demo screen d2 is composed of, in detail, a performance introduction display screen d2A, a machine name display screen d2B, a warning display screen d2C, and a company name display screen d2D, as shown in Figures 3(A) and 4(A). Each demo screen is controlled to be displayed sequentially and cyclically as a predetermined display time elapses, in the order of performance introduction display screen d2A → machine name display screen d2B → warning display screen d2C → company name display screen d2D → performance introduction display screen d2A →...

[0083] The performance introduction screen d2A is a demo display screen that introduces the performances performed in slot machine 100, as shown in Figure 4(B-2). The model name display screen d2B is a demo display screen that displays the model name of slot machine 100 (not shown). The warning display screen d2C is a demo display screen that displays a message warning against excessive gambling (for example, "Be careful not to get addicted!") as shown in Figure 4(B-3). The company name display screen d2D is a demo display screen that displays the name of the company that manufactures and sells slot machine 100 (not shown).

[0084] Furthermore, the demo screen d2 of this embodiment displays the maximum number of photos d10, as shown in Figures 3(A) and 4(A). The maximum number of photos d10 is an image that displays the maximum MY value for the day. In this embodiment, the maximum number of photos d10 is displayed when the maximum MY value is 1000 or more, and is not displayed when the maximum MY value is less than 1000, so the number displayed in the maximum number of photos d10 will be 1000 or more. As shown in Figures 4(B-2) to (B-4), the maximum number of photos d10 is displayed together with the demo screen d2.

[0085] As a result, the maximum number of coins display d10 of this embodiment is displayed on the demo screen d2 only when the number of coins won is such that it gives the player a sense of satisfaction, thus preventing the player from getting a negative impression of the maximum number of coins display d10. Furthermore, when the demo screen d2 is displayed while the player is not playing, the maximum number of coins display d10 is displayed only when the maximum MY value for the day is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (1000 coins), thus appealing to players that the available machine is a "payout machine" and encouraging them to play. Conversely, when the maximum MY value for the day is less than a predetermined number (1000 coins), the maximum number of coins display d10 is not displayed, thus preventing the player from getting a negative impression that the machine is a "non-payout machine".

[0086] Furthermore, since the maximum number of coins d10 is displayed using the LCD display device 157 of the slot machine 100, it is possible to easily find an available machine without being distracted by the data display of each machine. As a result, it is possible to prevent disputes between customers where a player starts playing on a machine that has been reserved by another player.

[0087] Furthermore, the maximum number of coins displayed d10 on demo screen d2 eliminates the need for player operation compared to transitioning from the menu screen to display rankings of acquired coins, displays of acquired coins, and the number of times the game has been controlled to a favorable state.

[0088] Furthermore, if the game ends with fewer than the specified number of medals bet, the system transitions to demo screen d2 and displays the maximum number of medals d10, thus preventing machines from being left vacant for extended periods and encouraging players to continue playing.

[0089] In this embodiment, the maximum number of images d10 is displayed on the performance introduction screen d2A, the model name display screen d2B, and the warning display screen d2C, but is configured not to be displayed on the company name display screen d2D, however, it is not limited to this configuration. For example, the demo screen d2 may not be displayed on the warning display screen d2C, or the demo screen d2 may be displayed on the company name display screen d2D.

[0090] <Slump graph> Next, using Figure 5, the display of the maximum number of coins d10 and the pre-notification d20 according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 5 is an example of a slump graph showing the change in the number of coins for the slot machine 100.

[0091] The slot machine 100 of this embodiment has a complete function. The complete function is a function that makes it impossible to play for the day when the number of coins won (MY) for the day reaches a predetermined number MA (for example, 19,000 coins in this embodiment). The advance notification d20 is a visual display that notifies the player that the MY for the day is approaching this predetermined number MA. In this embodiment, when MY reaches 18,500 coins or more, the advance notification d20 is executed and the number of coins remaining until the predetermined number MA is displayed.

[0092] Figure 4(B-4) shows an example of the display of the pre-notification d20 on the demo screen d2. As shown in Figure 4(B-4), the pre-notification d20 is displayed on the demo screen d2 together with the maximum number display d10. Note that the maximum number display d10 is displayed larger than the pre-notification d20 and is therefore more prominent.

[0093] According to Figure 5, the minimum difference in the number of tokens is -2000 at time T1, so MY is calculated based on the number of tokens gained from this minimum value of -2000. From time T0 to time T4, MY is 1000 or less, so the maximum number of tokens display d10 is not displayed on demo screen d2. Hereafter, the section in which the maximum number of tokens display d10 is not displayed on demo screen d2 will be called the "maximum number not displayed section," and the section in which the maximum number of tokens display d10 is displayed on demo screen d2 will be called the "maximum number displayed section." The section from time T0 to time T4 is the maximum number not displayed section. On the other hand, the section from time T4 onward is the section after MY has reached 1000 or more, so it is the maximum number displayed section.

[0094] In the interval from time T4 to time T5, the MY value increases, so the value of the maximum number of medals displayed d10 is updated (shown in Figure 5 as "Maximum number updated"). Then, at time T5, the maximum number of medals displayed d10 is 1500. Subsequently, in the interval from time T5 to time T9, the MY value decreases or increases, but since MY does not exceed 1500, the value of the maximum number of medals displayed d10 remains at 1500 (shown in Figure 5 as "Maximum 1500 medals"). In this way, even in intervals where the number of medals decreases, the maximum MY value up to that point is displayed, allowing the machine to be promoted as having the potential to pay out the maximum number of medals displayed d10.

[0095] In the interval from time T9 to time T11, the MY value increases, so the value of the maximum number of medals displayed d10 is updated. Here, in the interval from time T10 to time T11, although the state is normal and not AT state, the number of medals acquired has increased slightly, so the value of the maximum number of medals displayed d10 is updated. Thus, in this embodiment, the updated maximum number of medals displayed d10 is shown on demo screen d2 whether it is AT state or normal state. Then, at time T11, the maximum number of medals displayed d10 of 3020 is displayed. Subsequently, in the interval from time T11 to time T13, the MY value decreases or increases, but since MY does not exceed 3020, the value of the maximum number of medals displayed d10 remains 3020 (shown as "Maximum 3020 medals" in Figure 5).

[0096] From time point T13 to time point T15, the MY value increases, so the value of the maximum number of coins displayed d10 is updated during this period. At time point T14, the MY value reaches 18500, so the display of the advance notification d20 begins from time T14 onward. The advance notification d20 is displayed until MY reaches 19500 coins. At time T15, the maximum number of coins displayed d10 is 18700. Subsequently, from time point T15 to time point T17, the MY value decreases or increases, but MY does not exceed 18700, so the value of the maximum number of coins displayed d10 remains at 18700 (shown as "Maximum 18700 coins" in Figure 5).

[0097] In this embodiment, the maximum number of coins display d10 is displayed only after the MY value for the day reaches 1000 or more, thus preventing the negative impression of a "machine that doesn't pay out" and thereby encouraging players to continue playing. Furthermore, even if the MY value decreases, the maximum MY value up to that point is displayed, allowing the machine to be appealing as having potential. Moreover, if the MY value is 18500 or more, the advance notification d20 is displayed along with the maximum number of coins display d10, allowing players to know the remaining number of coins up to the specified number of 19000.

[0098] While Figure 5 shows a slump graph where the number of tokens increases from time T8, we will now explain the case where the number of tokens does not increase after time T8. Even if the number of tokens continues to decrease from time T8 and the net number of tokens falls below -1500, the maximum number of tokens display d10 will still show "1500". This is because the maximum MY (maximum increase from the minimum value) of 1500 has not been updated. Subsequently, for example, if the number of tokens increases after reaching -3000, and the number of tokens does not increase to -1500, the maximum MY of 1500 will not be updated, so the maximum number of tokens display d10 will show "1500". However, if the number of tokens increases beyond -1500, the maximum MY will be updated beyond 1500, and the maximum number of tokens display d10 will show the updated maximum MY value.

[0099] <How the slot machine works> • Maximum number of pages update process Next, the maximum number of sheets update process will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of the maximum number of sheets update process executed by the main control unit 300 and the first sub-control unit 400.

[0100] When the main control unit 300 enters a state of waiting to start a game, it transmits the current MY value (MY value up to the previous game) to the first sub-control unit 400 (step S101). Here, the state of waiting to start a game means that it is possible to insert tokens, or more precisely, the state in which the token insertion ready lamp 124 is lit. As a result, the first sub-control unit 400 receives the current MY value NV.

[0101] Next, the main control unit 300 receives a game start operation by operating the start lever 135 (step S102) and waits until the reels 110 to 112 start rotating (step S103). Meanwhile, the first sub-control unit 400 refers to the MY value transmitted in step S101 during this wait time (step S201). As a result, the first sub-control unit 400 grasps the current MY value NV.

[0102] Next, when the wait time is finished, the main control unit 300 rotates the reels 110 to 112 (step S104), and when it receives a stop operation from the stop buttons 137 to 139 (step S105), it stops the corresponding reels 110 to 112. Based on the stopping patterns of all reels 110 to 112, the main control unit 300 performs a prize determination process and a medal payout process (step S106). In the prize determination process, if a combination of symbols corresponding to any winning combination is displayed on an activated winning line, it is determined that a prize has been won. In the medal payout process, if a prize that is payoutable has been won, the number of medals corresponding to that winning combination is paid out. Also in step S106, the main control unit 300 transmits the number of medals inserted BV and the number of medals paid out OV for the game to the first sub-control unit 400.

[0103] As a result, the first sub-control unit 400 receives the number of tokens inserted BV and the number of tokens paid out OV in the game (step S202) and calculates the remaining number of tokens ZV until the complete function is activated (step S203). Specifically, the remaining number of tokens ZV = specified number of tokens MA - received MY value NV - (number of tokens paid out OV - number of tokens inserted BV). For example, if the specified number of tokens MA is 19000, the MY value NV is 5000, the number of tokens inserted is 3, and the number of tokens paid out is 10, the remaining number of tokens ZV will be 13993.

[0104] Next, the first sub-control unit 400 calculates a new MY value (hereinafter referred to as "this MY value") NV that reflects the current game. Specifically, this MY value NV = prescribed number of coins MA - remaining number of coins ZV. For example, if the prescribed number of coins MA is 19000 and the remaining number of coins ZV calculated in step S203 is 13993, then this MY value NV will be 5007 coins.

[0105] Next, the first sub-control unit 400 determines whether the current MY value NV is greater than the current maximum number of sheets display d10 display value DV (hereinafter also referred to as the "demo MY display value") (step S205). If the current MY value NV is greater than the demo MY display value DV (step S205: YES), the first sub-control unit 400 sets the current MY value NV to the demo MY display value DV (step S206). Otherwise (step S205: NO), it terminates the maximum number of sheets update process.

[0106] Meanwhile, after completing the processing in step S106, the main control unit 300 performs a counter update process to calculate MY (step S107) and returns to step S101.

[0107] Thus, according to the maximum number update process of this embodiment, the demo MY display value is updated only when the current MY value is greater than the demo MY display value. Therefore, the demo MY display value does not decrease, but only remains the same or increases. In other words, the maximum number display d10 shown on the demo screen d2 does not decrease, which can encourage players to continue playing.

[0108] • Maximum number of pages display processing Next, the maximum number of pages display process (hereinafter simply referred to as "maximum number of pages display process") in the demo screen d2 will be explained using Figures 7(A) and (B). Figure 7(A) is a flowchart showing the flow of the maximum number of pages display process executed by the second sub-control unit 500. The maximum number of pages display process is executed at predetermined intervals (timer interrupt time).

[0109] The second sub-control unit 500 determines whether it has detected either a display marker or a hide marker (steps S301, S305). Here, the display marker is a marker that indicates the start of displaying the demo MY display value DV on the screen while the demo screen d2 is being displayed, and the hide marker is a marker that indicates the start of hiding the demo MY display value DV on the screen. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7(C-1), a display marker is placed at the beginning of the performance introduction screen d2A that constitutes the demo screen d2, and a hide marker is placed at the beginning of the company name screen d2D. Therefore, if a display marker is detected on the currently displayed demo screen d2, the system is controlled to display the demo MY display value DV on the screen thereafter, and if a hide marker is detected, the system is controlled not to display the demo MY display value DV on the screen thereafter.

[0110] When the second sub-control unit 500 detects a display marker (step S301: YES), specifically, in the performance introduction screen d2A, the model name screen d2B, and the warning screen d2C, it sets the current value of demo MY display value DV to the extended command "Demo MY value" (step S302), and then sets the display mode corresponding to the current value of demo MY display value DV to the extended command "Demo MY color" (step S303). After the processing in step S303, the process proceeds to step S307.

[0111] Here, the extended command is a parameter associated with the liquid crystal command as shown in Figure 7(B). In a predetermined bit position of the 1-byte liquid crystal command, the "Demo MY Numerical Value" indicating the value of Demo MY Display Value DV and the "Demo MY Color" indicating the color of Demo MY Display Value DV are stored. Specifically, in this embodiment, the Demo MY Color is set to indicate whether to display or not, and the color if displayed, according to the value of Demo MY Display Value DV. Specifically, (1) if Demo MY Display Value DV ≤ 999, it is hidden; (2) if Demo MY Display Value DV ≤ 2999, it is silver; (3) if Demo MY Display Value DV ≤ 4999, it is gold; and (4) if Demo MY Display Value DV ≥ 5000, it is rainbow-colored. Thus, in step S303, the display or not and the display color are set.

[0112] Furthermore, if the second sub-control unit 500 detects a hidden marker (step S305: YES), it sets the extended command "Demo MY Color" to "Hidden" (step S306). After the processing in step S306, the process proceeds to step S307.

[0113] On the other hand, if the second sub-control unit 500 does not detect either the display marker or the non-display marker (step S301: NO, step S305: NO), it proceeds to step S307.

[0114] Next, the second sub-control unit 500 performs a display update process (step S307). In the display update process, an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 157 based on the value set in the liquid crystal display command.

[0115] As described above, with the maximum number of tokens display processing of this embodiment, the demo MY display value is displayed on demo screen d2 only when MY is 1000 or more, so it is possible to appeal to players by highlighting the tokens on available machines and encouraging them to play. In addition, the display color is changed according to the value of the demo MY display value, so the token situation can be visually appealed to by the display color. Furthermore, since the display and hiding of the demo MY display value are controlled by the display marker and the hide marker, it is possible to flexibly respond to changes in the configuration of demo screen d2.

[0116] In this embodiment, even if the demo MY display value DV is less than 1000 sheets, the "Demo MY value" is set but the "Demo MY color" is hidden, thereby preventing the display of the maximum number of sheets d10 on the demo screen d2 (first method). However, other control methods may be used to prevent the display of the maximum number of sheets d10 on the demo screen d2 when the demo MY display value DV is less than 1000 sheets. For example, if the demo MY display value DV is less than 1000 sheets, the "Demo MY value" may not be set (second method). The first method has the advantage of reducing the amount of program code, but it also has the disadvantage that if there is a problem with the data, the maximum number of sheets d10 may be displayed at an unintended time. On the other hand, the second method has the advantage of being able to control display / hide more reliably, but it also has the disadvantage that the amount of program code increases because a branching algorithm is added.

[0117] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7(C-1), a display marker is placed at the beginning of the presentation introduction screen d2A and a hide marker is placed at the beginning of the company name screen d2D. However, as shown in 7(C-2), a hide marker may be placed at the beginning of the company name screen d2D and a display marker at the end of the company name screen d2D. The same control as in Figure 7(C-1) can be performed.

[0118] <Variation> In this embodiment, the maximum number of tokens display d10 displays the maximum MY value for the day, but it may also display the maximum number of tokens paid out. In the case of the number of tokens paid out, the number of tokens bet is not taken into consideration, so a larger number can be displayed, and the appeal of winning tokens can be further emphasized. In addition, in this embodiment, the maximum number of tokens display d10 reflects the difference in the number of tokens obtained by irregular button presses, but it may be configured so that the difference in tokens is not reflected in the case of irregular button presses. It is possible to display a larger number of tokens than the number of tokens obtained displayed on the results screen shown at the end of a favorable game.

[0119] In this embodiment, if the number of bets is not the specified number, i.e., if the number of bets is 1 or 2, the demo screen is started after a waiting time M has elapsed since the medals were inserted. However, the demo screen may also be started when the number of bets is the specified number, i.e., if the number of bets is 3. Alternatively, the demo screen may be started after a waiting time M has elapsed when a replay is won. In this embodiment, the waiting time M was set to 1 minute, but the waiting time M may be variable depending on the conditions. For example, the waiting time M may be 40 seconds if the number of bets is 0, 60 seconds if the number of bets is 1 or 2, and 120 seconds if the number of bets is 3 (the same applies to replays). A shorter time may be used when the number of bets is 0 because there is a high possibility that the game will be stopped completely, and a longer waiting time may be used when the number of bets is 1 or more because there is a high possibility that the player is temporarily away from their seat (especially when the number of bets is 3). This reduces the annoyance of frequently transitioning to the demo screen d2 even when the game has not been stopped.

[0120] Furthermore, even if the medal count display device 170 has medals stored in it (number of medals > 0), the demo screen may be set to start after the waiting time M has elapsed. This configuration prevents malicious players from intentionally leaving only one medal and leaving the store to reduce the operation of the gaming machine, compared to a configuration where the demo screen does not start when the medal count display device 170 shows "number of medals > 0".

[0121] On the other hand, the demo screen may be configured to start after a waiting time M has elapsed when no medals are stored in the medal count display device 170 (number of medals = 0). This configuration prevents problems such as another player playing the game even though medals are stored in the medal count storage device 170.

[0122] Alternatively, if the medal count display device 170 shows "medal count > 0", the demo screen may be started after a waiting time M has elapsed, provided the bet is 0 (i.e., if the bet ≠ 0, the demo screen will not be shown even after the waiting time M has elapsed). This configuration eliminates both the aforementioned mischief and troubles. Note that the demo screen may also be started even if the bet ≠ 0 when the medal count display device 170 shows "medal count > 0".

[0123] Furthermore, the above embodiments may be combined, and when the medal count display device 170 shows "medal count = 0", if a number of bets that cannot be played is set, the demo screen may start after the waiting time M has elapsed, and when the medal count display device 170 shows "medal count > 0", the demo screen may start after the waiting time M has elapsed, provided that the number of bets is 0.

[0124] Furthermore, the demo screen may not start depending on the state of the game at that time. For example, if the game state is one in which the payout is increasing (during a bonus or AT), the demo screen may not start even after the waiting time M has elapsed, while if the payout is not increasing, the demo screen may start after the waiting time M has elapsed. Also, if a continuous performance spanning multiple games is in progress, the demo screen may not start even after the waiting time M has elapsed, while if a continuous performance is not in progress, the demo screen may start after the waiting time M has elapsed.

[0125] Furthermore, the result screen displayed at the end of a favorable game and the maximum number of tokens display d10 may be displayed together or separately. In the former case, the number of tokens won in that favorable game and the maximum number of tokens for the day can be checked simultaneously, allowing for a comprehensive review of payout information and saving the trouble of operating data displays, for example. In the latter case, multiple token counts are displayed, preventing confusion for the player. Additionally, the waiting time M may be shortened when the result screen is displayed. This allows for quicker notification of available machines.

[0126] Furthermore, a configuration that sometimes displays the number of acquired items and sometimes does not may also be applied to the results screen. For example, if the results screen consists of a background screen and a display of the number of coins won, and the number of coins won during a favorable game such as a bonus or AT is small (for example, less than 100 coins), the results screen at the end of the favorable game may display only the background screen without showing the number of coins won. On the other hand, if the number of coins won during a favorable game such as a bonus or AT is large (for example, 100 coins or more), the results screen at the end of the favorable game may display both the number of coins won and the background screen. The background screen may also provide some kind of hint. This reduces player stress by preventing the screen from unnecessarily displaying situations where the number of coins won is small. Furthermore, if some players quit playing and leave the store after seeing the results screen, the machine's usage may decrease because it will not display situations where the number of coins won is small. The "certain hint" could, for example, be something that hints at the machine's settings. Also, if there are multiple modes leading up to the granting of favorable games such as bonuses, ATs, or CZs, the hint could be something that indicates which mode is being used. Furthermore, if multiple modes are predetermined, the suggestion may be something like "Mode A will be used M times out of N times." In this way, when a suggestion is made on the background screen, even if the number of acquired coins is not displayed, the result screen may display the background screen containing the suggestion. This can reduce player stress while increasing their motivation to continue playing. Also, when the number of acquired coins is small, the suggestion with a higher degree of advantage may be displayed more frequently than when the number of acquired coins is large. This can further reduce player stress while increasing their motivation to continue playing.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the maximum number of tokens display d10 is shown on the liquid crystal display device 157, but the device for displaying the maximum number of tokens display d10 is not limited to this. For example, the maximum number of tokens display d10 may be shown on a data display device installed on the slot machine 100. In this case as well, it is possible to appeal to players about the potential payout and avoid giving the impression that the machine is "not paying out."

[0128] For example, the data display device may be able to display the maximum number of coins d10 when the gaming machine is not in a game state and / or is displaying a demonstration. The data display device may also determine that the machine is not in a game state if no operation signal (a signal indicating 1G progress) is input from the gaming machine within a predetermined time M, and may display the maximum number of coins d10 as a result. The data display device may also display the maximum number of coins d10 as a result of receiving a signal from a hall employee indicating that the machine is available.

[0129] <Summary of Embodiments> As described above, according to the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100) of the above embodiment, A gaming machine equipped with display means (for example, a liquid crystal display device 157, a first sub-control unit 400, a second sub-control unit 500), The display means is a means capable of displaying the number of game values ​​acquired based on the number of bets and payouts at a first timing (for example, the timing of displaying demo screen d2), The display means is a means capable of displaying the number acquired at the first timing when the first condition is met (for example, when the minimum MY value reaches 1000 coins), The first condition mentioned above is a condition that is met when the number of acquired items is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 1000 items). This will be the first basic structure.

[0130] This first basic configuration allows for an appealing payout while avoiding the impression that the machine doesn't pay out, thereby enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0131] In the first basic configuration described above, The aforementioned display means is a means that may execute a demonstration display (for example, display demo screen d2) when a second condition is met (for example, a predetermined time has elapsed after all reels have stopped, or a predetermined time has elapsed since a bet operation) in a non-game state (for example, demo state) where no game is being played. The first timing mentioned above is the timing when the demonstration display is being executed. This is considered the first preferred configuration.

[0132] According to the first preferred configuration, it is possible to appeal to players by displaying the payout on vacant gaming machines, thereby encouraging them to play.

[0133] In the first preferred configuration described above, It comprises a first bet number that allows gameplay (for example, 3 cards) and a second bet number that does not allow gameplay (for example, 2 cards), The display means is a means that may perform a demonstration display when the second condition is met, even when neither the first bet nor the second bet has been set. The display means is a means that may perform a demonstration display when the second condition is met while the second bet is set. The second condition is one that is met when a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) has elapsed in the non-game state. This is considered the second preferred configuration.

[0134] According to the second preferred configuration, even if a number of bets that cannot be played is set and left unattended, the machine can be recognized as an available machine.

[0135] In the second preferred configuration, A memory means for storing game value (for example, RAM 308, medal count control unit 350, etc.), An operating means (for example, a bet button 132) that can set the first number of bets from the game value stored in the storage means based on one operation, Equipped with, The operating means is a means for setting the first bet number based on the first operation when the game value stored in the storage means satisfies the first bet number, The operating means is a means for setting the second bet number based on the first operation when the game value stored in the storage means is the second bet number. This constitutes a third preferred configuration.

[0136] According to the third preferred configuration, the processing when the operating means is operated can be standardized, thus reducing the processing capacity in the development process. Furthermore, If a gaming machine is equipped with a medal count display device, when the remaining number of game value tokens stored in the medal count display device is, for example, 1 or 2 tokens, the number of tokens can be set by operating the control device, and the remaining number of game value tokens stored in the medal count display device can be set to 0, making it easier to recognize that the machine is available. Furthermore, if a player leaves the store with the remaining number of game value tokens stored in the medal count display device at 1 or 2 tokens, the store staff would have to return the remaining tokens to the dispensing device or reset the medal count display device during closing (or opening) operations such as maintenance or preparation for the next business day. By reducing these tasks, it is possible to contribute to improving the operations of the gaming store.

[0137] Furthermore, according to the display device of the above embodiment (for example, a display connected to a slot machine 100), A display device provided in conjunction with a gaming machine (for example, a slot machine 100) and capable of displaying information about the gaming machine, The display device is capable of displaying the number of game values ​​acquired based on the number of bets and payouts made in the game on the gaming machine. The display device is capable of displaying the number of winnings when the first condition is met (for example, when the minimum MY value of slot machine 100 reaches 1000 coins). The first condition mentioned above is a condition that is met when the number of acquired items is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 1000 items). This will be the second basic structure.

[0138] This second basic configuration allows for an appealing payout while avoiding the impression that the machine doesn't pay out, thereby enhancing the enjoyment of the game.

[0139] In the basic configuration described in the second section above, The aforementioned gaming machine may perform a demonstration display even when no game is being played (for example, in demo mode). The display device is capable of displaying the number of winnings when the gaming machine is in the non-playing state. This constitutes a fourth preferred configuration.

[0140] According to the fourth preferred configuration, it is possible to appeal to players by displaying payouts on vacant gaming machines, thereby encouraging them to play.

[0141] [Second Embodiment] The visual effects devices (lamps, speakers, moving parts, etc.) on gaming machines are important devices that contribute to enhancing the enjoyment of the game. Therefore, stability is required in the data communication between the control unit (CPU) and the drive unit (driver IC) when controlling these visual effects devices. For example, data communication that is resistant to noise and can flexibly handle differences in the type and version of drive unit (components) is desired.

[0142] In the second embodiment, a gaming machine that solves the above-mentioned problems is provided. In the following description, only the configurations, functions, and processes that differ from the first embodiment will be described, and other configurations, functions, and processes will be omitted from the description, with the same reference numerals used for the same parts.

[0143] <Connection Configuration> In this embodiment (second embodiment), the communication method used when the CPU 404 of the first sub-control unit 400 shown in Figure 2 transmits control signals to the drive circuit 422 that drives the various lamps 420 will be described.

[0144] Figure 8(A) is a functional block diagram of the first sub-control unit 400 of this embodiment. In detail, the communication method when the CPU 404 sends a control signal to the drive circuit 422X to drive the frame lamp 420X and sends a control signal to the drive circuit 422Y to drive the side lamp 420Y will be described.

[0145] Here, the drive circuit 422X consists of an LED driver for ICxxx, and the drive circuit 422Y consists of an LED driver for ICyyy (xxx and yyy indicate the model number and type of the IC). The top lamp 420X is a lamp driven by ICxxx, and the side lamp 422Y is a lamp driven by ICyyy. ICxxx and the top lamp 420X are installed on the top lamp board, and ICyyy and the side lamp 422Y are installed on the side lamp board.

[0146] Figure 9(A) shows an example of an LED driver for ICxxx, and Figure 9(B) shows an example of an LED driver for ICyyy. As shown in Figure 9, the LED drivers for ICxxx and ICyyy are different types of drivers. Different types of drivers mean, for example, drivers with different pin configurations and different performance. The terminals shown in the pin configuration are assigned to RGB terminals, data input terminals, data output terminals, power terminals, GND terminals, CS signal (chip select), etc. Note that even with the same driver, performance will differ if the pin configuration is different (for example, functions to reduce noise, functions to reduce brightness and cool when the temperature rises, etc.).

[0147] In this embodiment, the drive circuit 422X that drives the frame lamp 420X and the drive circuit 422Y that drives the side lamp 420Y are of different types, but this is not limited to this. As shown in Figures 8(B-1) and (B-2), the same type of drive circuit may be connected, or as shown in this embodiment and Figure 8(B-3), different types of drive circuits may be mixed. As will be explained in more detail later, this is because the packet structure of the control signals transmitted from the CPU 404 is the same regardless of the type of IC in the drive circuit 422.

[0148] <Communication Method> Next, using Figure 10, we will explain the communication method when the CPU 404 of this embodiment transmits a control signal (hereinafter referred to as "control data") to the drive circuit 422.

[0149] Figure 10(A) schematically shows the packet structure of control data CD1 for ICxxx, and Figure 10(B) schematically shows the packet structure of control data CD2 for ICxxx.

[0150] As shown in Figures 10(A) and (B), the configuration of the control data CD for an LED driver is the same regardless of the type of LED driver (control data is collectively referred to as CD). As shown in Figures 10(A) and (B), the control data CD is 8 bytes of data and consists of a start command, slave address, subaddress, data byte, stop command, and noise suppression command. Each item of the control data CD consists of 1 byte (8 bits).

[0151] The start command is a data item that indicates the start of a packet, and in this embodiment, the value FFh (111111111) is set. The slave address and subaddress are the destination addresses of the control data CD, and the address of the LED driver is set. The data byte is set to a value that indicates the control content for the controlled object. The stop command is a data item that indicates the end of a packet, and in this embodiment, the value 81h (10000001) is set. The noise suppression command is a characteristic component of the control data CD in this embodiment, and it plays a role in ensuring stable data communication even when noise bits are mixed into the control data CD due to noise generation, or when a part of the control data CD is missing (the increase and / or loss of bits due to noise is sometimes collectively referred to as "bit shift"). In this embodiment, the value 00h (00000000) is set.

[0152] The premise of the communication method in this embodiment is as follows: The first sub-control unit 400 is configured to transmit control signals to multiple lamps 420 at once each time a timer interrupt process is executed periodically. For example, when transmitting control signals to both the drive circuit 422X for the frame lamp 420X and the drive circuit 422Y for the side lamp 420Y in one timer interrupt process, a command group consisting of control data CD1 shown in Figure 10(A) and control data CD2 shown in Figure 10(B) is transmitted to the drive circuit 422X and the drive circuit 422Y, respectively. The receiving drive circuits 422X and 422Y take the control data CD addressed to themselves from the received command group and discard the other control data CDs. Specifically, the drive circuits 422X and 422Y recognize the boundary of a control data CD based on the start command and stop command, and then acquire the control data CD addressed to themselves based on the values ​​of the slave address and sub-address.

[0153] Conventionally, such data communication methods have resulted in the problems shown in Figures 10(C1) and (C2). The conventional control data packet structure consists of control data OCD, which is the control data CD of this embodiment with the noise suppression command removed. That is, control data OCD is control data composed of a start command, slave address, subaddress, data byte, and stop command.

[0154] Figure 10(C1) schematically shows data communication when no noise is present in either control data OCD1 or control data OCD2, and Figure 10(C2) schematically shows data communication when noise is present in control data OCD1. In Figures 10(C1) to (C3), control data for the first IC (specifically ICxxx) is described as control data OCD1, and control data for the second IC (specifically ICyyy) is described as control data OCD2.

[0155] Conventionally, as shown in Figure 10(C1), the drive circuit 422X for the frame lamp 420X and the drive circuit 422Y for the side lamp 420Y each received and acquired control data OCD for themselves based on the start command, stop command, and slave address information, as described above.

[0156] However, as shown in Figure 10(C2), if noise is introduced into the control data OCD1 and the control data OCD1 increases by one bit, a problem occurs in which the drive circuit 422Y receives the control data CD2 addressed to itself as data that is shifted by one bit. Specifically, the last bit of the stop command in the control data OCD1 is mistakenly recognized and received as the first bit of the start command in the control data OCD2.

[0157] In contrast, Figure 10(C3) schematically shows data communication when noise is mixed into the control data CD1 of this embodiment.

[0158] In this embodiment, if noise is introduced into the control data CD1 and the control data CD1 increases by one bit, a noise suppression command is inserted between the stop command of control data CD1 and the start command of control data CD2. Therefore, the drive circuit 422Y can correctly receive the control data CD2 without misinterpreting the last bit of the stop command of control data CD1 as the first bit of the start command of control data CD2.

[0159] In this embodiment, when the leading bit value FB (specifically 1) of the start command of the control data CD and the trailing bit value LB (specifically 1) of the stop command of the control data CD are the same, a noise suppression command consisting of a different bit value (specifically 0) from bit values ​​FB and LB is inserted between the stop command of the first control data CD1 and the start command of the second control data CD2. Therefore, even if noise is introduced into the first control data CD1, the presence of the noise suppression command eliminates the bit misalignment and clarifies the end position of the control data CD1, so that the drive circuit 422Y can reliably receive the control data CD2 addressed to it.

[0160] In Figure 10(C3), data communication in the case where noise is mixed into the control data CD1 of this embodiment was explained. However, even if bits are missing from the control data CD1, the presence of noise suppression commands can similarly eliminate the bit misalignment, making the end position of the control data CD1 clear. As a result, the drive circuit 422Y can reliably receive the control data CD2 addressed to itself.

[0161] As described above, the control data CD of this embodiment adds noise suppression commands to the configuration of the conventional control data OCD. Therefore, even if data anomalies such as bit increases or losses occur in the preceding control data CD1, the presence of the noise suppression commands can resolve the data anomalies in the preceding control data CD1. As a result, the subsequent control data CD2 is not affected by the data anomalies, enabling stable communication of the subsequent control data CD2.

[0162] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the start command for the control data CD is set to FFh (11111111), but it is not limited to this, and for example, it may be set to F0h (11110000). Similarly, in this embodiment, the noise suppression command for the control data CD is set to 00h (00000000), but it is not limited to this. For example, if the start command for the control data CD is FFh (11111111) and the stop command is 81h (10000001), the noise suppression command may be set to F0h (11110000). In this case as well, the presence of the noise suppression command eliminates bit misalignment and allows each control data CD to be clearly separated.

[0163] In other words, if the last bit value of the stop command and the first bit value of the start command of the control data CD are the same, the noise suppression command will consist of bit values ​​different from the last bit value of the stop command and the first bit value of the start command of the control data CD. Therefore, even if an abnormality occurs in one control data CD, subsequent control data CDs can be treated as normal control data CDs. In other words, the noise suppression command is a command that prevents noise from affecting subsequent control data CDs, and even if there is a data abnormality due to noise in the first control data CD, the subsequent control data CD is configured to maintain the state it was in before the noise occurred.

[0164] Furthermore, even when transmitting control data CDs to multiple drive circuits 422 using different types of ICs, the same packet structure is used for the control data CDs, and the same noise suppression commands are interposed between the control data CDs. This ensures stable communication and prevents delays in the development process. In other words, stabilizing communication contributes to improving the enjoyment of the game. Also, if a problem occurs with the supply of parts for one drive circuit 422, it is possible to use parts from other drive circuits 422, thus preventing delays in the development process.

[0165] In this embodiment, the method for communicating control data CD to the IC of the drive circuit 422 that controls the lamp 420 has been described, but this method can also be applied to communication methods for control data CD to amplifier ICs, motor ICs, and the like.

[0166] <Summary of Embodiments> As described above, according to the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100) of the above embodiment, Multiple operating means (for example, lamp 420, etc.) capable of operating in a certain mode of operation, Multiple driving means (for example, a driving circuit 422, etc.) for driving the multiple operating means, A control means (e.g., CPU 404, etc.) that transmits control information (e.g., control data CD, etc.) for controlling the plurality of drive means to the plurality of drive means, A gaming machine equipped with, One of the aforementioned multiple operating means is a first operating means (for example, a frame-mounted lamp 420X, etc.), One of the aforementioned multiple operating means is a second operating means (for example, a frame-top ramp 420Y, etc.), One of the plurality of driving means is a first driving means (for example, a driving circuit 422X, etc.) that drives the first operating means. One of the plurality of driving means is a second driving means (for example, a driving circuit 422Y, etc.) that drives the second operating means. The control means transmits the control information to at least the first drive means and the second drive means. The control information comprises at least first control information for controlling the first drive means (e.g., control data CD1 that does not include noise suppression commands), second control information for controlling the second drive means (e.g., control data CD2 that does not include noise suppression commands), and noise suppression information (e.g., noise suppression commands). The noise countermeasure information is information that is sandwiched between the first control information and the second control information. This constitutes the first basic structure. According to the first basic configuration, even if the first control information is affected by noise, the presence of noise countermeasures information allows the subsequent second control information to be transmitted correctly, thereby minimizing the impact of noise and ensuring the stability of data communication.

[0167] In this first basic configuration, The second driving means receives the second control information without bit shift occurring in the second control information, even if at least one of the omissions and additions occur in the configuration of the first control information due to noise, based on the intervention of the noise countermeasure information. This is considered the first preferred configuration.

[0168] According to the first preferred configuration, even if noise causes omissions or additions to the structure of the first control information, the second drive means can correctly receive the second control information through the intervention of noise countermeasure information, thereby ensuring the stability of data communication to the second drive means.

[0169] In this first preferred configuration, The aforementioned first control information is information composed of multiple items (for example, a start command, a slave address, a subaddress, a data byte, a stop command, etc.), The second control information is information composed of the multiple items, The bit sequence including the end of the last item of the first control information (e.g., the last bit) consists of the first information (e.g., 1), The bit sequence (for example, the first bit) including the beginning of the first item of the second control information is composed of the first information, The bit sequence of the noise suppression information consists of a second piece of information (for example, 0) that is different from the first piece of information. This is considered the second preferred configuration.

[0170] According to the second preferred configuration, by making the bit sequence of noise suppression information different from the bit sequence containing the end of the last item of the first control information and the bit sequence containing the beginning of the first item of the second control information, the two control information can be clearly distinguished. Therefore, even if noise is mixed into the first control information or part of the first control information is missing, the second drive means can correctly receive the second control information.

[0171] In the second preferred configuration, The first driving means is a different type of driving means from the second driving means (for example, ICxxx and ICYYY, etc.), The bit sequence including the beginning of the first item of the first control information (e.g., the first bit) consists of the first information (e.g., 1), The bit sequence including the end of the last item of the second control information (for example, the last bit) is composed of the first information. This constitutes a third preferred configuration.

[0172] According to the third preferred configuration, even if the first and second driving means are of different types, the bit sequence including the beginning of the first item and the bit sequence including the end of the last item of the first and second control information are the same and different from the bit sequence of the noise suppression information. Therefore, even if noise is mixed into the first control information or part of the first control information is missing, the second driving means can correctly receive the second control information.

[0173] [Third Embodiment] The speakers in gaming machines are required to output sound stably. The third embodiment provides a gaming machine that solves this problem. In the following, only the configurations, functions, and processes that differ from the above embodiment will be described, and other configurations, functions, and processes will be described in more detail, with the same reference numerals used for the same parts.

[0174] <Speaker> Figure 11 is an external view of the slot machine of this embodiment (third embodiment), showing the position of the speakers to which the audio amplifier IC 418 of this embodiment is connected. The slot machine 100 of this embodiment is equipped with upper speakers 272 (upper left speaker 272a, upper right speaker 272b) located behind the sound hole 143, middle speakers 275 (middle left speaker 275a, middle right speaker 275b) located behind the winning line indicator lamp 120 and reel panel lamp 128, and lower speakers 277 (lower left speaker 277a, lower right speaker 277b) located behind the sound hole 145, and is characterized by the component layout of the audio circuit around the audio amplifier IC 418 connected to these three speakers. In other words, in this embodiment, the component layout of the audio circuit is designed to stably output sound.

[0175] Here, the upper left speaker 272a and the upper right speaker 272b of the upper speaker 272 are of the same type. Also, the left middle speaker 275a and the right middle speaker 275b of the middle speaker 275 are of the same type. Also, the lower left speaker 277a and the lower right speaker 277b of the lower speaker 277 are of the same type. On the other hand, the upper speaker 272 (upper left speaker 272a, upper right speaker 272b) and the middle speaker 275 (left middle speaker 275a, right middle speaker 275b) are of different types. Also, the middle speaker 275 (left middle speaker 275a, right middle speaker 275b) and the lower speaker 277 (lower left speaker 277a, lower right speaker 277b) are of different types. Furthermore, the upper speaker 272 (upper left speaker 272a, upper right speaker 272b) and the lower speaker 277 (lower left speaker 277a, lower right speaker 277b) are different types of speakers. There are also audio circuits corresponding to the upper speaker 272 (upper left speaker 272a, upper right speaker 272b), the middle speaker 275 (middle left speaker 275a, middle right speaker 275b), and the lower speaker 277 (lower left speaker 277a, lower right speaker 277b). This embodiment aims to enhance the enjoyment of the game by improving the functionality of these audio circuits.

[0176] <Audio circuit layout> Figure 12(a) is a top view of the first sub-control board 401 on which the components of the first sub-control unit 400 are arranged, and shows the component layout of the audio circuit 450 around the audio amplifier IC 418. Hereafter, the +X direction in Figure 12 will be considered right, the -X direction left, the +Y direction up, and the -Y direction down. The substrate surface shown in Figure 12(a) of the first sub-control board 401 is sometimes referred to as the component surface or front surface, and the substrate surface on the opposite side is sometimes referred to as the solder surface or back surface.

[0177] As shown in Figure 12(a), the first sub-control board 401 includes an audio circuit 450A for the upper speaker 272, an audio circuit 450B for the middle speaker 275, an audio circuit 450C for the lower speaker 275, and an audio circuit 450D for the woofer. Audio circuits 450A and 450B are located at the left edge of the first sub-control board 401, and audio circuit 450C is located at the right edge of the first sub-control board 401. In other words, audio circuits 450A, 450B, and 450C (hereinafter, when referring to these three collectively, or including audio circuit 450D, they will be referred to as audio circuit 450) are all located close to the edge of the first sub-control board 401. The audio output from audio circuits 450 requires a large amount of power and thus a large power supply, resulting in a large magnetic field influence on other components. Therefore, the audio circuit 450 is placed at the edge of the first sub-control board 401 (the CPU 404 is located in the center of the first sub-control board 401) to minimize interference with other logic communication signals and power supply systems.

[0178] Furthermore, audio circuits 450A and 450B are connected to connector CN1 near audio circuit 450A, and audio circuit 450C is connected to connector CN3 near audio circuit 450C. This is because audio circuits 450 require a large amount of power, and longer wiring would result in greater power loss due to voltage drop. Therefore, this is a measure to shorten the wiring length and avoid power loss. In other words, the first sub-control board 401 of this embodiment has a first connector (e.g., connector CN1) connected to audio circuit 450 (e.g., audio circuit 450A), and a second connector (e.g., connector CN2) connected to a circuit other than audio circuit 450, with the first connector being closer to audio circuit 450 than the second connector. The second connector (for example, connector CN2) may be a connector electrically connected to a liquid crystal display device, a connector electrically connected to an operation button used to trigger the start of an effect (such as a push button effect, rapid-fire effect, or long-press effect) or to customize the effect, a connector electrically connected to various LEDs, or a connector electrically connected to the main control board.

[0179] Although audio circuits 450A and 450B are connected to a common connector CN1, resulting in a configuration where multiple audio circuits are connected to one connector, the configuration is not limited to this. For example, connector CN-A may correspond to audio circuit 450A, connector CN-B to audio circuit 450B, connector CN-C to audio circuit 450C, and so on, with one audio circuit per connector. Alternatively, the connectors corresponding to each audio circuit may be arranged in the vicinity of each audio circuit. Furthermore, as will be explained in detail later using Figures 15 to 19, a configuration in which multiple connectors are connected to one audio circuit is also possible. Specifically, for example, the output of the left speaker in the middle speaker's audio circuit may be connected to connector CN-L, and the output of the right speaker may be connected to connector CN-R, while the output of the left speaker in the lower speaker's audio circuit may be connected to connector CN-L, and the output of the right speaker may be connected to connector CN-R. In this way, one audio circuit may be configured to have separate connectors for the left speaker and connectors for the right speaker. In the examples shown in Figures 15 to 19 (multiple connectors for one audio circuit), the audio circuit and the corresponding connector are located far apart. However, even in configurations where multiple connectors are connected to one audio circuit, it is also possible to have a configuration where the corresponding connector is located near the audio circuit, as shown in Figure 12(a).

[0180] As shown in Figure 12(a), the audio circuits 450 all have their components (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418, coil L, resistor R, capacitor C, electrolytic capacitor EC, etc.) arranged in a nearly identical layout. This allows for the equalization of the audio output performance of the three speakers (upper speaker 272, middle speaker 275, and lower speaker 277), thereby stabilizing the audio output. For example, the vertical spacing t1 between the two coils L arranged in the audio circuit 450 is nearly identical. By making the spacing t1 between the coils L nearly identical, the heat generation effect of the three speakers can be made equivalent, stabilizing the audio output and also achieving a uniform noise reduction effect. Furthermore, even if different types of speakers are installed, the positional relationship of the components constituting the audio circuit is nearly identical, making it easy to recognize that they are speaker-related components, allowing for quick response if a problem occurs in the audio output. In other words, it is immediately clear where on the circuit board to focus attention.

[0181] Furthermore, no electronic components are placed in the region of the gap t1 between coils L, at least on the component side. This prevents the heat generated by coils L from affecting other components. It also improves heat dissipation compared to when components are placed in the gap t1. Furthermore, a similar effect can be achieved by not placing components in the solder surface area corresponding to the interval t1, although components may be placed there as the effect of heat generation is reduced compared to the component surface.

[0182] In audio circuits 450 (audio circuits 450A, 450B, and 450C), two coils L are provided because the upper speaker 272, middle speaker 275, and lower speaker 277 are stereo output speakers, while in audio circuit 450D, one coil L is provided because the woofer is a monaural output speaker.

[0183] Figure 12(b) is a diagram showing the arrangement of the components of the audio circuit 450. The amplifier circuit 450 generally comprises an audio amplifier IC 418, two coils L, multiple resistors R, multiple capacitors C, and an electrolytic capacitor EC. The audio amplifier IC 418 is positioned midway between the two coils L. More specifically, the two coils L are positioned symmetrically with respect to a virtual extension line L4 that divides the audio amplifier IC 418 vertically. In other words, in the case of the audio amplifier IC 418 and the two coils L, the layout (corresponding to the first positional relationship) is such that at least a part of the audio amplifier IC 418 is included in the intermediate portion of the two coils L (the region between the virtual extension lines of both the end edge of one coil facing the other coil and the end edge of the other coil facing the first coil, and consisting of a virtual extension line with a distance t1). For example, the audio amplifier IC 418 may be laid out symmetrically with respect to the two coils L, or it may be laid out eccentrically with respect to one of the two coils L. As a result, in the case of stereo output, by making the length of the wiring pattern from the audio amplifier IC to both coils L uniform, the likelihood (or likelihood) of noise generation is also made uniform, stabilizing the audio output and achieving a well-balanced audio output.

[0184] The audio circuit 450 of this embodiment is provided with two LC filters LCF for selectively removing high-frequency noise. That is, the LC filters LCF of this embodiment have the function of low-pass filters that cut high-frequency signals. The LC filter LCF consists of one coil L and two capacitors C to the right of the coil L. In this embodiment, both the coil L and the capacitors C of the LC filter LCF are provided on the front (top) surface of the first sub-control board 401, but the coil L may be provided on the front (top) surface while the capacitors C are provided on the back (bottom) surface (both the coil L and capacitors C may be on the back surface, or the coil L may be on the back surface and the capacitors C may be on the front surface). In addition, the Zobel filter ZOF, which prevents oscillation and noise caused by the speaker load (back electromotive force from the speaker), consists of one capacitor and two resistors R to the left of the coil L. In this embodiment, the Zobel filter ZOF is provided on the left side of the coil L, that is, on the side opposite to the connector CN to which the audio circuit 450 is connected. However, it may also be provided on the right side of the coil L, that is, on the connector CN side to which the audio circuit 450 is connected. In this embodiment, both the capacitor C and the resistor R of the Zobel filter ZOF are provided on the front (top) surface of the first sub-control board 401. However, the capacitor C may be provided on the front (top) surface while the resistor R is provided on the back (bottom) surface (both the capacitor C and resistor R may be on the back surface, or the capacitor C may be on the back surface and the resistor R may be on the front surface).

[0185] Figure 13 shows the circuit diagram of the audio circuit 450. Figure 13(a) shows the circuit diagram of the signal system, and Figure 13(b) shows the circuit diagram of the power supply system. As shown in Figure 13(a), the audio signal is output from the output terminal of the audio amplifier IC 418, first through the LC filter LCF, then through the Zobel filter ZOF, and finally to the connector CN. The power supply bypass capacitor PBC shown in the power supply circuit diagram is a capacitor installed between the power supply and ground, and by bypassing (redirecting) noise to ground, it enables the supply of a stable power supply to the circuit.

[0186] In this embodiment, the coil L of the LC filter LCF uses a coreless coil, but a coil with a core may also be used. The constants of each element of the LC filter LCF are determined based on the switching frequency of the digital amplifier (20kHz to 350kHz). Specifically, a coil L of 10 to 15μH is desirable, and in the case of a 10μH coil L, a capacitor C of 0.33μF is used, and in the case of a 15μH coil L, a capacitor C of 0.22μF is used.

[0187] Note that the capacitor C1 (a capacitor that suppresses high-frequency noise) placed between the LC filter LCF and the Zobel filter is optional. More specifically, if the capacitor C used in the LC filter LCF is a ceramic capacitor, it is preferable to use capacitor C1, but if a film capacitor is used, capacitor C1 is not necessary. In the case of a ceramic capacitor, the piezoelectric effect (electrostrictive effect) when voltage is applied causes the ceramic capacitor to expand and contract, so this expansion and contraction can be suppressed. In this case, it is preferable that the capacitance of capacitor C1 is smaller than that of capacitor C that constitutes the LC filter. For example, if the capacitor C of the LC filter is 0.33μF, then it should be 0.01μF to 0.1μF. If the capacitance of capacitor C1 is large, an LC filter LCF will be formed by capacitor C1 (the LC filter LCF will work twice), resulting in muffled sound and preventing the output of sound with the intended sound quality.

[0188] Furthermore, capacitor C2 before connector CN is a high-pass filter for the tweeter. When the left and right speakers are connected in parallel, with one speaker handling low-mid frequencies and the other handling high frequencies (tweeter), it is used to cut the low-mid frequencies from the other speaker. If the left and right speakers are connected one-to-one, it is not necessary to use it, as one speaker can handle the low-mid frequencies from the start and the other handles the high frequencies.

[0189] Figure 12(c) shows the terminal arrangement of the audio amplifier IC418. As shown in Figure 12(c), the terminals for the left speaker (output terminal and power terminal) LT are provided in a straight line (left-right direction) on the upper edge of the rectangular audio amplifier IC418, and the terminals for the right speaker (output terminal and power terminal) RT are provided in a straight line (left-right direction) on the lower edge of the rectangular audio amplifier IC418.

[0190] Figure 12(d) is a cross-sectional view taken along the YY line in Figure 12(a). Because the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L in this embodiment generate a large amount of heat, ventilation holes 405 are provided in the substrate case 403 covering the first sub-control board 401 near the audio amplifier IC 418 or coil L. The ventilation holes 405 may be ventilation holes 405b formed on the upper or lower surface (hereinafter referred to as the upper and lower surfaces) of the substrate case 403, ventilation holes 405a formed spanning the upper and lower surfaces and the side surface, or both ventilation holes 405a and 405b may be provided. Alternatively, a fan may be provided instead of the ventilation holes 405, or a fan may be provided together with the ventilation holes 405. This enhances the heat dissipation effect of the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L, which generate a large amount of heat, and allows for concentrated heat dissipation of components that tend to generate a lot of heat.

[0191] Figure 14(b) shows the ground region GND and the region without ground N-GND of the first sub-control board 401 (a control board with the same configuration as the audio circuit 450 shown in Figure 12(a)) shown in Figure 14(a). As shown in Figure 14(b), the region where the coils L of audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, and 450D are located is designated as the region without ground N-GND (first example of ground GND). This prevents potential instability caused by the magnetic field generated by the coils L of audio circuit 450.

[0192] Figure 14(c) shows a different potential adjustment method than that shown in Figure 14(b). As shown in Figure 14(c), the ground VC1 of the region where audio circuits 450A and 450B are located, and the ground VC2 of the region where audio circuits 450C and 450D are located, may be wired separately from the ground GND of the region where the other circuits are located. In this case, a slit-shaped region N-GND, which does not have a ground connection, may be provided between each region to physically separate them. For example, the regions may be completely separated, such as between ground VC1 and ground GND (second example of ground GND), or they may be separated so that some regions are connected, such as between ground VC2 and ground GND (third example of ground GND). This method also prevents potential instability caused by the magnetic field generated by the coil L of audio circuit 450. Note that while Figure 14(c) shows the second and third examples of separating the ground (GND), it is not necessary for both the second and third examples to coexist on a single board; it is sufficient for either the second or third example to be implemented on a single board.

[0193] <Variations in the arrangement of audio circuits> Next, the first sub-control board 401A of the modified example 1 will be described using Figures 15 to 19. Hereafter, the +X direction in Figure 15 will be referred to as right, the -X direction as left, the +Y direction as up, and the -Y direction as down. Figure 15 is a top view of the component side of the first sub-control board 401A, showing the component layout of the audio circuit 451 around the audio amplifier IC 418. Figure 16 is a circuit diagram of the audio circuit 451. The first sub-control board 401A is also composed of multiple layers, and Figure 17(a) shows the top view of the first layer of the first sub-control board 401A, Figure 17(b) shows the top view of the third layer, Figure 18(a) shows the top view of the fourth layer, Figure 18(b) shows the top view of the fifth layer, Figure 19(a) shows the top view of the seventh layer, and Figure 19(b) shows the top view of the eighth layer. In Figures 17 to 19, the light gray area represents the ground region (GND), the white area represents the area without ground (N-GND), and the dark gray shaded area represents the wiring pattern of the audio signal from the audio amplifier IC 418 to connector CN.

[0194] As shown in Figure 15, the first sub-control board 401A is equipped with an audio circuit 451A for the upper speaker 272, an audio circuit 451B for the middle speaker 275, and an audio circuit 451C for the lower speaker 277, near the center of the first sub-control board 401A. More specifically, the three audio circuits 451 (referred to collectively as audio circuit 451) are arranged near the center of the first sub-control board 401A in the order of audio circuit 451A, audio circuit 451B, and audio circuit 451C, from top to bottom.

[0195] As shown in Figure 15, all audio circuits 451 have their components (for example, audio amplifier IC 418, coil L, resistor R, capacitor C, electrolytic capacitor EC, etc.) arranged in a substantially identical layout. This allows for uniform performance of the audio output and stabilizes the audio output. In general, audio circuit 451 comprises an audio amplifier IC 418, multiple coils L, multiple resistors R, multiple capacitors C, and an electrolytic capacitor EC.

[0196] Figure 16 shows the circuit diagram of the audio circuit 451. Figure 16(a) shows the circuit diagram of the signal system, and Figure 16(b) shows the circuit diagram of the power supply system. As shown in Figure 16(a), the audio signal is output from the output terminal of the audio amplifier IC 418, first through the LC filter LCF, then the Zobel filter ZOF, and finally to the connector CN. Also, in the power supply system circuit diagram in Figure 16(b), a power supply bypass capacitor PBC is provided to remove noise, similar to Figure 13(b). Capacitors C1 (C207, C208, C209, C222 in Figure 16) connected to the BST terminal are bootstrap capacitors for voltage boosting and play a role in assisting the output of the positive and negative terminals. Capacitors C1 are not necessary in the case of the audio amplifier IC 418 which does not have a BST terminal. Capacitors C2 (C238, C299, C303, C304 in Figure 16) are provided for noise suppression from the speaker.

[0197] In this embodiment, the coil L of the LC filter LCF uses a coreless coil, but a coil with a core may also be used. The constants of each element of the LC filter LCF are determined based on the switching frequency of the digital amplifier (20kHz to 350kHz). Specifically, a coil L of 10 to 15μH is used, with a capacitor C of 0.33μF used for a 10μH coil L, and a capacitor C of 0.22μF used for a 10μH coil L.

[0198] Returning to Figure 15, the audio output signal wiring C1 from audio circuit 451A to the upper speaker 272 (specifically, the upper left speaker 272a and the upper right speaker 272a) is connected to connector CN1 located in the center of the left edge of the first sub-control board 401A. The audio output signal wiring C2 from audio circuit 451B to the right of the middle speaker 275 (specifically, the middle speaker 275b) and from audio circuit 451C to the right of the lower speaker 277 (specifically, the lower speaker 277b) is connected to connector CN2 located below the left edge of the first sub-control board 401a. The audio output signal wiring C3 from audio circuit 451B to the left of the middle speaker 275 (specifically, the middle speaker 275a) and from audio circuit 451C to the left of the lower speaker 277 (specifically, the lower speaker 277a) is connected to connector CN3 located below the right edge of the first sub-control board 401A.

[0199] Thus, the wiring from one audio circuit may be connected to one connector that connects to either the left or right speaker, and to another connector that connects to the other of the left or right speakers. Also, connector CN2 is located at the left end (left side) of the first sub-control board 401a, and connector CN3 is located at the right end (right side) of the first sub-control board 401a. However, when viewed from the front of the gaming machine, connector CN2 is located on the right side of the gaming machine, and connector CN3 is located on the left side of the gaming machine, with these connectors positioned closer to the side where the connected speakers are located. This configuration prevents redundancy in harness length and makes it easier to understand the connection destinations of the harness (connectors), thereby improving efficiency during assembly and inspection.

[0200] Here, we will explain the flow of audio signals from the audio circuit 451 to connector CN using Figures 17 to 19.

[0201] Wiring C1 is connected from the audio circuit 451A to connector C1 via routes C1-1a in Figure 17(a), C1-1b in Figure 19(b), C1-2 in Figure 18(b), C1-3 in Figure 17(a), C1-4 in Figure 18(a), and C1-5 in Figure 17(a).

[0202] Wiring C2 is connected from audio circuits 451B and 451C to connector C2 via routes C2-1a in Figure 17(a), C2-1b in Figure 19(b), C2-2 in Figure 18(b), C2-3 in Figure 17(a), and C2-4 in Figure 18(a).

[0203] Wiring C3 connects from audio circuits 451B and 451C to connector C3 via paths C3-1a in Figure 17(a), C3-1b in Figure 19(b), C3-2 in Figure 18(b), C3-3 in Figure 17(a), and C3-4 in Figure 19(a). Thus, the wiring pattern from the audio amplifier IC to the connector may be configured via multiple layers.

[0204] As shown in Figure 17(a), the region where the coil L of the audio circuit 451 (audio circuit 451A, audio circuit 451B, audio circuit 451C) is located is a region N-GND without a ground connection. This prevents potential instability caused by the magnetic field generated by the coil L of the audio circuit 451. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 14(c), the ground connection GND of the region of the audio circuit 451 (audio circuit 451A, audio circuit 451B, audio circuit 451C) may be separated from the ground connection GND of the other circuit regions and wired separately.

[0205] [Other variations] • Arrangement of components in the audio circuit Figure 20(a) will be used to explain the arrangement of components for multiple (specifically two) audio circuits 450. In Figure 20(a), one audio circuit is denoted as 450A and the other audio circuit as 450B. In Figure 20(a), virtual extension lines are shown along with each component that makes up the audio circuit 450 (audio amplifier IC 418, coil L, resistor R, electrolytic capacitor EC). Virtual extension lines generally represent straight lines that form the outline of the audio circuit 450, which is composed of multiple components, or straight lines that pass through the center of a given component.

[0206] In Example 1 of Figure 20(a), both audio circuits 450A and 450B are located within the area enclosed by virtual extension lines L1, L2, L3, and L4, and the coil L, capacitor C, and resistor R are positioned symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418 (the coil L, capacitor C, and resistor R are positioned symmetrically with respect to the virtual extension line VL that divides the audio amplifier IC 418 into left and right halves). In addition, the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned to the right of the power supply IC 418 and parallel to the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0207] In this way, the component layouts within the two audio circuits can be made nearly identical, and the coil L, capacitor C, and resistor R can be placed in symmetrical positions with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0208] In Example 2 of Figure 20(a), similar to Example 1, both audio circuits 450A and 450B are located within the area enclosed by virtual extension lines L1, L2, L3, and L4, and the coil L, capacitor C, and resistor R are positioned symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418 (the coil L, capacitor C, and resistor R are positioned symmetrically with respect to the virtual extension line VL that divides the audio amplifier IC 418 into left and right halves). However, the positional relationship between the electrolytic capacitor EC and the audio amplifier IC 418 is different from that of Example 1. In Example 2, the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned below the position of the audio amplifier IC 418. Thus, the lower end of the electrolytic capacitor EC may be offset from the lower end of the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0209] Here, in Examples 1 and 2 of Figure 20(a), the audio circuits 450A and 450B have substantially the same component layout, but it is not necessary for the layout of all components to be substantially the same. For example, as shown in Example 3 of Figure 20(a), the electrolytic capacitor EC may be placed in an inverted position. The layout of the other components is substantially the same as in Examples 1 and 2. Specifically, in audio circuit 450A, the electrolytic capacitor EC is placed to the right of the audio amplifier IC 418, while in audio circuit 450B, the electrolytic capacitor EC is placed to the left of the audio amplifier IC 418. In this way, audio circuits 450A and 450B may be placed in a symmetrical positional relationship.

[0210] In Example 4 of Figure 20(a), both audio circuits 450A and 450B are located within the area enclosed by virtual extension lines L1, L2, L3, and L4. However, unlike Examples 1 to 3, the components near coil L (coil L, capacitor C, resistor R) are not arranged symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418. On the other hand, the components near the audio amplifier IC 418 (capacitor C, resistor R) are arranged symmetrically with respect to the power supply IC 418. Note that audio circuits 450A and 450B in Example 4 of Figure 20(a) have substantially the same component layout within the audio circuits.

[0211] Note that in Examples 1 to 4 of Figure 20(a), the electrolytic capacitor EC was not placed between the two coils L, but it is also possible to place the electrolytic capacitor EC between the two coils L. Also, in the diagrams shown in Examples 1 to 4 of Figure 20(a), capacitors involved in other electronic processing were not shown, but it is also possible to include capacitors involved in other electronic processing.

[0212] From the above, the audio amplifier IC418 and the two coils L are laid out such that at least a part of the audio amplifier IC418 is included in the intermediate portion of the two coils L (the region between the virtual extension lines of both the end edge of one coil on the side of the other coil and the end edge of the other coil on the side of the other coil, and the region consisting of virtual extension lines with a distance t1. The shaded region between virtual extension line L1' and virtual extension line L5' shown in Figure 20). This corresponds to the first positional relationship. For example, the audio amplifier IC418 may be laid out so as to be symmetrical with respect to the two coils L, or the audio amplifier IC418 may be laid out so as to be eccentric with respect to one of the two coils L.

[0213] Furthermore, in the case of the audio amplifier IC 418 and capacitor C, the layout may be such that capacitor C is located between the audio amplifier 418 and coil L (corresponding to the second positional relationship), or the layout may be such that coil L is located between the audio amplifier 418 and capacitor C (corresponding to the second positional relationship), that is, in the direction of output of the audio signal as seen from the audio amplifier 418, the positional relationships are "audio amplifier IC → capacitor C → coil L" and "audio amplifier IC → coil L → capacitor C". Also, the layout of capacitor C is symmetrical with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418, the layout of capacitor C is symmetrical with respect to the two coils L, and the layout of capacitor C is symmetrical with respect to one coil L. In the case of the audio amplifier IC 418 and electrolytic capacitor EC, at least a part of electrolytic capacitor EC is located inward from the virtual extension line L4 along the end on the side of the audio amplifier IC 418 that has the power supply terminals, and on the side opposite to the side where coil L is located in the audio amplifier IC 418 (corresponding to another example of the second positional relationship, or the fourth positional relationship).

[0214] Furthermore, the layout of the coil L and capacitor C may be such that the capacitor C is located between the coil L and the audio amplifier IC 418 (corresponding to the third positional relationship), or between the coil L and the connector CN (corresponding to the third positional relationship). In other words, the positional relationship is such that the capacitor C is located closer to the audio amplifier IC 418 when viewed from the coil L, or the positional relationship is such that the capacitor C is located closer to the connector CN, which is on the opposite side of the audio amplifier IC 418 when viewed from the coil L. Also, the capacitor C is laid out so as to be symmetrical with respect to one coil L and / or two coil Ls. In the case of the coil L and electrolytic capacitor EC, the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned eccentrically on one side of the two coils L, and at least a portion of the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned inward from the imaginary extension line L5 of the end of the coil L on the opposite side from the other coil L, at least a portion of the electrolytic capacitor is positioned inward from the imaginary extension line L4 along the end on the opposite side of the audio amplifier IC 418 where the coil L is positioned, and at least a portion of the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned inward from the extension line L3 of the end of the connector side of the two coils L (corresponding to another example of the third positional relationship, or the fifth positional relationship). Furthermore, electronic components such as a capacitor C and / or a resistor R are placed between the coil L and the electrolytic capacitor EC, and the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned on the side of the audio amplifier IC 418 that has the power supply terminals (the side closer to the power supply terminals), thereby preventing close contact with the coil L and minimizing the amount of heat generated by the coil L that reaches the electrolytic capacitor EC. Note that, as shown in Example 4, the same effect can be achieved by positioning the coil L and electrolytic capacitor EC apart even without any components between them.

[0215] Furthermore, the audio amplifier IC418, coil L, and capacitor C are arranged such that at least a portion of the audio amplifier IC418 is included in the region formed by the virtual extension line of the distance t1 between it and the two coils L, and the capacitor C is arranged to be symmetrical with respect to the audio amplifier IC418 and / or coil L. In addition, the electrolytic capacitor EC is positioned on one side of the audio amplifier IC418 and on one side of the two coils L, and the virtual extension line of one of the edges of the electrolytic capacitor EC is laid out so that it overlaps with the audio amplifier IC418 and / or coil L.

[0216] • Arrangement of audio circuits on the first sub-control board Figure 20(b) shows an example of the arrangement of the audio circuits 450 on the first sub-control board 401. In Figure 20(b), audio circuit 1 is denoted as 450X, audio circuit 2 as 450Y, and audio circuit 3 as 450Z.

[0217] Example 1 in Figure 20(b) shows a first sub-control board 401X in which the audio circuits 450X, 450Y, and 450Z are each located at or near the edge of the board. In the first sub-control board 401X, the audio circuits 450X and 450Y are located at one edge (specifically, the left edge), and the audio circuit 450Z is located at the other edge (specifically, the right edge). In addition, the first connector CN1 is located near the audio circuits 450X and 450Y, and the second connector CN2 is located near the audio circuit 450Z.

[0218] As shown in Example 1 of Figure 20(b), the first sub-control board 401X, by placing the audio circuit at the end, reduces the impact of switching frequency noise on other components. Furthermore, the correspondence between connector CN (audio circuit) and the speaker is easily understood, making it easier to identify faulty areas. Additionally, if the output sound from the gaming machine is perceived as too loud during inspection, the connector of the harness connecting connector CN to the speaker may be disconnected. Because the audio circuit and the corresponding speaker-connected connector CN are located close together, it becomes easier to identify which connector to disconnect, improving work efficiency.

[0219] Example 2 in Figure 20(b) shows a first sub-control board 401Y in which both audio circuits 450X and 450Y are concentrated and arranged in one edge region of the board (specifically, the upper right quarter region of the board). The connector CN is also located near audio circuits 450X and 450Y.

[0220] As shown in Example 2 of Figure 20(b), the first sub-control board 401Y allows for a more concentrated arrangement of audio circuits at the edges, thereby reducing the impact of noise on other components. Furthermore, it makes it easier to identify the connector CN connected to the speaker, allowing for instant identification of the connector CN to be disconnected in the event of a loud noise. Additionally, heat-generating components such as the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L can be concentrated for efficient heat dissipation.

[0221] Example 3 in Figure 20(b) shows a first sub-control board 401Z in which both audio circuits 450X and 450Y are located in the central region of the board. In addition, the first connector CN1 is located near audio circuit 450X, and the second connector CN2 is located near audio circuit 450Y.

[0222] As shown in Example 3 of Figure 20(b), the first sub-control board 401Z, by placing heat-generating components such as the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L in the center of the board, the heat can be distributed throughout the entire board, making it easier to achieve heat dissipation. Furthermore, the proximity of the connector CN and the audio circuit makes the correspondence between the connector CN and the audio circuit easier to understand, improving the efficiency of inspection work.

[0223] • When the arrangement of components in the audio circuit is different. In the above embodiments and modifications, the component layouts within the audio circuit 450 were identical or nearly identical (including the inversion target), but the component layouts may be different for each audio circuit 450. Figure 20(c) shows a first sub-control board 401J in which the component layouts of audio circuit 450X and audio circuit 450Y are different. The audio circuit 450X and audio circuit 450Y differ in the positional relationship between the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil C, and the positional relationship between the audio amplifier IC 418 and electrolytic capacitor EC. Furthermore, a capacitor C is also placed, and capacitor C is placed on the side of the audio amplifier IC 418 where coil L is not placed. In the case of audio circuit 450X, coil L is placed in the direction parallel to the audio amplifier IC 418 (left and right direction), and capacitor C is placed in the direction perpendicular to the audio amplifier IC 418 (up and down direction). On one side in the perpendicular direction, there is coil L corresponding to the (+) output terminal and (-) output terminal of one coil L, and on the other side in the perpendicular direction, there is coil L corresponding to the (+) output terminal and (-) output terminal of the other coil L. In the case of audio circuit 450Y, coil L is placed in the direction perpendicular to the audio amplifier IC 418 (up in the diagram, but it can also be down or up and down direction), and capacitor C is placed in the direction parallel to the audio amplifier IC 418 (left and right direction). On one side in the parallel direction, there is coil L corresponding to the (+) output terminal and (-) output terminal of one coil L, and on the other side in the parallel direction, there is coil L corresponding to the (+) output terminal and (-) output terminal of the other coil L. However, in both audio circuits 450X and 450Y, the components are arranged within the regions enclosed by the dashed-dotted virtual extension lines shown in Figure 20(c). Here, the rectangular region S1 enclosed by the virtual extension lines of audio circuit 450X and the rectangular region S2 enclosed by the virtual extension lines of audio circuit 450Y are approximately identical in shape and area (specifically, the length and width of the rectangles are approximately identical). This is true not only for the dashed-dotted virtual extension lines but also for the dotted virtual extension lines along the ends of each component, with each component being arranged within the regions enclosed by the dotted virtual extension lines.In audio circuit 450X, region S1 is formed by the virtual extension line along the end of the electrolytic capacitor EC, the virtual extension line along the end of the coil L, and the virtual extension line along the end of the capacitor C. In audio circuit 450Y, region S2 is formed by the virtual extension line along the end of the electrolytic capacitor EC, the virtual extension line along the end of the coil L, and the virtual extension line along the end of the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0224] Furthermore, the audio amplifier IC418 and the coils L are laid out within the region between the virtual extension lines of both the end of one coil on the other coil side and the end of the other coil on the other coil side (the region consisting of the virtual extension lines of the spacing between the coils L) (within the first range), and the distance from the audio amplifier IC418 to each coil L is the same or approximately the same (w1 ≈ w2, w3 ≈ w4) within a range (another example within the first range). This makes it possible to make the wiring lengths equal or approximately equal, thereby achieving uniform sound output between the left output and the right output. Note that "w1·w2" and "w3·w4" may be different, or they may be the same or approximately the same.

[0225] Furthermore, in the relationship between the audio amplifier IC418 and capacitor C, capacitor C is laid out so as to be approximately symmetrical with respect to the audio amplifier IC418 in both the parallel and perpendicular directions, and is laid out within the same or approximately the same region S1-S2 (the second region) enclosed by the virtual extension lines from the ends of each component. This makes it possible to achieve uniformity in the left output, right output, (+) output, and (-) output, as well as space saving in the audio circuit.

[0226] Furthermore, the coils L and capacitors C are laid out within a range (the third range) such that the distance from capacitor C to each coil L is the same or approximately the same (w5 ≈ w6). Although the distances w7 and w8 from capacitor C to each coil L in the audio circuit 450Y are not shown in the diagram, these distances are also the same or approximately the same (w7 ≈ w8). This allows for equal or approximately equal wiring lengths, thereby achieving uniform sound output between the left and right outputs.

[0227] Furthermore, not only between stereo output audio circuits, but also between stereo output audio circuits and mono output audio circuits, the components may be arranged within the first, second, and third ranges described above, thereby ensuring a balanced positive and negative polarity in a single speaker. The positional relationships and arrangement ranges of these components described above, or those described later, may be the same or nearly identical in terms of positional relationships and arrangement ranges even between mono output audio circuits.

[0228] Even if the component layout differs for each audio circuit 450, it is sufficient that each component in each audio circuit 450 is placed within a predetermined area of ​​the same range. In this case as well, the performance of multiple speakers can be made uniform to stabilize the audio output.

[0229] • Arrangement of output terminals on the audio amplifier IC Figures 21(a) to (c) show the arrangement of the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC418. In Figures 21(a) to (c), the coil for the left speaker is denoted as LL, and the coil for the right speaker is denoted as RL. The output terminal for the left speaker of the audio amplifier IC418 is denoted as LT, and the output terminal for the right speaker is denoted as RT. Furthermore, the area to the left of the audio amplifier IC418 is denoted as LS, and the area to the right is denoted as RS, with respect to the center line VL that divides the audio amplifier IC418 into left and right halves.

[0230] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 12, the two coils LL and RL are positioned symmetrically with respect to the center line VL of the audio amplifier IC418. In this case, to avoid crossings and shorten the distance of the wiring between the audio amplifier IC418 and coil L, it is preferable that the output terminal LT and the coil LL for the left speaker are connected in the same region LS, and the output terminal RT and the coil RL for the right speaker are connected in the same region RS. Figures 21(a) to (c) show examples of the arrangement of the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC418 in such a case, with the output terminal LT located in the left region LS and the output terminal RT located in the right region RS.

[0231] For example, as shown in Figure 21(a), the output terminal LT may be arranged linearly on the left side of the rectangular audio amplifier IC 418, and the output terminal RT may be arranged linearly on the right side. In other words, the direction in which the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC are arranged is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the coil L. Note that a layout in which at least a part of the audio amplifier IC 418 is included in the region formed by the virtual extension line between the two coils L, and the direction in which the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC 418 are arranged is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the coil L, may be considered as an example of the first positional relationship.

[0232] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21(b), for example, output terminals LT may be arranged in an L-shape across the corners on the left and top sides of the rectangular audio amplifier IC 418, and output terminals RT may be arranged in an L-shape across the corners on the right and top sides. In other words, the arrangement of the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC will be a mixture of directions perpendicular to and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coil L. Note that a layout in which at least a part of the audio amplifier IC 418 is included in the region formed by the virtual extension line between the two coils L, and the arrangement of the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC 418 is perpendicular to and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coil L, may be considered as an example of the first positional relationship.

[0233] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 21(c), for example, the output terminal LT may be arranged linearly on the left side of the upper half of the rectangular audio amplifier IC 418, facing the left region LS, and the output terminal RT may be arranged linearly on the right side of the upper half, facing the right region RS. In other words, the direction in which the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC are arranged is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coil L. Note that a layout in which at least a part of the audio amplifier IC 418 is included in the region formed by the virtual extension line between the two coils L, and the direction in which the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC 418 are arranged is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coil L, may be considered as an example of the first positional relationship.

[0234] In all cases shown in Figures 21(a) to (c), the wiring crossing between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L can be avoided, and the wiring distance can be shortened.

[0235] • Arrangement of components in the audio circuit Figures 21(d) to (f) schematically show the arrangement of the components constituting the audio circuit 450 when they are arranged linearly in the vertical direction. Figures 21(d) to (f) show examples where the LC filter LCF consists of two coils L and four capacitors C (more precisely, one coil L and two capacitors C for the left speaker, and one coil L and two capacitors C for the right speaker), and the Zobel filter ZOF consists of two capacitors C and two resistors R (more precisely, one capacitor C and one resistor for the left speaker, and one capacitor C and one resistor R for the right speaker).

[0236] For example, in the audio circuit 450D shown in Figure 21(d), the components are arranged from top to bottom in the following order: connector CN, Zobel filter ZOF, LC filter LCF capacitor C, LC filter LCF coil L, audio amplifier IC 418, and electrolytic capacitor EC. In the audio circuit 450 of this embodiment, as shown in the circuit diagram of Figure 14, the audio signal flows in the order of audio amplifier IC 418 → LC filter LCF coil L → LC filter LCF capacitor C → Zobel filter ZOF → connector CN. Therefore, with the component arrangement shown in Figure 21(d), it is possible to wire the audio amplifier IC 418 and connector CN over the shortest distance. In other words, the wiring pattern is optimized for each filter, resulting in good wiring efficiency and improved filter effectiveness. However, there is a disadvantage in that heat tends to accumulate because the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L are in close proximity.

[0237] In Figure 21(d), the layout of the audio amplifier IC and coil L is such that at least a portion of the audio amplifier IC 418 is included in the region formed by the virtual extension of the distance between the two coils L (first positional relationship). This improves the wiring efficiency between the audio amplifier IC and coil L, and further stabilizes the output by making the bias in the wiring pattern distance between the left output and the right output as equal as possible. In addition, the layout of the audio amplifier IC and capacitor C is such that coil L is located between the audio amplifier IC and capacitor C (second positional relationship). This allows for wiring in the order of the circuit in the filter circuit, and enables the shortest possible wiring pattern. In addition, the layout of coil L and capacitor C is such that capacitor C is located between coil L and connector CN (third positional relationship). This allows for wiring in the order of the circuit in the filter circuit, and enables the shortest possible wiring pattern.

[0238] Although not shown in Figure 21(d), a bootstrap capacitor may be provided between the coil L of the LC filter LCF and the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0239] For example, in the audio circuit 450E shown in Figure 21(e), the components are arranged from top to bottom in the following order: connector CN, Zobel filter ZOF, LC filter LCF coil L, LC filter LCF capacitor C, audio amplifier IC 418, and electrolytic capacitor EC. In the case of the component arrangement shown in Figure 21(e), the distance is longer than in the case of the component arrangement shown in Figure 21(d) because the coil L → capacitor C in the LC filter LCF is not in the same order as in the circuit. However, since the current flows in the order of audio amplifier IC 418 → LC filter LCF → Zobel filter ZOF → connector CN, this can be considered a preferable wiring arrangement.

[0240] According to the audio circuit 450E shown in Figure 21(e), the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L, which tend to generate heat, are separated by a capacitor C, which has the advantage of preventing heat from accumulating. However, because the LC filter LCF is not arranged in the correct order, the wiring pattern becomes longer, which has the disadvantage of being susceptible to noise interference.

[0241] In addition, in FIG. 21(e) as well, there is a layout (first positional relationship) in which at least a part of the audio amplifier IC is included in a region formed on an imaginary extension line of the distance between the two coils L by the audio amplifier IC and the coil L. As a result, the wiring efficiency between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L can be improved, and furthermore, the deviation in the distance of the wiring pattern between the left output and the right output can be equalized as much as possible to achieve output stabilization. Also, there is a layout (second positional relationship) in which the capacitor C is positioned between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L by the audio amplifier IC and the capacitor C. Thereby, a separation distance between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L can be provided, and heat concentration can be suppressed. Also, there is a layout (third positional relationship) in which the capacitor C is positioned between the coil L and the audio amplifier IC by the coil L and the capacitor C. Thereby, a separation distance between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L can be provided, and heat concentration can be suppressed. By arranging the capacitor C of the Zobel filter between the coil L and the connector CN, it is possible to make the wiring on the circuit in the filter circuit a jump wiring and to configure the shortest wiring pattern as much as possible.

[0242] For example, the audio circuit 450F shown in FIG. 21(f) is arranged in the order of the connector CN, the capacitor C of the LC filter LCF, the coil L of the LC filter LCF, the Zobel filter ZOF, the audio amplifier IC418, and the electrolytic capacitor EC from top to bottom. Thus, the vertical arrangement of the LC filter LCF and the Zobel filter ZOF may be interchanged.

[0243] According to the audio circuit 450F shown in FIG. 21(f), since the audio amplifier IC418 and the coil L, which tend to generate heat, are separated by the capacitor C, there is an advantage that heat does not concentrate. However, since the Zobel filter ZOF is not near the connector CN, there is also a disadvantage that the effect of countermeasures against the back electromotive force from the speaker is reduced.

[0244] Note that in Fig. 21(f) as well, in the layout (first positional relationship) where at least a part of the audio amplifier IC is included in the region formed by the virtual extension line of the interval between the two coils L, with the audio amplifier IC and the coil L. This can improve the wiring efficiency between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L, and further make the deviation of the distance of the wiring pattern between the left output and the right output as uniform as possible to achieve output stabilization. Also, in the layout (second positional relationship) where the capacitor C is positioned between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L, with the audio amplifier IC and the capacitor C. This can provide a separation distance between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L and suppress heat concentration. Also, in the layout (third positional relationship) where the capacitor C is positioned between the coil L and the audio amplifier IC, with the coil L and the capacitor C. This can provide a separation distance between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L and suppress heat concentration.

[0245] Note that in this embodiment, the IC in the audio circuit is an audio amplifier IC, but it is not limited to this, and a sound source IC may also be used. Also, the configuration regarded as "substantially the same" in this embodiment may be a "same" configuration, and the configuration regarded as "same" may be a "substantially the same" configuration. Also, the positional relationship in this embodiment indicates the layout of components with respect to each other or the components in the target circuit configuration. Also, in this embodiment, the audio circuit includes "audio amplifier IC → LC filter composed of coil L and capacitor C → Zobel filter composed of resistor R and capacitor C (→ connector)", which is the wiring path of the audio signal.

[0246] <Summary of the Embodiment> (1) As described above, according to the gaming table (for example, slot machine 100) according to the above embodiment, a plurality of speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, etc.) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and are capable of outputting audio signals. A first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, A gaming machine equipped with, Each of the aforementioned audio circuits comprises a first component (e.g., an audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., an inductor L), and a third component (e.g., a capacitor C). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the positional relationship between the first component, the second component, and the third component is substantially the same (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This will be the first basic structure.

[0247] According to the first basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits approximately uniform.

[0248] In this first basic configuration, In each of the plurality of audio circuits of the first substrate, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second and third components are arranged in a third positional relationship (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This is considered the first preferred configuration.

[0249] According to the first preferred configuration, by making the arrangement of the three components the same, the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits can be made substantially uniform, and audio can be output stably.

[0250] In this first preferred configuration, The first component is an audio amplifier element (for example, an audio amplifier IC418), The second component is a coil (for example, coil L), The third component is a capacitor (for example, capacitor C), Each of the aforementioned audio circuits includes a filter circuit (for example, an LC filter LCF) consisting of the coil and the capacitor. This is considered the second preferred configuration.

[0251] According to the second preferred configuration, stable audio output is possible by keeping the noise reduction substantially the same.

[0252] In this first basic configuration, first preferred configuration, or second preferred configuration, The first substrate further comprises control means (for example, a CPU 404, etc.) The plurality of audio circuits are arranged on the first substrate closer to the edge of the first substrate than the location where the control means are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes a third preferred configuration.

[0253] This third preferred configuration makes it possible to prevent the magnetic field from the audio circuit from affecting other components.

[0254] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, etc.) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and are capable of outputting audio signals. A first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, A gaming machine equipped with, Each of the aforementioned audio circuits comprises a first component (e.g., an audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., an inductor L), and a third component (e.g., a capacitor C). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the first component, the second component, and the third component are arranged within a substantially same predetermined range (for example, FIGS. 12(a), 20(c), etc.). This is the second basic configuration.

[0255] According to the second basic configuration, by substantially equalizing the performance related to the audio output of the plurality of audio circuits, audio can be stably output.

[0256] In this second basic configuration, in each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the first component and the second component are arranged within a first range, the first component and the third component are arranged within a second range, the second component and the third component are arranged within a third range (for example, FIGS. 12(a), 20(c), etc.). This is the fourth preferred configuration.

[0257] According to the fourth preferred configuration, by making the arrangement ranges of the three components the same, the performance related to the audio output of the plurality of audio circuits can be substantially equalized, and audio can be stably output.

[0258] In the fourth preferred configuration, the first component is an audio amplifier element (for example, audio amplifier IC418), the second component is a coil (for example, coil L), the third component is a capacitor (for example, capacitor C), each of the plurality of audio circuits includes a filter circuit (for example, LC filter LCF, etc.) formed by the coil and the capacitor. This is the fifth preferred configuration.

[0259] According to this fifth preferred configuration, by making the noise reduction substantially the same, audio can be stably output.

[0260] In the second basic configuration, the fourth preferred configuration, or the fifth preferred configuration, The first substrate further comprises control means (for example, a CPU 404, etc.) The plurality of audio circuits are arranged on the first substrate closer to the edge of the first substrate than the location where the control means are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the sixth preferred configuration.

[0261] This sixth preferred configuration makes it possible to prevent the magnetic field from the audio circuit from affecting other components.

[0262] (2) Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, etc.) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and are capable of outputting audio signals. A first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, A gaming machine equipped with, Each of the aforementioned multiple audio circuits comprises a first component (e.g., an audio amplifier IC 418), a plurality of second components (e.g., two coils L), and a third component (e.g., a capacitor C). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the positional relationship between the first component, the plurality of second components, and the third component is substantially the same (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). In each of the plurality of audio circuits of the first substrate, if one of the plurality of second components is designated as component A and the other as component B, then at least a portion of the first component is included in the region between the virtual extension line of the edge of component A facing component B and the virtual extension line of the edge of component B facing component A (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This will be the third basic structure.

[0263] According to the third basic configuration, stable audio output can be achieved by roughly equalizing the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits. Furthermore, The wiring pattern length between the first component and multiple second components can be balanced with respect to the multiple second components, for example, to equalize the output balance between the left and right speakers.

[0264] In the third basic structure, In each of the plurality of audio circuits of the first substrate, The first component and the plurality of second components are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The plurality of second parts and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the seventh preferred configuration.

[0265] According to the seventh preferred configuration, by making the arrangement of the three components the same, the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits can be made substantially uniform, and audio can be output stably.

[0266] In the seventh preferred configuration, The first component is an audio amplifier element (for example, an audio amplifier IC418), The second component is a coil (for example, coil L), The third component is a capacitor (for example, capacitor C), Each of the aforementioned audio circuits includes a filter circuit (for example, an LC filter LCF) consisting of the coil and the capacitor. This constitutes the eighth preferred configuration.

[0267] According to the eighth preferred configuration, stable audio output is possible by keeping the noise reduction substantially the same.

[0268] In the third basic configuration, the seventh preferred configuration, or the eighth preferred configuration, The first substrate further comprises control means (for example, a CPU 404, etc.) The plurality of audio circuits are arranged on the first substrate closer to the edge of the first substrate than the location where the control means are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the ninth preferred configuration.

[0269] According to the ninth preferred configuration, it is possible to prevent the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuit from affecting other components.

[0270] (3) Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, etc.) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and are capable of outputting audio signals. A first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, A gaming machine equipped with, Each of the aforementioned multiple audio circuits comprises a first component (e.g., an audio amplifier IC 418), a plurality of second components (e.g., two coils L), and a third component (e.g., a capacitor C). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the positional relationship between the first component, the plurality of second components, and the third component is substantially the same (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the spacing between the plurality of second components is substantially the same, and no components are mounted in the region consisting of that spacing (for example, Figure 12(a), etc.). This constitutes the fourth basic structure.

[0271] According to the fourth basic configuration, stable audio output can be achieved by roughly equalizing the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits. In addition, by not placing components between multiple second components, the effects of heat generated by the second components can be prevented.

[0272] In the fourth basic structure, In each of the plurality of audio circuits of the first substrate, The first component and the plurality of second components are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The plurality of second parts and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the tenth preferred configuration.

[0273] According to this preferred configuration, by making the arrangement of the three components the same, the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits can be made nearly uniform, and audio can be output stably.

[0274] In the tenth preferred configuration, The first component is an audio amplifier element (for example, an audio amplifier IC418), The second component is a coil (for example, coil L), The third component is a capacitor (for example, capacitor C), Each of the aforementioned audio circuits includes a filter circuit (for example, an LC filter LCF) consisting of the coil and the capacitor. This constitutes the 11th preferred configuration.

[0275] According to the 11th preferred configuration, stable audio output is possible by keeping the noise reduction substantially the same.

[0276] In the fourth basic configuration, the tenth preferred configuration, or the eleventh preferred configuration, The first substrate further comprises control means (for example, a CPU 404, etc.) The plurality of audio circuits are arranged on the first substrate closer to the edge of the first substrate than the location where the control means are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the twelfth preferred configuration.

[0277] According to the twelfth preferred configuration, it is possible to prevent the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuit from affecting other components.

[0278] (4) Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, etc.) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and are capable of outputting audio signals. A first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, A gaming machine equipped with, Each of the aforementioned audio circuits comprises a first component (e.g., an audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., an inductor L), and a third component (e.g., a capacitor C). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the positional relationship between the first component, the second component, and the third component is substantially the same (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). The first substrate is equipped with a connector (for example, a connector CN1 connected to the upper speaker 272) that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers. The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the fifth basic structure.

[0279] According to the fifth basic configuration, stable audio output can be achieved by roughly equalizing the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits. Furthermore, This makes it easier to recognize the correspondence between speakers and audio circuits. For example, if a speaker suddenly emits a loud sound during maintenance work, it becomes easier to identify the connector of the speaker whose output you want to disable, which helps to reduce the time required for disabling the output.

[0280] In the fifth basic structure, In each of the plurality of audio circuits of the first substrate, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second and third components are arranged in a third positional relationship (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the 13th preferred configuration.

[0281] According to the 13th preferred configuration, by making the arrangement of the three components the same, the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits can be made substantially uniform, and audio can be output stably.

[0282] The first component is an audio amplifier element (for example, an audio amplifier IC418), The second component is a coil (for example, coil L), The third component is a capacitor (for example, capacitor C), Each of the aforementioned audio circuits includes a filter circuit (for example, an LC filter LCF) consisting of the coil and the capacitor. This constitutes the 14th preferred configuration.

[0283] According to the 14th preferred configuration, stable audio output is possible by keeping the noise reduction substantially the same. In the fifth basic configuration, the thirteenth preferred configuration, or the fourteenth preferred configuration, The first substrate further comprises control means (for example, a CPU 404, etc.) The plurality of audio circuits are arranged on the first substrate closer to the edge of the first substrate than the location where the control means are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the 15th preferred configuration.

[0284] According to the 15th preferred configuration, it is possible to prevent the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuit from affecting other components.

[0285] (5) Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, 450B, 450C, etc.) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and are capable of outputting audio signals. A first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, A gaming machine equipped with, Each of the aforementioned audio circuits comprises a first component (e.g., an audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., an inductor L), and a third component (e.g., a capacitor C). In each of the plurality of audio circuits on the first substrate, the positional relationship between the first component, the second component, and the third component is substantially the same (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). At least one side of the first substrate is covered by a cover (e.g., substrate case 403) (e.g., Figure 12(d)), The cover is provided with a heat dissipation means (e.g., a ventilation hole 405, a fan, etc.) near the location where one of the plurality of audio circuits is installed (e.g., Figure 12(d), etc.). This constitutes the sixth basic structure.

[0286] According to the sixth basic configuration, by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform, stable audio output can be achieved, and heat dissipation can be promoted, preventing malfunctions of components.

[0287] In the sixth basic structure, In each of the plurality of audio circuits of the first substrate, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second and third components are arranged in a third positional relationship (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the 16th preferred configuration.

[0288] According to the 16th preferred configuration, by making the arrangement of the three components the same, the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits can be made substantially uniform, and audio can be output stably.

[0289] In the 16th preferred configuration, The first component is an audio amplifier element (for example, an audio amplifier IC418), The second component is a coil (for example, coil L), The third component is a capacitor (for example, capacitor C), Each of the aforementioned audio circuits includes a filter circuit (for example, an LC filter LCF) consisting of the coil and the capacitor. This constitutes the 17th preferred configuration.

[0290] According to the 17th preferred configuration, stable audio output is possible by keeping the noise reduction substantially the same.

[0291] In the sixth basic configuration, the sixteenth preferred configuration, or the seventeenth preferred configuration, The first substrate further comprises control means (for example, a CPU 404, etc.) The plurality of audio circuits are arranged on the first substrate closer to the edge of the first substrate than the location where the control means are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 12(a)). This constitutes the 18th preferred configuration.

[0292] According to the 18th preferred configuration, it is possible to prevent the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuit from affecting other components.

[0293] [Additional information for the third embodiment] Below, using Figures 22 to 27, the audio circuit described in the third embodiment will be explained from a different perspective, and additional aspects of the audio circuit described in the third embodiment will also be explained.

[0294] <Arrangement of components in the audio circuit> Figures 22 and 23 schematically show an example of the arrangement of components in the audio circuit 450. In Figures 22 and 23 below, the direction shown in Figure 22(a) is used, and the positional relationship between the coil L of the LC filter and the capacitor C is denoted as relationship A, the positional relationship between the coil L of the LC filter and the audio amplifier IC 418 is denoted as relationship B, the positional relationship between the capacitor C of the LC filter and the audio amplifier IC 418 is denoted as relationship C, and the positional relationship between the coil L of the LC filter, the capacitor C and the audio amplifier IC 418 is denoted as relationship D. Furthermore, according to the flow of the audio signal output from the audio amplifier IC 418 toward the connector CN, the position closer to the audio amplifier IC 418 is denoted as the input side, and the position closer to the connector CN is denoted as the output side.

[0295] Furthermore, with respect to LC filters, the coil L and capacitor C that constitute the LC filter, and Zobel filters, the capacitor C and resistor R that constitute the Zobel filter, the LC filter, coil L and capacitor C, and Zobel filter, capacitor C and resistor R to the left of the virtual extension line VL that divides the audio amplifier 418 into left and right halves will be abbreviated as "left" (components for the left speaker), and the LC filter, coil L and capacitor C, and Zobel filter, capacitor C and resistor R to the right will be abbreviated as "right" (components for the right speaker).

[0296] ·Parts arrangement schematic diagram 1 Figure 22(a) is a schematic diagram of component placement showing the arrangement of the components of the audio circuit 450D shown in Figure 21(d).

[0297] In relation A, in the left and right LC filters, the coil L is located on the input side and the capacitor C is located on the output side, respectively. The coil L and capacitor C in the left and right LC filters are located at an equal or approximately equal distance from each other.

[0298] In relation B, in the left and right LC filters, the audio amplifier IC418 is positioned on the input side and the coil L is positioned on the output side, respectively, and the left and right coil L are positioned at an equidistant or approximately equidistant distance from the audio amplifier IC418.

[0299] In relation C, the audio amplifier IC 418 is located on the input side and the capacitor C is located on the output side in the left and right LC filters, respectively, and the left and right capacitors C are located at an equidistant or approximately equidistant distance from the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0300] In relation D, the left and right capacitors C are positioned at equidistant or approximately equidistant distances from the audio amplifier IC 418, and the left and right coils L are positioned at equidistant or approximately equidistant distances from the audio amplifier IC 418. Furthermore, the left and right coils L and capacitors C are positioned symmetrically or approximately symmetrically with respect to a virtual extension line VL that divides the audio amplifier 418 into left and right halves, with coils L positioned between the audio amplifier IC 418 and capacitors C.

[0301] In this way, by arranging the left and right coils L and capacitors C symmetrically or nearly symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418, the wiring lengths of the left and right audio signals can be made the same, and the balance of the left and right audio outputs can be made the same. Furthermore, since the positions of the LC filters formed by the coils L and capacitors C are the same or nearly the same on the left and right, the positions where the filter effect is applied can also be made the same, so that the sound quality can be made the same for both the left and right outputs, and no difference in sound quality can be made between the left and right in stereo output. Moreover, by using this arrangement in the audio circuits corresponding to speakers with different stereo outputs (for example, the left and right of the upper speaker 272, the left and right of the middle speaker 275, and the left and right of the lower speaker 277), the sound quality can be made the same between different speakers.

[0302] The Zobel filter is positioned further out than the LC filter, between the LC filter's capacitor C and connector CN. Furthermore, the left and right Zobel filters have identical, or nearly identical, component positions (capacitor C followed by resistors from left to right). In other words, by aligning the positions of the components in the left and right output Zobel filters (where the filters are applied), oscillation and noise caused by the load are homogenized.

[0303] ·Parts arrangement schematic diagram 2 Figure 22(b) is a schematic diagram of component placement 2 showing the arrangement of the components of the audio circuit 450E shown in Figure 21(e).

[0304] In relation A, in the left and right LC filters, capacitor C is located on the input side and coil L is located on the output side, respectively. In the left and right LC filters, coil L and capacitor C are located at a distance or approximately equidistant from each other.

[0305] Relationships B and C are identical to the audio circuit 450D shown in Figure 22(a), so their explanation is omitted.

[0306] In relation D, the left and right capacitors C are positioned at equidistant or approximately equidistant from the audio amplifier IC 418, and the left and right coils L are positioned at equidistant or approximately equidistant from the audio amplifier IC 418. Furthermore, the left and right coils L and capacitors C are positioned symmetrically or approximately symmetrically with respect to the virtual extension line VL that divides the audio amplifier 418 into left and right halves, with capacitor C positioned between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coils L. By arranging them in this way, Similar to the 450D audio circuit, it can balance the left and right audio outputs.

[0307] ·Parts arrangement schematic diagram 3 Figure 22(c) is a schematic diagram of component placement showing the arrangement of the components of the audio circuit 450F shown in Figure 21(f). Since the audio circuit 450F is identical to the audio circuit 450D shown in Figure 22(a) in relation to relationships A, B, C, and D, the explanation is omitted. With this arrangement, Similar to the 450D audio circuit, it can balance the left and right audio outputs.

[0308] Audio circuit 450F differs from audio circuit 450D in the placement of the Zobel filter; specifically, the Zobel filter in audio circuit 450F is located on the input side compared to the LC filter, between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the LC filter. However, since the signal wiring passes through the inner layers of the board, the flow of the audio signal is the same as in audio circuit 450D: audio amplifier IC 418 → LC filter → Zobel filter → connector.

[0309] Furthermore, the left and right Zobel filters have identical, or nearly identical, component positions (capacitor C followed by resistors from left to right). In other words, by aligning the positions of the components in the left and right Zobel filters (where the filters are applied), oscillation and noise caused by the load are made uniform.

[0310] ·Parts arrangement schematic diagram 4 Figure 22(d) is a schematic diagram of component placement showing the arrangement of components in audio circuit 450G. Audio circuit 450G shows the case where an electrolytic capacitor EC is placed between the coils L of the LC filter. In audio circuit 450 shown in Figures 22(a) to (c), the electrolytic capacitor EC was placed below the audio amplifier IC 418, but it may also be placed in the LC filter area. Audio circuit 450G makes it possible to save space in the audio circuit.

[0311] Furthermore, while the LC filters are not arranged symmetrically or nearly symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier IC418, the arrangement of the left and right LC filters (coil L and capacitor C) is symmetrical (coil L and capacitor C are arranged symmetrically or nearly symmetrically with respect to the midpoint between the coils L), so the positions where the filter effect is applied are aligned, allowing for a uniform filter effect on both sides and thus matching the sound quality.

[0312] In Figure 22(d), the audio amplifier IC 418 is positioned eccentrically to one side, and the audio circuit 450G is positioned asymmetrically. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the audio amplifier 418 may be positioned symmetrically or nearly symmetrically with respect to a virtual extension line VL that divides it into left and right halves.

[0313] ·Parts arrangement schematic diagram 5 Figure 23(a) is a schematic diagram of component placement showing the arrangement of the audio amplifier IC 418 and the LC filter coil L in the audio circuit 450H. Specifically, Figure 23(a) shows the positional relationship of relation B, and also shows the position of the output terminal of the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0314] As shown in the diagram on the right, the output terminals of the audio amplifier IC418 are located on the left and right sides of the rectangular audio amplifier IC418. Therefore, the coil L and capacitor C of the LC filter are aligned (since the connection ports are located along the longitudinal direction of the rectangular coil L and capacitor C, they are aligned vertically) to minimize the length of the wiring between the audio amplifier IC418 and coil L, and between coil L and capacitor C.

[0315] In relation B, in the left and right LC filters, the audio amplifier IC 418 is positioned on the input side and the coil L is positioned on the output side, respectively, and the left and right coil L are positioned at an equidistant or approximately equidistant distance from the audio amplifier IC 418. Furthermore, the audio amplifier IC 418 and the left and right LC filters are positioned on a straight line in the left-right direction, with the audio amplifier IC 418 positioned at an intermediate or approximately intermediate position between the left and right LC filters. The left and right LC filters are positioned symmetrically or approximately symmetrically with respect to a virtual extension line VL that divides the audio amplifier 418 into left and right halves.

[0316] As shown in Figures 22(a) to (d), by arranging the audio output components on one side relative to the audio amplifier IC 418, the signal wiring related to the audio output can be efficiently laid out, preventing the signal wiring from becoming redundant and acting as an antenna, and preventing noise from being introduced before reaching the connector.

[0317] ·Parts arrangement schematic diagram 6 Figure 23(b) is a schematic diagram of component placement showing the arrangement of the audio amplifier IC 418 and the LC filter coil L in the audio circuit 450I. Specifically, Figure 23(b) shows the positional relationship of relation B, and also shows the position of the output terminal of the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0318] The output terminals of the audio amplifier IC418 are located on the top and bottom sides of the rectangular audio amplifier IC418, as shown in the diagram on the right (arranged in a state where the audio amplifier IC418 shown in Figure 23(a) is rotated 90 degrees clockwise). On the other hand, the orientation of the coil and capacitor C of the LC filter is the same as that of the coil L and capacitor C of the LC filter shown in Figure 23(a), with their longitudinal directions aligned vertically. Therefore, the audio amplifier IC418 and coil L are connected by an L-shaped wiring, as shown in the diagram on the right, and are arranged so as to minimize the length of the wiring between the audio amplifier IC418 and coil L, and the length of the wiring between coil L and capacitor C.

[0319] In relation B, in the left and right LC filters, the audio amplifier IC 418 is positioned on the input side and the coil L is positioned on the output side, respectively, and the left and right coil L are positioned at an equidistant or approximately equidistant distance from the audio amplifier IC 418. Furthermore, the audio amplifier IC 418 and the left and right LC filters are positioned on a diagonal line, with the audio amplifier IC 418 positioned midway or approximately midway between the left and right LC filters. The left and right LC filters are positioned point-symmetrically or approximately point-symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier 418.

[0320] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 23(a), the LC filter may be positioned on a diagonal line while the output terminal of the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L face each other directly. In this case, the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L will be connected by an L-shaped wiring. Thus, as shown in Figures 23(a) and 23(b), by distributing the left output coil L and the right output coil L in the left-right direction (or up-down direction) relative to the audio amplifier IC 418, it is possible to prevent component density and increase the area of ​​the solid traces formed between components, thereby suppressing heat generation (improving heat dissipation efficiency) compared to arranging the audio output components on one side relative to the audio amplifier IC 418 as shown in Figures 22(a) to (d).

[0321] Furthermore, while the positional relationship and arrangement range of stereo output audio circuits equipped with two coils L have been shown as an example, the positional relationships of components such as the audio amplifier IC 418, coil L, and capacitor C may be the same or nearly identical in both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. For example, the positional relationship in which the coil L constituting the LC filter is positioned between the capacitor C constituting the LC filter and the audio amplifier IC 418, or the positional relationship in which the coil C constituting the LC filter is positioned between the coil L constituting the LC filter and the audio amplifier IC 418, may be the same or nearly identical in both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. The coil L and capacitor C constituting the LC filter may also be arranged symmetrically or nearly symmetrically with respect to the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0322] Furthermore, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth positional relationships exemplified in Figures 20 and 21 may be the same or nearly the same for both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. For example, the positional relationship in which the audio amplifier IC418 and the capacitor C constituting the LC filter are arranged such that at least a portion of the coil L is included between them may be the same or substantially the same for both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. Alternatively, the arrangement of the LC filter may be reversed, and the positional relationship in which the audio amplifier IC418 and the capacitor C constituting the LC filter are arranged such that at least a portion of them is included between them may be the same or substantially the same for both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. Furthermore, if the first positional relationship is defined as a layout in which the direction of the audio signal output terminal of the audio amplifier IC418 is perpendicular and / or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coil L, then this positional relationship may be the same or substantially the same for both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. As a second (or fourth) positional relationship, focusing on the audio amplifier IC418 and capacitor C, if we define a layout where capacitor C is located between the audio amplifier IC418 and coil L, or where coil L is located between the audio amplifier IC418 and capacitor C, then this positional relationship may be the same or nearly the same for both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit. As a third (or fifth) positional relationship, focusing on coil L and capacitor C, if we define a layout where capacitor C is located between coil L and audio amplifier IC418, or where capacitor C is located between coil L and connector CN, then this positional relationship may be the same or nearly the same for both the stereo output audio circuit and the monaural output audio circuit.

[0323] Although the diagram shows an example where components such as the audio amplifier IC418, coil L, and capacitor C are arranged on the same surface (front), even if one of these components (for example, capacitor C) is arranged on the back surface of the board, it is possible to configure the board so that it is arranged in the same or approximately the same positional relationship or range across multiple audio circuits, including the back surface. Furthermore, capacitor C and resistor R are not limited to components that constitute the filter circuit, but may be other capacitor C and resistor R connected to the audio amplifier IC418 other than the filter circuit, thereby making the performance of the audio amplifier IC418 uniform or approximately uniform across multiple audio circuits.

[0324] • Schematic diagram of wiring pattern Figure 23(c) is a schematic diagram of the wiring pattern showing the pattern width of the signal line passing through the coil L of the LC filter in the audio circuit 450J. In the audio circuit 450J, the pattern width of the audio signal line on the input side (audio amplifier IC 418 side) and the output side (connector side) of the coil L is the same or approximately the same. Specifically, a pattern width of about 1.5 mm is suitable. Considering the voltage drop across the coil L, the pattern width on the output side may be narrower than the pattern width on the input side, but by making the pattern width the same or approximately the same as the input side, the resistance value of the wiring can be reduced, and power loss can be reduced. However, simply making the output wiring thicker can hinder the wiring layout, so the pattern width of the audio signal line on the output side is made the same or approximately the same as the pattern width of the audio signal line on the input side.

[0325] This configuration reduces power loss due to wiring resistance while ensuring stable signal transmission between the output and input sides. Furthermore, by arranging the wiring layout so that it is symmetrical or nearly symmetrical between the left and right outputs, the audio output can be made uniform between the left and right outputs.

[0326] Although Figure 23(c) shows a schematic diagram of the wiring pattern for a stereo output with two LC filters, even in a monaural output with only one LC filter, the pattern width of the audio signal line on the output side of coil L may be the same as or approximately the same as the pattern width of the audio signal line on the input side. In this case as well, power loss due to the resistance of the wiring can be reduced while ensuring stable signal transmission between the output and input sides.

[0327] Furthermore, the audio signal lines shown in Figure 23(c) may be arranged on the same layer (surface layer) from the audio amplifier IC to the connector, or they may be arranged on the inner or back layers of the substrate. Alternatively, the audio signal lines may be arranged through different layers from the audio amplifier IC to the connector, such that in some parts they are arranged on the surface layer and in other parts they are arranged on the inner or back layers. For example, as will be described later, between the audio amplifier IC and the LC filter (between the audio amplifier IC and the coil L, or between the audio amplifier IC and the capacitor C), the audio signal lines may be formed on a different layer than the layer on which the audio amplifier IC is arranged, and between the LC filter (coil L or capacitor C) and the connector, the audio signal lines may be formed on the same layer as the layer on which the component located on the output side of the LC filter and the connector are arranged. However, before and after the filter circuit (for example, after passing through the LC filter in the output direction of the audio signal, and up to the Zobel filter in the case of back electromotive force from the speaker), it is common practice to lay the audio signal wiring on the same layer without using interlayer conduction holes such as vias, all the way to the connector. This prevents distortion of the audio signal waveform caused by changes in characteristic impedance due to interlayer conduction holes, and stabilizes the audio signal from after the filter to the connector. In other words, by laying the audio signal wiring on the same layer without using interlayer conduction holes in the path from the audio circuit (LC filter and / or Zobel filter) to the connector, the audio signal can be stabilized. Note that this configuration is not limited to one audio circuit, but may be used for multiple audio circuits.

[0328] Furthermore, focusing on the characteristic impedance of the signal wiring, the number (density) of interlayer conductive holes such as vias (blind vias) and through-holes, and heat dissipation vias differs between the region from the audio amplifier IC to coil L and / or the region around the audio amplifier IC, and the region from coil L to the connector and / or the region around the connector. The latter has fewer (lower) interlayer conductive holes and heat dissipation vias than the former. This is because the characteristic impedance changes even with the presence of interlayer conductive holes. By reducing the number (density) of interlayer conductive holes and heat dissipation vias in the region from coil L to the connector and / or the region around the connector compared to the region from the audio amplifier IC to coil L and / or the region around the audio amplifier IC, changes in characteristic impedance can be suppressed, thereby stabilizing the signal waveform. In addition, the connection points between the signal wiring and the connector terminals to which the signal wiring is connected are also points where the characteristic impedance changes, so changes in characteristic impedance can be suppressed as much as possible up to the connector. Furthermore, with this configuration, the area of ​​the solid ground plane (solid ground plane) from the coil L to the connector and / or around the connector is larger than the area from the audio amplifier IC to the coil L and / or around the audio amplifier IC, thus promoting heat dissipation. Note that this configuration is not limited to a single audio circuit; multiple audio circuits may have the same configuration.

[0329] <Silk screen markings> Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating the silkscreen markings on the first sub-control board 401A shown in Figure 15. Silkscreen markings are the necessary logos and text points placed on the surface of a printed circuit board and are used to facilitate component assembly and inspection.

[0330] The enlarged view of the central part of the circuit board shown in Figure 24 shows the silkscreen markings for the audio circuit 451A for the upper speaker 272 and the audio circuit 451B for the middle speaker 275. The silkscreen marking 801 indicating the placement position of coil L in audio circuit 451A and the silkscreen marking 802 indicating the placement position of coil L in audio circuit 451B are rectangular outlines that show the outer edge of coil L. The outlines are formed to be slightly larger than the size of coil L, so as to allow for clear visual confirmation of whether or not coil L is placed in the correct position.

[0331] The silkscreen characters 803 (e.g., "L242" and "L243") indicating the two coils L of audio circuit 451A and the silkscreen characters 804 (e.g., "L239" and "L118") indicating the two coils L of audio circuit 451B are component identification characters indicating the component numbers. The silkscreen characters 803 and 804 are arranged in a straight line in accordance with the arrangement of audio circuits 451A and 451B (see the dotted lines on the silkscreen characters 803 and 804). In other words, if the imaginary lines connecting the midpoints in the short direction of three or more coils L are in a straight line, the silkscreen characters 803 and 804 are also configured to be arranged in a straight line.

[0332] By arranging the silkscreen characters 803 and 804 in a straight line in this way, the silkscreen characters corresponding to coil L can be quickly identified even between different speakers 272 and 275 (audio circuits 451A and 451B).

[0333] Note that while Figure 24 shows multiple coils L and silk-screened letters arranged vertically, the same principle applies if multiple coils L and silk-screened letters are arranged horizontally.

[0334] L242 is the coil L for the left output of the upper speaker 272 (left coil L), L243 is the coil L for the right output of the upper speaker 272 (right coil L), L118 is the coil L for the left output of the middle speaker 275 (left coil L), and L239 is the coil L for the right output of the middle speaker 275 (right coil L).

[0335] In this example, as shown in Figure 24, no silk-screened characters are placed between the left and right coils L of the same audio circuit 451. For example, no silk-screened characters are placed between two silk-screened characters 803 (specifically, between L242 and L243) or between two silk-screened characters 804 (specifically, between L118 and L239). Placing silk-screened characters between the left and right coils L would cause them to be obscured by the coils L, reducing their visibility. By not placing silk-screened characters between the left and right coils, inspection and manufacturing work can be made easier.

[0336] Note that while Figure 24 shows multiple coils L and silk-screened letters arranged vertically, the same principle applies if multiple coils L and silk-screened letters are arranged horizontally.

[0337] Note that Figure 24 does not show silk-screened lettering between audio circuits 451A and 451B (specifically, between coil L indicating L242 and coil L indicating L239). However, silk-screened lettering may be placed between different audio circuits 451. This is because the spacing is wide enough that it does not reduce visibility.

[0338] Furthermore, the enlarged view of the audio amplifier IC 418 shown in Figure 24 is a top-down perspective view. Therefore, the configuration of the heat dissipation holes (thermal vias) formed on the circuit board for the audio amplifier IC 418 is shown. As shown in Figure 24, even with different audio circuits 451, the configuration of the thermal vias, that is, the number, shape, and position of the holes, is the same or nearly the same. This ensures that even with different audio circuits 451, the heat dissipation efficiency of the audio amplifier IC 418 is the same or nearly the same, thereby ensuring uniform performance of the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0339] <Ventilation hole> Figures 25(a) to 25(c) illustrate the ventilation holes 405 provided in the substrate case 403 of the first sub-control board 401 shown in Figure 12(a). Figure 25(a) is a top view of the first sub-control board 401, showing the location of the ventilation holes 405. Figure 25(b) is a part of the cross-sectional view of Figure 25(a) along the line Y1-Y1, and Figure 25(c) is a part of the cross-sectional view of Figure 25(a) along the line Y2-Y2. Hereafter in Figure 25, the +X direction shown in Figure 25 will be described as right, the -X direction as left, the +Y direction as up (top of the paper), the -Y direction as down (bottom of the paper), the +Z direction as height up (up in the height direction perpendicular to the paper), and the -Z direction as height down (down in the height direction perpendicular to the paper).

[0340] Because the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L generate a large amount of heat, the circuit board case 403 covering the first sub-control board 401 is provided with ventilation holes 405 located near the audio amplifier IC 418 or coil L. The ventilation holes 405 include ventilation holes 405b, 405c, 405e, and 405f (collectively referred to as upper ventilation holes 405) formed on the upper surface of the circuit board case 403, and ventilation holes 405a and 405d (collectively referred to as diagonal ventilation holes 405) formed across the upper surface and the side surface. Both the upper ventilation holes 405 and the diagonal ventilation holes 405 are rectangular openings with the left-right direction as the longer side.

[0341] More specifically, as shown in Figure 25(a), ventilation holes 405b are located between the two coils L of audio circuit 450A, ventilation holes 405c are located between the two coils L of audio circuit 450B, ventilation holes 405e are located between the two coils L of audio circuit 450C, and ventilation holes 405f are located at the position of one coil L of audio circuit 450D. Additionally, ventilation holes 405a are formed on the upper and side surfaces of the substrate case 403 near (above) audio circuit 450A, and ventilation holes 405d are formed on the upper and side surfaces of the substrate case 403 near (above) audio circuit 450C.

[0342] The ventilation holes 405b, 405c, 405e, and 405f are all identical or substantially identical in shape, and in the audio circuits 450A, 450B, and 450C provided with ventilation holes 405b, 405c, and 405e, the positional relationship between the ventilation holes 405 and the coil L is also identical or substantially identical. In other words, even with different stereo audio circuits 450, by arranging the two coils L symmetrically or substantially symmetrically with respect to the ventilation holes 405, the distance from the two coils L to the ventilation holes 405 is identical or substantially identical. This makes it possible to achieve uniform heat dissipation efficiency even with different stereo audio circuits 450.

[0343] The relationship between the components of the audio circuit 450 and the ventilation holes 405 will be explained in detail using Figures 25(b) and (c). Here, Figure 25(b) shows the ventilation holes 405a and 405b provided above the substrate case 403, and Figure 25(c) shows the ventilation holes 405d and 405e provided above the substrate case 403.

[0344] As shown in Figures 25(b) and (c), within the same audio circuit 450, the distance to the upper ventilation hole 405 (the shortest distance between the coil L and the ventilation hole) is the same or approximately the same for both coils L. This makes it possible to uniformly release the amount of heat dissipated by the two coils L. Furthermore, the distance to the substrate case 403 (specifically, the surface of the substrate case 403 facing the upper surface of the coil L) (the shortest distance between the coil L and the surface of the substrate case 403 facing the upper surface of the coil L) is also the same or approximately the same for both coils L.

[0345] Furthermore, even between different audio circuits 450, the distance from the coil L to the upper ventilation hole 405 is the same or approximately the same, and the distance from the coil L to the diagonal ventilation hole 405 is also the same or approximately the same. This makes it possible to uniformly release the amount of heat dissipated by the coil L even between different audio circuits 450. In addition, the heat passage region from the coil L to the ventilation hole 405 (in other words, the degree of overlap between the coil L and the ventilation hole 405, shown in the shaded area in the figure) is designed to be the same or approximately the same in each audio circuit 450.

[0346] Furthermore, the distances from the audio amplifier IC 418, electrolytic capacitor EC, and capacitor C to the upper ventilation holes 405 are the same or approximately the same between different audio circuits 450. Similarly, the distances from the audio amplifier IC 418, electrolytic capacitor EC, and capacitor C to the diagonal ventilation holes 405 are also the same or approximately the same. This ensures that the degree of heat dissipation from the components, including the audio amplifier IC 418, is uniform even between different audio circuits 450.

[0347] Furthermore, between different audio circuits 450, the distance from a predetermined component constituting the audio circuit 450 (for example, an audio amplifier IC 418, a coil L, an electrolytic capacitor EC, a capacitor C, etc.) to the circuit board case 403 (specifically, the surface of the circuit board case 403 facing the top surface of the audio amplifier IC 418, the coil L, the electrolytic capacitor EC, and the capacitor C) is the same or approximately the same.

[0348] As shown in Figure 25(a), the distance t1 between the two coils L in audio circuit 450A is less than the distance t2 between the lower coil L of audio circuit 450A and the upper coil L of audio circuit 450B. In other words, the distance between coils L within the same audio circuit 450 (the distance between pairs of coils L within the same audio circuit) is shorter than the distance between coils L in different audio circuits 450 (the distance between adjacent coils L in different audio circuits). This makes it easier to distinguish between audio circuits 450 and prevents the concentration of heat-generating components.

[0349] Figure 26(a) illustrates a modified example of the ventilation holes 405 provided in the substrate case 403. Figure 26(a) is a top view of the first sub-control board 401, showing the positions of the ventilation holes 405g and the ventilation hole group 405h.

[0350] The ventilation opening 405g is a single ventilation opening formed across the audio circuits 450A and 450B. That is, a single ventilation opening may be provided corresponding to the positions of multiple components of multiple audio circuits 450. The ventilation opening 405g is an opening that contributes to heat dissipation from the coil L and audio amplifier IC 418 of audio circuit 450A and the coil L and audio amplifier IC 418 of the sound transmission circuit 450B.

[0351] Although the ventilation hole 405g is configured to span the coils L of the audio circuits 450A and 450B, it may also be configured to span other components; for example, the ventilation hole 405g may be configured to span the audio amplifier IC 418.

[0352] The ventilation hole group 405h consists of multiple ventilation holes formed across the audio circuits 450C and 450D. That is, multiple ventilation holes may be provided corresponding to the positions of multiple components of multiple audio circuits 450. Specifically, each ventilation hole in the ventilation hole group 405h is provided corresponding to the positions of the coil L and audio amplifier IC 418 of audio circuit 450C and the coil L and audio amplifier IC 418 of audio circuit 450D. As a result, the ventilation hole group 405h is an opening that contributes to heat dissipation of the coil L and audio amplifier IC 418 of audio circuit 450C and the coil L and audio amplifier IC 418 of audio circuit 450D.

[0353] Furthermore, the ventilation holes in the ventilation hole group 405h correspond to the three coils L (coil L1, coil L2, and coil L3), with three ventilation holes (ventilation hole 405h1, ventilation hole 405h2, and ventilation hole 405h3). However, the positional relationship (degree of overlap) between each coil L and each ventilation hole may differ. For example, ventilation hole 405h1 may be positioned almost directly opposite coil L1, while ventilation hole 405h2 may be positioned upwards relative to coil L2, and ventilation hole 405h3 may be positioned downwards relative to coil L3. However, the shortest distances from each coil L to the corresponding ventilation holes (the shortest distance between coil L1 and ventilation hole 405h1, the shortest distance between coil L2 and ventilation hole 405h2, and the shortest distance between coil L3 and ventilation hole 405h3) are all the same or nearly the same. In this way, even if the positional relationship between the components and the ventilation holes is different, by aligning the shortest distances from the components to the ventilation holes, it is possible to prevent significant differences in heat dissipation effect. Furthermore, the positional relationship between components and ventilation holes may be the same or nearly the same for similar components, which can lead to a more uniform heat dissipation effect.

[0354] <Differential examples related to heat dissipation> Figure 26(b) is an explanatory diagram of the substrate case 403A of the first sub-control board 401. Figure 26(b) shows a part of the cross-sectional view along the Y1-Y1 line in Figure 26(a). The substrate case 403A is a lid with an L-shaped step formed on its side. Specifically, on one side of the substrate case 403A, a side wall SW2 is formed at the bottom, while at the top, a side wall SW1 is formed that is closer to the center of the first sub-control board 401 than the side wall SW2. That is, the side wall SW1 is formed so that it is closer to the coil L of the audio circuit 450A. As a result, the distance between the coil L, which is a heat source, and the side wall SW1 of the substrate case 403A is reduced, so the heat dissipation effect to the outside through the side wall SW1 can be increased. Note that although thermal vias are shown as heat dissipation holes (heat dissipation through holes) for ICs, thermal through holes may also be used.

[0355] Figure 26(b) illustrates side walls SW1 and SW2, which have L-shaped steps formed on the longitudinal side of the rectangular substrate case 403A (along the side of one coil L). However, side walls SW1 and SW2 may also be provided on the short side of the rectangular substrate case 403A (along the sides of two coils L), with L-shaped steps formed on them. Figure 26(c) shows a substrate case 403B in which side wall SW1 is formed so that it is close to the coil L of the audio circuit 450C. As a result, the distance between the two coils L, which are heat sources, and side wall SW1 of the substrate case 403B is reduced, thereby increasing the heat dissipation effect to the outside through side wall SW1.

[0356] In this way, the side wall of the board case 403 may be brought close to a component (for example, a coil L) that serves as a heat source for the audio circuit 450, which is provided at the end of the first sub-control board 401.

[0357] ·others Furthermore, in Figure 25(a), the orientation (positive and negative terminal orientation) of the electrolytic capacitor EC provided in the audio circuit 450 is the same across different audio circuits 450. This allows the wiring lengths to be made the same or nearly the same, and the function of the bypass capacitors to be made uniform.

[0358] Figure 25(d) is an external perspective view of the audio circuit 450B as seen from direction A above. The two coils L and four capacitors C in the audio circuit 450B are arranged in the same orientation (the longitudinal directions of the coils L and capacitors C are aligned vertically). This allows for the shortest possible wiring length of the LC filter. In addition, the printed sides of the two coils, where the coil constant (for example, the number 805) is printed, are positioned to face the same direction. That is, the printing on one of the two coils L faces outwards from the substrate, and the printing on the other coil L faces inwards from the substrate (the printed sides of the two coils L do not face each other and both face inwards from the substrate). This allows the constant of either coil L to be visually identified, so the visibility of the coil L ratings is not impaired.

[0359] Furthermore, this configuration, in which the printed sides of the coils, each bearing the constant 805, face the same direction, is also used in the stereo output audio circuits 450A, 450B, and 450C. In addition, in the monaural output audio circuit D, the orientation of the coil L is the same as in the stereo output audio circuits 450A, 450B, and 450C, allowing the positive and negative audio signal lines to be laid out without taking a roundabout route.

[0360] As shown in Figures 25 and 26 above, the audio circuit 450 is positioned closer to the edge of the board than the CPU 404, but this is not the only example. For instance, even if the CPU 404 is not present on the board, the audio circuit 450 only needs to be positioned closer to the edge of the board than the center.

[0361] <Thermal Via> Figure 27(a) illustrates the arrangement of thermal vias (holes) TV for heat dissipation of the audio amplifier IC 418, provided on the first sub-control board 401. Similar to Figure 12(a), Figure 27(a) is a top view of the first sub-control board 401, showing the component layout of the audio circuit 450 around the audio amplifier IC 418, but the audio amplifier IC 418 is shown as a top-down perspective view. Therefore, Figure 27(a) shows the arrangement of thermal vias (holes) TV formed on the board directly beneath the audio amplifier IC 418. In Figure 27, the +X direction is described as right, the -X direction as left, the +Y direction as up, and the -Y direction as down.

[0362] As shown in Figure 27(a), the thermal via TVs formed in each of the audio circuits 450A, 450B, and 450C are identical or nearly identical in their arrangement (e.g., number, placement, pitch between thermal vias, etc.). This makes it possible to make the heat dissipation efficiency of the audio amplifier IC 418 in each audio circuit 450 the same or nearly identical. In other words, it is possible to equalize the IC performance of the audio amplifier IC 418 in each audio circuit 450. Although it is anticipated that solder may flow into one of the thermal vias of the thermal via TV during the manufacturing process of the substrate (solder leakage), in this embodiment, if the number, placement, and pitch between thermal via TVs are the same or nearly identical, the heat dissipation efficiency of the audio amplifier IC 418 can be equalized in each audio circuit.

[0363] Although not shown in the diagram, the audio signal lines from connectors CN1 and CN3 to each speaker (upper left speaker 272a, upper right speaker 272b, middle left speaker 275a, middle right speaker 275b, lower left speaker 277a, lower left speaker 277b) are of the same or nearly the same length for the positive and negative terminals. This maintains a balance between the positive and negative terminals. Furthermore, the lengths of the audio signal lines in the harnesses connecting left and right speakers of the same type (for example, the left and right of upper speaker 272, the left and right of middle speaker 275, and the left and right of lower speaker 277) are also the same or nearly the same. Specifically, the lengths from connector CN1 or CN3 to the relay board are the same or nearly the same, but the lengths from the relay board to the speakers may differ. This allows for a balance between the left and right sides to be maintained within a feasible range.

[0364] <Interlayer Conduction Hole> Figure 27(b) is a diagram illustrating the audio signal line path between the audio amplifier IC 418 and coil L in the audio circuit 450A shown in Figure 27(a). Figure 27(b) shows a portion of the XX cross-sectional view in Figure 27(a).

[0365] The audio signal line connecting the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L is connected via a via (interlayer conduction hole) VA. This configuration, where the audio signal line is connected via a via VA, is also common in other audio circuits. Specifically, as shown in Figure 27(b), the audio signal line SL connected to the audio output terminal 418A of the audio amplifier IC 418 is connected to the coil L via a via VA that penetrates from the first layer to the second layer, passing through the second layer. In the region of the first layer where the audio signal line SL is formed in the second layer, the area near the audio amplifier IC 418 (the area between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L) is wider than the audio signal line SL and wider than the diameter of the via VA, forming a solid ground plane (hereinafter also referred to as a separate ground plane for heat dissipation). To improve heat dissipation, the area of ​​this solid ground plane should be as large as possible. To prevent the audio signal line SL from being interrupted by signal lines, etc., the audio signal line SL is formed in the second layer in the thickness direction of the region where the solid ground plane is formed.

[0366] In the illustrated example, a solid ground plane is formed between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L, but this is not the only option. The solid ground plane may also be formed around the audio amplifier IC 418 (either all around or only in part of the IC), or around the coil L (either all around or only in part of the coil). Furthermore, the illustrated solid ground plane is formed as a single unit in region BD, but this is not the only option. In reality, in addition to the components that constitute the LC filter and Zobel filter in this embodiment, capacitors that serve as bypass capacitors for the audio amplifier IC, test points, other signal lines, and power supply lines are formed around the audio amplifier IC. Therefore, the solid ground plane is not formed as a single unit in region BD as shown in the illustration, but rather dispersed. Therefore, by forming the audio signal line via via VA without interrupting the solid ground plane formed on the side where the audio output terminals of the audio amplifier IC418 are located, or the solid ground plane formed in the direction from which the audio signal line SL is drawn from the audio amplifier IC418 toward the coil L, the surface area of ​​the solid ground plane can be secured as much as possible, thereby preventing a decrease in the heat dissipation efficiency of the audio amplifier IC418 and the coil L.

[0367] In this way, by placing the wiring pattern between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L in the inner layer (second layer), a large area BD of the heat dissipation ground plane on the surface layer (first layer) can be secured. This does not impair the heat dissipation effect of the surface layer (first layer), and improves the heat dissipation effect of the audio amplifier IC and the coil L.

[0368] In the illustrated example, the audio signal line SL is formed in the first layer with a small amount of wiring from the audio output terminal 418A and then connected to the coil L via via VA. However, this is not the only option; the line may be formed in the second layer without drawing wiring from the audio output terminal 418A to the first layer, or the audio signal line SL may be formed in the first layer again via via VA near the coil L and connected to the terminal of the coil L.

[0369] Note that the gap w1 in the height direction between the coil L and the first sub-control board 401 (first layer) is lower than the height w2 of the capacitor C (w1 < w2). Therefore, even if the capacitor C comes off due to soldering defects or the like, the capacitor C will not enter between the coil L and the first sub-control board 401 (first layer), and the possibility that the capacitor C shorts the coil L can be prevented.

[0370] In the example shown in FIG. 27(a), the interlayer via hole has been described as a via, but a through hole or a through hole via may also be used.

[0371] <Voice circuit for woofer> FIG. 27(c) is an arrangement diagram of each component of the voice circuit 450D for woofer shown in FIG. 27(a). The voice circuit 450D includes, roughly, an audio amplifier IC418, one coil L, a plurality of resistors R, a plurality of capacitors C, and an electrolytic capacitor EC within a certain region RA. In the voice circuit 450D, one coil L is arranged because the woofer is a speaker with a monaural output.

[0372] Note that the region RA is the same or substantially the same region not only in the voice circuit 450D with monaural output but also in the voice circuits 450A to C with stereo output. The voice circuits with monaural output and those with stereo output are arranged within the same or substantially the same range, so that a significant difference in the balance of the positive and negative electrodes with respect to the speaker can be prevented. Also, since the components related to voice output are arranged within the same or substantially the same range, a significant difference in heat dissipation efficiency can be prevented. Note that the positional relationship and the arrangement range of the components constituting the voice circuit may be the same or substantially the same between different monaural output circuits.

[0373] In the audio circuit 450D, at least a portion of the audio amplifier IC 418 is included in the region between the virtual extension line L1 indicating the upper end of coil L and the virtual extension line L2 indicating the lower end of coil L. Furthermore, the circuit is positioned so that at least a portion of coil L is included in the region between the virtual extension line L3 indicating the upper end of audio amplifier IC 418 and the virtual extension line L4 indicating the lower end of audio amplifier IC 418.

[0374] Furthermore, the LC filter is arranged such that at least a portion of the coil L is included between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the capacitor Ca that constitutes the LC filter, and at least a portion of the coil L is included between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the capacitor Cb that constitutes the LC filter. Alternatively, the arrangement of the LC filter may be reversed, with at least a portion of the capacitor Ca that constitutes the LC filter being included between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L, and at least a portion of the capacitor Cb that constitutes the LC filter being included between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L.

[0375] Furthermore, the coil L, resistor R, and capacitor C are positioned symmetrically or nearly symmetrically with respect to the virtual extension line L0 that divides the audio amplifier IC418 vertically. This makes it possible to equalize the lengths of the positive and negative audio signal lines in the monaural output, thereby maintaining the balance between the positive and negative terminals of the monaural output.

[0376] As shown in Figure 27(a), in the first sub-control board 401, the stereo output audio circuits 450A, B, and C, as well as the monaural output audio circuit 450D, are all arranged such that the coil L, resistor R, and capacitor C are symmetrical with respect to a virtual extension line that divides the audio amplifier IC 418 vertically.

[0377] Furthermore, the positional relationships of these components are the same or nearly identical between the stereo output audio circuits 450A~C and the monaural output audio circuit D. Specifically, at least a portion of the coil L is positioned between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the capacitor C that constitutes the LC filter (or at least a portion of the capacitor C is positioned between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the capacitor L that constitutes the LC filter), and at least a portion of the capacitor C and resistor R that constitute the Zobel filter are positioned between the audio amplifier IC 418 and the coil L (or at least a portion of the capacitor C and resistor R that constitute the Zobel filter are positioned between the LC filters), and the positional relationships of each of these components are the same or nearly identical. This makes it possible to equalize the performance (effectiveness of the filtering) of the LC filter and Zobel filter.

[0378] <Summary of Additional Items> ● Component placement of a mono circuit (1-1) As described above, according to the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100) of the above embodiment, Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned speakers and capable of outputting audio signals. A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least a first audio circuit path (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the second component is included between the first component and the third component (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). Let this be the first basic configuration A.

[0379] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the third component is included between the first component and the second component (for example, as shown in Figure 22(b)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This shall be the first basic configuration B.

[0380] According to the first basic configurations A and B, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits approximately uniform. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and the multiple second components can be well balanced, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first component and the second components can be well balanced.

[0381] (1-2) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned speakers and capable of outputting audio signals. A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least a first audio circuit path (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are arranged in a positional relationship such that at least a portion of the second component is included between the first component and the third component. (For example, Figure 27(a),) The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, in each of them, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second part and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The third component is a capacitor, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are, The filter circuit includes the coil and the capacitor (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)), The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). Let this be the second basic configuration A.

[0382] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the third component is included between the first component and the second component (for example, as shown in Figure 22(b)). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, in each of them, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second part and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The third component is a capacitor, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit include a filter circuit consisting of the coil and the capacitor (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)), The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This will be referred to as the second basic configuration B.

[0383] According to the second basic configurations A and B, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits approximately uniform. Furthermore, by making the noise reduction approximately the same, stable sound output can be achieved, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative terminals of the first and second components can be well balanced.

[0384] (1-3) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, in each of them, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second part and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The third component is a capacitor, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are, The filter circuit includes the coil and the capacitor (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)), The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This will be the third basic structure.

[0385] According to the third basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, stable sound output can be achieved by making the noise reduction nearly identical, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative terminals of the first and second components can be well balanced.

[0386] (1-4) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). At least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, is located on the first substrate towards the edge rather than the central portion (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the fourth basic structure.

[0387] According to the fourth basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuits from affecting other components, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first and second components can be well balanced.

[0388] (1-5) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned speakers and capable of outputting audio signals. A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least a first audio circuit path (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the second component is included between the first component and the third component (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This shall be the fifth basic configuration A.

[0389] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the third component is included between the first component and the second component (for example, as shown in Figure 22(b)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This shall be the fifth basic configuration B.

[0390] According to the fifth basic configurations A and B, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the effects of heat generated by the second component can be prevented from affecting other components, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first and second components can be balanced appropriately.

[0391] (1-6) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned speakers and capable of outputting audio signals. A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least a first audio circuit path (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are arranged in a positional relationship such that at least a portion of the second component is included between the first component and the third component. (For example, Figure 27(a),) The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, in each of them, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second part and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The third component is a capacitor, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are, The filter circuit includes the coil and the capacitor (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)), The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). Let this be the sixth basic structure A.

[0392] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the third component is included between the first component and the second component (for example, as shown in Figure 22(b)). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, in each of them, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second part and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The third component is a capacitor, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit include a filter circuit consisting of the coil and the capacitor (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)), The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This shall be the sixth basic configuration B.

[0393] According to the sixth basic configuration A and B, stable audio output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits approximately uniform. Furthermore, by making the noise reduction approximately the same, stable audio output can be achieved, and power loss can be avoided by shortening the wiring. In addition, in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative terminals of the first and second components can be balanced well.

[0394] (1-7) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned speakers and capable of outputting audio signals. A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least a first audio circuit path (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the second component is included between the first component and the third component (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (as shown in Figure 27(a), etc.). In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This shall be the seventh basic structure A.

[0395] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450D) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are positioned relative to each other such that at least a portion of the third component is included between the first component and the second component (for example, as shown in Figure 22(b)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (as shown in Figure 27(a), etc.). In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This shall be the seventh basic configuration B.

[0396] According to the seventh basic configuration A and B, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits substantially uniform. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and the multiple second components can be balanced, and the effects of heat generated by the second components on other components can be prevented. Furthermore, in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first component and the second components can be balanced.

[0397] (1-8) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the eighth basic structure.

[0398] According to the eighth basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and the multiple second components can be well balanced, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first component and the second components can be well balanced.

[0399] (1-9) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to the first end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the ninth basic structure.

[0400] According to the ninth basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the effects of heat generated by the second component can be prevented from affecting other components, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first and second components can be well balanced.

[0401] (1-10) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the tenth basic structure.

[0402] According to the tenth basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and multiple second components can be balanced, and the effects of heat generated by the second components on other components can be prevented. Furthermore, in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first component and the second components can be balanced.

[0403] (1-11) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the eleventh basic structure.

[0404] According to the 11th basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. In addition, power loss can be avoided by shortening the wiring. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and multiple second components can be well balanced, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first component and second components can be well balanced.

[0405] (1-12) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the 12th basic structure.

[0406] According to the 12th basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by roughly equalizing the performance of the sound output of multiple sound circuits. In addition, power loss can be avoided by shortening the wiring. Furthermore, in the first sound circuit, the effects of heat generated by the second component can be prevented from affecting other components, and in the second sound circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative terminals of the first and second components can be balanced.

[0407] (1-13) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). In the region between the plurality of second components in the first audio circuit, no components are mounted (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the 13th basic structure.

[0408] According to the 13th basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. In addition, power loss can be avoided by shortening the wiring. Furthermore, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and multiple second components can be balanced, and the effects of heat generated by the second components on other components can be prevented. In the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first and second components can be balanced.

[0409] (1-14) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, in each of them, The first component and the second component are arranged in the first positional relationship. The first component and the third component are arranged in a second positional relationship. The second part and the third part are arranged in a third positional relationship. The first component is an audio amplifier, The second component is a coil, The third component is a capacitor, The first audio circuit and the second audio circuit are, The filter circuit includes the coil and the capacitor (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)), The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the 14th basic structure.

[0410] According to the 14th basic configuration, stable audio output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, power loss can be avoided by shortening the wiring, and stable audio output can be achieved by making the noise reduction nearly identical. In addition, in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative terminals of the first and second components can be balanced well.

[0411] (1-15) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The first substrate is equipped with a connector that can be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of speakers, The aforementioned connector is located near at least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). At least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, is located on the first substrate towards the edge rather than the central portion (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the 15th basic structure.

[0412] According to the 15th basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. In addition, power loss can be avoided by shortening the wiring, and the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuit on other components can be prevented. Furthermore, in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first and second components can be balanced.

[0413] (1-16) According to the above embodiment of the gaming machine (for example, slot machine 100), Multiple speakers of different types (for example, speakers 272, 275, 277, etc.), Multiple audio circuits (for example, audio circuits 450A, B, C, D) are electrically connected to each of the aforementioned multiple speakers and capable of outputting audio signals, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board (for example, a first sub-control board 401, etc.) on which the plurality of audio circuits are arranged, Of the plurality of audio circuits, at least one first audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450A) and a second audio circuit (e.g., audio circuit 450B) each comprises a first component (e.g., audio amplifier IC 418), a second component (e.g., coil L), and a third component (e.g., capacitor). The first component, the second component, and the third component in the second audio circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range as the range in which the first component, the second component, and the third component in the first audio circuit are arranged (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). At least one of the plurality of audio circuits, including the first audio circuit and the second audio circuit, is located on the first substrate towards the edge rather than the central portion (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The aforementioned first audio circuit is an audio circuit that provides stereo output and has multiple second components. The aforementioned second audio circuit is an audio circuit that produces a monaural output with one second component. The plurality of second components of the first audio circuit are second component A and second component B, If the extension of the end edge of the second component A facing the second component B is defined as the first virtual extension, and the extension of the end edge of the second component B facing the second component A is defined as the second virtual extension, then at least a portion of the first component of the first audio circuit is included in the region between the first virtual extension and the second virtual extension (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). The second audio circuit includes at least a portion of the first component in the region between the virtual extension of one end edge of the first component and the virtual extension of the other end edge opposite to that end edge (for example, as shown in Figure 27(a)). This constitutes the 16th basic structure.

[0414] According to the 16th basic configuration, stable sound output can be achieved by making the performance of the audio output of multiple audio circuits nearly uniform. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the influence of the magnetic field from the audio circuits from affecting other components. In addition, in the first audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the first component and the multiple second components can be well balanced, and in the second audio circuit, the wiring pattern lengths of the positive and negative electrodes of the first compo...

Claims

1. A first audio circuit capable of outputting an audio signal, A gaming machine comprising a first circuit board on which the first audio circuit is arranged, The aforementioned first audio circuit is composed of a first component, a second component A, and a second component B. The first audio circuit is configured to include a first filter circuit, which includes the second component A, on the output side of the first component. The first audio circuit is configured to include a second filter circuit, which includes the second component, on the output side of the first component. The first filter circuit is located in one of the paths for the right or left output of the audio signal. The second filter circuit is located on the other path of the right or left output path of the audio signal. The components constituting the first filter circuit and the components constituting the second filter circuit are arranged within the same or substantially the same predetermined range. The aforementioned part A-second is a part that has been marked with an indication of the specifications of the part A-second (hereinafter referred to as "Part A specification indication"), The aforementioned part B-2 is a part that has been marked with a mark indicating the specifications of the part B-2 (hereinafter referred to as "Part B specification mark"), The first audio circuit is configured such that the first A standard marking and the second B standard marking are not facing each other. The first component is an audio amplifier, The aforementioned second part A and the aforementioned second part B are coils, The first substrate has the audio amplifier and the coil arranged in the first layer. The first substrate has a solid pattern formed on the first layer, The first substrate has the solid pattern formed near the audio amplifier. The first substrate has wiring formed on it for transmitting the audio signal. The aforementioned wiring is connected between the audio amplifier and the coil via interlayer conductive holes. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

2. A gaming machine according to claim 1, The aforementioned solid pattern is a solid ground, The first layer is the surface layer of the first substrate, The first substrate is such that in a region where the ground plane is present, the wiring is formed in a layer different from the surface layer. A gaming machine characterized by the following features.

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