Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine that can perform lighting effects appropriately. [Solution] The back block 80b of the game board unit is provided with a movable performance device 300 that performs a special effect by performing a predetermined operation according to the game situation. The movable performance device 300 includes a rotating unit 350 with a built-in light-emitting substrate, and this rotating unit 350 is configured to rotate clockwise at a performance position in front of the symbol display device 253. Multiple light-emitting elements are mounted on the light-emitting substrate so as to be arranged in a direction that intersects the rotational axis when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the rotating unit 350. When the rotating unit 350 is rotating, the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting elements is switched according to the rotation of the rotating unit 350, so that a predetermined image using the afterimage of light is displayed in the operating area of ​​the movable unit 320 located in front of the symbol display device 253.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Some gaming machines such as pachinko machines and slot machines are provided with a light-emitting part that is arranged at a part visible from the front of the gaming machine and whose display mode changes as the game progresses. These light-emitting parts are given a function of enhancing the production effect during the game by changing the display mode variously according to the progress of the game (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there is still room for improvement in the configuration related to the production in order to exert the production effect using the above-described light-emitting part.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-exemplified circumstances and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of suitably performing a light-emitting production.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention includes a movable production device having a movable body that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting with the rotation center axis, and a drive part that rotates the movable body, [[ID=5O]]control means for performing a game production by controlling the movable production device according to the progress of the game and The movable body is provided with a light-emitting means having a plurality of light-emitting parts arranged at different distances from the rotational axis of the movable body. The control means is A drive control means that controls the drive of the drive unit by rotating the movable body, When the movable body is rotating, a light emission control means switches the light emission mode of the light emission means according to the rotational position or rotational period of the movable body, thereby displaying a predetermined image in the operating area of ​​the movable body using the afterimage of light. It has, The invention is characterized by comprising monitoring means for monitoring the rotation status of the movable body based on monitoring conditions set according to the switching of the light emission mode by the light emission control means, when the movable body is in a predetermined rotation state in which it rotates at a constant speed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] Lighting effects can be performed in an appropriate manner. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a front view showing a pachinko machine according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a front view of a pachinko machine. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing the main components of a pachinko machine. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing the main components of a pachinko machine. [Figure 5] This is a front view showing the structure of the inner frame. [Figure 6] This is a front view showing the configuration of the game board unit. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the game board unit from the front. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of the game board unit from the rear. [Figure 9] This is a rear view showing the structure of the inner frame. [Figure 10] This is a rear view of a pachinko machine. [Figure 11] It is a front view showing the inner pack unit. [Figure 12] It is a front view of the game board unit. [Figure 13] It is a front view of the game board. [Figure 14] It is a front perspective view of the back block. [Figure 15] It is a front view of the back block. [Figure 16] (a) It is a front perspective view showing the movable effect device, (b) It is a rear perspective view showing the movable effect device. [Figure 17] It is an exploded perspective view of the movable effect device seen from the front side. [Figure 18] It is an exploded perspective view of the movable effect device seen from the back side. [Figure 19] It is a schematic diagram showing the operation mode of the movable effect device. [Figure 20] (a) It is a front view of the rotating unit, (b) It is a rear view of the rotating unit. [Figure 21] It is an exploded perspective view of the rotating unit. [Figure 22] (a) It is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 20, (b) It is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 20. [Figure 23] It is a schematic diagram showing the optical path forming body. [Figure 24] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration related to the special effect. [Figure 25] zIt is a flowchart showing the drive control process for special effects executed by the MPU of the notification / effect control device. [Figure 26] It is a flowchart showing the light emission control process for special effects executed by the MPU of the notification / effect control device. [Figure 27] (a) It is a flowchart showing the first light emission control process, (b) It is a flowchart showing the second light emission control process. [Figure 28] It is a timing chart showing the flow of the special effect. [Figure 29] It is a schematic diagram showing the display mode of the image related to the special effect. <00001This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 31] This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 32] This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 33] This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 34] (a) A schematic diagram showing the electrical configuration in the sixth embodiment, (b) A schematic diagram showing a rotary connector, and (b) A schematic diagram showing a modified example of the rotary connector. [Figure 35] (a) A schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the seventh embodiment, and (b) A schematic diagram showing the difference in the shape of the light guide section. [Figure 36] This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the eighth embodiment. [Figure 37] This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 38] This is a schematic diagram showing the rotating unit in the tenth embodiment. [Figure 39] (a) A schematic diagram of the rotating unit viewed from the front, and (b) A schematic diagram showing the virtual display surface. [Figure 40] (a) A flowchart showing the update mode switching process executed by the MPU of the notification and performance control device in the 11th embodiment, and (b) A timing chart showing the flow of gameplay. [Figure 41] (a1) A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the light-emitting unit and the update cycle in the first update mode, (a2) A schematic diagram showing the minimum display area in the first update mode, (b1) A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the light-emitting unit and the update cycle in the second update mode, (b2) A schematic diagram showing the minimum display area in the second update mode, and (c) A schematic diagram illustrating the changes in the image associated with changes in the update mode. [Figure 42] (a) A schematic diagram illustrating an example of an image that is scrolled on a virtual display surface, and (b) A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the light emission mode and the update mode in the 12th embodiment. [Figure 43](a) A schematic diagram illustrating the differences in image display positions depending on the rotation status, etc., and (b) A flowchart showing the rotation status monitoring process executed by the MPU of the notification and performance control device in the 13th embodiment. [Figure 44] (a) A schematic diagram showing the relationship between the measurement period and the monitoring results, and (b) A flowchart showing the processing to be performed when an anomaly occurs. [Figure 45] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a change in the renewal period. [Figure 46] This is a flowchart showing the update period setting process executed by the MPU of the notification and performance control device in the 14th embodiment. [Figure 47] This is a schematic diagram showing the information storage format in the 15th embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] <First Embodiment> The following describes in detail a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as "pachinko machine"), a type of gaming machine, based on the drawings. Figure 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, Figure 2 is a perspective view of the pachinko machine 10 seen from the front, and Figures 3 and 4 are perspective views showing the main components of the pachinko machine 10 in an unfolded state. Note that in Figure 3, for convenience, the components within the game area of ​​the pachinko machine 10 are omitted.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, the pachinko machine 10 is composed of an outer frame 11 that forms the outer shell of the pachinko machine 10 and a game machine main unit 12 attached to the outer frame 11.

[0011] As shown in Figure 2, the outer frame 11 is constructed by connecting elongated frame materials on all four sides, forming an overall rectangular frame shape. By attaching and fixing this outer frame 11 to the island equipment, the pachinko machine 10 is installed in the gaming hall. Note that the outer frame 11 is not an essential component of the pachinko machine 10, and the outer frame 11 may be installed on the island equipment of the gaming hall.

[0012] The main body of the gaming machine 12 is supported by the outer frame 11 in a manner that allows it to be opened and closed. Specifically, an upper support fitting 17 is fixed to the connection between the upper frame and the left frame of the outer frame 11, and a lower support fitting 18 is provided at the connection between the lower frame and the left frame of the outer frame 11. These upper support fittings 17 and 18 constitute a support mechanism, and this support mechanism allows the main body of the gaming machine 12 to rotate forward of the pachinko machine 10 with the left side as the base end and the right side as the tip end when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10 (see Figures 3 and 4).

[0013] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the main body of the gaming machine 12 comprises an inner frame 13 as a base body, a front door frame 14 positioned in front of the inner frame 13, and a back pack unit 15 positioned behind the inner frame 13. The inner frame 13 of the main body of the gaming machine 12 is rotatably supported relative to the outer frame 11. In detail, the inner frame 13 is rotatable forward with the left side being the base end and the right side being the tip end when viewed from the front of the gaming machine.

[0014] The front door frame 14 is rotatably supported within the inner frame 13, allowing it to rotate forward with the left side as the base end and the right side as the leading end when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. Additionally, the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported within the inner frame 13, allowing it to rotate backward with the left side as the base end and the right side as the leading end when viewed from the front of the gaming machine.

[0015] (Front door frame 14) Next, the front door frame 14 will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the front door frame 14 is mainly composed of a synthetic resin frame 20 whose outer shape is almost identical to that of the outer frame 11, and covers almost the entire front surface of the inner frame 13. A roughly elliptical window 21 is formed in the central part of the frame 20, which allows almost the entire gaming area PE (described later) to be visible from the front, and this window 21 is covered from the rear side of the front door frame 14 by a glass unit 22.

[0016] The glass unit 22 comprises a plurality of transparent glass panels 23 and a glass holder that holds these glass panels 23. The glass holder has a partition that divides the holding area of ​​the glass panels 23 into front and rear sections, and the two glass panels 23 face each other front and rear with the partition in between. In other words, by ensuring a predetermined gap between the two glass panels 23, interference between the glass panels 23 is avoided, and the game area PE is double-covered from the front side of the pachinko machine 10 by the glass panels 23.

[0017] It is not necessary to unitize both glass panels 23 using a glass holder; each glass panel 23 may be individually attached to the frame 20. Furthermore, the number of glass panels is arbitrary; it may be one or three or more. However, in light of improving safety and security, it is preferable to use multiple glass panels and to position each of these glass panels facing each other front and back with a predetermined gap in between. Incidentally, it is also possible to use a transparent synthetic resin panel member instead of glass panels.

[0018] Various light-emitting means, such as lamps, are provided around the glass unit 22 (specifically the window section 21). For example, a ring-shaped illuminated section 26 containing LEDs or other light-emitting means is provided along the periphery of the window section 21. The ring-shaped illuminated section 26 lights up or flashes in accordance with changes in the game state, such as when a jackpot is hit or when a predetermined reach occurs. In addition, an error indicator lamp section 27 is provided in the center of the ring-shaped illuminated section 26, at the very top of the pachinko machine 10, which lights up when an error or malfunction occurs, and prize ball lamp sections 28 are provided to the left and right of it, which light up when prize balls are paid out. Furthermore, speaker sections 29 that output sound effects, background music, etc., according to the game state are provided in a position close to the left and right prize ball lamp sections 28 (see Figure 3).

[0019] Below the window portion 21 of the front door frame 14 (frame body 20), an upper bulge 31 and a lower bulge 32 are arranged vertically side by side, bulging toward the front. Inside the upper bulge 31 is an upper tray 33 that opens upward, and inside the lower bulge 32 is a lower tray 34 that also opens upward (see Figure 2). The upper tray 33 has the function of temporarily storing game balls dispensed from the dispensing device (described later) and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism (described later) while aligning them in a line. The lower tray 34 has the function of storing game balls that are left over in the upper tray 33 and also functions as a receptacle for game balls that have been launched by the game ball launching mechanism but have not reached the game area PE (see Figure 3) and are returned to the player.

[0020] An operation button 35, operated by the player, is provided in the upper bulge 31, in the portion that is in front of the upper tray 33. When this operation button 35 is operated, the corresponding effects described later (for example, special effects using a movable effect device) will be performed.

[0021] To the right of the lower bulge 32, a game ball launching handle 41 is provided, protruding toward the player. When the game ball launching handle 41 is operated, a game ball is launched from the game ball launching mechanism, which will be described later. The launch speed of the game ball increases as the amount of operation (rotation) of the game ball launching handle 41 increases, and when this amount of operation is adjusted by the player to a predetermined amount, the game ball will reach the game area PE.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3, a passage forming unit 45 is attached to the back of the front door frame 14. The passage forming unit 45 is molded from synthetic resin and has a front door side upper tray passage leading to the upper tray 33 and a front door side lower tray passage leading to the lower tray 34. In the passage forming unit 45, a receiving portion is formed at the upper corner, which protrudes to the rear and opens upward. By dividing this receiving portion into left and right sections with a partition wall, the entrance portion of the front door side upper tray passage and the entrance portion of the front door side lower tray passage are separated. The upstream side of the front door side upper tray passage and the front door side lower tray passage leads to a game ball distribution section, which will be described later. Game balls that enter the front door side upper tray passage are guided to the upper tray 33, and game balls that enter the front door side lower tray passage are guided to the lower tray 34.

[0023] On the rear side of the front door frame 14, at the pivot end, protruding shafts are provided at its upper and lower ends. These protruding shafts constitute the assembly mechanism for the inner frame 13.

[0024] Next, the inner frame 13 will be explained in detail based on Figure 5. Figure 5 is a front view of the inner frame 13. Note that, as with Figure 3, the configuration within the game area PE of the pachinko machine 10 is omitted in Figure 5 for convenience.

[0025] (Inner frame 13) The inner frame 13 is mainly composed of an inner frame base body 50, which has an outer shape similar to that of the outer frame 11, being roughly rectangular. The height dimension of the inner frame base body 50 is set to be slightly smaller than the height dimension of the outer frame 11. The inner frame base body 50 is positioned close to the upper frame portion of the outer frame 11, and a small gap is formed between the lower frame portion of the outer frame 11 and the inner frame base body 50. A fascia board is attached to the outer frame 11 to close this gap. The fascia board is positioned below the inner frame base body 50 (specifically its lower end), and when the inner frame 13 is closed to the outer frame 11, the inner frame base body 50 rests on the fascia board. A small clearance may be provided between the fascia board and the inner frame base body 50 to prevent mutual interference, etc.

[0026] Support brackets 71 and 72 are attached to the upper and lower ends of the pivot base side (left side in Figure 5) on the front surface of the inner frame base body 50. Although not shown in the figure, the support brackets 71 and 72 have shafts, and bearings provided on the front door frame 14 are inserted into these shafts, thereby supporting the front door frame 14 so that it can rotate relative to the inner frame 13.

[0027] A locking device 75 for locking the inner frame 13 and front door frame 14 is provided on the rotating end side (right side in Figure 5) of the inner frame base body 50. The locking device 75 extends vertically along the right end of the inner frame base body 50 (the vertical frame member described later) and has front door hook members 76 scattered along its longitudinal direction (vertical direction). The inner frame base body 50 has slits formed to allow the hook receiving members 49 (see Figure 3) provided on the back of the front door frame 14 to protrude towards the front side of the inner frame 13, with each slit corresponding to a front door hook member 76. The hook receiving members 49 protruding through these slits engage with the front door hook members 76, thereby locking the front door frame 14 to the inner frame 13 in an unopenable state. The locking device 75 also has an inner frame hook member 77 that extends to the rear side of the inner frame 13. These inner frame hook members 77 catch on the hook receiving members 19 fixed to the outer frame 11, thereby locking the main part of the gaming machine 12 in a closed position relative to the outer frame 11.

[0028] The inner frame base 50 (locking device 75) is equipped with a cylinder lock 78 for unlocking the locking device 75. The cylinder lock 78 is provided separately from the locking unit (each hook member 76, 77 and interlocking rod, etc.) that constitutes the main part of the locking device 75, and is positioned adjacent to the locking unit. Turning the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 to the right (clockwise) unlocks the front door frame 14 to the inner frame 13, and turning the key inserted into the keyhole of the cylinder lock 78 to the left (counterclockwise) unlocks the inner frame 13 to the outer frame 11.

[0029] A recessed area 51 for housing the game board unit 80 is formed in the central part of the inner frame base body 50. The recessed area 51 is recessed at the rear of the game machine to match the outer shape of the game board unit 80, and the game board unit 80 is fixed in place by a manual locking mechanism while fitted into this recessed area 51 from the front of the game machine. A roughly rectangular window opening 52 is formed at the bottom of the recessed area 51, and the rear configuration of the game board unit 80 (rear block 80b, described later) protrudes from the rear of the inner frame 13 through this window opening 52. This window opening 52 is almost entirely covered from the front of the game machine by the game board unit 80 mounted on the inner frame base body 50.

[0030] (Game board unit 80) The game board unit 80 is formed by integrating a game board 80a, which is mainly made of a plate made of transparent synthetic resin material, and a back block 80b, which is provided on the back side of the game board 80a and has various game components (variable display device, control device, movable performance mechanism, luminescent decorative member, etc.) mounted on the base body 251, with the front part of the back block 80b being visible through the game board 80a.

[0031] The game area PE described above is formed on the front of the game board 80a, through which the game balls flow. As already explained, the game area PE is covered by a glass unit 22 (more specifically, the rear glass panel 23). The glass unit 22 is positioned such that the gap between the rear glass panel 23 and the front of the game board 80a is slightly larger than the diameter of the game balls, that is, so that the game balls flowing down the game area PE do not line up front to back at the same point in the game area PE. This suppresses ball jams in the game area PE. Note that the game board 80a (more specifically, the plate) is not limited to being made of synthetic resin, but can also be made of wood.

[0032] The following describes the game board unit 80 (particularly the various components arranged in the game area PE of the game board 80a) based on Figures 6 to 8. Figure 6 is a front view of the game board unit 80, Figure 7 is a perspective view of the game board unit 80 from the front, and Figure 8 is a perspective view of the game board unit 80 from the rear. In Figure 7, components visible through the game board 80a are also indicated by dotted lines to closely resemble the overall appearance of the game board unit 80 when actually viewed.

[0033] The game board 80a has multiple openings of varying sizes that penetrate in the direction of its own thickness (front-to-back direction). As shown in Figure 6, each opening is equipped with a general prize entry point 81, a variable prize entry device 82, operation openings 83a and 83b, a through gate 84, and so on. When game balls enter the general prize entry point 81, the variable prize entry device 82, and the operation openings 83a and 83b, these game balls are detected by detection sensors (not shown) provided corresponding to each entry point, and based on the detection results, the player is granted a predetermined number of prize balls (dispensing of game balls) or other benefits. In addition, an out opening 89 is provided at the bottom of the game board 80a, and game balls that do not enter the various entry points are discharged from the game area PE through the out opening 89. In the following explanation, to clearly distinguish it from the entry of game balls into the out opening 89, the entry of game balls into the general prize opening 81, the variable prize device 82, and the operating openings 83a and 83b will also be referred to as "winning a prize."

[0034] Furthermore, the game board 80a is equipped with numerous nails to appropriately distribute and adjust the flow path of the game balls, as well as various components (mechanisms) such as windmills. These various configurations, including the nails and windmills, differentiate the flow path of the game balls, adjusting them so that winning into the general prize winning area 81, etc., occurs with a reasonable probability.

[0035] A central opening 85 is formed in the center of the game board 80a, and a transparent opening cover 86 is attached to cover this central opening 85 from the back side of the game board 80a. Behind this central opening 85 are the variable display unit 252 and other components belonging to the back block 80b, and the variable display unit 252 and other components can be seen from the front of the game machine through the central opening 85 (opening cover 86). For the sake of explanation, in Figure 6, the opening cover 86 is shown with a dashed line to indicate that the variable display unit 252 is visible.

[0036] Operating ports 83a, 83b and a through gate 84 are arranged around the central opening 85. The operating ports 83a and 83b consist of an upper operating port 83a located below the variable display unit 252 and a lower operating port 83b located directly below the upper operating port 83a. In particular, the lower operating port (lottery trigger ball entry section) 83b is provided with an electric mechanism 91 as an open / close ball entry assist device (ball entry assist means) or an open / close member (open / close means). The electric mechanism 91 has a pair of left and right movable pieces and a solenoid-type drive unit that drives the movable pieces, and can be switched between an open state (assist state) in which balls can or easily enter the lower operating port 83b and a closed state (non-assist state) in which balls cannot or difficult to enter.

[0037] Upstream from the lower operating port 83b (more specifically, to the side of the variable display unit 252) is the through gate 84. When a winning combination is determined by a lottery triggered by the passing of a game ball through the through gate 84, the electric mechanism 91 is switched from a closed state to an open state for a predetermined period of time.

[0038] When a ball enters the upper opening 83a, three game balls are dispensed, and when a ball enters the lower opening 83b, four game balls are dispensed. However, the number of game balls dispensed is not limited to the above. However, in order to increase the advantage of the lower opening 83b over the upper opening 83a, it is preferable to set the number of balls dispensed from the lower opening 83b to be greater than the number of balls dispensed from the upper opening 83a.

[0039] The variable prize-winning device (special ball-entry device or special ball-entry means) 82 has a large prize-winning opening that leads to the back side of the game board 80a, and is provided with an opening / closing door as an opening / closing member (opening / closing means) for opening and closing the large prize-winning opening. The opening / closing door can be switched between an open state (auxiliary state) in which game balls can be entered or are easy to enter, and a closed state (non-auxiliary state) in which game balls cannot be entered or are difficult to enter. The opening / closing door is also connected to a variable prize-winning drive unit (more specifically a solenoid) provided on the back side of the game board 80a, and under normal circumstances the opening / closing door remains in the closed state, and is switched to the open state when the player wins the internal lottery to transition to the opening / closing execution mode (open / closing execution state) (jackpot: when the player wins the transition to a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state).

[0040] Here, the opening / closing execution mode is the mode that is entered when a jackpot is won. In this opening / closing execution mode, the variable prize winning device 82 is set to open and close repeatedly for a maximum of multiple rounds (for example, 16 rounds), with one round defined as the elapsed of a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or the winning of a predetermined number of prizes (for example, 10 prizes).

[0041] Here, we will provide a supplementary explanation of the variable display unit 252. The variable display unit 252 has a symbol display device 253 that displays symbols in a variable manner (variable display) when a prize is awarded in the operating ports 83a and 83b. The symbol display device 253 is configured as a liquid crystal display device equipped with a liquid crystal display, and its display content is controlled by the display control device described later. On the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253, symbols are displayed in a row, for example, at the top, middle, and bottom, and these symbols are displayed in a variable manner by scrolling in the left and right direction. When a jackpot is won, a predetermined combination of symbols is stopped and displayed on the preset active lines, and the game transitions to the opening and closing execution mode (special game state or jackpot). Note that the symbol display device 253 does not necessarily have to be a liquid crystal display device; it may also be a dot matrix or 7-segment type display device.

[0042] The game board 80a is provided with a center frame 95 surrounding a central opening 85. The center frame 95 is fixed to the game board 80a (more specifically, the plate body) from its front side, and in this fixed state, it stands upright from the front of the game board 80a, so that the gap between the center frame 95 and the glass unit 22 is smaller than the diameter of the game ball. As a result, the game ball flowing down the game area PE is prevented from colliding with the symbol display device 253, and the flow path of the game ball flowing down the game area PE is broadly divided into a route that bypasses the variable display unit 252 (more specifically, the center frame 95) from the right side and a route that bypasses it from the left side.

[0043] A stage is formed on the upper surface of the frame portion that constitutes the lower part of the center frame 95, allowing game balls to roll from side to side. Game balls that flow in through the inlets formed in the left frame portions on the left and right sides of the center frame 95 are discharged onto the stage portion through warp passages also formed in the center frame 95. The stage portion is configured such that game balls that reach the stage portion can flow relatively easily into the upper operating opening 83a, contributing to increased player attention to the movement of game balls on this stage portion.

[0044] In this embodiment, as described above, the central opening 85 is covered by a transparent opening cover 86, which restricts the movement of game balls that have reached the stage from moving toward the rear block 80b (variable display unit 252).

[0045] Furthermore, a first reserve lamp section 98a and a second reserve lamp section 98b are provided on the front of the frame section that constitutes the lower part of the center frame 95. The first reserve lamp section 98a on the left corresponds to the upper operating port 83a, and the number of times a game ball passes through the upper operating port 83a is reserved up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of reserved balls is displayed by the lighting of the first reserve lamp section 98a. The second reserve lamp section 98b on the right corresponds to the lower operating port 83b, and the number of times a game ball passes through the lower operating port 83b is reserved up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of reserved balls is displayed by the lighting of the second reserve lamp section 98b.

[0046] The operating ports 83a and 83b are positioned closer to the central opening 85 (variable display unit 252). Since a win in the operating ports 83a and 83b can trigger a transition to a special game state, it is thought that players will pay attention to whether or not a win occurs in the operating ports 83a and 83b, and also to the symbol display device 253 to determine whether or not they will transition to a special game state. Placing the operating ports 83a and 83b closer to the variable display unit 252 is a design feature that concentrates the area that players want to focus on around the variable display unit 252.

[0047] At the right end of the game board 80a (the rotating tip of the game board unit 80, which will be described later), a game area partitioning member 99 is provided, which, together with the guide rail 100 (described later), demarcates the game area PE. The game area partitioning member 99 is equipped with a stopper member that will collide with game balls flying along the main display unit 87 and the guide rail 100. The stopper member is a buffering member positioned near the tip of the guide rail 100, and after the game ball collides with the stopper member, its momentum is weakened before it flows down the game area PE. In other words, the stopper member is provided with a force-reducing function that weakens the momentum of the colliding game ball.

[0048] Here, we will provide a supplementary explanation regarding the main display unit 87. The main display unit 87 is embedded in the game area partition member 99, and a portion of it is positioned to face the glass unit 22. This facing portion is provided with a main display section on which predetermined patterns and other information are displayed. The main display unit 87 is electrically connected to a main control device, which will be described later, and the display content of the main display section is controlled by the main control device.

[0049] The main display unit comprises an upper operation slot display unit that displays the lottery results based on winning in the upper operation slot 83a, and a lower operation slot display unit that displays the lottery results based on winning in the lower operation slot 83b. In the upper operation slot display unit, a change in the pattern is displayed as a trigger when a win is made in the upper operation slot 83a, and as a result of stopping the change in the pattern display, the result of the internal lottery based on winning in the upper operation slot 83a is clearly displayed. If the result of the internal lottery based on winning in the upper operation slot 83a is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the opening / closing execution mode, the change in the pattern display unit is stopped, a predetermined pattern is displayed as a result of the stop, and then the system transitions to the opening / closing execution mode.

[0050] In the lower opening display unit, a change in the pattern is displayed when a prize is won in the lower opening 83b, and the result of the internal lottery based on the prize being won in the lower opening 83b is clearly displayed as a result of the change in the pattern display stopping. If the result of the internal lottery based on the prize being won in the lower opening 83b is a winning result corresponding to a jackpot, the change in the pattern display unit stops, and after a predetermined pattern is displayed as a result of the stop, the system transitions to the opening / closing execution mode described above according to the result.

[0051] Here, based on a win in either of the operating ports 83a or 83b, a variable display is started on the corresponding operating port display unit, and the period until the predetermined stop result is displayed and the variable display stops (more specifically, until the confirmation display ends) constitutes one game round. However, one game round is not limited to the above. For example, in a configuration where a single display area is provided and a variable display is performed in that single display area regardless of whether a win occurs in either of the operating ports 83a or 83b, one game round can be defined as the period from when the variable display starts in that single display area and stops while displaying the predetermined stop result.

[0052] In addition to the two displays mentioned above, the main display unit 87 also has a display unit for the through gate that shows the lottery results based on winning a prize in the through gate 84. In the display unit for the through gate, a change in the pattern is triggered when a prize is won in the through gate 84, and the result of the internal lottery based on winning a prize in the through gate 84 is clearly displayed as the result of stopping the change in the pattern. If the result of the internal lottery based on winning a prize in the through gate 84 is a winning result that corresponds to the transition to the electric device open state, a predetermined stop result is displayed in the through gate display unit and the change in the pattern stops, after which the machine transitions to the electric device open state. In the electric device open state, the electric device 91 provided in the lower operating opening 83b is opened in a predetermined manner.

[0053] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the number of times a game ball passes through the through gate 84 is limited to a maximum of four times, and the main display section of the main display unit 87 is provided with a display section for the number of balls to be limited.

[0054] The main display unit described in detail above is visible from the front of the pachinko machine 10 through the glass unit 22 of the front door frame 14, and its visibility is ensured because the game balls do not move in front of these various display units.

[0055] To explain the configuration of the inner frame 13 again using Figure 5, below the game board unit 80 in the inner frame base body 50, there is a game ball launching mechanism 110 that launches game balls into the game area PE based on the operation of the game ball launching handle 41.

[0056] (Game ball launching mechanism 110) The game ball launching mechanism 110 mainly comprises a solenoid 111 that launches game balls positioned at a predetermined launch standby position, a launch rail 112 that defines the launch direction of the game balls launched by the solenoid 111, a ball feeding device 113 that supplies game balls to the launch standby position, and a base plate 114 on which these various components 111 to 113 are mounted. The base plate 114 is fixed to the inner frame base body 50, thereby integrating it with the inner frame base body 50.

[0057] The launch rail 112 is fixed to the base plate 114 at an angle so as to slope upward toward the game board 80a. The launch rail 112 has a groove with a roughly V-shaped cross-section, and the game ball fits into this groove, thereby determining the front-to-back position of the game ball.

[0058] A ball stopper is positioned near the downstream end (i.e., the lower end) of the launch rail 112 to hold the game balls supplied from the ball feeding device 113 in the aforementioned launch standby position. The solenoid 111 is positioned further downstream from the ball stopper.

[0059] The solenoid 111 is electrically connected to the power supply and launch control device, which will be described later. Based on the output of the electrical signal from the power supply and launch control device, the output shaft of the solenoid 111 reciprocates in the extension and retraction direction, causing the game ball, which is placed in the launch standby position, to be launched toward the game board 80a, more specifically toward the guide rail 100 attached to the game board 80a.

[0060] The guide rail 100, together with the game area partitioning member 99 fixed to the game board 80a (specifically the front surface of the board), partitions the game area PE so that the outer shape of the game area PE is approximately circular. The guide rail 100 consists of an inner rail 101 and an outer rail 102 that are positioned opposite each other with a gap larger than the diameter of the game ball, and these two rails 101 and 102 partition a single guide passage 103. The guide passage 103 has an entrance portion 104 that is open on the tip side (diagonally downward) of the launch rail 112 and an exit portion 105 located at the top of the game area PE. The game ball, launched based on the operation of the solenoid 111, is guided to the game area PE by moving in the order of launch rail 112 → guide rail 100 (entrance portion 104 → exit portion 105). Furthermore, in the game board 80a, a reverse return prevention member 106 is attached to the front of the exit portion 105, more specifically near the tip of the inner rail 101, to prevent game balls that have reached the game area PE from returning back into the guide passage 103, thereby suppressing the obstruction of subsequent game ball launches by game balls that have reached the game area PE earlier.

[0061] Each rail 101 and 102 constituting the guide rail 100 is in the shape of an arc centered approximately in the center of the game area PE. As a result, game balls passing through the guide passage 103 are easily moved (sliding or rolling) along the outer rail 102, that is, while in contact with the outer rail 102, due to the centrifugal force generated within them. In other words, when a game ball is launched in a manner that delivers it to the game area PE, the area along the outer rail 102 in the guide passage 103 substantially constitutes the area (path) through which the game ball passes, while the area along the inner rail 101 substantially becomes an area through which the game ball does not pass.

[0062] As shown in Figure 5, the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112 are positioned such that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 face each other diagonally across the lower edge of the game board 80a. In other words, the two rails 100 and 112 are positioned so that the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the tip portion of the launch rail 112 are offset to the left and right near the lower edge of the game board 80a. This brings both rails 100 and 112 closer to the lower edge of the game board 80a while creating a predetermined gap between the entrance portion 104 of the guide rail 100 and the launch rail 112.

[0063] A foul ball passage is located below the gap formed in this manner. The foul ball passage is integrally molded with the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. If a game ball launched from the game ball launching mechanism 110 does not reach the game area PE and returns to the guide passage 103 as a foul ball, these foul balls will enter the foul ball passage through the gap. The foul ball passage leads to the lower tray passage on the front door side, and game balls that enter the foul ball passage are discharged into the lower tray 34 shown in Figure 1. This suppresses interference between foul balls and the next game ball to be launched.

[0064] A rail cover 107 is provided at the left end of the game board 80a, covering the outer rail 102 from the side. The game board unit 80 is often handled individually during manufacturing and maintenance, and in such cases the outer rail 102 may collide with a game machine or the like. The rail cover 107 is a component installed in consideration of these circumstances and is provided with a protective function to prevent the outer rail 102 from being deformed by the above factors.

[0065] In the inner frame base 50, a through hole is formed to the left of the launch rail 112 (more specifically, on the side supporting the front door frame 14), and a passage forming member 121 is disposed in this through hole. The passage forming member 121 is screwed to the inner frame base 50 and has a main body side upper tray passage 122 and a main body side lower tray passage 123. The upstream sides of the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the main body side lower tray passage 123 lead to the game ball distribution section, which will be described later. Furthermore, below the passage forming member 121, the receiving portion of the passage forming unit 45 attached to the front door frame 14 is inserted, and below the main body side upper tray passage 122 is the front door side upper tray passage, and below the main body side lower tray passage 123 is the front door side lower tray passage.

[0066] In the inner frame base 50, below the passage forming member 121, an opening / closing member 124 is attached to open and close the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the main body side lower tray passage 123. The opening / closing member 124 is biased to a forward position that closes the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the main body side lower tray passage 123. When the front door frame 14 is opened, this biasing force causes each opening / closing member 124 to close, thereby preventing game balls from falling out of each passage 122 and 123. In contrast, when the front door frame 14 is closed, the opening / closing member 124 is pushed open against the biasing force by a receiving portion provided in the passage forming unit 45 of the front door frame 14. In this state, the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the front door side upper tray passage are in communication, and the main body side lower tray passage 123 and the front door side lower tray passage are also in communication.

[0067] Next, the rear configuration of the inner frame 13 (inner frame base body 50 and game board unit 80) will be described based on Figures 8 and 9. Figure 9 is a rear view of the inner frame 13.

[0068] As shown in Figure 9, a bearing fitting 132 is attached to the pivot base end side (right side in Figure 9) on the back of the inner frame base body 50. The bearing fitting 132 has bearing portions 133 formed at vertically spaced intervals, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably attached to the inner frame 13 by these bearing portions 133. In addition, multiple fixing levers 134 are provided on the back of the inner frame base body 50 for fixing the back pack unit 15 to the inner frame base body 50 in the closed state.

[0069] As already explained, a window hole 52 is formed at the bottom of the housing recess (game board housing section) 51 in the inner frame base body 50, penetrating in the thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50 and opening to the rear side of the inner frame base body 50. This window hole 52 is covered from the front side of the inner frame 13 by the game board unit 80 housed in the housing recess 51. Various components such as control devices are mounted on the rear side of the game board unit 80 (rear block 80b), and these various components are exposed to the rear side of the inner frame 13 through the window hole 52. Now, with reference to Figure 8, the configuration of the rear side of the game board unit 80 will be described.

[0070] As already explained, a back block 80b is attached to the back of the game board 80a. The back block 80b has a roughly box-shaped base body 251 that is open to the game board 80a side, and this base body 251 is fixed to the back of the game board 80a, thereby integrating the game board 80a and the back block 80b.

[0071] The front side of the base body 251 is an area for arranging movable performance mechanisms and luminescent decorative members, while the rear side is an area for arranging control devices that control these various components and the variable display unit 252 (pattern display device 253) (see Figure 7, etc.).

[0072] More specifically, a portion of the base body 251 protrudes from the back side of the inner frame base body 50, and the aforementioned pattern display device 253 (see Figure 7, etc.) and a display control device for driving the pattern display device 253 are attached to this protruding portion. These pattern display device 253 and display control device are arranged on top of each other in the front-to-back direction (the thickness direction of the inner frame base body 50) such that the pattern display device is at the front and the display control device is at the rear. Furthermore, a notification and effect control device 140 is mounted on the back of the base body 251 so as to be located behind the display control device.

[0073] The notification and performance control device 140 is equipped with a notification and performance control board that controls sound output, lamp display, and display control device according to instructions from the main control device, which will be described later. The notification and performance control board is housed in a board box 141 made of a transparent resin material or the like.

[0074] Below the notification and performance control device 140, a main control unit 160 is provided so as to cover the base body 251 from the rear. The main control unit 160 has a mounting base 161 made of synthetic resin fixed to the back of the game board unit 80 (specifically the back block 80b), and a main control device 162 mounted on the mounting base 161. The main control device 162 has a main control board that has a function to control the main game (main control circuit) and a function to monitor the power supply (power outage monitoring circuit), and the main control board is housed in a board box 163 made of transparent resin material or the like.

[0075] The circuit board box 163 comprises a box base (front case) with a roughly rectangular shape and a box cover (back case) that covers the opening of the box base. The box base and the box cover are connected in an unopenable manner by a box sealing part 164, which serves as a sealing means, thereby sealing the circuit board box 163. Multiple box sealing parts 164 are provided on the short side of the circuit board box 163, and at least one of them is used to perform the sealing process.

[0076] The box sealing section 164 can be configured in any way that makes it impossible to open the box base and the box cover, but the box base and the box cover are made impossible to open by inserting a locking pin into the locking hole of the box sealing section 164. The sealing process by the box sealing section 164 prevents unauthorized opening after sealing, and even if unauthorized opening occurs, it is possible to detect such a situation early and easily, and it is possible to reseal the box even after it has been opened. That is, the sealing process is performed by inserting a locking pin into at least one locking hole of the multiple box sealing sections 164. When the main control board inside malfunctions or when the main control board needs to be inspected, the connection between the box sealing section with the locking pin inserted and the main body of the board box 163 is cut. This separates the box base and the box cover of the board box 163, and the main control board inside can be removed. After that, if the sealing process is to be repeated, a locking pin is inserted into another locking hole. If a record indicating that the circuit board box 163 has been opened is left on the circuit board box 163, it will be easy to discover that unauthorized opening has occurred by looking at the circuit board box 163.

[0077] The circuit board box 163 and the mounting base 161 are indestructibly connected by a base seal 165. Specifically, the base seal 165, like the box seal 164, has a locking hole and a locking pin. When the locking pin is inserted into the locking hole, the circuit board box 163 and the mounting base 161 are indestructibly connected. This makes it easier to detect if the circuit board box 163 has been illegally removed.

[0078] On the front of the base body 251, in the portion facing the lower rear of the game board 80a, a collection passage (not shown) is formed that corresponds to the game board openings 81 (general prize slot 81), 82 (variable prize slot 82), and 83a and 83b (operation slots 83a and 83b), and converges at one location downstream. As a result, game balls that enter the general prize slot 81, etc., are all collected below the game board unit 80 via the collection passage. In other words, the base body 251 is equipped with the function of collecting game balls that enter the various prize slots.

[0079] Below the game board unit 80 is a discharge passage, which will be described later. Game balls that have been collected below the game board unit 80 by the collection passage are led into the discharge passage. Similarly, the out-out opening 89 also leads to the discharge passage, and game balls that do not enter any of the winning slots are led into the discharge passage via the out-out opening 89.

[0080] Furthermore, the base body 251 that constitutes the rear block 80b is equipped with the following detection sensors for each of the ball entry sections described above: a general prize entry sensor for detecting game balls that have entered the general prize entry opening 81, a variable prize entry device sensor for detecting game balls that have entered the variable prize entry device 82, and an operation opening detection sensor for detecting game balls that have entered the operation openings 83a and 83b. These various detection sensors constitute the prize entry detection mechanism. These various detection sensors are electrically connected to the main control device 162, and detection information (detection signals) is output from each detection sensor to the main control device 162.

[0081] Next, the back pack unit 15 will be described based on Figures 10 and 11. Figure 10 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 10, and Figure 11 is a front view of the back pack unit 15.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, the inner frame 13 is covered from the rear by the back pack unit 15. The back pack unit 15 includes a back pack 201 which serves as the main body of the back pack unit 15, and the dispensing mechanism 202, the discharge passage panel, and the control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the back pack 201.

[0083] The back pack 201 is molded from a transparent synthetic resin and has a base portion 211 to which the dispensing mechanism 202 and the like are attached, as shown in Figure 11, and a protective cover portion 212 that protrudes from the rear of the pachinko machine 10 and has a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. The protective cover portion 212 has a shape in which the left and right sides and the top are closed and only the bottom is open, and is large enough to surround at least the variable display unit 252 (see Figure 10).

[0084] An external terminal board (not shown) is provided on the base portion 211. Various output terminals are provided on the external terminal board, and various signals are output to the management control device (hall computer) on the gaming hall side through these output terminals. Also, as shown in Figure 11, a pair of upper and lower locking pins 214 are provided on the right end of the base portion 211 when viewed from the rear of the pachinko machine 10, and the back pack unit 15 is rotatably supported relative to the inner frame 13 by inserting the locking pins 214 into the bearing portion 133 provided on the inner frame 13. Multiple insertion parts are formed on the base portion 211 through which the fixing lever 134 provided on the inner frame 13 is inserted, and the back pack unit 15 is fixed relative to the inner frame 13 by contacting the base portion 211 from the rear when the fixing lever 134 is inserted into the insertion part.

[0085] A dispensing mechanism 202 is provided on the base 211, bypassing the protective cover 212. The dispensing mechanism 202 is equipped with a tank 221 located at the top of the back pack 201 and opening upwards, into which game balls supplied from the island equipment of the gaming hall are sequentially replenished. A tank rail 222 that slopes gently downstream is connected to the side of the tank 221, and a case rail 223 that extends vertically is connected to the downstream side of the tank rail 222. A dispensing device 224 is provided at the downstream end of the case rail 223. Game balls dispensed from the dispensing device 224 are supplied to a game ball distribution unit 225 provided on the base 211 of the back pack 201 through a dispensing passage (not shown) located downstream of the dispensing device 224.

[0086] The game ball distribution unit 225 has the function of distributing game balls dispensed from the payout device 224 to either the upper tray 33, the lower tray 34, or the discharge passage described later. The inner opening is connected to the upper tray 33 via the main body side upper tray passage 122 and the front door side upper tray passage described above, and the outer opening is connected to the lower tray 34 via the main body side lower tray passage 123 and the front door side lower tray passage.

[0087] A discharge passage panel and a control device assembly unit 204 are attached to the lower end of the base portion 211, sandwiching the lower end from front to back. The discharge passage panel has a discharge passage formed on the side facing the control device assembly unit 204 that is open to the rear, and the opening of the discharge passage is closed by the control device assembly unit 204. The discharge passage is formed to discharge game balls to island equipment in a game hall, and game balls that are led from the above-mentioned collection passage to the discharge passage are discharged to the outside of the pachinko machine 10 by passing through the discharge passage.

[0088] The control unit assembly 204 has a horizontally elongated mounting base 241, on which a payout control device 242 and a power supply / launch control device 243 are mounted. The payout control device 242 and the power supply / launch control device 243 are arranged stacked front to back, with the payout control device 242 facing the rear of the pachinko machine 10.

[0089] In the dispensing control device 242, a dispensing control board that controls the dispensing device 224 is housed in a circuit board box 244, and a state reset switch 245 provided on the dispensing control board protrudes outside the circuit board box 244. For example, when a dispensing error occurs, such as a ball jam in the dispensing device 224, pressing the state reset switch 245 will resolve the ball jam.

[0090] The power supply and launch control device 243 has a power supply and launch control board housed in a circuit board box 246. The power supply and launch control board generates and outputs the predetermined power required by various control devices, and also controls the launch of game balls in response to the player's operation of the game ball launch handle 41. Specifically, it performs drive control of the solenoid 111 that constitutes the game ball launch mechanism 110 and drive control of the ball feeding device 113.

[0091] Furthermore, the power supply and launch control device 243 is equipped with a power switch 247. By operating the power switch 247, the power to the pachinko machine 10 can be switched between an on state and an off state.

[0092] Here, the pachinko machine 10 has a function to store and retain various data, so that even if a power outage occurs, it will retain the state it was in at the time of the power outage, and when power is restored, it will be able to return to that state. For example, when the power is shut off in the normal procedure, such as when a gaming hall closes for the day, the state it was in before the shutoff is stored in memory. On the other hand, when the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch 166 provided on the main control device 162, the RAM data is initialized.

[0093] These various switches can be operated from the front of the gaming machine by opening the main unit 12 (inner frame 13) and exposing the back of the inner frame 13. On the other hand, when the opening of the main unit 12 of the gaming machine is restricted by the locking device 75, these various switches cannot be operated from the front of the gaming machine. In other words, these various switches are difficult to operate when the main unit 12 of the gaming machine is closed, making it difficult for someone who does not possess the key for the locking device 75 (for example, a cheater) to operate them from the front of the gaming machine.

[0094] As already explained, in this embodiment, a rear block 80b is provided behind the transparent game board 80a, which is equipped with various movable display devices and decorative members that emit light, making these display devices visible through the game board 80a. The main components of the game board unit 80 will be further explained below with reference to Figures 12 to 15. Figure 12 is a front view of the game board unit 80, Figure 13 is a front view of the game board 80a, Figure 14 is a front perspective view of the rear block 80b, and Figure 15 is a front view of the rear block 80b. Note that in Figure 12, considering that the game board 80a is transparent, a portion of the rear block 80b that is actually visible through the game board 80a is shown with a dashed line. Also, in Figures 14 and 15, for the sake of explanation, some components of the decorative members and other parts arranged on the front portion of the rear block 80b are omitted.

[0095] (Game board unit 80) As shown in Figure 12, a portion of the rear block 80b is located behind the game area PE. This makes it possible to utilize the area behind the game area PE, where the game balls flow, as an execution area for various game effects. With this configuration, compared to conventional game machines equipped with wooden game boards, it is possible to improve the appearance of the game board unit 80 and expand the area for executing effects.

[0096] Furthermore, by providing the rear block 80b behind the game board 80a, the space between the variable display unit 252 and the game board 80a can be used as an installation area for the movable display device, which promotes the enlargement and diversification of the operation of the movable display device compared to the conventional configuration described above. As will be described in detail later, this embodiment has a distinctive configuration with respect to the movable display device provided between the game board 80a and the variable display unit 252 (symbol display device 253).

[0097] As shown in Figure 13, the game board 80a is primarily designed to form the area through which the game balls flow (game area PE). When attempting to balance improvements in various decorative and performance functions related to the game with securing the game area PE, prioritizing the former inevitably reduces the size of the game area PE. In this regard, the minimum necessary components related to securing the flow path and inlet for the game balls are placed on the front of the game board 80a, and additional components related to performance and decoration are moved to the back block 80b, thereby avoiding reduction in the game area PE. In other words, it is possible to secure as wide a game area PE as possible within the limited area of ​​the front of the game board 80a (more specifically, the board itself).

[0098] As already explained, the rear block 80b has a base body 251 which is provided with the function of a pedestal on which various performance devices such as the variable display unit 252 and various control devices such as the notification / performance control device 140 are mounted. As shown in Figure 14, the base body 251 has a main body portion 255 which is roughly box-shaped and has an outer shape in front view that is approximately the same size as the game board 80a and is open to the game board 80a side (front side), and a flange portion 256 which is formed along the opening edge of the main body portion 255, and the flange portion 256 is in contact with the back of the game board 80a and is screwed to the game board 80a, thereby forming a single unit with the game board 80a.

[0099] An opening is formed at the rear (bottom) of the main body 255, penetrating from front to back, that is, communicating with the central opening 85 of the game board 80a (see Figure 13). The variable display unit 252 is attached to the rear of the main body 255 so as to close this opening, and the display screen 253a of the pattern display device 253 is exposed to the front through this opening. The notification / performance control device 140 and the display control device are stacked relative to the variable display unit 252 (specifically the pattern display device 253) with the latter on the front and the former on the rear, and further below, the main control device 162 is attached to the main body 255 (see Figure 8, etc.).

[0100] As shown in Figure 15, the main body 255 is equipped with a movable performance device (movable performance device 300) that performs effects according to the game situation. The movable performance device 300 is arranged along the left frame 261, right frame 262, and upper frame 263 of the base body 251, and the display screen 253a of the pattern display device 253 is surrounded by the movable performance device 300. The movable performance device 300 is housed in a recess formed by the main body 255, so that even when the back block 80b is carried by itself during manufacturing, etc., interference between the movable performance device 300 and other components such as jigs is suppressed.

[0101] Furthermore, a series of decorative members 271 are arranged to span the left and right frame sections 261, 262 and the lower frame section 264, and decorative members 272 are arranged along the upper frame section 263 (see Figure 12), with the movable display device 300 being hidden behind these decorative members 271, 272.

[0102] The decorative members 271 and 272 are made of a colored synthetic resin material that is provided with light transmittance, and have light-emitting elements such as LEDs built in. These light-emitting elements are connected to the notification and effect control device 140, and the notification and effect control device 140 controls the light emission according to the game situation, so that a light-emitting effect is executed behind the game area PE.

[0103] Furthermore, the decorative member 271 has a collection passage for collecting game balls that have flowed into the ball entry areas such as the general prize entry area 81 and the operating areas 83a and 83b formed on the game board 80a, and the entrance of the collection passage is in communication with each of these prize entry areas. In other words, game balls that have flowed into the ball entry area on the game board 80a are guided to the collection passage of the back block 80b and then returned to the island equipment of the game hall through the discharge passage of the back pack unit 15.

[0104] In this embodiment, the configuration of the movable performance device 300 described above is distinctive. Therefore, the specific configuration of the movable performance device 300 will be described below with reference to Figures 15 and 16. Figure 16(a) is a perspective view of the movable performance device 300 seen from the front, and Figure 16(b) is a perspective view of the movable performance device 300 seen from the rear.

[0105] (Movable production device 300) As shown in Figure 15, the movable performance device 300 is composed of a movable block 301 arranged along the upper frame portion 263 of the base body 251, and support blocks 302 that support the movable block 301 from both the left and right sides. The support block 302 is equipped with rail portions 311 that extend vertically along the left and right frame portions 261, 262, and a drive mechanism 312 disposed at the upper end of each rail portion 311 to raise and lower the movable block 301.

[0106] As shown in Figure 16, the drive mechanism 312 comprises a lifting drive unit 314, which serves as a power source for raising and lowering the movable block 301, and a link mechanism 313, which serves as a power transmission means for transmitting the power from the lifting drive unit 314 to the movable block 301. The lifting drive unit 314 is connected to the notification and performance control device 140, and the height position of the movable block 301 changes as the lifting drive unit 314 operates based on the drive signal output from the notification and performance control device 140.

[0107] The support block 302 is equipped with a locking device that switches between restricting and allowing the movement (lowering) of the movable block 301 when the movable block 301 is positioned in a standby position hidden behind the decorative member 272. When the movable block 301 is in a position to be lowered, the locking device switches from the restricting state to the allowing state. The support block 302 is also equipped with a height position detection sensor 315 that detects whether or not the movable block 301 is positioned in the standby position. This height position detection sensor 315 is connected to the notification and performance control device 140, and the notification and performance control device 140 monitors whether or not the movable block 301 is in the standby position, or more specifically, whether it is in the standby position or the performance position described later, based on the detection information from the height position detection sensor 315.

[0108] Next, the movable block 301 will be described with reference to Figures 15, 17, and 18. Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of the movable block 301 seen from the front, and Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the movable block 301 seen from the rear.

[0109] (Movable block 301) As shown in Figure 15, the movable block 301 has a base unit 320 that extends left and right along the upper frame portion 263 (decorative member 272) of the rear block 80b. The base unit 320 is positioned to straddle both rail portions 311. A wiring port is formed at the end of the base unit 320, and the movable block 301 and the notification / performance control device 140 are electrically connected through this wiring port → rail portion 311.

[0110] As shown in Figure 17, the base unit 320 is made up of a front component 321 with decorative elements on its front surface and a back component 322 that covers the back portion of the front component 321, with its interior functioning as a storage area for the wiring and the like. The front component 321 has a shaft portion 323 that pivotally supports the rotating unit 350, which acts as a "movable body". This shaft portion 323 is cylindrical, and the bearing portion 361 (see Figure 18) of the rotating unit 350 engages with its outer circumference. This allows the rotating unit 350 to rotate around the central axis of the shaft portion 323. In the following description, the central axis of the shaft portion 323 and the bearing portion 361 will be referred to as the "rotational central axis CL1".

[0111] A rotary drive unit 324 (specifically a DC motor) is attached to the rear component 322 as a drive source for rotating the rotary unit 350. A drive gear 325 is fixed to the output shaft of the rotary drive unit 324. A driven gear 327 is formed on the outer circumference of the bearing portion 361 of the rotary unit 350, and this driven gear 327 is connected to the drive gear 325 via an intermediate gear 326. As a result, the power generated by the rotation of the rotary drive unit 324 is transmitted to the rotary unit 350 via the drive gear 325 → intermediate gear 326 → driven gear 327.

[0112] The rotation ratio between the drive gear 325 and the driven gear 327 is set so that the driven gear 327 (i.e., the rotating unit 350) completes one rotation after the drive gear 325 completes multiple rotations. This ensures rotational torque and mitigates variations in the rotational speed of the rotating unit 350 during steady-state rotation, as described later.

[0113] The rotating unit 350 shown in this embodiment is equipped with a light-emitting function (electrical configuration), and by changing the light-emitting pattern according to the game situation, the appearance of the effects (special effects) using the rotating unit 350 is improved. As described above, by configuring the power transmission mechanism for the rotating drive unit 324 using multiple gears in combination, the rotating drive unit 324 is positioned offset to a position away from the rotational center axis CL1 of the rotating unit 350. This offset arrangement of the rotating drive unit 324 has technical significance in that it allows the rotation of the rotating unit 350 while securing an electrical connection path between the electrical configuration of the rotating unit 350 and the base unit 320 (notification / effect control device 140). Here, the configuration for electrically connecting the rotating unit 350 and the notification / effect control device 140 via the base unit 320 will be described.

[0114] As shown in Figure 18, the bearing portion 361 provided on the rotating unit 350 is also annular in shape, similar to the shaft portion 323, and a connection terminal is provided inside the bearing portion 361. This connection terminal extends to the base unit 320 side through the hollow portion of the shaft portion 323, and a rotating connection connector 328 (more specifically, a slip ring) provided on the rear component 322 of the base unit 320 is connected to this connection terminal.

[0115] The rotary connector 328 has a shaft that engages with the connection terminals and rotates around the rotational axis CL1 in accordance with the rotational unit 350, a metallic ring portion fixed to the shaft, and a metallic brush portion disposed on the outer casing of the rotary connector 328 and pressed against the ring portion from the side. The brush portion belongs to the base unit 320 and is prevented from rotating in accordance with the rotation of the rotational unit 350.

[0116] When the rotating unit 350 rotates, the brush portion slides on the ring portion, so that even if the rotational position changes, contact between the ring portion and the brush portion, i.e., the electrical connection between the rotating unit 350 and the base unit 320 (notification / performance control device 140), is maintained. The outer diameter of the ring portion is configured to be larger than the outer diameter of the shaft portion 323 and the bearing portion 361. This is a measure to ensure the sliding speed between the ring portion and the brush portion and to suppress the occurrence of dynamic changes (so-called stick-slip) at the contact point between the ring portion and the brush portion.

[0117] Next, with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 19, the flow of the special effects performed using the movable performance device 300 will be explained. In Figure 19, the decorative member 272 and the pattern display device 253 belonging to the rear block 80b are shown in a simplified state with dashed lines.

[0118] (Movement of the movable display device 300) As shown in Figure 19(a), in game rounds that do not support special effects, the movable block 301 of the movable effect device 300 is in a standby position behind the decorative member 272. When the movable block 301 is in the standby position, the decorative member 272 obstructs the view of the movable block 301.

[0119] When the special effect is about to begin, a drive signal is output to the lifting drive unit 314 (see Figure 15, etc.), and the movable block 301 descends from its standby position to the effect position where it overlaps with the pattern display device 253 (display screen 253a) from the front of the game machine (see Figure 19(a) → Figure 19(b)). As shown in Figure 19(b), when the movable block 301 reaches the effect position, the rotating unit 350 remains in standby position (initial position) with its sideways orientation.

[0120] Subsequently, when the driving conditions for rotating the rotating unit 350 (in this embodiment, the operation of the operation button 35 located on the front door frame 14) are met, the output of a drive signal to the rotation drive unit 324 begins. As a result, the rotating unit 350 rotates in a predetermined direction (clockwise when viewed from the front of the gaming machine) around the rotation center axis CL1.

[0121] The rotational speed of the output shaft in the rotary drive unit 324 depends on the number of pulses of the drive signal output from the notification / performance control device 140. As the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotary drive unit 324 gradually increases, the rotational speed of the rotary unit 350 increases. When the number of pulses reaches the upper limit, the rotational speed of the rotary unit 350 becomes maximum. In this state where the rotary unit 350 is sufficiently accelerated, it becomes difficult to follow the movement of the rotary unit 350 (for example, the rotating tip) with the eye. In other words, the actual presence of the rotary unit 350 appears to fade away, leaving an afterimage. When rotating at low speeds, the rotary unit 350 obstructs the view, and the portion that is not visible on the pattern display device 253 located behind the operating area ME of the rotary unit 350 changes in accordance with the movement of the rotary unit 350. In contrast, when rotating at high speeds, visibility from the front of the game machine is ensured in the entire area except for the center of rotation (excluding the part that overlaps with the base unit 320).

[0122] As will be explained in more detail later, the light emission pattern of the rotating unit 350 changes in accordance with its rotation, and images (patterns) such as characters and pictures are displayed in the operating area ME using the afterimage of light. By displaying an image from the rotating unit 350 on the front side and an image from the pattern display device 253 on the back side, multiple images can be superimposed front and back. By assigning a relationship to the display content of each of these images, the coordination between the pattern display device 253 and the movable performance device 300 is enhanced, making it possible to perform impactful display effects.

[0123] When the special effect ends, the pulses of the drive signal output to the rotation drive unit 324 gradually decrease. Then, when the rotation unit 350 returns to the initial position after being sufficiently decelerated, the output of the drive signal is stopped. As a result, the rotation unit 350 stops at the initial position.

[0124] As shown in Figure 19(d), the lifting drive unit 314 is activated when the rotating unit 350 stops in its initial position. This causes the movable block 301 to return from the performance position to the standby position, and the overlap between the movable performance device 300 (movable block 301) and the pattern display device 253 is released.

[0125] Furthermore, if the rotation unit 350's stopping position is misaligned or it is not confirmed that it has returned to its initial position, a retry process is executed to return the rotation unit 350 to its initial position before returning the movable block 301 to its standby position. In other words, the return of the movable block 301 to its standby position is delayed until the rotation unit 350 has completed its return to its initial position.

[0126] As described above, the movable display device 300 (rotating unit 350) is equipped with an image display means (drawing means) that displays (draws) a predetermined image in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350. One of the features of this embodiment is that measures have been taken to suitably improve the image display function provided to the rotating unit 350. The rotating unit 350 (particularly the configuration related to image display) will be explained below with reference to Figures 20 to 23. Figure 20(a) is a front view of the rotating unit 350, Figure 20(b) is a plan view of the rotating unit 350, Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of the rotating unit 350, Figure 22(a) is a partial cross-sectional view of Figure 20(b) along line AA, Figure 22(b) is a partial cross-sectional view of Figure 20(b) along line BB, and Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the rotating unit 350 (configuration related to optical path formation).

[0127] (Rotating unit 350) As shown in Figure 20, the rotating unit 350 is comprised of a mounting portion 351 on which the bearing portion 361 is formed and which is provided with a mounting function to the base unit 320, and a main body portion 352 that extends from the mounting portion 351 in a direction intersecting the rotational center axis CL1. The main body portion 352 has been made thinner in order to reduce the area occupied in the front view of the gaming machine from the viewpoint of improving the visibility of the pattern display device 253. In contrast, the configuration of the mounting portion 351 is bulkier in the front view of the gaming machine in order to ensure mounting strength and secure an electrical connection path with the base unit 320. Due to these circumstances, a part of the mounting portion 351 protrudes further away from the rotational center axis CL1 than the main body portion 352. This protruding portion is covered from the front of the gaming machine by a decorative cover 362, which suppresses a deterioration in the appearance of the rotating unit 350.

[0128] The main body 352 is configured to be symmetrical (left-right symmetrical) with respect to the mounting portion 351 (rotational center axis CL1). This is a design feature to suppress weight imbalances in the main body 352, reduce the load on the pivot point when the rotating unit 350 rotates, and improve operational stability.

[0129] More specifically, the main body 352 curves backward as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1, and as a whole, it has a roughly arc shape that is convex in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (more specifically, towards the front of the gaming machine) (see Figure 20(b)). Due to the presence of the mounting portion 351 and other components related to holding the rotating unit 350 as described above, the rotating unit 350 requires a certain width in the direction of the rotational axis CL1. By utilizing the recessed portion formed by the roughly arc-shaped main body 352 as the mounting area for the mounting portion 351, the expansion of the front-to-back width of the rotating unit 350 is mitigated.

[0130] As shown in the exploded perspective view of Figure 21, the main body 352 comprises a flat light-emitting substrate 372 on which a plurality of light-emitting elements (LEDs) 371 are mounted, an optical path forming body 381 that forms a path for light to pass through from the light-emitting elements 371, and a housing 391 that houses the light-emitting substrate 372 and the optical path forming body 381. The housing 391 is made of a colored, opaque synthetic resin material and is provided with the function of a shielding means that prevents the light-emitting substrate 372 and the like from being visible.

[0131] The light-emitting substrate 372 is positioned such that its surface is parallel to the rotational axis CL1, that is, so that its surface faces in a direction that intersects (is perpendicular to) the rotational axis CL1. The outer edge of the light-emitting substrate 372 is curved so as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1, so that, like the main body 352, its outer shape is formed to be a roughly arc shape that is convex towards the front of the gaming machine. Accordingly, the light-emitting elements 371 are arranged so as to be aligned along the longitudinal direction of the light-emitting substrate 372, that is, their front-to-back positions are offset so that those further from the rotational axis CL1 are offset to the rear.

[0132] The optical path forming body 381 is positioned opposite the side of the light-emitting substrate 372 on which the light-emitting element 371 is arranged (hereinafter also referred to as the surface 373) (see Figure 22(a)). The optical path forming body 381 is configured to have an outer shape that is substantially arc-shaped, similar to the light-emitting substrate 372, and the surface 373 of the light-emitting substrate 372 is covered by this optical path forming body 381. In this embodiment, the light-emitting element 371 is fixed so that its optical axis is oriented in the thickness direction of the light-emitting substrate 372, and the light from the light-emitting element 371 is irradiated onto the optical path forming body 381.

[0133] The optical path forming body 381 is made up of multiple overlapping plate-shaped light guide members 382 that have been mirror-finished to reflect light, and a light guide section 385 is formed inside to guide the light from the light emitters 371 in a direction along the plate surface of the light-emitting substrate 372, more specifically in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (towards the front of the gaming machine). Specifically, by partitioning the space sandwiched between the light guide members 382 with a partition wall 384 that extends in the same direction as the rotational axis CL1, multiple light guide sections 385 are formed corresponding to each individual light emitter 371. The inner wall surface of the light guide section 385 extends in the same direction as the rotational axis CL1 in a predetermined range including at least the exit portion 387 of the light guide section 385, thereby defining the direction of light irradiation. In this way, by configuring the system so that the direction of light from the light emitter 371 is changed by the light guide unit 385 to align with the surface of the light-emitting substrate 372, it is possible to suppress the difficulties in manufacturing and quality control of the light-emitting substrate compared to a configuration in which the direction of light irradiation depends on the orientation (mounting angle) of the light emitter 371.

[0134] The light path forming body 381 is provided with a cover member 383 that covers the exit portion 387 of the light guide portion 385 from the front side (front side of the gaming machine) in the direction of light irradiation. The cover member 383 is made of a colorless, opaque synthetic resin material and is formed to transmit light from the light guide portion 385. Light from the light emitter 371 is irradiated to the front of the gaming machine through the light guide portion 385 → cover member 383. At this time, the light is reflected / diffused as it passes through the cover member 383, making it possible to make it appear as if the cover member 383 is emitting light. In the following description, the part of the cover member 383 through which light is transmitted (the part that appears to be emitting light) will be referred to as the light-emitting portion 355 (see Figure 22(b)).

[0135] Furthermore, the light-emitting substrate 372 is covered by the light path forming body 381 and the housing 391. This prevents light from the light-emitting body 371, which is the light source, from leaking from parts other than the light-emitting section 355, and prevents the light from the light-emitting body 371 from being directly viewed.

[0136] As shown in Figure 22(b), the light-emitting substrate 372 in this embodiment is offset to a position away from the rotational axis CL1 (a position away in the radial direction of the rotational axis CL1), and its surface 373 is configured to face the rotational axis CL1. The optical path forming body 381, which is arranged to overlap the light-emitting substrate 372 and constitutes the light-emitting section 355, is positioned on the rotational axis CL1. In other words, the rotational axis CL1 of the rotating unit 350 is located on a virtual plane on which the light-emitting section 355 is arranged. By configuring the light-emitting section 355 to be aligned in the radial direction of the rotational axis CL1 when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1, the complexity of associating the rotational position with the light-emitting mode is suppressed when switching the light-emitting mode according to the rotational position of the rotating unit 350.

[0137] In this configuration, if the "plate surface" of the light-emitting substrate 372 faces the direction of rotation, the load on the light-emitting substrate due to rotation becomes larger compared to a configuration where the "end surface" of the light-emitting substrate faces the direction of rotation. This load can be broadly divided into two categories: one caused by the moment around the pivot point and the other by air resistance generated during rotation. If the maximum rotation speed is set high, or if the degree of acceleration / deceleration is increased to improve responsiveness during rotation, the aforementioned load will increase. This can lead to deformation such as distortion in the light-emitting substrate 372, which can result in problems such as abnormal light emission. In this embodiment, in consideration of these circumstances, measures have been taken to protect the light-emitting substrate 372 and suppress the occurrence of such problems.

[0138] Specifically, the housing 391 is fixed to the mounting portion 351 of the base unit 320, the optical path forming body 381 is fixed to the housing 391, and the light-emitting substrate 372 is fixed to the optical path forming body 381. With this assembly structure, the moment generated when the rotating unit 350 rotates can be prevented from directly acting on the light-emitting substrate 372. In addition, by using the optical path forming body 381 as a partition to reinforce the housing 391, deformation of the housing 391 itself can be suppressed. Furthermore, by interposing the optical path forming body 381 between the housing 391 and the light-emitting substrate 372, even if the housing 391 is affected by distortion or other effects due to rotation, it is possible to prevent the propagation of these effects to the light-emitting substrate 372.

[0139] Utilizing the light-emitting components in this way to enhance the strength of the rotating unit 350 is advantageous in that it suppresses the increase in weight caused by reinforcement compared to cases where reinforcing materials are provided separately. The light path forming body 381 is made up of plate-shaped light guide members 382, ​​and while it is hollow to secure the light guide portion 385, a certain degree of strength is ensured by the partition wall 384, etc. With this configuration, the weight increase of the rotating unit 350 can be suppressed more effectively, contributing to ensuring responsiveness during acceleration / deceleration and reducing the load on the pivot point.

[0140] As described above, the configuration in which the light-emitting substrate 372 is housed within the housing 391 makes it possible to avoid exposing the light-emitting substrate 372 to the outside of the rotating unit 350. This is advantageous in suppressing the direct action of wind pressure generated during rotation on the light-emitting substrate 372.

[0141] However, in a configuration in which the light-emitting substrate 372 is housed within the housing 391, it is assumed that heat will easily accumulate inside the housing 391. High temperatures inside the housing 391 due to heat accumulation can lead to malfunctions and other problems. In particular, in configurations that enhance the performance function by using multiple light-emitting elements 371 in combination, or configurations that increase the power supply to increase the luminosity and light output of the light-emitting elements 371, it is a concern that the amount of heat generated by the light-emitting substrate 372 will increase, and the impact of reduced heat dissipation efficiency will become significant. For these reasons, it is undesirable for restrictions on light-emitting performances to become too strong.

[0142] Here, the portion of the housing 391 that constitutes the outer casing of the rotating unit 350 facing the back surface 374 of the light-emitting substrate 372 is spaced apart from the light-emitting substrate 372 so that a certain amount of gap is secured between the housing 391 and the housing 372. A slit 392 is formed in this facing portion, penetrating both inside and outside the housing 391. The slits 392 are arranged on both sides of the rotational axis CL1. In other words, the slits 392 can be broadly divided into those that face the predetermined rotational direction when the rotating unit 350 rotates in the predetermined rotational direction, and those that face the opposite direction.

[0143] When the rotating unit 350 rotates, air is drawn into the housing 391 through the slits 392 facing the predetermined direction of rotation, and air is discharged from the slits facing the opposite direction of rotation. This provides ventilation both inside and outside the housing 391.

[0144] As already explained, in this embodiment, a predetermined image is displayed in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350 by utilizing the afterimage of light generated when the rotating unit 350 rotates. For this reason, the configuration ensures that the rotating unit 350 can rotate at a certain speed. Furthermore, because the slit 392 is formed in the portion of the light-emitting substrate 372 facing the plate surface (i.e., the portion where a certain area is secured), the negative pressure generated around the slit 392, which faces the opposite direction from the predetermined rotation direction, tends to become large. This negative pressure is used to promote exhaust, thereby improving the ventilation efficiency described above.

[0145] Furthermore, the housing 391 is open to the side of the symbol display device 253 (rear of the gaming machine), allowing air to flow in and out through this opening. This ensures a certain level of ventilation efficiency even if the ventilation function using the slit 392 is not fully utilized.

[0146] Since these ventilation openings do not face the front of the gaming machine, it is possible to effectively suppress the possibility of these openings detracting from the appearance of the rotating unit 350 or causing light leakage.

[0147] In the light-emitting substrate 372, the surface 373 on which the light-emitting element 371 is mounted is covered by the light path forming body 381. Therefore, it is difficult to directly air-cool the light-emitting element 371 (surface 373). In this embodiment, the light-emitting substrate 372 is provided with a thermal conductor 375 connected to the heat sink of the light-emitting element 371, and these thermal conductors 375 are arranged to protrude from the back surface 374 of the light-emitting substrate 372. By positioning the thermal conductors 375 in the area where the ventilation described above takes place, it is possible to increase the heat dissipation efficiency even without a configuration that directly air-cools the light-emitting element 371 (surface 373).

[0148] By implementing the thermal countermeasures described in detail above, it is possible to protect the light-emitting substrate 372 while mitigating the resulting constraints on the amount of light emitted and luminosity, as well as suppressing any deterioration in appearance.

[0149] As already explained, one of the features of the movable display device 300 is that it rotates a group of light-emitting units 355 arranged in a direction intersecting the rotational central axis CL1, and uses the afterimage of light from these light-emitting units 355 to project images such as characters and patterns into the space in front of the pattern display device 253 (operational area ME). The specific configuration related to image display will be further explained below with reference to Figures 22 and 23.

[0150] As shown in Figure 22(b), the light guide section 385 is composed of a first light guide member 382a, which has a groove-shaped portion formed by two adjacent partition walls 384 that is open in the same direction as the rotational center axis CL1 (towards the front of the game machine) and toward the light-emitting substrate 372, and a second light guide member 382b that covers this groove-shaped portion from the light-emitting substrate 372 side. A reflective portion 388a is formed on the bottom surface 388 of the groove-shaped portion at the extension of the entrance portion 386 of the light guide section 385, which reflects the incident light toward the front side of the rotating unit 350.

[0151] On the bottom surface 388 (including the reflective portion 388a), a light-diffusing process (e.g., a textured finish) with fine irregularities is applied to a predetermined area on the entrance portion 386 side. As light is diffused by repeated reflections within the light guide portion 385, the light from the light emitter 371 spreads throughout the entire light guide portion 385. In this way, the bias in the light directed toward the exit portion 387 of the light guide portion 385 is suppressed, thereby mitigating the difference in density in the light emitter 355.

[0152] Furthermore, the plate surface 389 covering the groove-shaped portion with the second light guide member 382b is a smooth surface that has not been subjected to light diffusion processing. As described above, in a configuration in which the light guide section 385 is formed by combining two light guide members 382a and 382b, the presence of irregularities on the mating surface makes it easy for gaps to form at the boundary between the two light guide members 382a and 382b. Therefore, by configuring the plate surface of the second light guide member 382b without light diffusion processing, it is possible to suppress the formation of gaps at the boundary between the two light guide members 382a and 382b when they are combined, thereby suppressing light leakage from the light guide section 385. In particular, a partition wall 384 is used in the light guide section 385 to reduce the gap between the light guide sections 385, and the possibility that light leaking from one light guide section 385 may reach the other light guide section 385 cannot be ruled out. In light of these circumstances, there is technical significance in deliberately making the plate surface 389 of the second light guide member 382b a smooth surface without light diffusion processing.

[0153] As shown in the enlarged section of Figure 23(a), the spacing between the side wall surfaces 390 forming the light guide section 385 is constant in the diffusion region where the light diffusion processing described above has been applied, but expands towards the exit section 387 beyond the diffusion region. More specifically, the thickness of the partition wall 384 constituting the side wall surface 390 is tapered so that it becomes thinner towards the exit section 387 of the light guide section 385.

[0154] To promote light diffusion, it is preferable to increase the number of times light is incident on the light-diffusing portion. Therefore, in the diffusion region, by making the side wall surfaces 390 parallel and deliberately narrowing the spacing between these parallel portions 390a, it is possible to increase the number of times light is reflected in the diffusion region.

[0155] The light, which is diffused in the parallel section 390a but whose irradiation direction is defined, is further spread in the direction of the parallel arrangement of the side wall surfaces 390 by the extended section 390b, which is formed to widen the spacing between them. In gaming machines, it is common for the player's face to be positioned in front of the symbol display device, but there may be some variation in the player's line of sight depending on their physique and posture. Therefore, by providing a certain degree of spread in the direction of light irradiation with the extended section 390b, it is possible to suppress difficulty in seeing. Using the parallel section 390a and the extended section 390b together has clear technical significance in improving the visibility of the light-emitting section 355.

[0156] Furthermore, when displaying an image by controlling the light emission of the light-emitting units 355, the presence of blanks between the light-emitting units 355 can degrade the appearance of the image. In this regard, the blanks are reduced by forming the partition walls 384 that separate the light-emitting units 355 in a tapered shape. The optical path forming body 381 shown in this embodiment is provided with a function to reinforce the housing 391. The partition walls 384 play an important role in performing this reinforcement function, and it is not desirable to simply make the entire structure thin. Therefore, as described above, by forming the portion of the partition wall 384 that constitutes the exit portion 387 in a tapered shape, a practically preferable configuration can be realized.

[0157] The direction of light irradiation defined by the light guide 385 is defined to be in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 for all light-emitting units 355. However, the exit portion 387 of the light guide 385 is configured such that the lateral component increases as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1. This is a measure to prevent a drastic decrease in visibility even when the player's line of sight is off-center from the rotational axis CL1, for example, when viewed from diagonally in front, and to ensure the three-dimensional effect described later. Furthermore, it is possible to maintain the light intensity of the light-emitting unit 355 regardless of the distance from the rotational axis CL1, while suppressing the light emission level as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 increases.

[0158] Here, the width of the light-emitting section 355 defined by the partition wall 384 (width in the direction perpendicular to the rotational axis CL1) is configured to be the same for all light-emitting sections 355 (see, for example, width dimension L1 = width dimension L2). Taking into account the curvature of the virtual display surface on which the image is displayed, the spacing (in a front view) when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 is unified. This suppresses a decrease in the visibility of light-emitting sections 355 that are farther from the rotational axis CL1.

[0159] In realizing this configuration, the spacing dimensions of the light-emitting elements 371 (as viewed from the front) in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (see, for example, spacing dimensions X1, X2) are constant, while the actual distance between the light-emitting elements 371 increases as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 increases (see, for example, distance dimension D1 < distance dimension D2).

[0160] As described above, the movable display device 300 creates a virtual display surface that is formed by rotating the rotating unit 350, resulting in a curved surface with added depth (convex towards the front of the gaming machine). As will be explained in more detail later, this is a technique to give the displayed image a sense of depth (three-dimensionality).

[0161] <Electrical configuration of pachinko machine 10> Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be explained based on the block diagram in Figure 24.

[0162] The main control board 601, located in the main control unit 162, is equipped with an MPU 602. The MPU 602 is an element that incorporates a ROM that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 602, a RAM that temporarily stores various data when executing the control programs stored in the ROM, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, and various counter circuits that act as random number generators.

[0163] The MPU602 is equipped with input and output ports. The input side of the MPU602 is connected to the power outage monitoring board, payout control device 242, and various detection sensors provided on the main control device 162. The power outage monitoring board is connected to the power supply / launch control device 243, and power is supplied to the MPU602 via the power outage monitoring board. In addition, various detection sensors attached to the ball entry sections (payout ball entry sections) such as the general prize entry opening 81, variable prize entry device 82, operation opening 83, and through gate 84 are connected as part of the various detection sensors, and the MPU602 of the main control device 162 performs prize entry determination (ball entry determination) for each ball entry section. Furthermore, the MPU602 performs a jackpot occurrence lottery based on ball entry into the operation opening 83, and performs a support occurrence lottery based on ball entry into the through gate 84.

[0164] The output side of the MPU602 is connected to a power outage monitoring board, a payout control device 242, and a notification / performance control device 140. The notification / performance control device 140 outputs various commands, such as a variation start command (variation command), a type command, a variation end command, an opening command, and an ending command. In this case, the command information storage area of ​​the ROM603 is referenced when outputting these various commands.

[0165] The notification and performance control board 611, located in the notification and performance control device 140, is equipped with an MPU 612. The MPU 612 incorporates a ROM 613 that stores various control programs and fixed value data executed by the MPU 612, a RAM 614 which is a memory for temporarily storing various data when executing the control programs stored in the ROM 613, as well as interrupt circuits, timer circuits, data input / output circuits, and other components.

[0166] The MPU612 is equipped with both input and output ports. The input side of the MPU612 is connected to the main control unit 162, as well as to the height position detection sensor 315 and rotation position detection sensor 329 located on the movable performance device 300. Based on the detection information (detection signals) from these sensors 315 and 329, the positions of the movable block 301 and the rotation unit 350 can be determined. Furthermore, the operation button 35 located on the front door frame 14 is connected to the input side of the MPU612, and the presence or absence of operation can be determined based on the signal from this operation button 35.

[0167] The output side of the MPU612 is connected to various electrical components of the light-emitting units 26-28, speaker unit 29, display control device 620, and movable performance device 300 (lifting drive unit 314, rotation drive unit 324, light-emitting substrate 372).

[0168] The MPU612, based on various commands input from the main control unit 162, determines the display time of the symbols on the symbol display device 253 (whether or not a reach animation occurs), and finally determines the type of symbol combination to stop and display, as well as the details of the reach animation. In this process, which is performed for each game round, if the reach animation corresponds to the special animation, it outputs a signal to the drive units 314, 324 and the light-emitting board 372 of the movable animation device 300 to execute the special animation.

[0169] The display control device 620 has a display control board equipped with an MPU, and the MPU has a program ROM that stores various control programs and fixed value data, a work RAM which is a memory for temporarily storing various data when executing the control programs stored in the program ROM, a video display processor (VDP), a character ROM that stores image data, and a video RAM that temporarily stores image data read from the character ROM.

[0170] The VDP is a type of drawing circuit that directly operates the image processing device, which acts as a liquid crystal display driver, incorporated into the graphic display device 253. Because the VDP is implemented as an IC chip, it is also called a "drawing chip," and in reality, it can be described as a microcontroller chip with built-in firmware dedicated to drawing processing.

[0171] The MPU of the display control device 620 executes display control of the symbol display device 253 based on commands input from the notification / effect control device 140. Specifically, it performs a variable display for each game round according to the content of the variable display and the type of symbol combination to be stopped, which have been finalized by the notification / effect control device 140. When a display effect corresponding to the above special effect is executed, the display content on the symbol display device 253 is set to correspond to the operation of the movable effect device 300 and the display of a predetermined image by the rotating unit 350.

[0172] Here, we will describe the special effects processing performed as part of the periodic processing by the MPU 612 of the notification and effect control device 140. The special effects processing is broadly divided into drive control processing (special effects drive control processing) that controls the drive of the lifting drive unit 314 and the rotation drive unit 324 of the movable effect device 300, and light emission control processing (special effects light emission control processing) that controls the light emission of the light emission substrate 372. In the following explanation, we will first describe the special effects drive control processing with reference to the flowchart in Figure 25, and then describe the special effects light emission control processing with reference to the flowcharts in Figures 26 and 27.

[0173] (Drive control processing for special effects) As shown in Figure 25, in the special effect drive control process, first, in step S101, it is determined whether or not it is a game round related to a special effect. If the determination in step S101 is negative, the drive control process ends immediately. If the determination in step S101 is positive, the process proceeds to step S102.

[0174] In step S102, it is determined whether or not it is time to lower the movable block 301 of the movable performance device 300 from the standby position to the performance position. If the determination in step S102 is positive, the process proceeds to step S103. After the lowering process of the movable block 301 is executed in step S103, this drive control process is terminated.

[0175] In the process of lowering the movable block 301, the movement restriction of the movable block 301 by the locking device provided on the support block 302 is first released. Then, a drive signal corresponding to the lowering of the movable block 301 is output to the lifting drive unit 314. As a result, the movable block 301 lowers from the standby position to the performance position and becomes visible from the front of the gaming machine.

[0176] Returning to the explanation of step S102, if a negative determination is made in step S102, that is, if it is determined that it is not the timing for descent to the performance position, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, it is determined whether or not the movable block 301 is present at the performance position based on the detection information from the height position detection sensor 315. If a negative determination is made in step S104, the drive control process is terminated. In this embodiment, the operating area of ​​the rotating unit 350 is not secured when the movable block 301 is in the standby position, and the operating area is secured when it is placed at the performance position. Therefore, when the movable block 301 is not present at the performance position, the various processes related to the rotation of the rotating unit 350 are avoided, thereby protecting the rotating unit 350 and other components.

[0177] If a positive result is obtained in step S104, the process proceeds to step S105. In step S105, it is determined whether or not the valid period for enabling operation of the operation button 35 is currently active. The special effect shown in this embodiment is an operation-responsive effect that corresponds to the player's actions, and the effect progresses when the operation button 35 is operated. Specifically, the operation is activated at the timing after the movable block 301 has waited in the effect position, and in conjunction with this, an image suggesting operation (for example, "Press the button!") is displayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253. If the operation button 35 is operated during this valid period, the special effect progresses, and if the operation button 35 is not operated during this valid period, the special effect is rewritten to one that does not correspond to the operation.

[0178] If a positive determination is made in step S105, that is, if it is determined that the validity period is still in effect, the process proceeds to step S106. In step S106, it is determined whether or not the operation button 35 has been operated based on the detection information from the operation button 35. If a negative determination is made in step S106, the drive control process ends immediately. If a positive determination is made in step S106, the process proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the rotation start process for the rotation unit 350 is executed. If the validity period expires without any operation being performed (if a positive determination is made in step S108), the process proceeds to step S107, and the rotation of the rotation unit 350 begins upon the expiration of the validity period. However, when rotation is triggered by the expiration of the validity period in this way, the special effect switches to one that does not correspond to operation, resulting in a different image being displayed than the one that should have been displayed.

[0179] In the rotation start process, a drive signal is output to the rotation drive unit 324, causing the rotation unit 350 to rotate. In this embodiment, a DC motor is used as the rotation drive unit 324, and the rotation speed is controlled by pulses output to this rotation drive unit 324. As will be described in detail later, this output drive signal maintains the rotation unit 350 at a predetermined rotation speed, which is the upper limit speed.

[0180] Returning to the explanation of step S105, if a negative result is made in step S105, that is, if it is determined that the operation is not within the valid period, the process proceeds to step S109. In step S109, it is determined whether or not it is time to end the special performance. If a negative result is made in step S109, the drive control process ends immediately. If a positive result is made in step S109, the process proceeds to step S110.

[0181] In step S110, a process is executed to stop the rotating unit 350 in its initial position. Specifically, based on the detection information from the rotation position detection sensor 329, the output of the drive signal to the rotation drive unit 324 is adjusted so that the rotating unit 350 stops in its initial position. After the process in step S110 is executed, provided that the rotating unit 350 has returned to its initial position, a process is performed to return the movable block 301 from the performance position to the standby position (see step S111). Specifically, a drive signal is output to the lifting drive unit 314 to raise the movable block 301 to the standby position. After the movable block 301 has returned to the standby position, the locking device is switched to the restricting state to restrict the movement of the movable block 301.

[0182] When a special effect is performed, the rotating unit 350 and other components light up in accordance with the movement of the movable block 301 and the rotating unit 350. The light emission control process for the special effect will be explained below with reference to the flowchart in Figure 26.

[0183] (Light control processing for special effects) In the special effects light control process, first, in step S201, it is determined whether or not it is a game round related to a special effects. If the determination in step S201 is negative, the drive control process ends immediately. If the determination in step S201 is positive, the process proceeds to step S202.

[0184] Step S202 determines whether or not light is being emitted. If the determination in step S202 is negative, that is, if light has not yet started to be emitted, the process proceeds to step S203. Step S203 determines whether or not it is the predetermined timing (light emission start timing) before descending to the performance position. If the determination in step S203 is negative, the special performance light emission control process is terminated. If the determination in step S203 is positive, the process proceeds to step S204. After executing the first light emission control process in step S204, the special performance light emission control process is terminated.

[0185] Here, the first light emission control process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 27(a).

[0186] In the first light emission control process, first, in step S301, it is determined whether or not the first light emission effect is in progress. If the determination in step S301 is negative, the process proceeds to step S302, where the first light emission effect start process is executed, and then the first light emission control process ends. In the first light emission effect start process, the light emission effect of the light emission unit 355 provided on the rotating unit 350 is determined by referring to the first light emission effect setting table stored in the light emission effect storage table of the ROM. Then, the output of a signal to the light emission substrate 372 is started in order to illuminate the light emission target in the determined effect.

[0187] If a positive result is obtained in step S301, the process proceeds to step S303. In step S303, the values ​​of the update period counters located in various counter areas of RAM are referenced to determine whether a pre-set update period has elapsed. The update period counters are updated each time the determination process in step S303 is executed.

[0188] The rotating unit 350 shown in this embodiment is configured to rotate at a constant speed (steady rotation) while maintaining a state in which the rotational speed reaches the predetermined speed (maximum speed) described above. When this constant speed rotation is performed, the update period is set to match (more specifically, to match) the time required to complete one rotation.

[0189] If a negative determination is made in step S303, the first light emission control process is terminated. If a positive determination is made in step S303, the light emission target switching process is executed in step S304. The light emission target switching process switches the light emission targets in a predetermined order by referring to the light emission pattern storage table. As a result, the light emission target among the multiple light emission units 355 provided on the rotating unit 350 changes so that it shifts from one end to the other end of the rotating unit 350.

[0190] Returning to the explanation of Figure 26, if a positive determination is made in step S202, that is, if it is determined that the light is being emitted, the process proceeds to step S205. In step S205, it is determined whether or not it is time to return the movable block 301 to the standby position. If a positive determination is made in step S205, the process proceeds to step S209, where the process of turning off the light-emitting unit 355 is executed, and then the light-emitting control process for this special effect is terminated.

[0191] If a negative determination is made in step S206, the process proceeds to step S206. In step S206, it is determined whether or not it is the timing to start deceleration to slow down the rotating unit 350. If a negative determination is made in step S206, the process proceeds to step S207. In step S207, it is determined whether or not the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotating drive unit 324 has reached the predetermined maximum value, that is, whether or not the rotational speed of the rotating unit 350 has reached its maximum and is transitioning to constant speed rotation. If an affirmative determination is made in step S206, or if a negative determination is made in step S207, the process proceeds to step S204, where the first light emission control process is executed, and then the special effect light emission control process is terminated.

[0192] In contrast, if a negative determination is made in step S206 and a positive determination is made in step S207, the second light emission control process in step S208 is executed, and then the special effect light emission control process is terminated. Now, the second light emission control process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 27(b).

[0193] In the second light emission control process, first, in step S401, it is determined whether or not the second light emission effect is currently being performed. If the determination in step S401 is negative, the process proceeds to step S402, where the second light emission effect start process is executed, and then the second light emission control process is terminated. In the second light emission effect start process, the light emission mode of the light emission unit 355 provided on the rotating unit 350 is determined by referring to the second light emission mode setting table stored in the light emission mode storage table of the ROM. Then, a signal output to the light emission board 372 is started to illuminate the target object.

[0194] If a positive determination is made in step S401, that is, if it is determined that the second light emission effect is in progress, the process proceeds to step S403. In step S403, it is determined whether the rotation unit 350 has completed one rotation and returned to its initial position, that is, the position before the rotation started, based on the detection information from the rotation position detection sensor 329. If a negative determination is made in step S403, the second light emission control process is terminated. If a positive determination is made in step S403, the light emission target switching process is executed in step S404, and then the second light emission control process is terminated.

[0195] In this embodiment, the timing at which each light-emitting object is to be illuminated / exited during one rotation of the rotating unit 350 is predetermined, and by switching the illumination / exiting in a predetermined order during rotation, images such as patterns and characters are displayed on the operating area ME (virtual display surface) of the rotating unit 350. As already explained, the time required for one rotation is also almost constant during constant-speed rotation. The second light emission mode setting table specifies at what timing (at what rotation position) each light-emitting object is to be illuminated / exited during one rotation. However, it cannot be ruled out that the time required for one rotation may be extended due to variations in the rotation of the rotating unit 350. If there is a possibility of an error between the actual movement of the rotating unit 350 and the movement predicted in advance, it is a concern that such errors may accumulate, causing problems such as misalignment or distortion of the displayed image, which not only reduces the appearance of the image but also reduces the reliability of the movable display device 300. Therefore, in this embodiment, by defining the display mode for each rotation, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of errors as described above and prevent the occurrence of the above-mentioned problems.

[0196] Now, referring to the timing chart in Figure 28(a), we will explain the flow of events when the special effects are executed.

[0197] At the timing of ta1, when a reach is displayed during gameplay and a special effect begins, the first light-emitting effect is initiated using the light-emitting part 355 of the rotating unit 350. At the start of the special effect, the rotating unit 350 is positioned in its initial position and is facing sideways. Therefore, the first light-emitting effect causes a swing display in which the lit area shifts left and right. However, when the movable block 301 is in the standby position, the rotating unit 350 remains hidden behind the decorative member 272, making it difficult to visually confirm that the light-emitting part 355 is emitting light.

[0198] At timing ta2, immediately after the first light-emitting effect begins, the movable block 301 descends from the standby position to the effect position. As a result, the rotating unit 350 is positioned in front of the symbol display device 253 (display screen 253a), and it becomes visible that the rotating unit 350 and the light-emitting unit 355 are emitting light.

[0199] At the timing of ta3, after the rotating unit 350 has reached the performance position, the operation of the operation button 35 located on the front door frame 14 is activated, and a message prompting the operation of the operation button 35 is displayed on the symbol display device 253. If the operation button 35 is operated during the valid period in accordance with this message, the special performance will move to the next stage.

[0200] When the operation button 35 is pressed at timing ta4, which is during the period when the operation is active, the rotating unit 350 starts rotating in a predetermined direction (clockwise) based on that operation. There is a certain time lag between the rotation of the rotating unit 350 accelerating and then moving to constant speed rotation, but the light emission pattern during acceleration is the same as the light emission pattern before rotation. As a result, for a short period of time, an image resembling a vortex of light is displayed in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350.

[0201] At the timing ta5 when the rotating unit 350 transitions to constant-speed rotation, that is, when the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotating drive unit 324 reaches its upper limit, the light emission pattern of the rotating unit 350 changes to the pattern determined when the special effect was set. In this embodiment, multiple light emission patterns are provided according to the expected outcome of a jackpot. These various light emission patterns will be further explained below with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 28(b).

[0202] When the machine is rotating at a constant speed, the images displayed in the operating area ME can be broadly categorized into four types. Specifically, there is a first mode (video) in which an image resembling a vortex of light is displayed in rotation, similar to when accelerating; a second mode (still image) in which a character resembling a girl's face is displayed in stillness; a third mode (video) in which an image resembling a school of small fish is displayed in scrollingness; and a fourth mode (still image) in which text (for example, "V") indicating a jackpot result is displayed in stillness.

[0203] When a special animation is performed during a game round corresponding to a big win, the selection is more likely in the order of 2nd form < 3rd form < 4th form. Conversely, when a special animation is performed during a game round corresponding to a losing result, the selection is more likely in the order of 3rd form < 2nd form, and the 4th form is excluded from the options. Therefore, when a message prompting action is displayed, it is assumed that the player will perform the action hoping to display the image with the highest probability of success (for example, the 4th form).

[0204] If an operation is performed, one of the second to fourth modes of display will be executed depending on the game result, whereas if no operation is performed, the first mode of display will be executed regardless of the game result.

[0205] Here, we will provide supplementary explanations about the displayed images, referring to the schematic diagram in Figure 29. Figure 29 shows an example of the image displayed in the third embodiment.

[0206] As already explained, the rotating unit 350 has an arc shape that is convex towards the front of the gaming machine, with the rotational axis CL1 as its center. As a result, the image displayed in the operating area ME (virtual display surface) is given a sense of depth (three-dimensionality) in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (front-to-back direction). By shifting the light-emitting unit 355 itself forward and backward, the display surface can be made curved, which contributes to an improved appearance compared to displaying a flat image.

[0207] Regarding the operating area ME, the image is not displayed across its entire area. Instead, the display area, where the image is displayed, and the non-display area, where the image is not displayed, switch depending on the timing. While the visibility of the pattern display device 253 is ensured through the non-display area, the visibility of the pattern display device 253 is reduced through the display area. Specifically, the intensity of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 355 is configured to be stronger than that of the pattern display device 253. Therefore, in the rotating unit 350, in the area where the image is displayed in the operating area ME, the light from the light-emitting unit 355 obscures the light behind it, resulting in the reduced visibility mentioned above.

[0208] In the symbol display device 253, the game result is notified by the combination of symbols that are stopped and displayed. As mentioned above, transparency is provided to the image display area by the rotating unit 350 to ensure the visibility of the symbols. Furthermore, when displaying video in the display area, even if the visibility of the symbols through the image may decrease due to the shifting of the light-emitting area, it is possible to avoid a state where the visibility remains reduced.

[0209] For example, in the special effect illustrated in Figure 29, a school of small fish similar to the school of small fish displayed on the pattern display device 253 is displayed by the rotating unit 350, thus creating a correlation between the displayed content of the two display devices (effect devices). In particular, the school of fish displayed in the foreground by the rotating unit 350 is configured to be larger in size and scroll faster than the school of fish displayed in the background by the pattern display device 253. This makes it possible to enhance the sense of depth in the display effects of the pattern display device 253 and the rotating unit 350.

[0210] The image of the small fish displayed on the virtual display surface changes size slightly as it scrolls from right to left. Specifically, it goes from a relatively small size to a larger size, then returns to its original size before disappearing from the display screen 253a. More specifically, the image of the small fish displayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 becomes invisible when it reaches a position where it overlaps with the virtual display surface, and at the moment the image of the small fish becomes invisible, the image of the small fish corresponding to that image is displayed on the virtual display surface. If this image becomes invisible after crossing the virtual display surface, the image of the small fish corresponding to the invisible image is redisplayed on the display screen 253a of the symbol display device 253 at the moment the image becomes invisible. This gives the player the impression that the image has moved from the display screen 253a to the virtual display surface and then back to the display screen 253a, making it appear as if the fish has moved three-dimensionally from the back to the front and back to the back.

[0211] According to the first embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be expected.

[0212] In the rotating unit 350 that constitutes the "drawing means" of the movable performance device 300, multiple light-emitting units 355 are formed at different distances from the rotational axis CL1 of the rotating unit 350 (arranged in the radial direction of the rotational axis CL1 when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1). By changing the light emission pattern of the light-emitting units 355 in accordance with the rotation of the rotating unit 350, a predetermined image (for example, a picture resembling a character or an image of text) is displayed in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350 using the afterimage of light. Because the positions (relative positions) of the light-emitting units 355 in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 are shifted, the predetermined image has a sense of depth (three-dimensionality) in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (front-back direction). This improves the appearance of the special performance by the movable performance device 300 and contributes to increasing attention to the special performance.

[0213] When a special effect is performed, the rotating unit 350 is positioned in front of the pattern display device 253 (corresponding to the "pattern display means") for the effect. When the rotating unit 350 rotates in this effect position, the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350 reaches the above-mentioned upper limit speed, making it difficult to follow the actual rotating unit 350 with the eye, although a faint afterimage becomes visible. Therefore, even if a predetermined image is displayed in the operating area ME due to the rotation, the visibility of the display content (patterns, etc.) of the display screen 253a located behind it is ensured. This allows the movable effect device 300 and the pattern display device 253 to coexist suitably, enabling integrated effects through the cooperation of the movable effect device 300 and the pattern display device 253.

[0214] For example, it is possible to shift the position of only a portion of the light-emitting parts 355 in the direction of the rotational axis CL1. However, it is assumed that such subtle changes would be easily lost in the surrounding light, and the three-dimensional display function described above would not be properly achieved. Therefore, in this embodiment, the arrangement of the light-emitting parts 355 as a whole is gradually shifted to suppress the difficulty in understanding the three-dimensional display.

[0215] In particular, by configuring the system so that the degree of separation between adjacent light-emitting units 355 in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 increases as they move further from the rotational axis, that is, by configuring the system so that the relative positional displacement in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 becomes more pronounced the further away it is from the rotational axis CL1, the movable display device 300 can be made to function as if it were a roughly hemispherical display, thereby contributing to the enhancement of the three-dimensional visual effect described above.

[0216] In the rotating movable display device 300 shown in this embodiment, the further the light-emitting part 355 is from the rotational axis CL1, the faster its movement speed becomes with rotation. As a result, the brightness of the image decreases as it moves further from the rotational axis CL1. Furthermore, the light-emitting elements 371 corresponding to each light-emitting part 355 are standardized to have a constant amount of light. With these characteristics, if the light-emitting parts 355 are configured to shift towards the back (rear) of the game machine as they move away from the rotational axis CL1, the decrease in brightness and the shift towards the back combine to suitably realize the three-dimensional display described above.

[0217] While increasing the distance between the light-emitting parts 355 in the front-to-back direction of the gaming machine can enhance the sense of three-dimensionality, this can lead to an increase in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350. This is undesirable because it strengthens the constraints on the placement of the movable display device 300. In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, if the rotating unit 350 is formed on an arc that protrudes forward of the gaming machine, and the end of the rotating unit 350 (rotating tip portion) rotates around the mounting point on the base unit 320, the expansion of the occupied area caused by the enhancement of three-dimensionality can be suitably mitigated. As a result, in a configuration in which the movable display device 300 is placed in front of the symbol display device 253, the occupied area of ​​the movable display device 300 is avoided to the point of being unnecessarily bulky, and coexistence with the symbol display device 253 is suitably achieved.

[0218] The light from the light-emitting section 355 is basically directed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (towards the front of the gaming machine), but the component that points outward increases for light farther from the rotational axis CL1. This ensures the visibility of the light when viewed from the front of the movable display device 300, while also contributing to the enhancement of the three-dimensional effect mentioned above.

[0219] Furthermore, the light-emitting section 355 itself is given a certain width, and is formed such that the further the light-emitting section 355 is from the rotational axis CL1, the stronger the outward component becomes. This contributes to enhancing the sense of depth when displaying an image. In other words, rather than making the light source directly visible, assigning the function of the light-emitting section 355 to the curved cover member 383 has technical significance in achieving enhanced sense of depth.

[0220] As described above, in a configuration in which the rotating unit 350 is rotated, the load generated during acceleration and deceleration can cause stress on the light-emitting substrate 372, potentially leading to deformation such as distortion. If such deformation occurs, the light-emitting substrate 372 may not function properly, and it cannot be ruled out that this could interfere with light emission control. This phenomenon is expected to become more pronounced when the turning radius is increased or when the degree of acceleration / deceleration is increased to improve responsiveness.

[0221] In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, by using a housing 391 to hold a rotatably held object and mounting the light-emitting substrate 372 in this housing 391, the load on the light-emitting substrate 372 can be reduced. This effectively suppresses the occurrence of the various problems mentioned above. The housing 391 is case-shaped, and the light-emitting substrate 372 is housed inside it. This enhances the protective function of the light-emitting substrate 372 and effectively suppresses deformation such as distortion in the light-emitting substrate.

[0222] In a configuration in which the light-emitting substrate 372 is housed within the housing 391, deformation such as distortion of the light-emitting substrate 372 can be suppressed. However, heat generated in the light-emitting substrate 372 tends to accumulate inside the housing 391. This is undesirable because it can lead to a decrease in the durability and operational stability of the light-emitting substrate 372. Therefore, by providing a slit 392 in the part of the housing 391 facing the direction of rotation, and allowing air to be drawn into the housing 391 through the slit 392, the occurrence of the above-mentioned problems can be effectively suppressed.

[0223] Furthermore, the mounting surface (surface 373) of the light-emitting substrate 372 for the light-emitting element 371 faces away from the slit 392. By avoiding direct contact between the slit 392 and the light-emitting element 371 in this way, light leakage from the housing 391 is suppressed, and the above heat countermeasures are prevented from becoming a factor that degrades the appearance of the movable display device 300 or makes the displayed images difficult to see.

[0224] The slits 392 consist of one facing the direction of rotation and another facing the opposite direction. Around the slits 392 facing the opposite direction of rotation, a negative pressure is generated by the rotation of the rotating unit 350, and this negative pressure is used to promote the discharge of air from inside the housing 391. This enhances the heat dissipation function described above.

[0225] The configuration in which the positions of each light-emitting part 355 are shifted in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 can be realized, for example, by forming a curved surface on the light-emitting substrate that is positioned to face the front. However, in such a configuration, the moldability is reduced compared to the case where the light-emitting substrate is flat. Also, since the orientation of the light-emitting elements may change depending on their arrangement on the substrate, it becomes necessary to individually set the orientation of each light-emitting element in order to align them in a predetermined direction (the direction of the rotational axis). This can make quality control of the mounting and orientation of the light-emitting elements difficult.

[0226] In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, if the light-emitting substrate 372 is arranged parallel to the rotational axis CL1 and the direction of light irradiation is defined by the light guide 385, then by shifting the position of the light-emitting element 371 in the direction of the plate surface of the light-emitting substrate 372, differences in the position of the light-emitting element 355 in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 can be realized with a simple configuration. This makes it possible to realize a configuration that is superior in terms of manufacturing and management, and can suitably promote the mounting of the movable display device 300. Therefore, compared to the case in which the light-emitting substrate is deliberately made curved as described above, it is possible to simplify manufacturing and management, while suitably improving the degree of freedom in setting the orientation of the light-emitting element with a simple configuration.

[0227] Furthermore, when attempting to display images or other content in space using a rotating movable display device 300, it is necessary to ensure a certain rotational speed. If the plate surface is parallel to the rotational axis CL1, it is assumed that the load on the light-emitting substrate 372 will increase due to increased air resistance. Therefore, by housing the light-emitting substrate 372 in the housing 391 as described above, the light-emitting substrate 372 can be suitably protected from such loads. In addition, the housing 391 offers greater design freedom in terms of its shape compared to the light-emitting substrate 372. Therefore, in a configuration where the plate surface of the light-emitting substrate 372 is oriented in the direction of rotation, it becomes easier to implement measures to reduce air resistance in the housing 391, which can suitably contribute to ensuring a rotational speed.

[0228] By increasing the number of light-emitting elements arranged on the light-emitting substrate, various effects such as improved resolution and diversification of the light-emitting display (predetermined image) can be enjoyed. However, increasing the number of light-emitting elements inevitably leads to a larger light-emitting substrate. If the surface of the light-emitting substrate (optical axis or direction of light irradiation) is oriented in the direction of the rotation center axis, the size of the substrate will directly lead to a decrease in the appearance of the rotating movable display device and the light-emitting display using it.

[0229] In this regard, according to the configuration shown in this embodiment, as described above, by arranging the light-emitting substrate 372 parallel to the rotational axis CL1 and using the light guide portion 385 to direct the light irradiation direction toward the rotational axis CL1, the function of irradiating light toward the rotational axis CL1 is ensured while the edge (end) of the light-emitting substrate 372 can be directed toward the rotational axis CL1. As a result, even if the size of the light-emitting substrate is increased due to the circumstances described above, the resulting decrease in appearance can be suppressed, and the constraints related to game presentations can be alleviated. Therefore, it becomes possible to perform more impactful game presentations, which can contribute to increasing attention to game presentations using the movable presentation device 300.

[0230] The light-emitting element 371 is positioned so that its optical axis is oriented in the thickness direction of the light-emitting substrate 372, and the light guide 385 is configured to guide the light from the light-emitting element 371 along the surface of the light-emitting substrate 372 from the center to the edge. With this configuration, even when using both the light-emitting substrate 372 and the light guide 385, it is possible to suppress the unnecessary increase in the occupied area when considering the entire "light-emitting unit". Furthermore, by guiding the light to the edge of the light-emitting substrate 372, it is possible to avoid the light-emitting substrate 372 becoming an obstacle that obstructs the visibility of the light-emitting part 355.

[0231] In this embodiment, the exit portion 387 of the light guide portion 385 and the light-emitting portion 355 are located on a virtual straight line intersecting the rotational axis CL1. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress the complexity of light emission control when displaying a predetermined image by switching the light emission mode in accordance with the rotation of the rotational unit 350. Furthermore, if the light-emitting substrate were configured to be located on the virtual line, it would be necessary to extend the light guide portion from the end of the light-emitting substrate in order to position the light-emitting area on the virtual line, which would complicate the path of light. Moreover, if the light-emitting substrate and the light-emitting area are aligned in the direction of the rotational axis, the width of the movable body in that direction of the rotational axis would increase. The arrangement shown in this embodiment suppresses the occurrence of these various inconveniences and realizes a practically preferable configuration.

[0232] Furthermore, by arranging the light-emitting substrate 372 at a position off the rotational axis CL1 and arranging the optical path forming body 381 at a position intersecting the rotational axis CL1, the light-emitting substrate 372 can be brought closer to the wall surface of the housing 391 in which the slit 392 acting as a "ventilation opening" is formed. This effectively enhances the heat dissipation function using the slit 392.

[0233] In a configuration in which images such as patterns and characters are displayed in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350 by changing the emission pattern of the light-emitting section 355 in accordance with the rotation of the rotating unit 350, there is a concern that if the blank areas between the light-emitting sections become large, the resolution of the displayed image will decrease, and the appearance of the image will deteriorate. In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, by forming a partition wall 384 in a tapered shape that becomes thinner toward the exit section 387 within a predetermined range including the exit section 387 of the light guide section 385, the blank areas can be reduced, and the coarseness of the image can be made less noticeable. This improves the appearance of the special effects by the movable display device 300 and contributes to increasing attention to the effects.

[0234] As described above, in a configuration having a rotating movable display device 300, there is a high possibility that the light-emitting display will not function properly due to deformation such as distortion in the rotating unit 350. For this reason, it is necessary to provide the rotating unit 350 with a certain degree of strength. Therefore, by making the light path forming body 381 (light guide member 382) on which the light guide portion 385 is formed function as a reinforcement for the rotating unit 350, the above concerns regarding strength can be resolved. However, if the entire partition wall 384 is made thinner when forming the reinforcement, there is a concern that its function as a reinforcement will be reduced. Therefore, by making the thickness of the partition wall 384 thinner only near the light-emitting area (exit portion 387) as described above, it is possible to suitably achieve both an improved appearance of the light-emitting display and the function of the reinforcement.

[0235] The size of the light-emitting area depends on the exit portion 387 of the light guide 385. By configuring the light guide 385 to diffuse the light passing through it, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience of the effective light-emitting range becoming narrower than the exit portion 387, resulting in a large effective blank space (gap) between the light-emitting areas. Here, in order to improve the diffusion efficiency of diffusing light within the light guide 385 (passage), it is undesirable for the passage width to become excessively large. Therefore, there is clear technical significance in a configuration in which the partition wall 384 has a certain thickness to suppress the widening of the passage width, while reducing the thickness of the partition wall 384 around the exit where light diffusion has progressed to a certain extent.

[0236] In order to distribute light throughout the entire exit portion 387 of the light guide 385, it becomes difficult to ensure sufficient light intensity at the outer edge of the exit portion 387 (especially near the partition wall 384) compared to the center of the exit portion 387. In other words, when viewing the exit portion 387, there is likely to be a difference in brightness between the center and the outer edge. Therefore, by deliberately not diffusing light in the area where the exit portion 387 is formed by the partition wall 384, the loss due to light diffusion is suppressed, which contributes to ensuring the clarity of light at the outer edge of the light-emitting area.

[0237] In a configuration where the size of the light-emitting area (dot) depends on the exit portion 387 of the light guide 385, the shape of the exit portion 387 strongly affects the displayed image, etc. Therefore, as shown in this embodiment, by making the width of the exit portion 387 smaller in the rotational direction compared to the direction intersecting the rotational direction, it is possible to ensure a certain size for the exit portion 387, thereby avoiding the light becoming difficult to see, while also contributing favorably to improving the image resolution when displaying a predetermined image.

[0238] In a configuration having a light-diffusing section with a reflective function, the diffusion function is effectively achieved through repeated reflection of light. Therefore, by creating a configuration that promotes light diffusion between partition walls 384 (opposing plate surfaces 389) that are relatively close together, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of areas where light does not easily reach, and to suitably achieve the above-mentioned diffusion effect.

[0239] <Second Embodiment> In the first embodiment described above, the movable display device 300 (rotating unit 350) is configured to give images such as characters and patterns displayed a sense of depth (three-dimensionality) such that they become convex toward the front of the game machine as they approach the rotational axis CL1. In this embodiment, although the light-emitting unit 355A is positioned offset in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 to give a sense of depth (three-dimensionality), the configuration related to the expression of depth differs from that of the first embodiment. The configuration related to this difference will be explained below with reference to Figure 30. Figure 30 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the rotating unit 350A in the second embodiment.

[0240] The rotating unit 350A is curved so as to be concave towards the back on the rotation center side (central part), and the positions of the light-emitting elements 371A and 355A are arranged so that the closer they are to the rotation center axis CL1, the further back they are located in the gaming machine. In other words, the front-to-back relationship of the side-by-side light-emitting elements 371A is reversed compared to the first embodiment described above. As a result, the virtual display surface of the image displayed by the rotating unit 350A also has a curved shape with the central part concave in the depth direction.

[0241] The image displayed when the rotating unit 350A is rotated is set to a vortex directed toward the rotational axis CL1. By displaying such an image, the player can be given the impression that they are being pulled towards the symbol display device 253 as the vortex rotates. This is a desirable configuration for encouraging the player to pay attention to the symbol display device 253 when they see the image.

[0242] Here, similar to the first embodiment described above, the distance traveled by the light-emitting element 371A when the rotating unit 350A makes one rotation increases as it moves further away from the rotational axis CL1. Therefore, when displaying an image in the operating area ME using the afterimage of light, the light emission level decreases (becomes dimmer) as it moves further away from the rotational axis CL1. In the first embodiment described above, while all the light-emitting elements 371 are common, the above phenomenon (difference in light emission level) was used to emphasize the sense of depth.

[0243] In contrast, in this embodiment, the light-emitting elements 371A located on the outside are differentiated so that they are brighter than the light-emitting elements 371A located on the inside with respect to the rotational center axis CL1. In this way, by compensating for the insufficient light output of the outer light-emitting elements 371A, the brightness of the images used for special effects is adjusted so that they become lighter from the outside to the inside. This suppresses the fact that the operating principle of the rotating unit 350A shown in the first embodiment (difference in light emission level according to the distance traveled) becomes a factor that reduces the sense of depth.

[0244] In the second embodiment described in detail above, the light intensity of each light-emitting element 371A is set individually, but this does not preclude unifying the light intensity of each light-emitting element 371A, as in the first embodiment. Also, while the brightness is adjusted so that it goes from bright to dark from the outside to the inside when special effects are performed, it is also possible to set the light intensity of each light-emitting element 371A individually so that the brightness is unified during rotation.

[0245] <Third Embodiment> As shown in the first embodiment above, when displaying (drawing) images such as patterns and characters in space using a rotating display device, the appearance of the image can be improved by reducing the gaps (blanks) between the light-emitting parts 355. Furthermore, by increasing the number of light-emitting elements 371 and subdividing the light-emitting areas (dots), a more detailed display becomes possible, and the expressive power can be suitably improved. However, due to design / manufacturing / quality control reasons, there are constraints on the arrangement of the light-emitting elements 371, and in reality, it is necessary to provide a certain amount of gap (clearance) between the light-emitting elements 371.

[0246] In this embodiment, further improvements have been made to enhance the expressive capabilities of the movable performance device, taking these various circumstances into consideration. Below, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 31, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. Figure 31 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the rotating unit 350B in this embodiment.

[0247] The group of light-emitting elements 371B mounted on the light-emitting substrate 372B is consistent with the first embodiment in that the arrangement area of ​​the group of light-emitting elements 371B as a whole is gradually shifted backward as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1. However, from a smaller perspective, the light-emitting elements 371B are arranged in an alternating order of front side → back side → front side → back side... as they move away from the rotational axis CL1 direction (front-to-back direction). In other words, although they are arranged in an alternating front-to-back direction, the overall configuration is such that the amount of offset to the rear increases as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1.

[0248] By positioning the light-emitting elements 371B apart in the front-to-back direction (direction of the rotational axis CL1) (see distance Y3), the dependence on the separation distance in the left-to-right direction is reduced in securing the gap between the light-emitting elements 371B. Taking advantage of this, the distance X3 between adjacent light-emitting elements 371B in the left-to-right direction (longitudinal direction of the rotational unit 350) is reduced compared to the first embodiment described above. As a result, the image is displayed in greater detail (enabling a more detailed display), and the image quality of the displayed image is improved.

[0249] In this configuration, the light-emitting element 371B located closer to the user in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 (the direction of light irradiation from the light-emitting part 355B) can become a factor that hinders the formation of the optical path of the light-emitting elements 371B located further back. In this embodiment, however, by suppressing the overlap of the light-emitting elements 371B in the direction of the rotational axis CL1, the light-emitting element 371B on the closer side does not hinder the formation of the optical path.

[0250] In forming the light guide sections 385B for each adjacent light-emitting element 371B, the blank can be reduced by thinning the partition walls 384B that demarcate the light guide sections 385B. However, considering that the optical path forming body 381B is provided with the function of reinforcing the housing 391B, it is undesirable for the thinning of the partition walls to reduce the reinforcing function. In this regard, in the configuration shown in this embodiment, the effect of thinning the partition walls 384B (reduction in strength) is compensated for by adding partition walls 384B in the direction of the rotational center axis CL1 corresponding to the alternating arrangement, due to the extension and subdivision of the partition walls 384B.

[0251] This makes it possible to enhance the expressiveness of the image displayed by the rotating unit 350 while effectively suppressing a decrease in the operational reliability of the rotating unit 350 due to a decrease in strength or other factors resulting from this enhancement.

[0252] In the rotating movable display device 300B described in detail above, the detail of the displayed image, such as a picture, can be improved by reducing the spacing between the light-emitting elements in the radial direction of the rotational axis. However, since each light-emitting element on the light-emitting substrate needs to occupy a certain amount of space, there are limits to simply reducing the spacing between them. In this regard, by shifting the position of the light-emitting element 371B along the surface of the light-emitting substrate 372B in the direction of the rotational axis CL1, the spacing between the light-emitting elements 371B in the direction of alignment (for example, in the direction intersecting the rotational axis CL1 when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1) can be reduced. This can effectively contribute to the improvement in detail mentioned above.

[0253] In a configuration where an image is displayed by rotating the rotating unit 350B, it is preferable to make the rotating unit 350B as lightweight as possible in order to improve the responsiveness at the start and end of rotation. Therefore, as shown in the present embodiment, if the light emitters 371B are alternately shifted to one side (e.g., the front side) and the other side (e.g., the rear side) in the direction of the rotation center axis CL1, it is possible to suppress the unnecessary increase in the front-rear width of the light emitting substrate 372B and contribute to the weight reduction of the light emitting substrate 372. Therefore, while realizing the optimization of the light emission mode, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the responsiveness of the operation caused thereby.

[0254] In the above-described third embodiment, the light emitters 371B arranged side by side in the direction away from the rotation center axis CL1 (lateral direction) are shifted so that the front and rear positions are alternately interchanged, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the group of the light emitters 371 can be divided into a plurality of blocks each consisting of a single or a plurality of adjacent light emitters 371, and each of these blocks can be shifted so that the front and rear positions are alternately interchanged.

[0255] <Fourth Embodiment> In the above-described third embodiment, by shifting the front and rear positions of the light emitters 371B alternately, the expressiveness of the image displayed in the operation area ME in a special effect is improved. However, when shifting the position of the light emitter 371B in the light irradiation direction, the light emitter 371B on the front side in the irradiation direction may be a factor that reduces the degree of freedom in handling the light guide portion for the light emitter 371B on the rear side. One of the features of the movable effect device shown in the present embodiment is that a device is provided to realize the improvement in the above-described expressiveness (such as high image quality) while suppressing the decrease in the degree of freedom in handling the light guide portion. Hereinafter, referring to the schematic diagram of FIG. 32, the rotating unit 350C in the present embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment described above.

[0256] In the housing 391C, the second light-emitting substrate 372YC is positioned on the opposite side of the first light-emitting substrate 372XC, with the optical path forming body 381C in between. The second light-emitting element 371YC is mounted on the plate surface of the second light-emitting substrate 372YC that faces the optical path forming body 381C, and light from the second light-emitting element 371YC is incident on the optical path forming body 381C.

[0257] The optical path forming body 381C is provided with a first light guide portion 385XC that defines the direction of light irradiation from the first light emitter 371XC of the first light-emitting substrate 372XC, and a second light guide portion 385YC that defines the direction of light irradiation from the second light emitter 371YC of the second light-emitting substrate 372YC. The first light guide portion 385XC and the second light guide portion 385YC are arranged alternately in a direction intersecting the rotational center axis CL1.

[0258] In the second light-emitting substrate 372YC, the second light-emitting element 371YC is positioned offset so as to be located between the first light-emitting elements 371XC. In other words, the second light-emitting element 371YC is positioned to fill the gap between the first light-emitting elements 371XC, and the first light-emitting elements 371XC are positioned to fill the gap between the second light-emitting elements 371YC, thereby creating a positional relationship in which the blanks complement each other.

[0259] This makes it possible to subdivide the light-emitting areas (dots) while ensuring gaps between the light-emitting sections 355C, thereby effectively improving expressiveness through detailed display.

[0260] In the housing 391, an increase in the number of light-emitting elements 371C makes it easier for heat to build up inside. To address this, slits are formed in the part of the housing 391 that faces the surface of the second light-emitting substrate 372YC, ensuring efficient heat dissipation through the rotation of the rotating unit 350C. This makes it possible to suppress the heat effects caused by the addition of more light-emitting elements 371C.

[0261] The addition of the second light-emitting substrate 372YC increases the overall weight of the rotating unit 350C. However, by arranging the light-emitting substrates 372XC and 372YC symmetrically across the rotational axis CL1, the weight balance is improved compared to the rotating unit 350 shown in the first embodiment, contributing to improved operational stability during steady rotation and the reduction of stress generated at the pivot points during rotation.

[0262] <Another form> As shown in the fourth embodiment above, the use of multiple light-emitting substrates in combination is not limited to the above configuration in order to improve expressiveness. Various embodiments (modified examples) of using multiple light-emitting substrates in combination will be described below.

[0263] <Example 1> In the fourth embodiment described above, the first light-emitting elements 371XC and the second light-emitting elements 371YC are arranged alternately in a direction away from the rotational axis CL1 (lateral direction), but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the group of first light-emitting elements 371XC can be divided into a plurality of first blocks consisting of one or a plurality of adjacent first light-emitting elements 371XC, and the group of second light-emitting elements 371YC can be divided into a plurality of second blocks consisting of one or a plurality of adjacent second light-emitting elements 371YC, and these first and second blocks can be arranged alternately.

[0264] <Example 2> In the fourth embodiment described above, the light from the first light-emitting element 371XC of the first light-emitting substrate 372XC and the light from the second light-emitting element 371YC of the second light-emitting substrate 372YC are combined into the optical path forming body 381C, but the embodiment is not limited to this. A first optical path forming body for the first light-emitting element 371XC and a second optical path forming body for the second light-emitting element 371YC may be provided separately.

[0265] <Fifth Embodiment> In the fourth embodiment described above, the expressive power of the image displayed by the rotating unit 350C is improved by using multiple (two) stacked light-emitting substrates 372XC and 372YC in combination. In the configuration shown in this embodiment, although efforts have been made to achieve expressive power of the image by using multiple light-emitting substrates in combination, the specific configuration and the approach (concept) for improving expressive power differ from that of the fourth embodiment.Therefore, with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 33, the configuration of the rotating unit 350D in this embodiment will be explained below, focusing on the differences from the rotating unit 350C shown in the fourth embodiment.

[0266] Inside the housing 391D that constitutes the outer casing of the rotating unit 350D, a flat plate-shaped partition portion 393D is formed that divides the internal space of the housing 391D in the thickness direction. This partition portion 393D is provided with the function of a base for mounting the first light-emitting substrate 372XD and the second light-emitting substrate 372YD, and each light-emitting substrate 372XD, 372YD is fixed to the partition portion 393D with the plate surface on which the light-emitting elements 371XD, 371YD are mounted facing away from the partition portion 393D.

[0267] In the housing 391D, optical path forming bodies 381XD and 381YD are arranged so as to sandwich the respective light-emitting substrates 372XD and 372YD between them and the partition portion 393D. In other words, the light from the first light-emitting body 371XD is irradiated onto the first optical path forming body 381XD facing the first light-emitting substrate 372XD, and the light from the second light-emitting body 371YD is irradiated onto the second optical path forming body 381YD facing the second light-emitting substrate 372YD.

[0268] The first light path forming body 381XD and the second light path forming body 381YD are arranged such that the distance from the rotational axis CL1 to the first light-emitting part 355XD (first light-emitting body 371XD) is the same as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 to the second light-emitting part 355YD (second light-emitting body 371YD). In other words, as the rotation of the rotational unit 350D, the trajectory that the first light-emitting part 355XD passes through and the trajectory that the second light-emitting part 355YD passes through coincide (overlap).

[0269] In this way, by ensuring that multiple (two) light sources pass through a single light-emitting point when the rotating unit 350D completes one rotation, the light emission pattern at that point can be controlled by two light sources, the first light-emitting section 355XD (first light-emitting body 371XD) and the second light-emitting section 355YD (second light-emitting body 371YD), which pass through that point. This configuration contributes to improved expressiveness in terms of diversification of light emission control patterns. Furthermore, in a configuration in which multiple (two) light-emitting sections 355XD and 355YD passing through the same point are used in combination to define the light emission pattern, the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350D can be reduced while ensuring the image display function. This is a desirable configuration for improving the durability of the rotating unit 350D (movable display device).

[0270] It should be noted that the positional relationship between the first light-emitting unit 355XD and the second light-emitting unit 355YD shown in this embodiment is not mandatory. Similar to the fourth embodiment described above, it is also possible to configure the units to be positioned so as to avoid overlap between the trajectory of the first light-emitting unit 355XD and the trajectory of the second light-emitting unit 355YD.

[0271] <Sixth Embodiment> In the rotary connector 328 shown in the first embodiment described above, a shaft that rotates around the rotational axis CL1 in accordance with the rotary unit 350, a metallic ring portion fixed to the shaft, and a metallic brush portion disposed on the outer casing of the rotary connector 328 and pressed against the ring portion from the side are used. This configuration ensures that even when the rotational position of the rotary unit 350 changes, contact between the ring portion and the brush portion, i.e., the electrical connection between the rotary unit 350 and the base unit 320 (notification / performance control device 140), is maintained. In this embodiment, the configuration of this rotary connector differs from that of the first embodiment. The configuration of the rotary connector 328E shown in this embodiment will now be described with reference to Figure 34. Figure 34(a) is a block diagram showing the configuration related to the electrical connection, and Figure 34(b) is a schematic diagram showing the rotary connector 328E in the sixth embodiment.

[0272] As shown in Figure 34(a), the electrical path connecting the notification / performance control device 140 and the light-emitting substrate 372E of the movable performance device 300E is broadly divided into a power supply line EL, a ground line GL, and a signal line SL for transmitting commands that instruct the light-emitting mode. Each of these lines EL, GL, and SL is connected to the control unit 370E of the light-emitting substrate 372E via a rotary connector 328E. The control unit 370E identifies which light-emitting elements 371 should be illuminated and which should be turned off based on commands input through the signal line SL, and switches the power supply status of each light-emitting element 371 according to the identified content. The control unit 370E is configured to operate based on the power supplied through the power supply line EL, and the power supply line EL is provided with the function of supplying operating power not only to the light-emitting elements 371E but also to the control unit 370E.

[0273] As shown in FIG. 34(b1), the rotary connection connector 328E has a movable plate 331E fixed to the rotary unit 350 and rotating together with the rotary unit 350, and a fixed plate 332E fixed to the base unit 320 side and facing the movable plate 331E. The movable plate 331E is arranged such that the plate surface faces the same direction as the rotation center axis CL1, and connection terminals are formed on the plate surface of the movable plate 331E facing the fixed plate 332E side so as to form an annular shape centered on the rotation center axis CL1.

[0274] These connection terminals have different diameters so as to form concentric circles centered on the rotation center axis CL1, and on the side away from the rotation center axis CL1, they are arranged in the order of the movable plate side connection terminal for the power line EL → the movable plate side connection terminal for the ground line GL → the movable plate side connection terminal for the signal line SL.

[0275] A plurality of fixed plate side connection terminals are arranged along each movable plate side connection terminal provided on the movable plate 331E at the portion of the fixed plate 332E facing the movable plate 331E. Specifically, a plurality (four in this embodiment) of fixed plate side connection terminals for the power line EL corresponding to the movable plate side connection terminal for the power line EL are provided at equal intervals in the rotation direction centered on the rotation center axis CL1, a plurality (four in this embodiment) of fixed plate side connection terminals for the ground line GL corresponding to the movable plate side connection terminal for the ground line GL are provided at equal intervals in the rotation direction centered on the rotation center axis CL1, and a plurality (four in this embodiment) of fixed plate side connection terminals for the signal line SL corresponding to the movable plate side connection terminal for the signal line SL are provided at equal intervals in the rotation direction centered on the rotation center axis CL1.

[0276] As described above, when attempting to rotate the rotating unit 350E at high speed, it cannot be ruled out that the actual rotating shaft may shift (for example, tilt) relative to the rotational axis CL1 due to manufacturing errors in the support structure or deterioration over time such as wear. Such a shift can cause instability in the electrical connection between the notification / performance control device 140 and the light-emitting substrate 372. In this regard, as shown in this feature, by providing multiple connection points at equal intervals in the rotational direction for each line, the shift of the rotating shaft of the rotating unit 350E can be suitably tolerated.

[0277] For example, the effects of the aforementioned misalignment can be suppressed by increasing the contact pressure, such as by pressing the fixed plate-side connection terminal provided on the fixed plate 332E against the movable plate-side connection terminal. However, in such a configuration, the wear that occurs when the fixed-side connection terminal and the movable-side connection end slide against each other becomes large. This increase in friction is undesirable because it accelerates the wear of the connection terminal and can lead to connection failure. Compared to such a configuration, providing multiple connection points as described above is advantageous in reducing contact pressure and improving durability.

[0278] If the actual rotation axis is tilted relative to the rotation center axis CL1, the effect of this tilt increases as the distance from the rotation center axis CL1 increases. In this embodiment, the light emission of the light-emitting element 371E and the operation of the control unit 370E are performed by power supplied from the power line EL, making the power line EL more important than other lines. Therefore, by locating the power line EL in a position where the effect of the tilt is relatively small, that is, in a position closest to the rotation center axis CL1, even if the above tilt occurs, connection failures such as interruption of the power supply path due to the effect are less likely to occur.

[0279] Furthermore, in a configuration where rotation continues while maintaining contact, the wear of the connection terminals depends on the rotational speed, specifically the relative speed and sliding distance between the movable plate-side connection terminal and the fixed plate-side connection terminal at the contact point. These relative speeds and sliding distances increase as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 increases. In this embodiment, the connection terminals constituting the relatively important power line EL are positioned close to the rotational axis CL1, where the relative speed is relatively low and the sliding distance is relatively short. This makes it possible to suppress the wear of the connection terminals constituting the power line EL.

[0280] In this embodiment, various improvements have been made to the rotary connector 328 to enhance connection stability, etc. However, it is not necessary to use all of these technical ideas in combination, and some of them can be applied to the first embodiment described above. For example, as shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 34(b2), for the relatively important power line EL and ground line GL, multiple sets of corresponding connection terminals (rings 341F and brushes 342F) may be provided. In particular, the further away from the bearing location, the greater the impact of tilting the actual rotation axis with respect to the rotation center axis CL1. In light of these circumstances, there is technical significance in arranging the connection terminals constituting the power line EL at a location close to the bearing location, as shown in Figure 34(b2).

[0281] Incidentally, considering that different levels of importance are set for each line, it is possible to configure the terminal width (width in the direction of the rotational axis) to be larger for higher-priority lines (for example, power line EL and ground line GL) to increase the margin of clearance at the contact points.

[0282] <Seventh Embodiment> In the first embodiment described above, the light-emitting points were offset in the direction of the rotational axis CL1 to give depth (three-dimensionality) to the displayed characters, patterns, and other images. However, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it achieves the ability to change the degree of this depth depending on the situation. The configuration relating to this difference will be explained below with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 35.

[0283] In the rotating unit 350G shown in this embodiment, light-emitting units 370G, each consisting of a light-emitting substrate 372G and an optical path forming body 381G, are arranged on both sides of the rotational central axis CL1. These light-emitting units 370G are rotatably held by a housing 391G, and their tilt (attitude) relative to the rotational central axis CL1 changes as they rotate back and forth around the end on the rotational central axis CL1 side (rotational central axis CL2).

[0284] The housing 391G is equipped with a rotation drive unit 401G, which serves as a means for changing the orientation of the light-emitting units 370G. The rotation drive unit 401G is connected to the notification and effect control device 140 and is configured to operate based on a drive signal from the notification and effect control device 140. As a result, the light-emitting unit 370G is configured to move between a first position and a second position which is tilted further back than the first position. Although not shown in the diagram, the housing 391G is equipped with a locking device that can switch between an allowable state, which permits changes in the orientation of the light-emitting unit 370G, and a restrictive state, which restricts changes in orientation. When changing the orientation of the light-emitting unit 380G, this locking device is configured to temporarily switch from the restrictive state to the allowable state.

[0285] When comparing an image displayed with the light-emitting unit 370G positioned in the first location with an image displayed with the unit positioned in the second location, the latter exhibits a greater sense of depth (three-dimensionality) than the former. This allows for a change in appearance even with seemingly identical images.

[0286] Here, as shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 35(b1), in the light guide section 385 shown in the first embodiment, the direction of light irradiation is defined to be in the direction of the rotational axis CL1, thereby suppressing the spread of light in the direction intersecting the rotational axis CL1. Such a configuration is advantageous in suppressing light interference between multiple light-emitting sections 355 when multiple light-emitting sections 355 are used in combination, thereby improving image clarity. However, if this configuration is applied as is to the configuration shown in this embodiment, the following disadvantages will occur. For example, if the light guide section is formed assuming that the light-emitting unit 370G is positioned in the first position, the visibility of the image (light) when it is positioned in the second position will decrease, and if the light guide section is formed assuming that the light-emitting unit 370G is positioned in the second position, the visibility of the image (light) when it is positioned in the first position will decrease.

[0287] Therefore, in the light guide section 385G shown in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 35(b2), the side surface 390G of the light guide section 385G is tilted forward so that the spacing widens, thereby allowing the light to spread in a direction intersecting the rotational axis CL1. This suppresses a decrease in the visibility of the image displayed by the light from the light-emitting section 355G, regardless of whether the light-emitting unit 370G is positioned in the first or second position.

[0288] Next, the attitude control of the light-emitting unit 370G group will be described. In this embodiment, the change in the attitude of the light-emitting unit 370G group occurs while the rotating unit 350G is rotating. In other words, the change in the attitude of the light-emitting unit 370G group is avoided when the rotating unit 350G is stopped. Specifically, the modes of attitude change include (1) a mode in which the attitude changes to a second position while an image is being displayed at a first position, and (2) a mode in which the attitude changes from the first position to the second position between the time the rotating unit 350G starts rotating and the time the image is displayed.

[0289] In this embodiment, the expectation of a big win is higher when the sense of depth is emphasized. When such differentiation is implemented, it is assumed that the player's attention will be directed towards the degree of three-dimensionality added to the displayed image. If the posture of the light-emitting unit 370G group changes while the rotating unit 350G is stationary, the degree of depth added will be revealed before the image is displayed, which may reduce attention to the displayed image. In this regard, as described above, by configuring the light-emitting unit 370G group to change its posture while rotating, the occurrence of such problems can be suitably suppressed.

[0290] In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 370G is configured to switch between a first position and a second position, but the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, it is also possible to configure the system to change the position of the light-emitting unit 370G. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a three-dimensional display is provided in both the first and second positions, but it is also possible to configure the system to switch between planar and three-dimensional display by including a state in which the tilt with respect to the rotation center axis CL1 is 90 degrees.

[0291] Incidentally, it is possible to configure the system so that the tilt of the two light-emitting units 370G is changed individually, resulting in different tilts relative to the rotational axis CL1. However, such a configuration may worsen the balance during rotation, making it difficult to stabilize the rotation and increasing the load on the pivot points. Therefore, when allowing such individual movements, it is preferable to take measures to stabilize the rotation and suppress the decrease in durability (for example, by using counterweights).

[0292] <Eighth Embodiment> As explained in the seventh embodiment above, if the direction of light irradiation changes due to a change in posture, the amount of light reaching the player decreases, giving the impression that the light has been dimmed. This phenomenon does not have much effect when the change in the posture of the light-emitting substrate is small, but it becomes noticeable when the amount of change in angle is increased to emphasize the change in three-dimensionality. Of course, if the player changes their gaze, they can more easily catch the light and understand what image is being displayed. However, when the gaze is changed, the part on the opposite side of the gaze becomes difficult to see, making it difficult to ensure the visibility of the entire image. One of the features of this embodiment is that, taking these circumstances into consideration, measures have been taken to increase the degree of change in three-dimensionality while ensuring visibility. The configuration related to the above measures will be explained below, focusing on the differences from the seventh embodiment, with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 36.

[0293] As shown in Figure 36(a), the rotating unit 350H shown in this embodiment has the same configuration in that the light-emitting unit 370H, which consists of a light-emitting substrate 372H and an optical path forming body 381H, is pivotally supported by a housing 391H. However, the light-emitting unit 370H is provided with a first light-emitting substrate 372XH on which a first light-emitting element 371XH is mounted, and a second light-emitting substrate 372YH on which a second light-emitting element 371YH is mounted, and the optical path forming body 381H is provided with a first light-guiding section 385XH which is arranged along the first light-emitting substrate 372XH and guides light from the first light-emitting element 371XH, and a second light-guiding section 385YH which is arranged along the second light-emitting substrate 372YH and guides light from the second light-emitting element 371YH.

[0294] As shown in Figures 36(b1) and (b2), the first light guide section 385XH is formed such that the direction of light irradiation faces forward of the gaming machine (direction of the rotational axis CL1) when the light-emitting unit 370H is positioned in the first position, and the second light guide section 385YH is formed such that the direction of light irradiation faces forward of the gaming machine (direction of the rotational axis CL1) when the light-emitting unit 370H is positioned in the second position.

[0295] When drawing is performed by the rotating unit 350H with the light-emitting unit 370H positioned in the first position, the first light-emitting element 371XH lights up / flashes, and the second light-emitting element 371YH remains off. As a result, light from the first light-emitting element 371XH is projected through the first light guide unit 385XH, and an image is displayed in the operating area ME. With respect to the first light guide unit 385XH, when the light-emitting unit 370H is positioned in the first position, the direction of light projection is specified to be towards the front of the gaming machine, thus ensuring good visibility of the displayed image.

[0296] In contrast, when drawing is performed by the rotating unit 350H with the light-emitting unit 370H positioned in the second position, the second light-emitting element 371YH lights up / flashes, and the first light-emitting element 371XH remains off. As a result, light from the second light-emitting element 371YH is irradiated through the second light guide unit 385YH, and an image is displayed in the operating area ME. With respect to the second light guide unit 385YH, when the light-emitting unit 370H is positioned in the second position, the direction of light irradiation is specified to be towards the front of the game machine, thus ensuring good visibility of the displayed image.

[0297] As described above, the rotating unit 350H improves expressiveness by changing the sense of depth, while effectively suppressing the resulting decrease in image visibility.

[0298] <Another form> As shown in the eighth embodiment described above, in order to change the three-dimensionality of the image displayed by the rotating unit 350H, the configuration of the rotating unit 350H can also be as follows.

[0299] <Example 1> A light-emitting element with a 90-degree inclination with respect to the rotational axis CL1 and a light guide unit configured such that the direction of light irradiation is towards the front of the game machine (towards the rotational axis CL1) when the inclination with respect to the rotational axis CL1 is 90 degrees may be added, or the above-mentioned combination of the first light-emitting element 371XH and the first light guide unit 385XH or the above-mentioned combination of the second light-emitting element 371YH and the second light guide unit 385YH may be replaced. With such a configuration, it becomes possible to switch between planar and three-dimensional displays.

[0300] <Example 2> In the eighth embodiment described above, the light-emitting unit 370H (light-emitting section 355H) is positioned behind the rotational axis CL2 regardless of whether it is in the first or second position, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to have the light-emitting unit 370H (light-emitting section 355H) positioned in front of the rotational axis CL2 in either the first or second position, and positioned behind the rotational axis CL2 in the other position. With such a configuration, the image is displayed three-dimensionally in all positions, but the relationship between the concavity and concavity of the virtual display surface can be reversed, which can greatly change the appearance.

[0301] <Example 3> In the eighth embodiment described above, the first light-emitting element 371XH group and the second light-emitting element 371YH group were arranged in a rotational direction. However, it is not always necessary to separate the arrangement areas of these light-emitting elements 371XH and 371YH. For example, it is also possible to arrange the first light-emitting element 371XH and the second light-emitting element 371YH alternately on the same plane. However, if the first light-emitting element 371XH and the second light-emitting element 371YH are used individually in such a configuration, one of the first light-emitting unit 355XH corresponding to the first light-emitting element 371XH and the second light-emitting unit 355YH corresponding to the second light-emitting element 371YH will be a blank space for the other, resulting in noticeable coarseness in the displayed image. Therefore, assuming that the light-emitting elements are used differently depending on the orientation of the light-emitting unit, there is technical significance in arranging the first light-emitting unit 355XH and the second light-emitting unit 355YH on the same trajectory as shown in the eighth embodiment described above.

[0302] <Example 4> In the eighth embodiment described above, a first light guide section 385XH is provided separately, which is defined so that the direction of light irradiation is toward the front of the game machine when the light-emitting unit 370H is positioned in the first position, and a second light guide section 385YH is provided separately, which is defined so that the direction of light irradiation is toward the front of the game machine when the light-emitting unit 370H is positioned in the second position, and these light guide sections 385XH and 385YH are used interchangeably depending on the situation, but the invention is not limited to this. When the posture of the light-emitting unit 370H changes, the orientation of the light guide section relative to the main body of the light-emitting unit 370H may be changed so that the direction of light irradiation is maintained in a predetermined direction.

[0303] <Ninth Embodiment> In the seventh embodiment described above, the orientation of the light-emitting unit 370G is changed using driving force from the rotation drive unit 401G, etc. However, in order to stably change the orientation of the light-emitting unit 370G, which has a certain amount of weight, while the rotating unit 350G is rotating, it is necessary to increase the power generated by the rotation drive unit 401G to a certain extent, which tends to increase the size and weight of the rotation drive unit 401G. This can also affect the weight increase of the rotating unit 350G itself. One of the features of this embodiment is that the structure related to orientation change has been devised with these various circumstances in mind. The rotating unit 350I in this embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the seventh embodiment, etc., with reference to the schematic diagram in Figure 37.

[0304] In this embodiment, the light-emitting block 356I is constructed from a light-emitting element 371I, a light-guiding section 385I that guides the light from the light-emitting element 371I, a light-transmitting member 382I through which the light from the light-guiding section 385I passes, and a case body 401I on which these various components are mounted. These light-emitting blocks 356I are held by a housing 391I in an arrangement that intersects the rotational axis CL1.

[0305] The light-emitting blocks 356I are broadly classified into fixed light-emitting blocks 356aI and movable light-emitting blocks 356bI that can move in a direction intersecting the direction in which the light-emitting blocks 356I are arranged side by side. The configuration related to the movement of the movable light-emitting blocks 356bI will be described below.

[0306] A guide groove 395I is formed in the housing 391I, and a protrusion 402I formed on the case body 401I engages with the guide groove 395I. The guide groove 395I extends in the front-rear direction and is inclined with respect to the rotational axis CL1 such that the distance between its rear end and the rotational axis CL1 is greater than the distance between its front end and the rotational axis CL1. The light-emitting block 356I is permitted to slide along this guide groove 395I.

[0307] The housing 391I is provided with a locking device having a stopper 399I that can be switched between an allowable state that permits the movement of the movable light-emitting block 356bI and a restrictive state that restricts such movement. The stopper 399I is slidable in the direction of the rotational axis CL1, and in the restrictive state, it contacts the back surface of the light-emitting block 356bI, thereby restricting the movement of the light-emitting block 356bI along the guide groove 395I. In this state, all the light-emitting blocks 356bI are lined up side by side and aligned in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis CL1.

[0308] As the stopper 399I retracts and moves away from the light-emitting block 356bI, movement of the light-emitting block 356bI along the guide groove 395I is permitted. Specifically, as the rotating unit 350I rotates, a centrifugal force acts on the light-emitting block 356bI, moving it away from the rotational axis CL1. Here, the orientation of the guide groove 395I is given a component that moves it away from the rotational axis CL1, and the light-emitting block 356bI retracts along the guide groove 395I due to this centrifugal force. As the light-emitting block 356bI retracts due to the centrifugal force, it hits the rear end of the guide groove 395I, preventing it from retracting any further.

[0309] As shown in Figure 37(c), the side portion of the case body 401I is formed with engaging projections 403I and engaging grooves 404I that engage with adjacent case bodies. These engaging projections 403I and engaging grooves 404I connect the light-emitting blocks 356bI to each other, and the amount of change in relative position is limited so that overlap in the arrangement direction is maintained. Incidentally, in situations where the movement of some of the light-emitting blocks 356bI is hindered by factors such as snagging, the movement of this light-emitting block 356bI is assisted by the adjacent light-emitting block 356bI, ensuring smooth orientation changes.

[0310] Here, the front end of the guide groove 395I is aligned in front-rear position, while the rear end is designed to extend further rearward the further it is from the rotational axis CL1. As a result, as shown in Figure 37(b), the position of the retracted light-emitting block 356bI shifts further rearward the further it is from the rotational axis CL1.

[0311] As the rotational speed increases and before transitioning to constant speed rotation, the centrifugal force becomes greater than the sliding resistance that hinders the movement of the light-emitting blocks 356bI, causing all the movable light-emitting blocks 356bI to reach the rear end of the guide groove 395I. As a result, the overall orientation of the light-emitting blocks 356 changes to form an arc shape with the fixed light-emitting block 356aI, located on the rotational axis CL1, at the front.

[0312] After displaying a three-dimensional image using the rotating unit 350I, the stopper 399I moves forward, provided that the rotating unit 350I returns to its initial position. As a result, the light-emitting block 356bI, which was located at the rear end of the guide groove 395I, is pushed forward by the stopper 399I and returns to the front end of the guide groove 395I.

[0313] <Another form> As shown in the ninth embodiment above, the configuration for changing the posture using the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the rotating unit 350I may be modified as follows.

[0314] <Example 1> In the ninth embodiment described above, the light-emitting blocks 356bI are returned to their original position (front end position) by operating the stopper 399I. However, in such a configuration, the presence of an actuator for driving the stopper 399I increases the weight of the rotating unit 350I. Therefore, it is preferable to provide a biasing means (e.g., a spring) that biases each light-emitting block 356bI to the front end position, so that the light-emitting blocks 356bI move against the biasing force of these biasing means. With such a configuration, the rotational speed decreases and the centrifugal force decreases, so that the biasing force stored in the biasing means can return the light-emitting blocks 356bI to the front end position. Therefore, it is possible to contribute to reducing the weight of the rotating unit 350I compared to the case where an actuator is mounted.

[0315] <Example 2> In the ninth embodiment described above, the light-emitting block 356bI is moved to two positions, a front end position and a rear end position, by sliding the stopper 399I back and forth, that is, there are two switchable positions, but it is not limited to this. It is also possible to increase the number of switchable positions. For example, the stopper 399I is divided into two with respect to the rotational axis CL1, and each stopper 399I is held so as to be rotatable with respect to the end on the rotational axis CL1 side. By rotating the stopper 399I back and forth, the amount of movement of each light-emitting block 356bI can be changed in detail, making it possible to switch the sense of depth (three-dimensionality) in multiple stages or steplessly.

[0316] Even if these changes diversify the switchable orientations, the direction of light emission (optical axis orientation) of each light-emitting block 356bI remains facing forward on the gaming machine, eliminating the need for optical axis adjustment for each orientation. This ensures image visibility while contributing to further improvements in expressiveness with a simple configuration.

[0317] <Tenth Embodiment> As already explained, the rotating unit 350 shown in the first embodiment above may have variations in rotational speed during constant-speed rotation due to manufacturing errors and deterioration over time such as wear. This instability in the rotation of the rotating unit 350 can cause distortion in the displayed image, reducing its appearance. One of the features of the rotating unit 350J shown in this embodiment is that it is designed to suppress such problems by ensuring that the image display function is performed stably. The configuration related to this design will be described below with reference to Figure 38. Figure 38 is a schematic diagram of the rotating unit 350J viewed from the rear.

[0318] As shown in Figure 38(a), the housing 391J of the rotating unit 350J is provided with a weight 411J, a shaft 412J through which the weight 411J is inserted and which holds the weight 411J so that it can move toward and away from the rotational axis CL1 (in a direction intersecting the rotational axis CL1), and a coil spring 413J as a biasing means for biasing the weight 411J toward the rotational axis CL1.

[0319] Furthermore, an inner stopper portion 414J is formed at the rotational center portion of the housing 391J to prevent the weight 411J from moving toward the rotational center axis CL1, and an outer stopper portion 415J is formed at the rotational tip portion of the housing 391J to prevent movement toward the rotational center axis CL1. The range of movement of the weight 411J is defined by these stopper portions 414J and 415J.

[0320] When the rotating unit 350J is in its initial standby position (not rotating), the biasing force of the coil spring 413J presses the weight 411J against the inner stopper portion 414J, preventing it from moving toward the outer stopper portion 415J. As the rotating unit 350J starts rotating and the rotation speed increases, the centrifugal force acting on the weight 411J increases. When the centrifugal force acting on the weight 411J exceeds the biasing force of the coil spring 413J, the weight 411J moves toward the outer stopper portion 415J (see Figure 38(a) → Figure 38(b)).

[0321] In the initial stages of rotation of the rotating unit 350J, the weight 411J is positioned close to the rotational axis CL1, thus preventing the presence of the weight 411J from hindering the rotation of the rotating unit 350J.

[0322] In contrast, before the rotational speed of the rotating unit 350 reaches its upper limit, the weight 411J reaches the outer stopper portion 415J, and the rotational moment generated in the rotating unit 350 becomes maximum. This suppresses rapid changes in the rotational speed of the rotating unit 350, resulting in a configuration that stabilizes rotation when transitioning to constant speed rotation.

[0323] In a configuration where a weight 411J is biased using a coil spring 413J, when the weight 411J is not pressed against the inner stopper portion 414J or the outer stopper portion 415J, the expansion and contraction (vibration) of the coil spring 413J directly affects the position of the weight 411J, causing the position of the weight 411J to become unstable. However, when the rotational speed is at its maximum and the system is transitioning to steady rotation, the centrifugal force acting on the weight 411J far exceeds the biasing force of the coil spring 413J, maintaining the weight pressed against the outer stopper portion 415J. This prevents the presence of the coil spring 413J from becoming a factor that changes the moment of inertia during constant-speed rotation.

[0324] Here, using the movable weight 411J to increase the change in moment of inertia is effective in keeping the resistance in the initial stages of rotation low while improving stability during constant-speed rotation. In particular, the moment of inertia during constant-speed rotation can be increased by moving it away from the rotational axis CL1. However, since the size (total length) of the rotation unit 350J is limited, there is a limit to how far the weight 411J can be moved away from the rotational axis CL1. In particular, if the movement of the weight 411J is to be controlled using the coil spring 413J, the presence of this coil spring 413J becomes a factor that strengthens the constraint on the distance that the weight 411J can move.

[0325] In this embodiment, when the weight 411J is in contact with the outer stopper portion 415J, the coil spring 413J is housed in the recess 416J formed in the outer stopper portion 415J. This makes it possible to increase the stroke of the weight 411J.

[0326] Furthermore, the variable moment of inertia mechanism 410J, which is constructed from the movable weight 411J and its associated components, is arranged symmetrically across the rotational axis CL1. This prevents the weight balance of the rotating unit 350J from being disrupted by the presence of the variable moment of inertia mechanism 410J.

[0327] As shown in Figure 38(a), when the rotating unit 350J is in its initial position, the moving axes (shafts 412J) of the two weights 411J are configured to be oriented sideways. In other words, in the standby state when the rotating unit 350J is in its initial position, the weight of the weights 411J is not applied to the coil spring 413J. In this way, when the rotating unit 350J is not rotating, the application of unnecessary external force to the coil spring 413J is avoided, thereby suppressing a decrease in the function of the coil spring 413J. As a result, in a configuration using two variable moment of inertia means 410J in combination, differences in the degree of change when the moment of inertia changes are suppressed, and the change in the moment of inertia is made smoother.

[0328] According to the tenth embodiment described in detail above, as the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350J increases, the weight 411J moves away from the rotational axis CL1 due to centrifugal force, thereby increasing the moment of inertia during high-speed rotation. This suppresses variations in rotation speed during high-speed rotation and reduces image distortion.

[0329] When considering stabilization during high-speed rotation, it is possible to fix a weight in advance at a position far from the rotational axis to increase the moment of inertia. However, such a weight arrangement can increase the resistance when accelerating the movable body and reduce the responsiveness at the start of rotation. In this respect, in the configuration shown in this embodiment, the weight 411J is located closer to the rotational axis CL1 at the start, so the moment of inertia can be made relatively small. This effectively suppresses the reduction in responsiveness.

[0330] For the reasons stated above, by creating a sufficiently large difference between the minimum and maximum moment of inertia, that is, by significantly changing the moment of inertia between the startup and high-speed rotation of the rotating unit 350J, it is possible to suppress the decrease in responsiveness during the initial stages of rotation (acceleration) while suppressing speed fluctuations during high-speed rotation, thereby improving operational stability and enabling good operation of the movable performance device 300.

[0331] While it is possible to mitigate the effects of speed variations by performing fine-grained control using, for example, a stepping motor, such measures increase the control load and do not completely eliminate the image distortion described above. For these reasons, the configuration shown in this embodiment has technical significance.

[0332] In a configuration that uses a weight to change the moment of inertia, if the position of the weight changes while the system is rotating steadily, this can cause the rotation of the movable body to become unstable. Therefore, by configuring the system to prevent the displacement of the weight 411J when the system is rotating steadily (at a predetermined rotational speed), and thereby suppressing the change in the moment of inertia during the steady rotation, it is possible to effectively prevent the weight from becoming a factor that destabilizes the rotation.

[0333] The rotating unit 350J is horizontally elongated and configured to be horizontal in its standby position. This prevents the weight 411J from moving away from the rotational axis CL1 due to its own weight during standby, thereby effectively suppressing positional variations during standby. This also helps to suppress a decrease in the responsiveness of the movable body 411J when it starts up.

[0334] Furthermore, because the rotating unit 350J is symmetrical with respect to the rotational axis CL1, it is possible to suppress imbalances such as sagging that occur in the coil spring 413J, etc., thereby suppressing a decrease in balance during rotation.

[0335] In the above embodiment, the weight 411J is held in a slidable position, but it is sufficient as long as the distance of the weight 411J (more specifically, its center of gravity) from the rotational axis CL1 can be changed. For example, it is also possible to hold the weight in a rotatable position. By changing the posture of the weight, the distance between the center of gravity of the weight and the rotational axis CL1 changes, thereby ensuring the variable moment of inertia function.

[0336] <Embodiment 11> According to the movable display device 300 shown in each of the above embodiments, by repeatedly controlling the light emission of each light-emitting element 371 (updating light emission / off) multiple times when the rotating unit 350 makes one rotation, it is possible to display images such as predetermined characters or patterns on the virtual display surface ME using the afterimage of light. In the movable display device 300, the timing at which the above light emission control is executed during one rotation of the rotating unit 350, that is, the period in which the light emission pattern is updated (hereinafter referred to as the update period), is unified for all light-emitting parts 355 (light-emitting elements 371). Considering that the distance from the rotation center axis CL1 of the rotating unit 350 to each light-emitting part 355 is different, the image quality will be coarser in the part farther from the rotation center axis CL1 compared to the part closer to the rotation center axis CL1. In particular, when attempting to expand the display range by increasing the size of the rotating unit 350, this difference in image quality becomes more pronounced, and even if the display range is expanded, the appearance in the expanded part may deteriorate. In other words, differences in image quality can hinder the enlargement of the rotating unit 350 (i.e., the display of images over a wider area). One of the features of this embodiment is that measures have been taken to suppress the degradation of image quality caused by the distance from the rotational center axis CL1, thereby improving the appearance of the performance using the movable performance device 300. Below, we will first refer to Figure 39 to provide a supplementary explanation of the reasons why differences in image quality occur. Figure 39(a) is a schematic diagram of the rotating unit 350 viewed from the front, and Figure 39(b) is a schematic diagram showing the operating area ME (virtual display surface ME). Note that in Figure 39(a), the illustration has been simplified by reducing the number of light-emitting parts 355 for the sake of explanation.

[0337] The trajectory of the light-emitting part 355 differs depending on the distance from the rotational axis CL1 of the rotating unit 350 to the light-emitting part 355. In the following explanation, the light-emitting part 355 that orbits at a position relatively close to the rotational axis CL1 will be distinguished and described as the "first light-emitting part 355a," and the light-emitting part 355 that orbits at a position relatively farther away will be described as the "second light-emitting part 355b."

[0338] In the region through which the first light-emitting unit 355a passes when the rotating unit 350 makes one rotation, the first light-emitting unit 355a (more specifically, the light-emitting element 371 which serves as the light source for the first light-emitting unit 355a) functions as the main element of image display. In other words, the region through which the first light-emitting unit 355a passes on the virtual display surface ME (first display area DPa) constitutes a part of the virtual display surface ME, and the image displayed in this first display area DPa depends on the light-emitting mode of the first light-emitting unit 355a. Considering that the same light-emitting mode (on / off) is maintained at least in the section in which the first light-emitting unit 355a moves from one update to the next, it is possible to switch the light on / off for each element (hereinafter referred to as the first unit display area or first minimum display area MPa) that is equally divided in the rotation direction around the rotational axis CL1 by the number of updates per revolution. In other words, the dots on the virtual display surface ME are composed of these first minimum display areas MPa.

[0339] Similarly, in the region through which the second light-emitting unit 355b passes when the rotating unit 350 makes one rotation, the second light-emitting unit 355b (more specifically, the light-emitting element 371 which serves as the light source for the second light-emitting unit 355b) functions as the main element of image display. In other words, the region through which the second light-emitting unit 355b passes on the virtual display surface ME (second display area DPb) constitutes a part of the virtual display surface ME, and the image displayed in this second display area DPb depends on the light-emitting mode of the second light-emitting unit 355b. Considering that the same light-emitting mode (on / off) is maintained at least in the section in which the second light-emitting unit 355b moves from one update to the next, it is possible to switch the on / off state for each element (hereinafter referred to as the second unit display area or second minimum display area MPb) that is equally divided in the rotation direction around the rotational axis CL1 by the number of updates per revolution. In other words, these second minimum display areas MPb constitute the dots on the virtual display surface ME.

[0340] Here, the total distance the first light-emitting part 355a moves when the rotating unit 350 rotates once, as viewed from the front of the rotating unit 350 (viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1), is the product of the distance La between the first light-emitting part 355a and the rotational axis CL1 in the front view of the rotating unit 350 and 2π. Then, the length obtained by dividing this total distance by the number of updates performed when the rotating unit 350 rotates once defines the size (length dimension Da) of the first minimum display area MPa in the above rotational direction, and this size is proportional to the distance La. Similarly, the total distance the second light-emitting part 355b moves when the rotating unit 350 rotates once, as viewed from the front of the rotating unit 350 (viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1), is the product of the distance Lb between the second light-emitting part 355b and the rotational axis CL1 in the front view of the rotating unit 350 and 2π. Then, the length obtained by dividing the total travel distance by the number of updates performed when the rotating unit 350 makes one rotation defines the size (length dimension Db) of the second minimum display area MPb in the rotational direction, and this size is proportional to the separation distance Lb.

[0341] As described above, when the number of updates (update cycle) of the first light-emitting unit 355a and the number of updates (update cycle) of the second light-emitting unit 355b are the same, the length dimensions Da and Db of the minimum display areas MPa and MPb are proportional to the distance from the rotation center axis CL1. Therefore, the second minimum display area MPb, which is farther from the rotation center axis CL1, is larger than the first minimum display area MPa, which is closer to the rotation center axis CL1. Due to these circumstances, the density of the minimum display area MP changes from dense to sparse as you move away from the center of the virtual display surface ME (rotation center axis CL1). Consequently, the image quality of the image displayed on the virtual display surface ME deteriorates as you approach the outer edge of the virtual display surface ME. For example, as shown in Figure 39(b), when displaying a character image CP resembling a fish on the virtual display surface ME, detailed display is possible at positions close to the rotation center axis CL1, but detailed display becomes difficult at positions far from the rotation center axis CL1, and the appearance changes depending on the display position, even for the same image.

[0342] The size of the minimum display area MP in the rotation direction depends on the number of updates. In this embodiment, the MPU 612 of the notification and performance control device 140 performs a process (update mode switching process) to switch the update cycle according to the situation. By switching between a first update mode in which the update cycle is unified for all light-emitting units 355 and a second update mode in which the update cycle is individually set for each light-emitting unit 355 (light-emitting body 371), the reduction in expressiveness described above is suppressed by changing the number of updates for each light-emitting unit 355 (light-emitting body 371). Now, the update mode switching process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 40(a). The update mode switching process is a process performed by the MPU 612 of the notification and performance control device 140 as part of periodic processing.

[0343] (Update mode switching process) In the update mode switching process, first, in step S501, it is determined whether or not it is a game round involving a special effect. That is, it is determined whether or not it is a game round in which an image is displayed on the virtual display surface ME by the rotation of the rotating unit 350. More specifically, it is determined whether or not it is a game round in which the second light-emitting effect described above is executed. If the determination in step S501 is negative, the update mode switching process is terminated. If the determination in step S501 is positive, the process proceeds to step S502.

[0344] In step S502, it is determined whether the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotation drive unit 324 has reached a predetermined maximum value, that is, whether the rotation speed of the rotation unit 350 has reached its maximum and transitioned to constant speed rotation (steady rotation). If the determination in step S502 is positive, the process proceeds to step S503 to determine whether it is the start timing for the second light-emitting effect. If the determination in step S503 is positive, that is, if it is the timing to transition to constant speed rotation and start the second light-emitting effect, the process of transitioning to the second update mode is executed in step S504. In the notification and effect control device 140 shown in this embodiment, the first update mode is set as the update mode when a special effect is started. When the above-mentioned conditions for transitioning to an update mode are met, the process transitions from the first update mode to the second update mode.

[0345] If a negative result is obtained in step S502 or step S503, the process proceeds to step S505. In step S505, it is determined whether or not the timing of the end of the second performance is the end of the second light-up performance. If a negative result is obtained in step S505, the update mode switching process ends there. If a positive result is obtained in step S505, the process of returning to the first update mode is executed in step S506, and then the update mode switching process ends there. This first update mode is canceled when the special performance ends.

[0346] Here, referring to the timing chart in Figure 40(b), we will provide a supplementary explanation of the update mode switching process when special effects are executed.

[0347] At the timing of ta1, when a reach is displayed during gameplay and a special effect is initiated, the first light-emitting effect is started using the light-emitting part 355 of the rotating unit 350. At this time, the first update mode is set as the update mode. At the timing of the start of the special effect, the rotating unit 350 is positioned in its initial position and its orientation is sideways. Therefore, the first light-emitting effect causes a swing display in which the illuminated part shifts left and right. However, when the movable block 301 is in the standby position, the rotating unit 350 remains hidden behind the decorative member 272, making it difficult to visually confirm that the light-emitting part 355 is emitting light.

[0348] At timing ta2, immediately after the first light-emitting effect begins, the movable block 301 descends from the standby position to the effect position. As a result, the rotating unit 350 is positioned in front of the symbol display device 253 (display screen 253a), and the illumination by the rotating unit 350 and the light-emitting unit 355 can be seen from the front of the gaming machine.

[0349] At the timing of ta3, after the rotating unit 350 has reached the performance position, the operation of the operation button 35 located on the front door frame 14 is activated, and a message prompting the operation of the operation button 35 is displayed on the symbol display device 253. If the operation button 35 is operated during the valid period in accordance with this message, the special performance will move to the next stage.

[0350] When the operation button 35 is pressed at timing ta4, which is during the period when the operation is active, the rotating unit 350 starts rotating in a predetermined direction (clockwise) based on that operation. There is a certain time lag between the rotation of the rotating unit 350 accelerating and then moving to constant speed rotation, but the light emission pattern during acceleration is the same as the light emission pattern before rotation. As a result, for a short period of time, an image resembling a vortex of light is displayed in the operating area ME of the rotating unit 350.

[0351] At the timing ta5 when the rotating unit 350 transitions to constant-speed rotation, that is, when the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotation drive unit 324 reaches its upper limit, the illumination pattern of the rotating unit 350 (light-emitting unit 355) changes to the pattern determined when the special effect was set. Specifically, it changes to one of the following: a first pattern (video) in which an image resembling a vortex of light is displayed in rotation, similar to during acceleration; a second pattern (still image) in which a character resembling a girl's face is displayed still; a third pattern (video) in which an image resembling a school of small fish is displayed in a scrolling manner; or a fourth pattern (still image) in which text (for example, "V") indicating a jackpot result is displayed still. In conjunction with this, the update mode changes from the first update mode to the second update mode. If an operation is performed, one of the second to fourth patterns will be displayed according to the game result, whereas if no operation is performed, the first pattern will be displayed regardless of the game result.

[0352] At the timing of ta6, when the second performance ends, the illumination pattern of the rotating unit 350 (light-emitting part 355) returns to the pattern before the start of the second performance, and the update mode switches from the second update mode to the first update mode. Accordingly, the rotation unit 350 begins to decelerate. At the timing of ta7, when the rotating unit 350 stops, the movable block 301 returns from the performance position to the standby position. At the timing of ta8, when the movable block 301 returns to the standby position, the first illumination performance by the light-emitting part 355 ends.

[0353] Here, the difference between the first update mode and the second update mode will be explained with reference to Figure 41. Figure 41(a) is a schematic diagram showing the update pattern in the first update mode, Figure 41(b) is a schematic diagram showing the update pattern in the second update mode, and Figure 41(c) is a schematic diagram showing the change in display due to the difference in update modes. For the sake of explanation, Figures 41(a) and (b) show examples of 10 light-emitting units 355 arranged on the rotating unit 350, but the number of light-emitting units 355 is not limited to this.

[0354] As shown in Figure 41(a1), in the first update mode, each light-emitting unit 355 is updated 100 times in the period required for the rotating unit 350 to complete one rotation (rotation period: 0.2 sec). In other words, the update period is set to 2 msec. Therefore, as shown in Figure 41(a2), when comparing the minimum display area MP on the side closer to the rotation center axis CL1 with the minimum display area MP on the side closer to the outer edge of the virtual display surface ME, the size of the minimum display area MP in the rotation direction is larger for the latter than for the former.

[0355] In contrast, in the second update mode, the number of updates differs depending on the arrangement of the light-emitting units 355 (distance from the rotational axis CL1). Specifically, as shown in Figure 41(b1), the difference is set so that the further away from the rotational axis CL1 the unit is, the more updates it receives. For example, the first light-emitting unit 355 located next to the rotational axis CL1 has 100 updates and an update cycle of 2 msec, similar to the first update mode, while the second light-emitting unit 355 located next to the first light-emitting unit 355 (on the opposite side from the rotational axis CL1) has 105 updates and an update cycle of 1.9 msec. In this way, the outer light-emitting units 355 have shorter update cycles and more updates, thereby subdividing the minimum display area MP (see Figure 41(b2)).

[0356] Even when displaying the same image at a position near the outer edge of the virtual display surface ME, increasing the update period can enhance its detail and compensate for the difference in display capability compared to a position closer to the rotation center axis CL1. As illustrated in Figure 41(c), steps and other irregularities in the image's outline can be made less noticeable.

[0357] In the notification and effect control device 140's MPU 612 shown in this embodiment, the shortest period for executing periodic processing is 1 msec, and the execution cycle of periodic processing can be adjusted to the order of 1 / 10 of that (0.1 msec). More specifically, the execution cycle can be adjusted in 0.1 msec increments between 1 msec and 4 msec. However, if the system is configured to always update at the shortest possible cycle, the control load on the notification and effect control device 140 will increase. Furthermore, there is concern that the amount of information such as the light emission control program will increase, putting pressure on the memory capacity. In this regard, by using a first update mode and a second update mode in combination and shortening the execution cycle of periodic processing as needed, the occurrence of the above-mentioned problems is suppressed.

[0358] The 11th embodiment described in detail above provides the following excellent effects.

[0359] By changing the emission pattern of the light-emitting unit 355 in accordance with the rotation of the rotating unit 350 (corresponding to the "movable body"), a predetermined image (for example, a picture resembling a character or an image of text) can be made to appear on the operating area ME (virtual display surface ME) of the rotating unit 350 using the afterimage of light. Here, the further the distance from the rotation center axis CL1, the longer the distance the light-emitting unit 355 moves with the rotation. Due to these circumstances, the image displayed in the part far from the rotation center axis CL1 may be coarser compared to the part close to the rotation center axis CL1. This coarseness of the image is a factor that reduces its appearance and is a concern as it hinders the achievement of increasing attention to the game by the movable display device 300. In this regard, as shown in this embodiment, if the light-emitting unit 355 is configured to update the emission pattern (on / off) more frequently the further it is from the rotation center axis CL1, the coarseness of the image in the part far from the rotation center axis CL1 can be mitigated. Therefore, the movable display device 300 can be used to effectively enhance the effect of increasing attention to the game.

[0360] With regard to the movable display device 300 described above, the displayed image becomes coarser in proportion to the distance from the rotational axis CL1. Therefore, by configuring the number of times the light-emitting part is updated to be roughly proportional to the distance from the rotational axis, the aforementioned deterioration in appearance can be effectively suppressed.

[0361] Ideally, the number of updates should double when the distance from the rotational axis CL doubles. However, such a configuration would necessitate a larger tolerance for the number of updates (update cycle) and the execution of periodic processing at shorter intervals, which would severely restrict the performance of the notification and display control device 140 as a "control means." This could hinder the widespread adoption of the configuration shown in this embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the rate at which the number of updates increases is slightly greater as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 increases, thereby improving display accuracy at positions far from the rotational axis CL1 while suppressing the occurrence of the aforementioned problems.

[0362] As described above, when the number of updates differs for each light-emitting unit 355, the control load increases and the amount of information to be stored (e.g., a table defining the light-emitting pattern) increases compared to when the number of updates (update timing and update cycle) is unified. Therefore, by using a first update mode with a unified number of updates and a second update mode with different number of updates for each light-emitting unit 355 depending on the situation, the increase in control load caused by the improvement of the display function is suppressed. More specifically, in the second light-emitting effect that displays a predetermined image on the virtual display surface ME, the image display function can be stably performed by keeping the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350 constant. Therefore, by using the second update mode when there is steady rotation and the first update mode when there is no steady rotation, the increase in control load and amount of information can be suppressed.

[0363] <Another form> As shown in the 11th embodiment above, the display capability of the virtual display surface ME can be changed by setting a difference in the number of updates (update cycle) when performing light emission control, and the specific configuration may be changed as follows.

[0364] <Example 1> In the 11th embodiment described above, the degree of shortening of the renewal cycle increases as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 to the light-emitting section 355 increases, but the degree of shortening of the renewal cycle may be constant. Specifically, the renewal cycle may be shortened at a constant rate in proportion to the distance from the rotational axis CL1.

[0365] In particular, to suppress differences in the size of the minimum display area, the difference in density on the virtual display surface ME can be effectively eliminated by setting a rotation period for each light-emitting unit 355 such that the product of the distance from the rotation center axis CL1 and the number of updates is constant for each light-emitting unit 355. For example, in the example shown in Figure 39, the product of the distance La from the rotation center axis CL1 to the first light-emitting unit 355a and the update period of the first light-emitting unit 355a can be set to match the product of the distance Lb from the rotation center axis CL1 to the second light-emitting unit 355b and the update period of the second light-emitting unit 355b.

[0366] <Example 2> In the 11th embodiment described above, a difference in the light emission period was provided for each individual light-emitting unit 355. However, it is also possible to configure a group of multiple light-emitting units 355 and set a different light emission period for each of these groups.

[0367] <Example 3> In the 11th embodiment described above, the update mode is switched when transitioning from the first effect to the second effect. However, it is also possible to switch the update mode in the middle of the second effect. For example, if a rough pattern is displayed in one of the first or second halves of the second effect, and images such as letters or characters are displayed in the other, the update cycle may be made relatively longer for the pattern display and relatively shorter for the image display.

[0368] <Example 4> In the 11th embodiment described above, the update cycle of the light-emitting section 355 (light-emitting body 371) closest to the rotational axis CL1 is not shortened (not changed). However, it is also possible to shorten (change) the update cycle for all light-emitting sections 355 (light-emitting bodies 371). In this case, it is not necessary to create a difference such that the update cycle becomes shorter for the outer light-emitting sections 355. It is also possible to create a difference such that the update cycle is shortened for specific light-emitting sections 355 that are responsible for displaying fine images.

[0369] <Example 5> In the 11th embodiment described above, a configuration was used in which the first update mode and the second update mode are used together as the update mode, but the system is not limited to this. Such a switching function is not essential in order to realize the technical idea of ​​having different update cycles. For example, it is also possible to configure the system so that when a special game state is in play, the light emission control is always performed in the second update mode.

[0370] <Twelfth Embodiment> In the 11th embodiment described above, when the rotating unit 350 is rotating at a constant speed (steady rotation), the update mode is set to the second update mode regardless of the type of image displayed on the virtual display surface ME. If the update cycle is shortened by switching the update mode, not only will the control load increase as a result, but the amount of information in the program that defines the light emission pattern will also become enormous. An increase in the control load can cause the control processing to become unstable, and an increase in the amount of information can also put pressure on the information storage area for other effects.

[0371] Here, when displaying a simple pattern on the virtual display surface ME (the first embodiment described above) or when displaying a still image (the second and fourth embodiments described above), even if the display capability decreases near the outer edge of the virtual display surface ME, such differences in display capability are not very noticeable. In contrast, when displaying a predetermined character image on the virtual display surface ME in a direction intersecting the rotational axis CL1 (the third embodiment described above), the distance between the display position of the character image and the rotational axis CL1 changes over time. As shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 42(a), if the display of the character image becomes coarse near the outer edge of the virtual display surface ME, becomes finer as it approaches the rotational axis CL1, and then becomes coarse again as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1, the difference in appearance will stand out as the character image is closely viewed. In other words, when the second effect is performed in the third embodiment, it is assumed that the weaknesses of the movable effect device 300 will be more noticeable compared to when the second effect is performed in the other embodiments.

[0372] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 42(b), the system is configured to switch to the second update mode when the second performance is performed in the third mode, while avoiding the transition to the second update mode when the second performance is performed in any other mode. In this way, by deciding whether to maintain the first update mode or switch to the second update mode depending on the type of image displayed on the virtual display surface ME, the occurrence of the various inconveniences mentioned above caused by improvements in display functionality can be effectively suppressed.

[0373] Furthermore, as shown in this embodiment, when a specific character image moves within the virtual display surface ME, a practically preferable configuration can be achieved by shortening the update period only for the light-emitting unit 355 corresponding to the position where the character image is displayed. For example, when the character image passes through the right half of the virtual display surface ME, the update period may be shortened during the period in which it passes through this right half.

[0374] <13th Embodiment> For the movable display device 300 shown in each of the embodiments described above, the on / off cycle and number of cycles for the light-emitting element 371 were defined in anticipation of the time required for one rotation when the rotating unit 350 is rotating at a constant speed (steady rotation). In other words, although the rotation position detection sensor 329 monitors the passage to the initial position, the configuration does not sequentially check which other positions the unit is passing through. With such a configuration, it cannot be ruled out that image display may not function properly due to deterioration from repeated use of the movable display device 300 or malfunction or failure of the rotation position detection sensor 329. For example, if the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350 during steady rotation decreases and the rotation cycle becomes longer, or if there is a delay in receiving the signal from the rotation position detection sensor 329, a shift in the display position of the image may occur as shown in Figure 43(a). For example, when the rotating unit 350 rotates clockwise when viewed from the front of the game machine, a delay in that rotation may cause the display position of the image to shift clockwise or counterclockwise. Such display malfunctions are undesirable because they reduce the reliability of the movable display device 300.

[0375] In this embodiment, one of its features is that measures have been taken to improve the reliability of the movable display device 300 in light of these circumstances. Specifically, one of its features is that a configuration has been adopted to monitor the rotation status of the rotating unit 350 and to avoid the display disturbances described above according to the monitoring results. The rotation status monitoring process, which is executed as part of the periodic processing activated every 0.1 msec by the MPU 612 of the notification and display control device 140, will now be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 43(b).

[0376] (Processing for monitoring rotation status) In the rotation status monitoring process, first, in step S601, it is determined whether or not it is a game round involving a special effect. That is, it is determined whether or not it is a game round in which an image is displayed on the virtual display surface ME by the rotation of the rotation unit 350. More specifically, it is determined whether or not it is a game round in which the second light-emitting effect described above is executed. If the determination in step S601 is negative, the monitoring process ends there. If the determination in step S601 is positive, the process proceeds to step S602.

[0377] In step S602, it is determined whether the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotation drive unit 324 has reached a predetermined maximum value, that is, whether the rotation speed of the rotation unit 350 has reached its maximum and transitioned to constant speed rotation. If the determination in step S602 is positive, the process proceeds to step S603 to determine whether the rotation status is currently being monitored. Specifically, it is determined whether a monitoring flag is stored in the various flag storage areas of RAM 614. If the determination in step S603 is negative, the process proceeds to step S604.

[0378] In step S604, the detection information from the rotation position detection sensor 329 is checked, and it is determined whether or not information (ON signal) indicating that the rotation unit 350 is in its initial position has been received as the detection information. If the result in step S604 is negative, the monitoring process ends. If the result in step S604 is positive, the process proceeds to step S605.

[0379] After executing the monitoring start setup process in step S605, the monitoring process is terminated. In the monitoring start setup process, monitoring flags are stored in the various flag storage areas of RAM 614, and predetermined values ​​are set in the monitoring timer counters provided in the various counter areas. These monitoring timer counters are updated (decremented by 1) each time the monitoring process is executed. The value set in the monitoring timer counter is determined based on the time required for one rotation when the rotating unit 350 is rotating at a steady rate.

[0380] The rotation drive unit 324 for the rotation unit 350 shown in this embodiment is a DC motor and operates based on pulse signals output from the notification / performance control device 140. The rotation drive unit 324 is configured to move one step for every two pulses and complete one rotation in 100 steps. The transmission interval for one pulse is 1 msec. Therefore, the time required for the rotation unit 350 to complete one rotation (rotation period during steady rotation) is 0.2 sec. The number of updates per rotation when controlling the light emission of the light emitter 317 is 100, which is set to match one step. In other words, the update period for the light emission control is configured to be 2 msec, which matches the time required for one step of the rotation drive unit 324 to operate. A value equivalent to 0.2 sec + 2 msec is input to the monitoring timer counter.

[0381] Returning to the explanation of step S603, if a positive result is obtained in step S603, proceed to step S606. In step S606, it is determined whether or not the value of the monitoring timer counter has become "0". If it is determined in step S606 that the value of the monitoring timer counter has not become "0", proceed to step S607.

[0382] In step S607, the detection information from the rotation position detection sensor 329 is checked, and it is determined whether or not information (ON signal) indicating that the rotation unit 350 is in its initial position has been received as the detection information. If a negative determination is made in step S607, the monitoring process ends there. If a positive determination is made in step S607, the process proceeds to step S608. In step S608, the monitoring reset process is performed. Specifically, the monitoring timer counter is reset to the predetermined value mentioned above. If the rotation unit 350 is rotating normally, the measurement period will fall within a range of variation of approximately 0.2 seconds or that plus the update period mentioned above (see schematic diagram in Figure 44(a)), and the process from steps S606 to S608 will be repeated.

[0383] If a positive determination is made in step S606, the process proceeds to step S609. In other words, if no detection signal indicating return to the initial position is received from the rotation position detection sensor 329 before the monitoring timer counter reaches "0", a positive determination is made in step S606, and the process proceeds to step S609. Now, referring to the flowchart in Figure 44(b), the abnormality occurrence process will be explained.

[0384] (Handling of abnormal occurrences) In the error handling process, the first step, S701, is performed to determine the delay period. Specifically, each counter area of ​​RAM614 is equipped with a delay period measurement counter, and this delay period measurement counter starts updating when the monitoring timer counter becomes "0". In the process of step S701, the delay period is determined by referring to the value of this delay period measurement counter.

[0385] In the following step S702, it is determined whether the delay period determined in step S701 is within an acceptable range. In the movable display device 300 shown in this embodiment, an image is displayed on the virtual display surface ME by utilizing the afterimage of light from the light-emitting unit 355 when the rotating unit 350 rotates. In such a mechanism, if the rotation speed drops drastically, the image display will not work properly. In other words, there is a minimum speed that must be maintained in order to display the image. The acceptable range is set to be the standard rotation period of 0.2 sec plus an acceptable delay period (for example, 0.1 sec).

[0386] If a positive result is obtained in step S702, the process proceeds to step S703. In step S703, it is determined whether or not a signal indicating that the rotation unit 350 has returned to its initial position has been received from the rotation position detection sensor 329. If a negative result is obtained in step S703, the process for detecting abnormalities is terminated. If a positive result is obtained in step S703, the process proceeds to step S704. In step S704, the display update cycle correction process is executed.

[0387] As already explained, there are two possible reasons for a positive determination in step S606: a decrease in the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350 due to deterioration over time, and a delay in receiving the signal from the rotation position detection sensor 329. However, when comparing these two events, it is assumed that the former is the primary cause of a delay that does not exceed the acceptable range. For example, if reception is delayed due to a break or deterioration of the signal line or a poor connection, the amount of delay is expected to be extremely large. Therefore, in this embodiment, when a delay within the acceptable range occurs, the update period is corrected accordingly, thereby preventing the image display function from malfunctioning.

[0388] Here, the display update period correction process will be explained. In this correction process, the update period for switching the light-emitting element 371 on / off is changed based on the known delay period. The update period is based on 1 msec and can be extended in increments of 0.1 msec. If a delay occurs that exceeds the error defined by the monitoring timer counter but falls within the above tolerance range, the update period is corrected to be longer according to the amount of delay. For example, as shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 45, if a delay of 0.1 sec occurs and the rotation period (rotation cycle) of the rotating unit 350 is 0.3 sec, the update cycle is changed to 3 msec in order to adjust the period for switching the image for each rotation to 0.3 sec. In this case, the light emission pattern table read from the ROM 613 is also changed according to the change in the update cycle.

[0389] Returning to the explanation in Figure 44(b), after the correction process in step S704 is executed, the monitoring condition change process and monitoring reset process are executed in step S705, and then this abnormal occurrence process is terminated. In the monitoring condition change process, the predetermined value set in the monitoring timer counter in step S605 is changed to a period that takes into account the above delay period. As a result, the monitoring conditions will be changed from then until the special effect ends. After the condition change, the monitoring reset process (same as in step S608) is performed in order to continue monitoring.

[0390] Returning to the explanation of step S702, if a negative determination is made in step S702, that is, if it is determined that the delay period exceeds the acceptable range, the processes in steps S706 to S708 are performed. If a significant delay occurs that exceeds the range that can be corrected, that is, a significant delay that cannot guarantee the image display function due to afterimages (see Figure 44(a)), the continuation of the special effect is restricted.

[0391] Specifically, in step S706, the monitoring termination process is performed. In the monitoring termination process, the monitoring flags stored in the various flag storage areas of RAM 614 are cleared. This cancels the monitoring. In the following step S707, an abnormality detection command output process is executed to inform the hall manager of the gaming hall that an abnormality has occurred. This abnormality detection command is sent to the hall computer via the external terminal board. After the process in step S707 is executed, in step S708, the rotation unit 350 is returned to its initial position and further rotation is restricted. After the process in step S708 is executed, in step S709, an effect replacement process is performed so that an effect to replace the special effect by the movable effect device 300 is executed on the symbol display device 253.

[0392] The 13th embodiment described in detail above provides the following excellent effects.

[0393] In a movable performance device 300 that displays images such as patterns and characters by using the afterimage of light to make them appear to float in the space that is the operating area of ​​a movable body, by changing the light emission pattern of the light-emitting unit 355 in accordance with the rotation of the rotating unit 350, if the rotation period of the rotating unit 350 and the update period of the light emission pattern are out of sync, the image display may not be performed properly. For example, if the rotation period of the rotating unit 350 is extended due to various factors such as manufacturing errors or deterioration over time, such problems are more likely to occur. In this regard, as shown in this special embodiment, when the rotating unit 350 is rotating at a constant speed, the rotation status of the rotating unit 350 can be monitored, and it is possible to determine whether the movable performance device 300 is operating normally or not.Therefore, it is possible to suppress the malfunction of the display performance by the movable performance device 300 and suitably demonstrate the effect of the movable performance device 300 in increasing attention to the game.

[0394] To achieve the above display function, it is possible to configure the system to sequentially grasp the rotation angle of the rotating unit 350 and change the light emission pattern according to the rotation angle. However, in such a configuration, the control load related to light emission control increases due to the fine-grained correspondence. This increase in control load is undesirable because it strengthens the constraints on the light emission effect. Here, when the rotating unit 350 is rotating steadily at a constant speed, its rotation period is constant. Therefore, by configuring the system to perform a series of light emission controls in accordance with the rotation period of the rotating unit 350, as shown in this embodiment, the fine-grained correspondence described above becomes unnecessary, and the load related to light emission control can be suitably reduced. In other words, the display effect can be performed with a simple configuration using a so-called DC motor, without using a stepping motor that manages the rotation angle by the number of steps.

[0395] However, in such a configuration, if there is a delay in the movement of the rotating unit 350 or in the transmission and reception of signals from the rotational position detection sensor 329 due to some factor, the timing of the change in the light emission pattern (update timing) may be off target, and as a result, there is a concern that the display function may not be performed properly. Therefore, by configuring the system to monitor whether the movable body has rotated once within a reference period set based on the time required for the rotating unit 350 to rotate once, based on detection information from the rotational position detection sensor 329, the above-mentioned problems can be detected early, and countermeasures can be taken to resolve them. This makes it possible to suppress the malfunction of the display effect function due to the reduction of the control load.

[0396] By setting strict monitoring conditions, even minute deviations in the movement of the rotating unit 350 can be detected. However, overly strict monitoring that reacts sensitively to substantially harmless deviations is undesirable for improving the reliability of the movable display device 300. Regarding the aforementioned rotating movable display device 300, due to the complexity of its control, it cannot be ruled out that slight deviations may occur due to delays in processing timing, etc. However, under constant-speed rotation conditions, deviations within the update period in which the light emission pattern is updated have no substantial impact on the displayed image. Therefore, as shown in this embodiment, by incorporating the period in which the light emission pattern is updated into the monitoring reference period, the monitoring function can be effectively performed while suppressing overly sensitive reactions.

[0397] If there is a discrepancy between the measured value and the set value for the rotation period of the rotating unit 350, the image display can be prevented from failing to function properly by correcting (extending) the update cycle of the light emission pattern to match that discrepancy.

[0398] Furthermore, in a movable display device 300 that displays a predetermined image using the afterimage of light generated when the rotating unit 350 is rotated, the predetermined image will not be displayed properly if the rotation speed of the rotating unit 350 decreases drastically. In other words, there is a lower limit to the rotation speed for displaying the predetermined image, and this also imposes an upper limit on the time required for one rotation. Therefore, if a difference exceeding this limit occurs between the measured value and the set value, the display of the predetermined image can be restricted, thus avoiding the problem of the image being displayed in an incomplete state, which would confuse the player.

[0399] <Embodiment 14> In the 13th embodiment described above, the rotation status of the rotating unit 350 is monitored while it is rotating at a constant speed (steady rotation), and the update cycle (number of updates) of the light emission / lighting by the light emission control is corrected if a delay in rotation occurs during image display. This configuration is advantageous in that it can suppress problems with image display. However, when such correction is performed while an image is being displayed, it is difficult to avoid image distortion at least before the correction is performed. One of the features of this embodiment is that measures have been taken to suppress the occurrence of such problems. Specifically, in order to perform operation confirmation and update cycle setting before displaying an image on the virtual display surface ME, the update cycle setting process is executed in the MPU 612 of the notification / effect control device 140. Here, the update cycle setting process will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 46.

[0400] (Update cycle setting process) In the update cycle setting process, first, in step S801, it is determined whether or not it is a game round involving a special effect. That is, it is determined whether or not it is a game round in which an image is displayed on the virtual display surface ME by the rotation of the rotating unit 350. More specifically, it is determined whether or not it is a game round in which the second light-emitting effect described above is executed. If the determination in step S801 is negative, the setting process is terminated. If the determination in step S801 is positive, the process proceeds to step S802.

[0401] In step S802, it is determined whether the number of pulses of the drive signal output to the rotation drive unit 324 has reached a predetermined maximum value, that is, whether the rotation speed of the rotation unit 350 has reached its maximum and transitioned to constant speed rotation. If the determination in step S802 is negative, this setting process is terminated. If the determination in step S802 is positive, the process proceeds to step S803.

[0402] Step S803 determines whether or not the rotation status is currently being monitored. Specifically, it determines whether or not the rotation status monitoring flag is stored in the various flag storage areas of RAM 614. If the determination in step S803 is negative, the process proceeds to step S804. In step S804, it determines whether or not a signal indicating that the rotation unit 350 is in its initial position has been received from the rotation position detection sensor 329. If the determination in step S804 is negative, the setting process ends there. If the determination in step S804 is positive, the process proceeds to step S805.

[0403] In step S805, the rotation status detection start process is executed. Specifically, the rotation status detection flag is stored in the various flag storage areas of RAM 614, and the rotation period measurement counter update process is started in the various counter areas. The rotation period measurement counter is updated each time the setting process is started, and is reset to 0 when the setting of the update period is complete. After the process in step S805 is executed, the temporary restriction process for the progress of the performance is performed in step S806. As a result, the image display using the rotation unit 350 (control of the light-emitting element 371 corresponding to the image display: second light emission control process) is restricted until the restriction is lifted.

[0404] Returning to the explanation of step S803, if a positive determination is made in step S803, that is, if it is determined that the rotation status is being monitored, the process proceeds to step S807. In step S807, the rotation status monitoring process is performed. Specifically, the time elapsed since the rotation unit 350 left its initial position is determined by referring to the value of the rotation period measurement counter. After the process in step S807 is executed, the process proceeds to step S808.

[0405] In step S808, based on the period determined in step S807, it is checked whether a delay has occurred from the reference period (0.2 sec). If a delay has occurred, it is determined whether it is within the acceptable range as shown in the 13th embodiment above. If no delay has occurred, or if a delay has occurred but is within the acceptable range, the process proceeds to step S809. In step S809, it is determined whether a signal indicating that the rotation unit 350 is in its initial position has been received from the rotation position detection sensor 329. If a negative determination is made in step S809, the setting process is terminated. If a positive determination is made in step S809, the process proceeds to step S810.

[0406] In step S810, the update cycle for turning the light-emitting element 371 on and off is set based on the measured period determined in step S807. For example, if the measured period is 0.2 seconds, the update cycle is set to 2 msec, and if the measured period is 0.3 seconds, the update cycle is set to 3 msec. In other words, the update cycle is set so that the number of updates is the same (100 times) in either case. This is a measure to suppress the complexity of the table that defines the update pattern and to suppress the increase in the amount of information. After this, when displaying an image using the rotating unit 350, the light emission control will be executed based on the update period set in step S810.

[0407] After executing the setting process in step S810, the status assessment termination process is performed in step S811. Specifically, the rotation period measurement counter is cleared to 0 to restrict the update of the transition, and the rotation status assessment flags stored in the various flag storage areas are erased. After executing the process in step S811, the performance progress restriction release process is executed in step S812 to terminate this setting process. By releasing the performance progress restriction in step S812, image display using the rotation unit 350 becomes possible.

[0408] Returning to the explanation of step S808, if a negative determination is made in step S808, that is, if it is determined that a delay exceeding the acceptable range is occurring in the movement of the rotating unit 350, the process proceeds to step S813. In step S813, an abnormality detection command output process is executed to inform the hall manager of the gaming hall that an abnormality has occurred. This abnormality detection command is sent to the hall computer via the external terminal board. After the process of step S813 is executed, in step S814, an effect replacement process is performed to execute an effect in place of the special effect by the movable effect device 300. Specifically, the light emission effect in the first mode, which is less affected by the rotation speed compared to the second to fourth modes, is set as the alternative effect. After the process of step S814 is executed, the processes of steps S811 and S812 are executed, and then this update cycle setting process is terminated.

[0409] Thus, by configuring the system to determine the update cycle in accordance with the actual rotation cycle of the rotating unit 350 before image display, distortions in the displayed image can be suppressed more effectively compared to a configuration that corrects the update cycle while image display is in progress.

[0410] In this embodiment, the update cycle is set based on the results of a single measurement, but it is also possible to set the update cycle based on the results of multiple measurements.

[0411] <Embodiment 15> In the embodiments described above, a single-color LED was used as the "light-emitting element," but a full-color LED may be used instead. However, in order to diversify the light-emitting patterns and improve expressiveness using this type of LED, it becomes necessary to control the light emission of three elements: red light-emitting element, green light-emitting element, and blue light-emitting element. Therefore, the amount of information required for light emission control increases compared to when a single-color LED is used. To manage such a large amount of information, it is advisable to use a table that determines whether or not each of the red, green, and blue light-emitting elements can emit light based on two elements: the arrangement and update order of the full-color LEDs (see schematic diagram in Figure 47).

[0412] Using a table-based data management system allows for concise data management. Furthermore, even if the number of full-color LEDs or the images displayed change depending on the specifications of the gaming machine, the same format can be used to accommodate these changes, making data modifications easy.

[0413] <Other embodiments> Furthermore, the implementation is not limited to the descriptions of each embodiment described above, and may be carried out as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied individually to each of the above embodiments, or some or all of them may be applied to each of the above embodiments in combination. In addition, it is possible to arbitrarily combine all or some of the various configurations shown in each of the above embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects exhibited) of each configuration to be combined is ensured. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to a new configuration consisting of a combination of embodiments, or some or all of them may be applied in combination.

[0414] (1) In each of the above embodiments, the rotational axis CL1 of the rotating unit 350 as a "movable body" was positioned to face the front-to-back direction in the gaming machine, but this is not the only way to do so. The orientation of the rotational axis CL1 is arbitrary. For example, the rotating unit 350 can be configured so that the rotational axis CL1 faces the up-and-down direction.

[0415] (2) In each of the above embodiments, the area in front of the pattern display device 253 (display screen 253a) as the "pattern display means" was used as the operating area ME of the movable performance device 300, but the position in which the operating area ME is set is arbitrary. A distinctive feature of the movable performance device 300 shown in the above embodiments is that the visibility of the components located behind it can be ensured through the operating area ME. In view of this characteristic, it is also possible to use the area in front of game components such as lamps and decorative elements as the operating area ME. Even in this case, the visibility of the light-emitting effects by the lamps and the decorative elements can be ensured.

[0416] (3) In each of the above embodiments, a DC motor is used as the "drive unit" for the rotating unit 350, but a stepping motor may be used instead. With a stepping motor, the rotation angle can be controlled by output pulses. Therefore, when a stepping motor is used, the light emission mode can be defined in correspondence with the number of output pulses, making it possible to switch the display mode according to the rotation angle.

[0417] (4) In each of the above embodiments, the configuration is such that it is determined whether or not constant speed rotation is occurring based on the output status (output pulse) of the drive signal to the rotation drive unit 324. However, it is also possible to configure the system to determine whether or not constant speed rotation is occurring based on detection information from a position detection sensor or the like (for example, by calculating the rotation period and rotation speed).

[0418] (5) In each of the above embodiments, the light-emitting units 355 are arranged symmetrically (left-right symmetrically) with respect to the rotational axis CL1. In such a configuration, when the rotation angle reaches 180 degrees, the positional relationship between the light-emitting units 355 on one side (first group of light-emitting units 355) and the light-emitting units 355 on the other side (second group of light-emitting units 355) with respect to the rotational axis CL1 is reversed. Taking this movement into consideration, it is also possible to configure the system to switch the light-emitting control target each time the rotation angle reaches 180 degrees.

[0419] Specifically, the first group of light-emitting units 355 and the second group of light-emitting units 355 are controlled to emit light in a first control mode and a second control mode until the rotation angle of the rotating unit 350 reaches 180 degrees from its initial position. From the time the rotation angle reaches 180 degrees until it returns to the initial position, the control mode is switched so that the first group of light-emitting units 355 are controlled in a second control mode and the second group of light-emitting units 355 are controlled in a first control mode. Since the trajectories of each group of first light-emitting units 355 and each group of second light-emitting units 355 coincide, the display control span of each light-emitting point can be reduced to half the period of each embodiment. As a result, even smoother movement can be expressed when displaying, for example, videos, at the same rotation speed as each embodiment. Furthermore, in order to ensure the same level of smoothness as each embodiment, the rotation speed can be reduced to about half.

[0420] (6) In each of the above embodiments, the light-emitting units 355 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the rotational axis CL1, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the light-emitting units may be arranged asymmetrically with respect to the rotational axis CL1. Furthermore, it is not necessarily required to arrange the light-emitting units 355 on both sides of the rotational axis CL1. However, the symmetrical arrangement described above has technical significance if consideration is given to stability during high-speed rotation and the mitigation of stress generated at the pivot points.

[0421] (7) In each of the above embodiments, the light-emitting substrate 372 was positioned so that its surface was parallel to the rotational axis CL1. However, it is also possible to position the light-emitting substrate 372 at an angle to the rotational axis CL1, or to position it so that it intersects (for example, perpendicular to) the rotational axis CL1. Furthermore, although the light-emitting substrate 372 was positioned at a distance from the rotational axis CL1, it is also possible to position the light-emitting substrate 372 on the rotational axis CL1.

[0422] (8) In each of the above embodiments, the configuration is such that when the rotational speed of the rotating unit 350 has not reached a predetermined speed (upper limit speed) (during acceleration or deceleration), the light emission control is performed in units of a preset period, and when the rotational speed of the rotating unit 350 has reached a predetermined speed (during constant speed rotation), the configuration is such that the rotating unit 350 performs light emission control in units of one rotation. However, it is not necessary to switch between such control modes. For example, it is possible to unify to one of the two conditions above.

[0423] (9) In each of the above embodiments, a configuration was used in which an optical path forming body 381 constituting the light-emitting unit 355 was used, but this does not preclude a configuration in which light from the light-emitting body 371 is directly irradiated in front of the gaming machine.

[0424] (10) In each of the above embodiments, the light guide portion 385 is provided with a light-diffusing region and a non-light-diffusing region, but it is not limited thereto. The entire area of ​​the light guide portion 385 may be a light-diffusing region or a non-light-diffusing region.

[0425] (11) In each of the above embodiments, one of the two surfaces of the light-emitting substrate 372 was used as the mounting surface for the light-emitting element 371, but it is also possible to mount the light-emitting element 371 on both sides of the light-emitting substrate 372.

[0426] Furthermore, the light-emitting element 371 does not necessarily have to be a plate-shaped member. For example, a rod-shaped member or a hemispherical member can also be used as the mounting target.

[0427] (12) In each of the above embodiments, the spacing between the light-emitting elements 371 is set to gradually increase as it moves away from the rotational axis CL1, but it is also possible to keep the spacing between the light-emitting elements 371 constant.

[0428] Furthermore, assuming a virtual display surface that protrudes forward from the central part of the gaming machine, it is possible to make the spacing between the light-emitting parts 355 smaller as they move away from the rotational axis CL1, rather than keeping it constant. This causes the dots (pixels) to change from sparse to dense as they move outward from the rotational center, which can contribute to enhancing the sense of depth (three-dimensionality).

[0429] (13) In each of the above embodiments, the rotating unit 350 is configured to rotate clockwise when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1, but it is also possible to change this to a configuration in which it rotates counterclockwise when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis CL1. Also, although the rotating unit 350 is configured to rotate in only one direction, it is also possible to configure it to rotate in both forward and reverse directions.

[0430] (14) As shown in each of the embodiments described above, in a configuration in which an image is displayed in space using a rotating image display means, the apparent light emission level decreases as the distance from the rotational axis CL1 to the light-emitting unit 355 increases, and the image becomes darker due to insufficient light. In other words, a difference in brightness and darkness occurs in the image depending on the distance from the rotational axis CL1. Therefore, instead of making the specifications of all light-emitting elements 371 the same, it is also possible to configure a system in which light-emitting elements that are farther from the rotational axis CL1 have a higher light emission level (higher light intensity) and correct the difference in brightness and darkness or unify the brightness. Furthermore, it is not impossible to perform a correction similar to the above by increasing the power supply to the light-emitting elements that are farther from the rotational axis CL1 to increase the light emission level, or by adjusting the light intensity (gradation control) for each light-emitting element 371.

[0431] Furthermore, the light-emitting section 355 located on the rotational axis CL1 may emit excessively strong light. Therefore, it is preferable to use the above-mentioned various configurations to reduce the light emission level, at least during rotation.

[0432] (15) In each of the above embodiments, the lighting pattern is switched when the rotating unit 350 accelerates → rotates at a constant speed → decelerates, but the invention is not limited to this. The lighting pattern may be the same regardless of the rotation situation, or the image may be displayed only during constant speed rotation.

[0433] (16) In each of the above embodiments, the special effects performed by the movable performance device 300 are operation-responsive effects that correspond to the operation of the operation button 35 (corresponding to the "operation unit") by the player, but the invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to configure the invention in which there is no relationship between the special effects performed by the movable performance device 300 and the operation of the operation button 35.

[0434] (17) In each of the above embodiments, during constant-speed rotation, the next light emission control mode (the sequence of when to light up / turn off which light source) is set for each rotation based on the detection information from the rotation position detection sensor 329, and during non-constant-speed rotation, the next light emission control mode is set after a predetermined period of time has elapsed that is equivalent to the time required for one rotation during constant-speed rotation. However, it is also possible to reverse this. Furthermore, it is not always necessary to use both of the above conditions in combination as the conditions for switching (setting) the light emission control mode, and it is also possible to unify to either one of the conditions.

[0435] (18) In the above embodiments, the light-emitting element that is targeted for illumination in the first light emission control process executed when the unit is rotating at a constant speed and the light-emitting element that is targeted for illumination in the second light emission control process executed when the unit is not rotating at a constant speed are not distinguished. However, it is also possible to change this and configure the unit to distinguish between the light-emitting elements when the rotating unit 350 is rotating at a constant speed and the light-emitting elements when it is not rotating at a constant speed. For example, it is possible to restrict the light-emitting elements to not be targeted for illumination by excluding the light-emitting element 371 located at the rotating tip of the rotating unit 350 when the unit is not rotating at a constant speed. In the first place, in a configuration in which an image is displayed by rotating the rotating unit 350, if an image is forced to be displayed when the rotation speed is not sufficient for drawing, the quality of the displayed image will be lower than the image that would be displayed if it were not.Therefore, in the above embodiments, the displayed image is configured to be used differently for constant-speed rotation and non-constant-speed rotation.In this case, if the light-emitting elements are restricted, the quality of the image displayed during constant-speed rotation can be guaranteed, while the difference between the image displayed during constant-speed rotation and the image displayed at other times can be emphasized.

[0436] (19) In each of the above embodiments, a movable display device 300 that displays a predetermined image on the virtual display surface ME by rotating the rotating unit 350 has been provided as an example, but the invention is not limited thereto. The "movable display device" may be, for example, a rotating light-emitting device that does not have an image display function, or a simple rotating movable gimmick that omits the light-emitting function.

[0437] (20) The present invention can also be applied to other types of pachinko machines different from the embodiments described above, such as pachinko machines in which an electric mechanism opens a predetermined number of times when a game ball enters a specific area of ​​a special device, pachinko machines in which a right is generated and a jackpot is won when a game ball enters a specific area of ​​a special device, pachinko machines equipped with other mechanisms, arrangement ball machines, mahjong ball machines, and other gaming machines.

[0438] Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to non-spinning gaming machines, such as slot machines equipped with multiple reels each bearing multiple types of symbols arranged circumferentially, in which the reels begin to rotate when a medal is inserted and a start lever is operated, and after the reels stop when a stop switch is operated, if a specific symbol or combination of specific symbols is found on an active line visible through the display window, the player is given a bonus such as a medal payout.

[0439] Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine that combines a pachinko machine and a slot machine, in which the gaming machine body, supported by an outer frame in an openable and closable manner, is equipped with a storage unit and a take-up device, and the reels start to rotate when a start lever is operated after a predetermined number of gaming balls stored in the storage unit have been taken in by the take-up device.

[0440] <Regarding the group of inventions extracted from each of the above embodiments> The following describes the features of the group of inventions extracted from each of the embodiments described above, showing their effects and other aspects as necessary. For ease of understanding, corresponding configurations in the above embodiments will be indicated in parentheses as appropriate, but the invention is not limited to these specific configurations indicated in parentheses.

[0441] <Feature Group A> Front-to-back shift of the light-emitting area The following group of features A is based on the background technology that "some gaming machines such as pachinko machines and slot machines are equipped with light-emitting parts that are positioned in a location visible from the front of the gaming machine and whose display patterns change as the game progresses. These light-emitting parts are equipped with a function that enhances the visual effects during the game by changing the display patterns in various ways according to the progress of the game (for example, Patent Document 1)." However, the invention was made with the problem that "even when attempting to enhance the visual effects using the above-mentioned light-emitting parts, many of them tend to be similar, and there is still room for improvement in increasing attention to the visual effects by improving the appearance of the display effects."

[0442] Feature A1. A movable performance device (movable performance device 300) having a movable body (rotating unit 350) that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1), and a drive unit (rotating drive unit 324) that rotates the movable body, A control means (notification / performance control device 140) that performs game performances by controlling the movable performance device in accordance with the progress of the game, and Equipped with, The movable body is provided with a light-emitting means (main body 352) having a plurality of light-emitting parts (light-emitting parts 355) arranged at different distances from the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1) of the movable body. The control means is A drive control means that controls the drive of the drive unit by rotating the movable body (a function that executes drive control processing on the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), When the movable body is rotating, a light emission control means (a function that executes light emission control processing in the MPU612 of the notification / performance control device 140) switches the light emission mode of the light emission means according to the rotation position or rotation period of the movable body. It has, The gaming machine is characterized in that the plurality of light-emitting units are arranged so as to be offset in the direction of the rotational axis.

[0443] According to Feature A1, multiple light-emitting parts are formed at different distances from the rotational axis of the movable body (for example, aligned in the radial direction of the rotational axis when viewed from the direction of the rotational axis). By changing the emission pattern of the light-emitting means (multiple light-emitting parts) in accordance with the rotation of the movable body, images such as patterns and characters can be displayed by utilizing the afterimage of light to make them appear to float in the space that constitutes the operating area of ​​the movable body. Because the positions (relative positions) of the light-emitting parts are shifted in the direction of the rotational axis, a sense of depth (three-dimensionality) is created in the image in the direction of the rotational axis. This improves the appearance of the game effects (light-emitting effects) by the movable effect device and contributes to increasing attention to the effects.

[0444] The configuration described in this feature comprises a movable performance device (movable performance device 300) having a movable body (rotating unit 350) that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1), and a drive unit (rotational drive unit 324) that rotates the movable body, and a control means (notification / performance control device 140) that performs game performances by controlling the movable performance device in accordance with the progress of the game, wherein the movable body is provided with a light-emitting means (main body 352) having a plurality of light-emitting units (light-emitting units 355) arranged at different distances from the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1) of the movable body, and the control means rotates the movable body The gaming machine is characterized by having a drive control means that controls the drive of the drive unit by causing it to rotate (a function that executes drive control processing in the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), and a light emission control means that switches the light emission mode of the light emission means according to the rotation position or rotation period of the movable body when the movable body is rotating (a function that executes light emission control processing in the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), wherein the plurality of light emission units include a first light emission unit and a second light emission unit that are at different distances from the rotation center axis, and the relative positions of the first light emission unit and the second light emission unit are offset in the direction of the rotation center axis.

[0445] Incidentally, the movable performance device (movable performance device 300) comprises a movable body (rotating unit 350) that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1), and a drive unit (rotating drive unit 324) that rotates the movable body, and a control means (notification / performance control device 140) that performs game performances by controlling the movable performance device in accordance with the progress of the game, and the movable body has a plurality of light-emitting parts (light-emitting parts 355) formed so as to be aligned in the radial direction (for example, left and right direction) of the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1) of the movable body. The game machine is characterized in that a means (main body 352) is provided, and the control means includes a drive control means that controls the drive of the drive unit by rotating the movable body (a function that executes drive control processing in the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), and a light emission control means that controls the light emission of the light emission means when the movable body is rotating (a function that executes light emission control processing in the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), and the plurality of light emission units are arranged to be offset in the direction of the rotation center axis.

[0446] Feature A2. A movable performance device (movable performance device 300) having a movable body (rotating unit 350) that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1), and a drive unit (rotating drive unit 324) that rotates the movable body, A control means (notification / performance control device 140) that performs game performances by controlling the movable performance device in accordance with the progress of the game, and Equipped with, The movable body is provided with a light-emitting means (main body 352) having a plurality of light-emitting parts (light-emitting parts 355) arranged at different distances from the rotational axis of the movable body. The control means is A drive control means that controls the drive of the drive unit by rotating the movable body (a function that executes drive control processing on the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), When the movable body is rotating, a light emission control means (a function that executes light emission control processing in the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140) switches the light emission mode of the light emission means according to the rotational position or rotational period of the movable body, thereby displaying a predetermined image in the operating area of ​​the movable body using the afterimage of light. It has, The gaming machine is characterized in that the plurality of light-emitting units are arranged so as to be offset in the direction of the rotational axis.

[0447] According to Feature A2, multiple light-emitting parts are formed at different distances from the rotational axis of the movable body (for example, aligned in the radial direction of the rotational axis when viewed in the direction of the rotational axis). By changing the emission pattern of the light-emitting means in accordance with the rotation of the movable body, a predetermined image (for example, a picture resembling a character or text) can be made to appear in the rotational area of ​​the movable body by utilizing the afterimage of light. Because the positions (relative positions) of the light-emitting parts are shifted in the direction of the rotational axis, the predetermined image will have a sense of depth (three-dimensionality) in the direction of the rotational axis. This improves the appearance of the game effects (light-emitting effects) by the movable effect device and contributes to increasing attention to the effects.

[0448] The configuration described in this feature comprises a movable performance device (movable performance device 300) having a movable body (rotating unit 350) that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis (rotational axis CL1), and a drive unit (rotating drive unit 324) that rotates the movable body, and a control means (notification / performance control device 140) that performs game performances by controlling the movable performance device in accordance with the progress of the game, wherein the movable body is provided with a light-emitting means (main body 352) having a plurality of light-emitting units (light-emitting units 355) arranged at different distances from the rotational axis of the movable body, and the control means controls the drive of the drive unit so as to rotate the movable body. The gaming machine is characterized by having a control means (a function that executes drive control processing using the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140), and a light emission control means (a function that executes light emission control processing using the MPU 612 of the notification / performance control device 140) that switches the light emission mode of the light emission means according to the rotation position or rotation period of the movable body when the movable body is rotating, thereby displaying a predetermined image in the operating area of ​​the movable body using the afterimage of light, and having a plurality of light emission units, a first light emission unit and a second light emission unit that are at different distances from the rotation center axis, and the relative positions of the first light emission unit and the second light emission unit are shifted in the direction of the rotation center axis.

[0449] Feature A3. It has a display screen (display screen 253a) and is equipped with a pattern display means (pattern display device 253) that displays patterns variably on the display screen, The gaming machine according to feature A1 or feature A2, characterized in that the movable display device is configured such that, when the movable body is rotated in front of the pattern display means to display a predetermined image, the display screen can be viewed through the operating range of the movable body.

[0450] According to Feature A3, when a movable body rotates in front of the pattern display means, even if a predetermined image is displayed in the operating area due to the rotation, the visibility of the display content (patterns, etc.) on the display screen located behind it will be ensured. Therefore, the movable performance device and the pattern display means can be suitably combined, and for example, integrated performance can be achieved through the cooperation of the movable performance device and the pattern display means.

[0451] Furthermore, it is preferable to form the movable body in a long, elongated shape that extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis. With such a configuration, the shape of the movable body itself becomes difficult to see with the naked eye as the rotational speed increases. Therefore, the aforementioned visibility can be suitably ensured.

[0452] Incidentally, the configuration shown in this feature can also be described as "a gaming machine according to feature A1 or feature A2, which has a display screen (display screen 253a) and a pattern display means (pattern display device 253) that variably displays patterns on the display screen, and the movable performance device is configured such that by...

Claims

[Claim 1] A movable performance device having a movable body that is rotatably held and extends in a direction intersecting the rotational axis, and a drive unit that rotates the movable body, A control means that performs game effects by controlling the movable effect device in accordance with the progress of the game, Equipped with, The movable body is provided with a light-emitting means having a plurality of light-emitting parts arranged at different distances from the rotational axis of the movable body. The control means is A drive control means that controls the drive of the drive unit by rotating the movable body, When the movable body is rotating, a light emission control means switches the light emission mode of the light emission means according to the rotational position or rotational period of the movable body, thereby displaying a predetermined image in the operating area of ​​the movable body using the afterimage of light. It has, The gaming machine is characterized by having a monitoring means that monitors the rotation status of the movable body based on monitoring conditions set according to the switching of the light emission mode by the light emission control means when the movable body is in a predetermined rotation state in which it rotates at a constant speed.

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