Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine that can suppress damage to parts when the front door is closed. [Solution] When viewed from the front with the front door closed, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area. When viewed from the front, a virtual straight line parallel to the vertical or horizontal direction passing through the setting key switch is defined as the first straight line. When viewed from the front, multiple heat dissipation vents are provided in the part of the case other than the first specific area, which lies on the first straight line. When viewed from the front, the heat dissipation vents are not provided in the first specific area of ​​the case, which lies on the first straight line, and when viewed from the front, the part of the case that protrudes the most towards the housing side with the front door closed is defined as the first part. The first specific area is located in a part different from the first part.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] As a gaming machine, a slot machine equipped with a plurality of reels on which a plurality of symbols are arranged on the outer peripheral surface, a start lever, a stop button, etc. is known. In a slot machine, when the rotation of the reels is started based on a game start operation, an internal lottery using a lottery table is performed. When each reel stops, a symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination selected in the internal lottery is displayed. When the winning combination wins, as a process corresponding to the winning combination that has won, for example, a medal payout process for paying out medals (game values) or a replay process that enables a new game without consuming medals again is performed.

[0003] Some of such gaming machines have a board unit (for example, a sub-board unit) (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, in a gaming machine, it is required to suppress damage to components when the front door is closed.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of suppressing damage to components when the front door is closed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with a heat dissipation vent (heat dissipation vent 421), When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area. When viewed from the front, if we define the first line as a virtual straight line parallel to the vertical or horizontal direction that passes through the aforementioned setting key switch, When viewed from the front, a plurality of heat dissipation vents are provided on the first straight line and in a portion of the case other than the first specific region. When viewed from the front, the first straight line is located, and the first specific region of the case does not have the heat dissipation vents. With the front door closed, if the part of the case that protrudes the most towards the housing side is designated as the first part, then the first specific region is located in a part different from the first part.

[0008] This configuration ensures heat dissipation performance while suppressing damage to components. Specifically, the latter means that even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus suppressing damage to the case. Furthermore, because the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, makes contact, it is possible to prevent the setting key or other components from entering the inside of the case. Therefore, damage to components and circuits on the circuit board can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the first specific area is located in a part of the case that is different from the part that protrudes the most towards the housing side, the first specific area is less likely to come into contact with the setting key (setting key switch) compared to when the first specific area is located in the part that protrudes the most towards the housing side. This helps to suppress damage to the case. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, damage to parts when the front door is closed can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view from the front, showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the enclosure. [Figure 3] This is a view of the gaming machine and its dedicated unit from the front. [Figure 4] This is a view of the main control board unit from the front. [Figure 5] This is a view of the main control board unit with the cover removed, seen from the front. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the cover from the front. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the main control board unit with the cover removed, seen from the front. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of the front door from the rear. [Figure 9] This is a rear view of the sub-control board unit. [Figure 10] This figure shows the positional relationship between the main control board unit and the sub-control board unit when the front door is closed. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the relative positions of the setting key switches on the sub-control board unit and the main control board unit, as viewed from the front. [Figure 12]It is a perspective view of the sub-control board unit as seen from the rear side. [Figure 13] It is a view of the sub-control board as seen from the rear. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing a modified example of the first specific area and the second specific area. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the main control board unit and the sub-control board unit in the modified example. [Figure 16] It is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the sub-control board unit. [Figure 17] It is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the sub-control board unit.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] The gaming machine of this embodiment is a gaming machine 10 in which gaming is performed by using gaming value as electronic information without using gaming medals (medals) as gaming media, and the gaming value is consumed or given. The gaming machine 10 (FIG. 1) is a so-called smart pachislo (registered trademark). Different from a conventional slot machine that inserts a physical medal when playing a game and pays out a physical medal by winning a combination, the gaming machine 10 uses gaming value as electronic information without using a physical medal, and the gaming value is consumed or given by the game. The gaming value in the medal-less gaming machine corresponds to the medal which is the gaming value in the conventional slot machine, and since the gaming value in the medal-less gaming machine can be regarded as a virtual medal (electronified medal), the gaming value in this embodiment may be referred to as a medal (gaming medal). Also, hereinafter, the number of gaming values is regarded as the number of virtual medals, and the number of gaming values may be indicated as "~ pieces" or "~ units".

[0012] In the following explanation, "front and back" generally means that when the player is in front of the gaming machine 10, the player's side is "front" and the gaming machine side is "back." "Up and down" means that the top surface of the gaming machine is "up" and the bottom surface is "down." "Left and right" means that the left hand side of the player playing the gaming machine is "left" and the right hand side is "right." Furthermore, terms such as "parallel," "perpendicular," "identical," "right angle," and "orthogonal," as well as values ​​of length and angle, used in this specification to specify shapes, geometric conditions, and their degrees, shall not be bound by strict meanings, but shall be interpreted to include a range that allows for the expectation of similar functionality.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 10 as seen from the front. As shown in Figure 1, the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment comprises a box-shaped housing 11 with an open front side facing the player, and a front door 12 that opens and closes the front opening of the housing 11. The front door 12 is rotatably connected via a hinge 29 shown in Figure 2, and opens and closes the opening of the housing 11. The front door 12 can be opened and closed with its left axis relative to the housing 11. The front door 12 is divided into an upper door 12a and a lower door 12b, and these upper door 12a and lower door 12b can each be opened and closed relative to the housing 11. Note that the front door 12 may also be a single integrated structure that is not divided into an upper door 12a and a lower door 12b.

[0014] The enclosure 11 is formed in a box shape with an open front (having a front opening). The enclosure 11 (back box) comprises a top plate 2, a back plate 3, a bottom plate 4, and left and right side plates 5 and 6. The left side plate 5 is referred to as the left side plate 5, and the right side plate 6 is referred to as the right side plate 6. In this embodiment, the top plate 2, back plate 3, bottom plate 4, left side plate 5, and right side plate 6 are made of resin. However, at least some of the plates may be made of a material other than resin (such as metal or wood). In this embodiment, the inner surfaces of the top plate 2, back plate 3, bottom plate 4, left side plate 5, and right side plate 6 that face inward from the housing 11 are referred to as "inner surfaces." The bottom surface of the top plate 2, the front surface of the back plate 3, the top surface of the bottom plate 4, the right side of the left side plate 5, and the left side of the right side plate 6 are "inner surfaces." Also in this embodiment, the outer surfaces of the top plate 2, back plate 3, bottom plate 4, left side plate 5, and right side plate 6 that face outward from the housing 11 are referred to as "outer surfaces." The top surface of the top plate 2, the back surface of the back plate 3, the bottom surface of the bottom plate 4, the left side of the left side plate 5, and the right side of the right side plate 6 are "outer surfaces."

[0015] A liquid crystal display 13 (display means) is provided approximately in the center of the upper door 12a as a performance device. The liquid crystal display 13 displays various images (performance images) to assist or enhance the game. A speaker 14 (sound output means) is provided on the lower door 12b as a performance device. The speaker 14 outputs various performance sounds (music, sound effects, voices, etc.) to assist or enhance the game. A lamp 38 (lighting device, lighting means, outer perimeter lamp) is provided on the front door 12 for notification and performance purposes. In addition, movable parts that can be operated by actuators, etc., may be provided as performance devices.

[0016] Furthermore, a display window 16 is provided on the upper door 12a. Behind the display window 16 (the first display area 13a, described later), the reel unit is positioned so that a portion of it can be seen through the display window 16. Each reel 20a to 20c has its outer surface divided into 20 sections (20 areas) at regular intervals, and one of several types of symbols is placed in each section. In other words, multiple types of symbols are arranged in a row on the outer surface of each reel 20a to 20c. When each reel 20a to 20c stops, three symbols per reel (upper, middle, and lower) are displayed through the display window 16. The display window 16 is also provided with upper, middle, and lower sections as display positions for viewing the symbols of each reel 20a to 20c, and the number of active lines is set by the combination of the display positions of each reel 20a to 20c. In this embodiment, the effective line is composed of the upper section of the first reel 20a, the middle section of the second reel 20b, and the lower section of the third reel 20c.

[0017] In this embodiment, the number of game values ​​required for one game (specified number, specified number of tokens) is set to 3, and when the specified number of game values ​​is inserted, the active lines are activated. As the game starts, each reel 20a to 20c starts to rotate and an internal lottery is performed to determine whether one of the winning combinations is won or lost (not won). Next, when the reels 20a to 20c stop, if the symbol combination corresponding to the winning combination determined by the internal lottery is displayed on the active line, this winning combination is awarded, and the processing corresponding to the awarded winning combination (award processing) is performed. In other words, whether or not a winning combination has been awarded is indicated by the symbol combination displayed through the display window 16 when the reels 20a to 20c stop. The active lines can be said to be lines for determining whether a winning combination has been awarded.

[0018] The liquid crystal display 13 is positioned in front of the reel unit, which is equipped with reels 20a to 20c. The liquid crystal display 13 can perform effects by displaying predetermined displays (display objects) on its display surface. Display objects refer to things like people, animals, vehicles, buildings, natural objects (e.g., rocks, trees, etc.), characters, backgrounds, patterns, designs, and other things (images) that are displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. The liquid crystal display 13 has a display area that is outside the reels (second display area 13b), which is a display area that does not overlap with the reels 20a to 20c when viewed from the front, and a display area in front of the reels (first display area 13a), which overlaps with the reels 20a to 20c when viewed from the front. The second display area 13b is formed to surround the first display area 13a. The liquid crystal display 13 is a transmissive liquid crystal display, and is designed to make components behind the first display area 13a (transparent area) visible. The first display area 13a has multiple states, including a transparent state and a state in which a display object (animation image) is displayed (transparent display state). When the first display area 13a is transparent, the patterns on the reels 20a to 20c are visible. When the first display area 13a is in the state in which a display object is displayed, the animation image is displayed in front of the reels 20a to 20c. In the state in which the first display area 13a is in the state in which a display object is displayed, there may be a state in which the patterns on the reels 20a to 20c are visible (easily visible) and a state in which they are not visible (difficult to see). Thus, the first display area 13a is an area in which the patterns on the reels 20a to 20c are visible and an animation image can be displayed. In Figure 1, the first display area 13a is shown to consist of three divided regions, but it is not limited to this and may be a single horizontally elongated rectangular region.

[0019] The second display area 13b is the portion of the liquid crystal display 13's display area excluding the first display area 13a. The second display area 13b can display images for special effects. It is also possible to display a single, cohesive image spanning both the second display area 13b and the first display area 13a. The second display area 13b is not transparent and cannot be used to allow visibility of components behind it. The liquid crystal display 13 does not have to be a transmissive liquid crystal display, and the reels 20a to 20c do not necessarily have to be visible through the liquid crystal display 13 (first display area 13a). In other words, the display window 16 may be made of a transparent panel (which cannot display any objects), and the reels 20a to 20c may be visible through that display window 16.

[0020] As shown in Figure 1, the front door 12 (lower door 12b) is provided with a game information display unit 65. The game information display unit consists of LEDs, lamps, a 7-segment display, etc., and displays various game information such as the number of game values ​​paid out in one game and error information. The game information display unit includes a first main display, a second main display, and a sub-display. The game information display unit may also include a favorable section display.

[0021] The lower door 12b (operation panel) is equipped with a bet button 23 operated when betting (inserting) game value, a start lever 24 (game start operation means) operated when starting the game, a stop button 26 (stop operation means) (stop buttons 26a, 26b, 26c) operated when stopping the rotating reels, and an effect button 25 (effect operation means) operated when advancing the effects, etc. The bet button 23 may also include a MAX bet button (first bet button) operated when betting 3 (predetermined number) game value and a 1 bet button (second bet button) operated when betting 1 game value.

[0022] The performance button 25 (performance operation means) is operated when advancing the performance (changing the manner of the performance), etc. The performance button 25 is formed to be pressable, and when pressed, the manner of the performance image displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 changes, for example. By providing the performance button 25 and enabling its operation at predetermined triggers, it is possible to increase the player's sense of participation in the game and improve the enjoyment of the game. For example, the performance button 25 becomes operational when a performance is being executed that makes the player expect to transition to a favorable state, and an image instructing the operation (PUSH image) is displayed on the liquid crystal display 13 (PUSH performance). When the performance button 25 is operated, the result of the game (for example, whether or not a favorable state is transitioned) is announced. Note that the performance button 25 is not limited to the shape of a button, but may also be in the shape of a lever, etc., as long as it is configured to be able to detect the player's operation.

[0023] Furthermore, a door key cylinder 69 is provided on the lower door 12b. The lower door 12b (front door 12) can be unlocked by inserting a door key into the door key cylinder 69. Specifically, the lower door 12b can be unlocked by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 69 clockwise from its initial position. Alternatively, an error can be cleared by rotating (twisting) the door key inserted into the door key cylinder 69 counterclockwise from its initial position.

[0024] Furthermore, a lower panel 91 is provided on the lower door 12b. A light source (LED) for illumination is provided on the back side of the lower panel 91, and the lower panel 91 is illuminated from behind by the light emitted from this light source.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, a reel unit 31 is provided inside the housing 11. The reel unit 31 includes three reels 20a, 20b, and 20c displaying multiple patterns around their periphery, a drive motor (stepping motor) for rotating the reels 20a to 20c, and index sensors provided corresponding to the reels 20a to 20c. Each reel is fixed to the output shaft of the respective stepping motor. The stepping motors are four-phase stepping motors. Each stepping motor comprises a rotor and a stator having coils for the first phase, second phase, third phase, and fourth phase. Each stepping motor is excited by 1-2 phase excitation, which alternates between supplying a 1-phase excitation pulse to turn on one coil and supplying a 2-phase excitation pulse to turn on one coil and the other adjacent coils. Each step update of the excitation pulse results in a displacement of half a step angle (1 step angle for every 2 steps update), and 504 steps update (252 step angle displacement) completes one rotation of each reel 20a-20c. The stepping motor has a step angle of approximately 1.43° and an interrupt time t for updating the excitation pulse by one step of 1.49 ms. In addition, each index sensor detects the edge of a semicircular index attached to the inside of each reel 20a-20c. Based on the detection information from these index sensors, control is performed for the rotation and stopping of the reels 20a-20c.

[0026] A power supply unit 32, which houses a power supply device (power supply means) for supplying power to each component, is provided on the upper surface of the bottom plate 4 inside the housing 11. The power supply unit 32 is a roughly rectangular box shape and is located in the lower left inside the housing 1 (placed on the bottom plate 4) and fixed to the inner surface of the left side plate 5. The power supply unit 32 is equipped with a power switch, and when the power switch is turned ON (on state), power is supplied from the power supply unit 32 to each component. Note that some components may be supplied with power even when the power supply unit 32 is OFF (disconnected state). A power connector (not shown) provided on the back of the power supply unit 32 is connected to a power cable (power harness) that connects to an outlet supplying commercial power (AC100V). Specifically, a connector provided at one end of the power harness is connected to the power connector, and a plug provided at the other end of the power harness is connected to the outlet. The power supply board of the power supply unit 32 generates a DC power supply (for example, 5V, 12V, 24V, etc.) from power supplied from outside the gaming machine via a power harness, and supplies power to each component of the gaming machine.

[0027] As shown in Figure 3, a dedicated unit 200 (specific unit, game value lending device) is provided on the side (right side) of the gaming machine 10 as a device for lending game value (capable of performing control related to the lending of game value). The gaming machine 10 and the dedicated unit 200 are connected via a harness (wiring) and are able to communicate with each other. The front of the dedicated unit 200 is provided with a banknote slot 201 into which banknotes can be inserted, a card insertion / discharge slot 202 into which cards (game value management media) can be inserted / discharged, a lending button 203 (lending operation means), a replay button 204 (lending operation means), and a card return button 205, etc. The card is used to manage the number of game value owned by the player. In other words, the number of game value owned by the player can be ascertained by the card. The card may also be capable of storing a prepaid balance. Furthermore, the management of the number of game values ​​using cards may be carried out by storing the number of game values ​​on the card itself, or by storing the number of game values ​​in a designated management device installed in the gaming hall, etc., and linking the number of game values ​​stored in the management device, etc. with the identification information stored on the card (such as the player's ID or the unique identification number for each card).

[0028] In the dedicated unit 200, an operation (press operation) on the lending button 203 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) that transfers game value to the gaming machine 10. When the lending button 203 is pressed, the stored value, etc., that is stored as a prepaid balance in the banknotes or cards inserted into the banknote slot 201 is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 50) of game value is credited to the gaming machine 10. In addition, in the dedicated unit 200, an operation (press operation) on the replay button 204 is accepted as a lending operation (game value transfer operation) that transfers game value to the gaming machine 10. When the replay button 204 is pressed, the game value owned by the player, which is managed by the card (game value linked to the card), is consumed, and a predetermined number (for example, 50) of game value is credited to the gaming machine 10. In other words, in this embodiment, an operation on the loan button 203 or the replay button 204, which are loan operation means, is accepted as a loan operation (game value transfer operation), and based on the loan operation, a predetermined number of game values ​​are transferred (loaned) from the dedicated unit 200 to the game machine 10.

[0029] As shown in Figure 1, the lower door 12b is equipped with a game token count display device 211 (game value count display device, game value indicator), a counting button 212, and a payout button 218. The game token count display device 211 and the counting button 212 are located on the side (right side) of the lower door 12b. Based on the lending operation in the dedicated unit 200, the gaming machine 10 sets a value equivalent to a predetermined number of game values ​​as credits. The number of credits (the number of game tokens available for play) is displayed on the game token count display device 211. The game token count display device 211 has a 5-digit (or 6-digit) 7-segment display, and the number of credits is displayed on this 7-segment display. In the gaming machine 10, the upper limit of the number of credits may be set, for example, within the range of values ​​that can be displayed on the game token count display device 211. In the gaming machine 10, when the bet button 23 is operated while the game value is stored in credits, the stored game value is set to the payout state up to a predetermined limit.

[0030] The gaming machine 10 is equipped with various boards, including a main control board (main control means) that controls the progress of the game, a sub-control board (sub-control means) that controls the effects according to the progress of the game, and a game value control board (game value control means) that controls the game value.

[0031] The main control board receives input signals from input means such as the bet button 23, start lever 24, and stop button 26, performs various calculations to execute the game, and controls output means such as the reel unit 31 based on the calculation results. The main control board is also equipped with a setting change key cylinder and setting change buttons.

[0032] The sub-control board receives signals (information) from the main control board, performs various calculations to execute the performance, and controls various performance devices such as the liquid crystal display 13 and speaker 14 based on the calculation results.

[0033] The main control board and the sub-control board are electrically connected, allowing the main control board to transmit various information (signals), such as information indicating the game status, to the sub-control board. However, the sub-control board cannot transmit information to the main control board. The functions of each board, such as the main control board and the sub-control board, are realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ICs, or information storage media such as ROM and RAM, and software consisting of predetermined programs pre-stored in ROM, etc. The main control board and the game value control board are electrically connected and capable of bidirectional communication. The game value control board may be formed integrally with the main control board.

[0034] The game value control means (game value control board) increases the number of credits by a predetermined number based on the occurrence of a predetermined role (minor role) and the awarding of a predetermined number of game values. Furthermore, when an operation to insert game values ​​(operation of the bet button 23) is performed at the start of the game, the game value control means decreases the number of credits by the amount of game values ​​inserted. At this time, the game medal display device 211 displays a value obtained by subtracting the number of bets from the number of held medals (number of credits).

[0035] The game value control means controls the reception of game value transferred from the dedicated unit 200 to the game machine 10. When game value is transferred from the dedicated unit 200 to the game machine 10, the game value control means increases the number of credits by the amount of game value being transferred. The game value control means also controls the transfer of game value from the game machine 10 to the dedicated unit 200. When game value is transferred from the game machine 10 to the dedicated unit 200, the game value control means decreases the number of credits by the amount of game value being transferred. The game value control means also displays the number of game values ​​stored as credits (number of credits) on the game medal display device 211 and changes the display content of the game medal display device 211 according to the increase or decrease in the number of credits.

[0036] The counting button 212 is operated when sending (returning, transferring) information (credits) indicating a value equivalent to a predetermined number of credits (all or part of the number of credits) to the dedicated unit 200. The counting button 212 is equipped with a press part (operation part), and the press part is formed to be pressable. When a player finishes playing, etc., the credited game value can be transferred from the game machine 10 to the dedicated unit 200 based on an operation (press operation) of the counting button 212 as a counting operation (return operation). Then, after the game value has been transferred to the dedicated unit 200, when an operation (press operation) of the card return button 205 (Figure 3) is performed, a card that allows the player to know the number of game values ​​they possess is ejected from the dedicated unit 200 (card insertion / discharge port 202).

[0037] Based on the lending operation in the dedicated unit 200, a predetermined number of game value (game tokens) is assigned to the game machine 10 (credits are added). Next, when the bet button 23 is operated, the game value is set to the input state up to a predetermined limit, and a value equivalent to the number of game value (game tokens) set to the input state is subtracted from the credits. In other words, the number of game value displayed on the game token display device 211 decreases.

[0038] When a predetermined number of game values ​​are set to the input state, the start lever 24 becomes operational, that is, it becomes possible to start playing. Next, when the game start operation is performed on the activated start lever 24, the rotation of each reel 20a to 20c begins. Next, when the rotation speed of the reels increases to a predetermined speed and enters a steady rotation state, the operation of the stop buttons 26a to 26c becomes operational. Next, when the activated stop buttons 26a to 26c are operated, the rotation of the corresponding reel stops. Next, when the rotation of all reels 20a to 20c stops, depending on the result of the game, a process is performed to award a predetermined number of game values ​​(add to credits), or a process is performed to make it possible to start playing again without consuming new game values ​​(replay process), and one game (1 play) ends. Also, when the counting button 212 is operated, a predetermined number of credits (game tokens) are sent (returned) to the dedicated unit 200. Then, when the card return operation is performed in the dedicated unit 200, the card with the predetermined information stored on it is ejected from the dedicated unit 200.

[0039] Furthermore, when the game value in the gaming machine 10 is set to the bet state, operating (pressing) the settlement button 218 will return the betted game value to the credits. The settlement button 218 is the button that is operated when returning the game value that has been bet (set to the bet state) by operating the bet button 23 to the credits. In other words, based on the operation of the settlement button 218, a process (bet return process) is executed to return the game value set to the bet state to the credits. The bet return process is a process in which the bet state setting of the game value is cleared, and a value equivalent to the number of game values ​​that was set to the bet state is added to the number of credits. When the settlement button 218 is operated while there is game value set to the bet state, the game value is returned to the credits based on that operation, and the number of game tokens displayed on the game token display device 211 increases.

[0040] Conventional slot machines are equipped with a coin slot, a tray, a hopper unit, a cash box, etc., but gaming machine 10 does not have any of these.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2, a main control board unit 300 is provided on the upper side inside the housing 11. The main control board unit 300 (first board unit) comprises a main control board (first board, board) and a main control board case that houses the main control board. The main control board case is made of, for example, transparent ABS resin and consists of a first main board case that covers the first surface (front) of the main control board and a second main board case that covers the second surface (back) of the main control board. The main control board is housed in the space formed by the first main board case and the second main board case. The first main board case is provided on the front door 12 side (front side).

[0042] Figure 4 is a front view of the main control board unit 300. The main control board unit 300 is equipped with a cover 310. Figure 5 is a front view of the main control board unit 300 with the cover 310 removed. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the cover 310 from the front (upper right).

[0043] The cover 310 is made of resin and has a vertically elongated rectangular shape when viewed from the front. The cover 310 also has an open rear (back) surface and is box-shaped. The cover 310 has the function of protecting (covering) the setting key switch 340 and the setting change button 350, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 6, the cover 310 has shaft portions 311 (a pair of shaft portions 311) formed on the left and right sides of the upper end. The shaft portions 311 are formed in a cylindrical shape and protrude from the cover body by a predetermined length in the left and right directions.

[0044] As shown in Figure 5, the main control board case 320 (first main board case) that houses the main control board is provided with a pair of shaft holes 321 arranged at a predetermined interval in the left-right direction. The shaft holes 321 are formed to support (insert) the shaft portion 311 of the cover 310. The cover 310 is attached to the main control board case 320 by inserting the shaft portion 311 into the shaft holes 321. The cover 310 is supported by the main control board case 320 so as to be able to open and close (open and close freely) in the vertical direction.

[0045] The cover 310 is rotatable around its axis, with the upper end (shaft portion 311) serving as the pivot point. That is, the cover 310 can be opened by pulling the lower end towards the user and lifting it upwards. When the cover 310 is released while open (lifted), its own weight causes it to move in the closing direction, resulting in a closed state. In this embodiment, the cover 310 opens and closes in the vertical direction, but it is not limited to this, and the cover 310 may open and close in the horizontal direction (sideways opening). Also, while the gaming machine in this embodiment is equipped with a cover 310, it may be equipped without one.

[0046] As shown in Figure 5, the main control board unit 300 includes a setting key switch 340 and a setting change button 350. The setting key switch 340 and the setting change button 350 are positioned (mounted) on the main control board, with their leading ends protruding forward from the main control board case 320 (exposed). It can be said that the setting key switch 340 and the setting change button 350 protrude forward (towards the front door 12). Figure 7 is a perspective view of the main control board unit 300 with the cover 310 removed, viewed from the front right diagonally above.

[0047] The setting key switch 340 (setting change key cylinder) is designed to allow the insertion of a setting key (key). The setting key switch 340 can be set to two states: OFF and ON. In other words, it can be switched between the OFF and ON states. Initially, the setting key switch 340 is in the OFF state. Inserting the setting key and rotating it 90 degrees clockwise from the initial position (OFF position) to the ON position switches the setting key switch 340 from the OFF state to the ON state. Conversely, rotating the setting key 90 degrees counterclockwise from the ON position (to the OFF position) switches the setting key switch 340 from the ON state to the OFF state.

[0048] The setting change button 350 is designed to be pressable; that is, it can be pushed from front to back.

[0049] The main control board is equipped with a setting change means, which performs control (setting change processing) to change the setting value stored in the main memory means of the main control board. The gaming machine of this embodiment can be started in either "game mode" or "setting change mode" depending on the state of the setting key switch 340 when the power is turned on.

[0050] (Game Mode) When the power is turned on with the setting key switch 340 in the OFF state (including the state where a setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 340 but the setting key is in its initial position), the gaming machine starts up in gaming mode. In this embodiment, while gaming can be played in gaming mode, it is not possible to change the setting values.

[0051] (Settings change mode) When the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 340 and the setting key is rotated 90 degrees clockwise from its initial position (i.e., the setting key switch 340 is in the ON state), the power switch is turned ON and power is supplied from the power supply unit 32 (i.e., power is turned on), and the setting change means starts the game machine in setting change mode. In this embodiment, it is possible to select a setting value from six setting values, from setting 1 to setting 6. The probability of winning in the internal lottery changes so that the expected value of the payout rate increases sequentially from setting 1 to setting 6. In this embodiment, the setting values ​​are expressed in the order of setting 1 < setting 2 < setting 3 < setting 4 < setting 5 < setting 6. In this embodiment, the probability of winning a prize differs depending on the setting value for the six setting values ​​from setting 1 to setting 6. Specifically, when the setting value changes, the group of internal lottery tables, which consists of multiple internal lottery tables selected according to the game state, is changed to a group of internal lottery tables associated with each setting value, so that the internal lottery tables change to a group where the probability of winning small wins, replays, and bonuses differs depending on the setting value. The setting change means changes the setting value in the order of setting 1 → setting 2 → ... setting 6 → setting 1 → ... each time the setting change button 350 is pressed in the setting change mode, and when the start lever 24 is pressed, the setting value is confirmed and the confirmed setting value is stored in the main memory means. In this embodiment, in the setting change mode, the selected setting value is displayed on the first main display of the game information display unit 65 on the front door 12. In addition, although the setting value can be changed in the setting change mode, it is not possible to play the game. When the setting key inserted into the setting key switch 340 is returned from the ON position to the initial position (OFF position), the system transitions (switches) from the setting change mode to the game mode.

[0052] (Settings confirmation mode) In this embodiment, when the power is on and the machine is in game mode, inserting the setting key into the setting key switch 340 and rotating the setting key 90 degrees clockwise from its initial position (to the ON position) causes the game machine to switch from game mode to setting confirmation mode. In setting confirmation mode (setting reference mode), the current setting value is announced via the game information display unit 65 on the front door 12. Specifically, in setting confirmation mode, an image indicating that the machine is in setting confirmation mode (for example, the words "Settings being referenced") is displayed on the liquid crystal display 13. Also, in setting confirmation mode, the currently set setting value is displayed on the first main display unit of the game information display unit 65. In setting confirmation mode, the current setting value can be referenced (announced), but it is not possible to play the game. Also, in setting confirmation mode, the setting value can be referenced, but it is not possible to change the setting value.

[0053] (When making setting changes) First, the operator opens the front door 12. Next, insert the setting key into the setting key switch 340 and rotate it 90 degrees clockwise. Next, turn on the power switch (start in setting change mode). Next, close the front door 12 and check the setting value displayed on the game information display unit 65 on the front side of the front door 12. Next, open the front door 12 and operate (press) the setting change button 350 to change the setting value. At this time, operate the setting change button 350 the number of times necessary to set the desired setting value. Next, close the front door 12 and check the setting value displayed on the game information display unit 65 on the front side of the front door 12. Assume that the setting value is the desired setting value. Next, operate (press) the start lever 24 to confirm the setting value. Next, open the front door 12, rotate the setting key 90 degrees counterclockwise and remove the setting key. Next, close the front door 12.

[0054] Therefore, when changing settings, a situation may arise where the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 340 (remaining inserted) while the front door 12 is opened or closed.

[0055] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the front door 12 (front door unit) from the rear side. A sub-control board unit 400 is provided on the upper rear side of the front door 12.

[0056] Figure 9 is a view of the sub-control board unit 400 from the rear (rear side) (front view from the rear). The sub-control board unit 400 (second board unit) comprises a sub-control board (second board, board) and a sub-control board case 420 (case) that houses the sub-control board. The sub-control board case 420 is made of, for example, transparent ABS resin and consists of a first sub-board case that covers the first surface (front surface, board surface S described later) of the sub-control board and a second sub-board case that covers the second surface (back side) of the sub-control board. The sub-control board is housed in the space formed by the first sub-board case and the second sub-board case. The first sub-board case is provided on the housing 11 side.

[0057] The sub-control board case 420 (first sub-board case) is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation vents 421 (heat dissipation holes). The inside of the sub-control board case 420 can become hot due to the heat generated by the components (electronic components) mounted on the sub-control board, and the plurality of heat dissipation vents 421 are provided to release (dissipate) that heat to the outside. By providing a plurality of heat dissipation vents 421, it is possible to suppress the inside of the sub-control board case 420 from becoming hot. This makes it possible to suppress the failure of components mounted on the sub-control board in a high-temperature environment. In this embodiment, the heat dissipation vents 421 include heat dissipation vents 421a formed in the shape of slits (elongated holes) and heat dissipation vents 421b formed in the shape of round holes. The heat dissipation vents 421a are provided along the outer circumference (approximately the outer circumference) of the sub-control board case 420, and the heat dissipation vents 421a are provided inside (on the inner flat surface) of the heat dissipation vents 421b. The heat dissipation vents 421a and 421b are provided at predetermined intervals (constant intervals).

[0058] Multiple connectors are arranged (mounted) on the sub-control board, and these multiple connectors include a first connector 411, a second connector 412, and a third connector 413. The first connector 411, the second connector 412, and the third connector 413 are arranged side by side along the left-right direction on the upper edge (top side) of the sub-control board.

[0059] The sub-control board case 420 (first sub-board case) includes a first opening 423 that exposes the first connector 411, and a second opening 422 that exposes both the second connector 412 and the third connector 413. The first opening 423 is a horizontally elongated rectangle and is sized to accommodate one connector. The second opening 422 is a horizontally elongated rectangle and is sized to accommodate two connectors. The first opening 423 and the second opening 422 are located on the upper side (top edge side) of the sub-control board, corresponding to the first connector 411 to the third connector 413.

[0060] Figure 10 shows the positional relationship between the main control board unit 300 (first board unit) and the sub-control board unit 400 (second board unit) when the front door 12 is closed. Note that in Figure 10, components other than the main control board unit 300 and the sub-control board unit 400 are not shown. When the front door 12 is closed, the main control board unit 300 and the sub-control board unit 400 face each other. That is, when viewed from the front with the front door 12 closed, the main control board unit 300 and the sub-control board unit 400 overlap at least partially.

[0061] Figure 11 is a view from the front, showing the sub-control board unit 400 (sub-control board and sub-control board case 420 (first sub-board case)) in a transparent state. The setting key switch 340 of the main control board unit 300 is located at the back of the paper. When viewed from the front, the sub-control board unit 400 (sub-control board case 420) and the setting key switch 340 of the main control board unit 300 are in an overlapping position. That is, when viewed from the front, the sub-control board unit 400 has an area (range) that overlaps with the setting key switch 340 of the main control board unit 300.

[0062] Here, the area of ​​the sub-control board case 420 (first sub-board case) that overlaps with the setting key switch 340 when viewed from the front is defined as the first specific area F. Also, when viewed from the front, a virtual straight line that passes through the setting key switch 340 and is parallel in the vertical or horizontal direction is defined as the first straight line P. Hereafter, the first straight line P that follows the horizontal direction will be defined as the first straight line P1, and the first straight line P that follows the vertical direction will be defined as the first straight line P2. In this embodiment, the first straight line P (first straight line P1 and first straight line P2) is assumed to pass through the center of the setting key switch 340, but it is not limited to passing through the center; any straight line that passes within the range of the setting key switch 340 when viewed from the front (in Figure 11) is acceptable.

[0063] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the sub-control board unit 400 from the rear side. The first specific region F is the region facing the setting key switch 340 of the main control board unit 300.

[0064] Return to Figure 11. When viewed from the front, multiple heat dissipation vents 421 (heat dissipation vents 421a) are provided in the portion of the sub-control board case 420 that lies on the first straight line P1 and is not part of the first specific region F. When viewed from the front, the first specific region F of the sub-control board case 420 is on the first straight line P1 and does not have a heat dissipation vent 421.

[0065] When viewed from the front, multiple heat dissipation vents 421 (heat dissipation vents 421b) are provided in the portion of the sub-control board case 420 that lies on the first straight line P2 and is not part of the first specific region F. When viewed from the front, the first specific region F of the sub-control board case 420 is on the first straight line P2 and does not have a heat dissipation vent 421.

[0066] When viewed from the front, the sub-control board case 420 has an area (first specific area F) that overlaps with the setting key switch 340, but no heat dissipation vents 421 are provided in this area. Because this area does not have heat dissipation vents 421, it is more rigid (less prone to breakage) than areas where heat dissipation vents 421 are provided, and the entry of materials (foreign objects) is also prevented. Therefore, even if the front door 12 is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch 340, and the sub-control board case 420 comes into contact with the setting key (cover 310 that covers the setting key), damage to the sub-control board case 420 can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to prevent materials (foreign objects) from entering the inside of the sub-control board case 420. For example, it is possible to prevent short circuits caused by the setting key (made of metal) entering the inside of the sub-control board case 420.

[0067] When viewed from the front, the first connector 411 to the third connector 413 (first opening 423 and second opening 422) are provided in the portion of the sub-control board case 420 that lies on the first straight line P1 and is not part of the first specific region F. When viewed from the front, the first specific region F of the sub-control board case 420 is on the first straight line P1 and does not have a connector (a case opening that exposes the connector: connector opening).

[0068] As a variation, a connector (a case opening that exposes the connector) may be provided on the first straight line P2 when viewed from the front, and in a part of the sub-control board case 420 other than the first specific region F, while a connector (a case opening that exposes the connector) may not be provided on the first straight line P2 when viewed from the front, and in the first specific region F of the sub-control board case 420.

[0069] When viewed from the front, the sub-control board case 420 has an area (first specific area F) that overlaps with the setting key switch 340, but no connector (case opening that exposes the connector) is provided in this area. Because this area does not have a connector (case opening that exposes the connector), it is more rigid (less likely to break) than the area where a case opening is provided, and the entry of materials (foreign objects) is also impossible. Therefore, even if the front door 12 is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch 340, and the sub-control board case 420 comes into contact with the setting key (cover 310 that covers the setting key), damage to the sub-control board case 420 and the connector (harness connected to the connector) can be suppressed.

[0070] As shown in Figure 8, a specific connector 93 is provided on the rear (back side) of the front door 12. The specific connector 93 is, for example, a connector located on the relay board. Also, a hook portion 94 (wiring clamp) is provided on the rear of the front door 12, which is formed to allow wiring (harness) to be hooked onto it. The hook portion 94 is provided at the end of the case that houses the relay board. Note that the position of the hook portion 94 is not limited to this, and for example, the hook portion 94 may be provided at the upper end of the sub-control board unit 400 (sub-control board case 420).

[0071] As simplified in Figure 11, the first connector 411 (first connector) and the specific connector 93 (specific connector) are electrically connected via wiring 95 (harness). Here, when viewed from the front, the imaginary straight line passing through the first connector 411 and the specific connector 93 is called the second straight line Q. When viewed from the front, the first specific region F lies on the second straight line Q. The wiring 95 can be routed to connect the first connector 411 and the specific connector 93 in a straight line without passing through the hook portion 94, but in this embodiment, the wiring 95 is passed through the hook portion 94 (via the hook portion 94), so that when viewed from the front, the wiring 95 does not lie on the first specific region F. When viewed from the front, the wiring 95 is routed to bypass (curve) the first specific region F.

[0072] When viewed from the front, the sub-control board case 420 has an area (first specific area F) that overlaps with the setting key switch 340, but the wiring 95 does not overlap with this area. Therefore, even if the front door 12 is closed with the setting key still inserted into the setting key switch 340, and the sub-control board case 420 comes into contact with the setting key (cover 310 that covers the setting key), damage (disconnection) to the wiring 95 can be suppressed.

[0073] Note that in Figure 11, When viewed from the front, wiring 95 (first connector 411) is provided in the part of the sub-control board case 420 that lies on the first straight line P1 and is not in the first specific region F. When viewed from the front, the wiring 95 is not provided in the first specific region F of the sub-control board case 420, which lies on the first straight line P1. When viewed from the front, wiring 95 is provided in the portion of the sub-control board case 420 that lies on the first straight line P2 and is not in the first specific region F. When viewed from the front, the wiring 95 is not provided in the first specific region F of the sub-control board case 420, which lies on the first straight line P2.

[0074] Figure 13 is a view of the sub-control board from the rear (rear side) (front view from the rear). The board surface S of the sub-control board can be said to be the side facing the housing 11 (the side facing the housing 11). Here, the area on the board surface S that overlaps with the setting key switch 340 when viewed from the front with the front door 12 closed (viewed from the back of the page towards the front) is defined as the second specific area G. The second specific area G is the area that overlaps with the first specific area F (Figure 12) of the sub-control board case 420 when viewed from the front. Although not shown in the illustration, components (electronic components) such as ICs, memory (ROM, RAM), capacitors, resistors, and LEDs are mounted on the board surface S.

[0075] As shown in Figure 13, the second specific region G is the region where the specific component Z is mounted (placed). The specific component Z placed in the second specific region G is a component that is relatively more important from a control perspective compared to other components, such as an IC or memory (memory in which performance data is stored). From the viewpoint of preventing fraud, it is preferable to place the specific component Z in a region corresponding to the region of the sub-control board case 420 where the heat dissipation vents 421 are not provided (i.e., a region covered by the case). The second specific region G is the region corresponding to the first specific region F (Figure 11) of the sub-control board case 420 where the heat dissipation vents 421 are not provided. In other words, the specific component Z is placed in a region that is difficult to access. Therefore, the performance of fraud prevention can be improved.

[0076] When a specific component Z is placed in an area of ​​the sub-control board other than the second specific area G, a heat dissipation vent 421 cannot be provided in the sub-control board case 420 corresponding to (covering) that location. This increases the area where a heat dissipation vent 421 cannot be provided, and consequently reduces heat dissipation performance. In this embodiment, the first specific area F, which does not have a heat dissipation vent 421, is configured to serve both the function of preventing damage due to contact with the setting key switch 340 and the function of making access to the specific component Z difficult. By configuring it in this way, the number of heat dissipation vents 421 can be increased compared to when the functions are not combined, thereby improving heat dissipation performance.

[0077] As shown in Figure 12, the sub-control board case 420 (first sub-board case) has a recess 426 which is a recessed shape in the front-to-back direction (a recessed area where the thickness in the front-to-back direction is thinner). Here, the part of the sub-control board case 420 that protrudes the most toward the housing 11 side (towards the main control board unit 300) is designated as the first part 427, and the recess 426 is designated as the second part 426. The second part 426 can be said to be one step lower than the first part 427. In this embodiment, the first specific region F is provided in the second part 426 (located in a different part from the first part 427).

[0078] In this embodiment, it is not essential to position the first specific region F as the second portion 426 (recess), but by positioning the first specific region F as the second portion 426, the sub-control board case 420 can be made less likely to come into contact with the setting key (cover 310 that covers the setting key) compared to the case where the first specific region F is provided in the first portion 427. In other words, damage to the sub-control board case 420 can be suppressed.

[0079] As a variation, components not mounted during mass production may be mounted in the area corresponding to the second portion 426 of the sub-control board case 420 (the area facing the recess) on the sub-control board. Examples of components not mounted during mass production include development connectors. For example, during the development stage, an opening (hole) can be made in the second portion 426 (exposing the sub-control board), the connector can be mounted on the sub-control board, and a harness can be connected to perform testing. If the mounting area for the connector is provided in the area corresponding to the first portion 427, the distance to the board surface S is large, making it difficult to mount the connector on the sub-control board. If the mounting position for the connector is provided in the area corresponding to the second portion 426, the work of mounting the connector on the sub-control board can be made easier (workability is improved). In this embodiment, the second specific region G (Figure 13) may include at least a portion of the mounting location (mounting region) of components that are not mounted during mass production.

[0080] In this embodiment, the first specific region F and the second specific region G are defined as regions that overlap with the setting key switch 340 when viewed from the front (opposite regions). In other words, the first specific region F and the second specific region G are defined as regions that have the same size (area) as the setting key switch 340 when viewed from the front. However, the first specific region F and the second specific region G may be regions that include the region that overlaps with the setting key switch 340 when viewed from the front, and are larger (wider) than the size of the setting key switch 340. Here, the diameter of the setting key switch 340 is defined as diameter D. As shown in Figure 14, the first specific region F and the second specific region G may be defined as circular regions with a diameter 1.5 times the length of diameter D. Alternatively, the first specific region F and the second specific region G may be defined as circular regions with a diameter 2 times the length of diameter D. Furthermore, the shape of the first specific region F and the second specific region G is not limited to circles; they may also be squares, for example, square regions circumscribing a circle. Furthermore, although this embodiment shows the case where the first specific region F and the second specific region G are located on the outside (outer edge side) of the substrate case (substrate), the embodiment is not limited to this, and the first specific region F and the second specific region G may be configured to be located further inside (towards the center) of the substrate case (substrate).

[0081] (Variation 1) In this embodiment (Figure 13), the second specific region G is defined as the region on which the specific component Z is mounted, but the second specific region G may be defined as a region on which no components are mounted at all. In other words, the second specific region G may be defined as a region without mounted components. In this modified example, the first specific region F is a region on which no heat dissipation vents 421 are provided, and the second specific region G is a region on which no components are provided. The first specific region F does not have heat dissipation vents 421 in order to prevent damage to the sub-control board case 420 (to ensure rigidity). The second specific region G corresponds to an area where no heat dissipation vents 421 are present, and therefore has low heat dissipation. By not providing components in the second specific region G, it is possible to suppress the temperature inside the case from becoming too high. This suppresses component damage caused by high temperatures inside the case. Furthermore, if the front door 12 is closed with the setting key still inserted in the setting key switch 340, the sub-control board case 420 may come into contact with the setting key (the cover 310 that covers the setting key). If the front door 12 is closed forcefully, the impact of the contact may cause the sub-control board case 420 to crack, potentially allowing the setting key to reach the second specific area G. By making the second specific area G a non-component area, it is possible to prevent damage to components on the board if the setting key reaches (enters) that area.

[0082] In Figure 12, etc., the first specific area F is shown to be provided on the sub-control board case 420, but the first specific area F may also be provided on a crimping member that crimps (fixes (seals)) the sub-control board case 420 (sub-control board unit 400) to the front door 12 side. In other words, at least a part of the first specific area F may be provided on the crimping member (the first specific area F may be formed spanning the sub-control board case 420 and the crimping member). In this case, the crimping member (at least a part of it) will face the setting key switch 340 and face the second specific area G of the sub-control board. The crimping member is formed in a different color from the sub-control board case 420, for example, not colorless and transparent, but colored transparent (for example, yellow). The crimping member reduces the visibility of components on the sub-control board, but by making the second specific area G a non-component area, it is possible to prevent the problem of difficulty in checking components.

[0083] (Modification 2) In this embodiment, when the front door 12 is closed with the setting key still inserted into the setting key switch 340 (with the cover 310 open), the sub-control board case 420 may come into contact with the setting key (cover 310). However, in this modified version, the sub-control board case 420 and the cover 310 (the cover 310 in the open state due to the setting key) are configured not to come into contact (interfere with each other) when the front door 12 is closed.

[0084] (Pattern 1) Figure 15(a) is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship (when viewed from the front) between the main control board unit 300 and the sub-control board unit 400 when the front door 12 is closed. As shown in Figure 15(a), when viewed from the front, the sub-control board case 420 and the setting key switch 340 overlap. Figure 15(b) is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship (viewed from the right side) between the main control board unit 300 and the sub-control board unit 400 when the front door 12 is closed. In the front-to-back direction (depth direction), a predetermined gap is secured between the sub-control board case 420 and the cover 310, which is in the open state when the setting key is pressed. Therefore, even when the front door 12 is opened, the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 340, and the front door 12 is closed with the cover 310 in the open state (half-open state) due to the setting key, the cover 310 does not come into contact with the predetermined component (sub-control board case 420). This prevents components from coming into contact and being damaged when the front door 12 is closed.

[0085] (Pattern 2) Let's look at another example. Figure 15(c) is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the main control board unit 300 and the sub-control board unit 400 (when viewed from the right) when the front door 12 is closed. Note that when viewed from the front, the sub-control board case 420 and the setting key switch 340 do not overlap. As shown in Figure 15(c), in the vertical direction, the upper end of the sub-control board case 420 is located below the lower end of the cover 310 (setting key switch 340). Therefore, even when the front door 12 is opened, the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 340, and the front door 12 is closed with the cover 310 in an open state (half-open) due to the setting key, the cover 310 does not come into contact with the predetermined component (sub-control board case 420). This prevents components from coming into contact and being damaged when the front door 12 is closed.

[0086] In these modified examples (Pattern 1 and Pattern 2), the main control board unit 300 (setting key and cover 310) may be provided on the rear side of the front door 12, and the main control board unit 300 may be configured to move in conjunction with the opening and closing of the front door 12. Furthermore, even when the front door 12 is opened, the setting key is inserted into the setting key switch 340, and the front door 12 is closed with the cover 310 in an open state (half-open state) due to the setting key, the cover 310 may be configured not to come into contact with a predetermined component (a predetermined component provided inside the housing 11, for example, a sub-control board unit 400).

[0087] (Variation 3) Figure 16(a) is a schematic view of the sub-control board unit 400 according to this modified example, as seen from the rear side. The sub-control board unit 400 is equipped with a fan 450 capable of expelling air from inside the sub-control board case 420 to the outside. The fan 450 is located on the substrate surface S of the sub-control board. The fan 450 is located below the first specific region F (second specific region G). In this embodiment, when the sub-control board unit 400 (sub-control board) is divided into two halves in the left-right direction (divided into a left half region and a right half region), the first specific region F (second specific region G) and the fan 450 are provided in one of the regions (the left half region). Dividing the sub-control board unit 400 (sub-control board) into two halves in the left-right direction can be described as dividing it into two halves by a virtual straight line drawn vertically that passes through the center in the left-right direction.

[0088] Figure 16(b) is a schematic diagram of the sub-control board unit 400 according to this modified example, viewed from the side. In the sub-control board unit 400, the fan 450 is the part that protrudes the most towards the rear, i.e., towards the housing 11 (main control board unit 300). Here, the amount of protrusion of the fan 450 is denoted as the protrusion amount U. The protrusion amount U can be said to be the length from the lower part (flat part, second part) to the most protruding part (first part) of the sub-control board case 420.

[0089] The fan 450 is located in a predetermined position other than the first specific area F. Therefore, even if the front door 12 is closed with the setting key still inserted in the setting key switch 340, the fan 450 and the setting key (cover 310) will not come into contact. This helps to prevent damage to the components. In other words, the fan 450 is located in a position that avoids contact with the setting key (cover 310, setting key switch 340).

[0090] Furthermore, the fan 450 is located below (vertically downward) the first specific region F. The protrusion amount U of the fan 450 is such that a setting key that falls from above can remain on the upper surface of the fan 450. The protrusion amount U is, for example, at least 2 / 3 of the length (length in the longitudinal direction) of the setting key. Even if the setting key falls out of the setting key switch 340 due to the impact when the front door 12 is closed with the setting key still inserted in the setting key switch 340, the setting key can still rest on the upper surface of the fan 450. This helps to prevent the loss of the setting key.

[0091] Furthermore, the protrusion amount U may be set to a length that makes it impossible for the setting key to remain on the top surface of the fan 450. Alternatively, the protrusion amount U may be set to a length shorter than the length of the setting key (length in the longitudinal direction) (for example, less than half). In this case, the detached setting key can be dropped at least below the sub-control board unit 400, thus avoiding problems (such as component failure) that may occur if the setting key remains on the top surface of the fan 450 (on the sub-control board unit 400).

[0092] In this modified example, components that generate a relatively large amount of heat (CPU, capacitors, etc.) may be placed near the fan 450 on the sub-control board to allow for efficient cooling of those components (the cooling performance of those components may also be improved). Furthermore, the fan 450 may be used to draw in (or bring in) outside air into the sub-control board case 420.

[0093] By the way, Figure 16(a) shows the case where the fan 450 is installed vertically below the first specific region F (second specific region G), but it is not limited to vertically below. The fan 450 can be installed below the first specific region F (second specific region G) and in the same region (left half region) as the first specific region F (second specific region G) when the sub-control board unit 400 (sub-control board) is divided into two regions in the left-right direction. The first specific region F does not have a heat dissipation vent 421 and has relatively low heat dissipation performance. By installing the fan 450 below the first specific region F, this decrease in heat dissipation performance can be compensated for, and sufficient heat dissipation performance can be ensured.

[0094] (Modification 4) Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of the sub-control board unit 400 according to this modified example, viewed from the rear side. A line passing through the center of the sub-control board unit 400 and extending vertically (parallel to the vertical direction) is called a virtual line α, and a line passing through the center of the sub-control board unit 400 and extending horizontally (parallel to the horizontal direction) is called a virtual line β. Virtual lines α and β are orthogonal to each other. When the sub-control board unit 400 is divided into four regions by virtual lines α and β, the upper right region is called the 1st region, the upper left region is called the 2nd region, the lower left region is called the 3rd region, and the lower right region is called the 4th region. In Figure 17, the sub-control board unit 400 is shown as a rectangle, but the sub-control board unit 400 may have a shape in which a part of the rectangle is cut out. If the notch is present, draw a virtual quadrilateral along the outer edge (the outermost side) representing what it would look like without the notch, and draw virtual lines α and β passing through the center of that virtual quadrilateral.

[0095] The second region has a relatively smaller number of heat dissipation vents 421 compared to the first, third, and fourth regions. Furthermore, a first specific region F (second specific region G) is provided within the second region. It can be said that the first specific region F (second specific region G) is included within the second region. Components of relatively high control importance (e.g., memory) are located in the second specific region G. Because the second region has a relatively small number of heat dissipation vents 421 (ensuring rigidity), damage to the sub-control board case 420 due to contact with the setting key (setting key switch 340) when the front door 12 is closed can be suppressed. Also, because the second region has a relatively small number of heat dissipation vents 421, placing important components in this region makes access to those components difficult, thereby improving anti-tampering performance.

[0096] The gaming machine of this embodiment is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with a heat dissipation vent (heat dissipation vent 421), When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area (first specific area F). When viewed from the front, if we define the first line (first line P) as a virtual line parallel to the vertical or horizontal direction that passes through the aforementioned setting key switch, When viewed from the front, a plurality of heat dissipation vents are provided on the first straight line and in a portion of the case other than the first specific region. When viewed from the front, the first line is on the first specific region of the case, and the heat dissipation vent is not provided in that region.

[0097] The case has a first specific region that overlaps with the setting key switch, but when viewed from the front, a plurality of heat dissipation vents are provided on the first straight line and in the portion of the case other than the first specific region, and when viewed from the front, the heat dissipation vents are not provided on the first straight line and in the first specific region of the case. This configuration ensures heat dissipation performance while suppressing damage to components. Specifically, the latter means that even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus suppressing damage to the case. Furthermore, because the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, makes contact, it is possible to prevent the setting key or other components from entering the inside of the case. Therefore, damage to components and circuits on the circuit board can be suppressed.

[0098] The gaming machine of this embodiment is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with multiple heat dissipation vents (heat dissipation vents 421), When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area (first specific area F). When viewed from the front with the front door closed, the area on the housing side of the circuit board that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the second specific area (second specific area G), The first specific region is a region where the heat dissipation vent is not provided. The second specified region is the region on which a specific component is mounted.

[0099] Even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch, and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus preventing damage to the case. Furthermore, by placing the specific component in the second specific region that overlaps with the first specific region where the heat dissipation vent is not provided, access to the specific component becomes difficult, thereby improving the anti-tampering performance. Furthermore, if the specific component is placed in an area of ​​the substrate other than the second specific area, and the heat dissipation vent is not provided in the case corresponding to (covering) that position, the area without the heat dissipation vent increases, and the heat dissipation performance decreases. However, by placing the specific component in the second specific area of ​​the substrate, such a decrease in heat dissipation performance can be suppressed.

[0100] The gaming machine of this embodiment is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with multiple heat dissipation vents (heat dissipation vents 421), When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area (first specific area F). When viewed from the front with the front door closed, the area on the housing side of the circuit board that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the second specific area (second specific area G), The first specific region is a region where the heat dissipation vent is not provided. The second specified region is an area where no components are mounted.

[0101] Even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch, and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus preventing damage to the case. Furthermore, even if the setting key enters the case during contact, damage to the component can be suppressed because no component is mounted in the second specific area. Furthermore, since the second specific region overlaps with the first specific region where no heat dissipation vents are provided, it is a region with relatively low heat dissipation. By not mounting components in the second specific region, it is possible to suppress the inside of the case from becoming too hot, and thus prevent damage to components caused by high temperatures inside the case.

[0102] The gaming machine of this embodiment is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with multiple heat dissipation vents (heat dissipation vents 421), The wiring (wiring 95) has one end connected to a first connector (first connector 411) provided on the substrate and the other end connected to a specific connector (specific connector 93) provided on the front door, When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area (first specific area F). The first specific region is a region where the heat dissipation vent is not provided. If, when viewed from the front, the imaginary straight line passing through the first connector and the specific connector is called the second straight line (second straight line Q), When viewed from the front, the first specific region lies on the second straight line, When viewed from the front, the wiring is routed so as not to overlap with the first specific area.

[0103] Even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch, and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus preventing damage to the case. Furthermore, because the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, makes contact, it is possible to prevent the setting key or other objects from entering the inside of the case. Therefore, damage to components and circuits on the circuit board can be prevented. Furthermore, since the wiring is routed so as not to overlap with the first specific area, the wiring does not come into contact with the setting key. This prevents damage (disconnection) of the wiring.

[0104] The gaming machine of this embodiment is The system comprises a housing (housing 11), a front door (front door 12) that is openable and closable relative to the housing, and a first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300). The first circuit board unit comprises a circuit board (main control circuit board), a case for housing the circuit board (main control circuit board case 320), a setting key switch (setting key switch 340) provided on the circuit board, and a cover (cover 310) that can be opened and closed to cover the setting key switch exposed from the case. When the front door is opened, a key is inserted into the setting key switch, and the front door is closed with the cover open by the key, the cover does not come into contact with the predetermined member.

[0105] When the key is inserted into the setting key switch and the front door is closed with the cover open by the key, it is possible to prevent the cover from coming into contact with a predetermined component and being damaged.

[0106] The gaming machine of this embodiment is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with a heat dissipation vent (heat dissipation vent 421), When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area. When viewed from the front, if we define the first line as a virtual straight line parallel to the vertical or horizontal direction that passes through the aforementioned setting key switch, When viewed from the front, a plurality of heat dissipation vents are provided on the first straight line and in a portion of the case other than the first specific region. When viewed from the front, the first straight line is located, and the first specific region of the case does not have the heat dissipation vents. A fan is provided in the second substrate unit at a position below the first specific region.

[0107] This configuration ensures heat dissipation performance while suppressing damage to components. Specifically, the latter means that even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus suppressing damage to the case. Furthermore, because the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, makes contact, it is possible to prevent the setting key or other components from entering the inside of the case. Therefore, damage to components and circuits on the circuit board can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the first specific region does not have the heat dissipation vents and therefore its heat dissipation performance is relatively reduced, by providing a fan below it, this reduction in heat dissipation performance can be suppressed (compensated for), and heat dissipation performance can be ensured.

[0108] The gaming machine of this embodiment is It comprises a housing (housing 11) and a front door (front door 12) that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit (main control board unit 300) is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit (sub-control board unit 400) is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit includes a setting key switch (setting key switch 340), The second board unit comprises a board (sub-control board) and a case (sub-control board case 420) for housing the board. The aforementioned case is equipped with a heat dissipation vent (heat dissipation vent 421), When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area. When viewed from the front, if we define the first line as a virtual straight line parallel to the vertical or horizontal direction that passes through the aforementioned setting key switch, When viewed from the front, a plurality of heat dissipation vents are provided on the first straight line and in a portion of the case other than the first specific region. When viewed from the front, the first straight line is located, and the first specific region of the case does not have the heat dissipation vents. With the front door closed, if the part of the case that protrudes the most towards the housing side is designated as the first part, then the first specific region is located in a part different from the first part.

[0109] This configuration ensures heat dissipation performance while suppressing damage to components. Specifically, the latter means that even if the front door is closed with the setting key inserted into the setting key switch and the case comes into contact with the setting key, the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, will make contact, thus suppressing damage to the case. Furthermore, because the first specific area, which does not have a heat dissipation vent, makes contact, it is possible to prevent the setting key or other components from entering the inside of the case. Therefore, damage to components and circuits on the circuit board can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the first specific area is located in a part of the case that is different from the part that protrudes the most towards the housing, the first specific area is less likely to come into contact with the setting key (setting key switch) compared to when the first specific area is located in the part that protrudes the most towards the housing. This helps to suppress damage to the case.

[0110] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various modified forms without departing from its essence. In addition, within the scope of the invention, it is possible to freely combine, modify, or omit any of the components. Moreover, the invention according to this embodiment is not limited to the gaming machine 10 (Smart Pachi Slot®), but can also be applied to conventional gaming machines (conventional slot machines), that is, gaming machines in which players can physically touch gaming tokens, play games by inserting gaming tokens, and receive gaming tokens into a tray based on winning predetermined combinations. Furthermore, the invention according to this embodiment can also be applied to other gaming machines (for example, pachinko machines). [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 11 cabinets 12 Front Door 300 Main control board unit (first board unit) 340 Setting Key Switches 400 Sub-control board unit (2nd board unit) 420 Sub-control board case (case) 421 Heat dissipation vents F 1st specific area P 1st straight line

Claims

[Claim 1] It comprises a housing and a front door that is provided to the housing so as to be openable and closable, A first circuit board unit is provided inside the aforementioned housing. A second circuit board unit is provided on the rear side of the front door. The first circuit board unit is equipped with a setting key switch, The second substrate unit comprises a substrate and a case for housing the substrate, The aforementioned case is equipped with a heat dissipation vent, When the front door is closed and viewed from the front, the area of ​​the case that overlaps with the setting key switch is defined as the first specific area. When viewed from the front, if we define the first straight line as a virtual straight line parallel to the vertical or horizontal direction that passes through the aforementioned setting key switch, When viewed from the front, a plurality of heat dissipation vents are provided on the first straight line and in a portion of the case other than the first specific region. When viewed from the front, the first straight line is located, and the first specific region of the case is not provided with the heat dissipation vent. With the front door closed, if the part of the case that protrudes the most toward the housing side is defined as the first part, then the first specific area is located in a part different from the first part, in a gaming machine.

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