Gaming Machines

Abstract

To provide a game machine in which a two-dimensional code is appropriately arranged to prevent a fraudulent act on the game machine or an improper game.SOLUTION: A game machine comprises a main control board and a main board case in which the main control board is housed. In the game machine, a first two-dimensional code is arranged in an area visible to a player, a second two-dimensional code is arranged on the main board case, the second two-dimensional code does not have an alignment pattern, the first two-dimensional code has a larger amount of information that can be stored excluding error correction codes than that of the second two-dimensional code, and has a lower error correction level than that of the second two-dimensional code.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 47

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of gaming machines such as pinball gaming machines and reel gaming machines. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, in pinball gaming machines such as pachinko machines and reel-type gaming machines such as slot machines, it is important to make it difficult to commit fraud. For example, in the following Patent Document 1, fraud is prevented by implementing improvements in the processing executed in the gaming machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-092865 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, in order to prevent fraud in gaming machines, it is important to correctly install each component, such as a control board, in the gaming machine and to inform users of the correct way to play the game. In gaming machines, two-dimensional codes can be used for management purposes and for providing information to players. The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a gaming machine in which a two-dimensional code is appropriately arranged to prevent fraudulent or inappropriate play on the gaming machine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The gaming machine comprises a main control board and a main board case in which the main control board is housed, a first two-dimensional code is arranged in an area visible to a player, and a second two-dimensional code is arranged on the main board case, the second two-dimensional code does not have an alignment pattern, the first two-dimensional code has a larger amount of information that can be stored excluding error correction codes than the second two-dimensional code, and has a lower error correction level than the second two-dimensional code. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which a two-dimensional code is appropriately arranged to prevent fraudulent or inappropriate play on the gaming machine. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a QR code. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the function of each cell that constitutes a QR code. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a position detection pattern in a QR code. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an alignment pattern in a QR code. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a format area in a QR code. [Figure 6] 11 is a diagram for explaining differences in correction level areas for each error correction level. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of an encoding area in a QR code. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the data amount for each version of the QR code. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a quiet zone in a QR code. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a correction code area in a QR code of version 7 or later. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a microQR. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the functions of each cell that constitutes the Micro QR. [Figure 13] Like FIG. 12, this is an explanatory diagram of the functions of each cell constituting the micro QR. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of error correction levels in Micro QR. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the data amount for each version of Micro QR. [Figure 16] 1 is a front perspective view showing the appearance of the gaming machine. [Figure 17] 1 is an oblique view of the gaming machine when the front frame is open. [Figure 18] FIG. [Figure 19] 13 is a diagram explaining the main display device and the fourth pattern display device. FIG. [Figure 20] 2 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the gaming machine. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the gaming machine, similar to FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. [Diagram 23] FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board showing the performance display sticker placement area. [Diagram 25] A front view of the inner frame showing the arrangement area on the inner frame. [Figure 26] A rear view of the front frame showing the upper arrangement area of ​​the front frame. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the main control board and the main board case. [Figure 28] This is a view of the main control board and main board case from the back of the gaming machine. [Figure 29] An exploded oblique view of the performance control board and sub-board case. [Diagram 30] This is a view of the performance control board and sub-board case from the back of the gaming machine. [Diagram 31]FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an image displayed on the LCD unit. [Diagram 32] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a stamp QR code. [Diagram 33] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a performance display QR code. [Diagram 34] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an inner frame QR code. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining another example of an inner frame QR code. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining yet another example of an inner frame QR code. [Figure 37] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a front frame QR code. [Figure 38] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an electronic component QR code. [Figure 39] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a board QR code. [Diagram 40] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining another example of a board QR code. [Diagram 41] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining yet another example of a board QR code. [Diagram 42] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a board management QR code. [Diagram 43] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of an unopenable QR code. [Diagram 44] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a case QR code. [Diagram 45] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining another example of a case QR code. [Figure 46] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining yet another example of a case QR code. [Figure 47] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a liquid crystal QR code. [Figure 48] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a mounting area and a non-mounting area on a substrate. [Figure 49] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining that other QR codes are not placed in the left / right, top / bottom areas of a specified QR code. [Figure 50]FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an aspect for improving the readability of a QR code. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE DISCLOSURE Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in the following order. <1. Structure of 2D code> <2. Configuration of the gaming machine> <3. Control configuration of gaming machine> <3-1. Main control board> <3-2. Frame control board> <3-3. Power supply board> <3-4. Performance control boards, etc.> <4. Circuit Board Arrangement> <5. QR code placement> <5-1. QR code in the inner frame> <5-2. QR code in the front frame> <5-3. QR code on the main control board and main board case> <5-4. QR code on performance control board and sub board case> <5-5. QR code on LCD unit> <6. Features of each QR code> <6-1. QR code for certificate> <6-2. Performance display QR code> <6-3. Inner frame QR code> <6-4. Front frame QR code> <6-5. QR code for electronic components> <6-6. Circuit board QR code> <6-7. Board management QR code> <6-8. Do Not Open QR Code> <6-9. Case QR code> <6-10. LCD QR code> <7. QR Code Comparison> <7-1. LCD QR code and stamp QR code> <7-2. QR Codes Visible to Players and QR Codes on the Main Board Case> <7-3. QR codes visible to players and electronic part QR codes> <7-4. Board QR code and certificate stamp QR code> <7-5. QR code on the circuit board and the circuit board case> <7-6. PCB QR Code and Electronic Component QR Code> <7-7. QR code of the main control board and the board QR code of the performance control board> <7-8. Circuit board QR code or electronic component QR code and player visible QR code><7-9. LCD QR code and other QR codes> <7-10. QR code related to the main control board and the performance control board> <8.Other>

[0009] <1. Structure of 2D code> First, a configuration example of a two-dimensional code presented to an operator or user in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In the following embodiment, a QR code (registered trademark) and a micro QR are given as examples of the two-dimensional code.

[0010] An example of a QR code 200 presented on the gaming machine 1 is shown in Figures 1 and 2. There are various versions of the QR code 200. The example shown in Figures 1 and 2 is the version 2 QR code 200.

[0011] As shown in the figure, the QR code 200 is composed of a read target area 202 (an area surrounded by a dashed line in FIG. 1) that is configured in a substantially square shape with multiple small areas As included in the row and column directions, and a frame-shaped quiet zone 203 that is an area on the outer periphery of the read target area 202. In the following description, the small areas As may be referred to as "masses" or "cells Ce." Cells Ce may also be referred to as "modules." The small areas As, squares, and cells Ce are unit areas that make up the QR code 200.

[0012] The small area As is either a bright area As0 or a dark area As1. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the bright area As0 is a white area, and the dark area As1 is a black area.

[0013] In the inverted QR code 200, the bright area As0 is a black area and the dark area As1 is a white area. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, a QR code 200 in which the bright area As0 is a white area and the dark area As1 is a black area will be taken as an example.

[0014] The small area As can store 1-bit data. For example, when the 1-bit data is "0", it is represented by a bright area As0, and when the 1-bit data is "1", it is represented by a dark area As1.

[0015] Each small area As has a specific function depending on where it is located.

[0016] The function of each area of ​​the version 2 QR code 200 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. In Fig. 2, auxiliary lines are drawn in a grid pattern to make it easier to understand each small area As of the QR code 200.

[0017] The areas located near the upper left corner, lower left corner, and upper right corner of the reading target area 202 of the QR code 200 are used as position detection patterns 204 for detecting the position of the QR code 200 (see Figures 2 and 3).

[0018] The position detection pattern 204 comprises an area consisting of a dark area As1 of three squares each in the vertical and horizontal directions, a frame-shaped area formed by a row of squares (bright area As0) on the outer periphery of the dark area As1, and another frame-shaped area formed by a row of squares (dark area As1) on the outer periphery of the dark area As1. That is, the position detection pattern 204 is an area consisting of seven squares vertically and horizontally. Furthermore, if the QR code 200 is dirty and part of the position detection pattern 204 is unidentifiable, the QR code 200 may become unreadable.

[0019] An alignment pattern 205 is provided near the midpoint between the center and the bottom right corner of the reading target area 202 of the QR code 200 to correct distortion of the QR code 200 when it is read due to distortion of the object on which the QR code 200 is displayed, etc. (see Figures 2 and 4).

[0020] The alignment pattern 205 comprises a dark area As1 of one square, a frame-shaped area formed by a row of squares (bright area As0) around the dark area As1, and another frame-shaped area formed by a row of squares (dark area As1) around the dark area As1. That is, the alignment pattern 205 is an area consisting of five squares vertically and horizontally.

[0021] The number of alignment patterns 205 provided on the QR code 200 varies depending on the version of the QR code 200.

[0022] Specifically, if the QR code 200 is version 1, no alignment pattern 205 is provided. Furthermore, if the QR code 200 is between version 2 and version 6, one alignment pattern 205 is provided. Furthermore, if the QR code 200 is between version 7 and version 13, six alignment patterns 205 are provided, and if the QR code 200 is between version 14 and version 20, thirteen alignment patterns 205 are provided.

[0023] Thereafter, between version 21 and version 27, 22 alignment patterns 205 are provided, between version 28 and version 34, 33 alignment patterns 205 are provided, and between version 35 and version 40, 46 alignment patterns 205 are provided.

[0024] In the QR code 200, a region between the bottom ends of the upper left and upper right position detection patterns 204, and a region between the right ends of the upper left and lower left position detection patterns 204 are provided as timing patterns 206.

[0025] The timing pattern 206 is a row of nine squares, with dark areas As1 and light areas As0 arranged alternately. The timing pattern 206 is used to identify the position of each small area As in the QR code 200 .

[0026] 2, an L-shaped region (hatched region in FIG. 2) consisting of one row of squares outside the position detection pattern 204 is formed as a separation pattern 207. The separation pattern 207 is a region provided to distinguish the position detection pattern 204 from other regions, and is composed of a bright region As0.

[0027] A part of the area further outside the separation pattern 207 with respect to the position detection pattern 204 (the area on the opposite side of the separation pattern 207 from the position detection pattern 204) is formed as a format area 208 in which format information of the QR code 200 is stored. Specifically, the hatched area in FIG. 5 is the format area 208.

[0028] In addition to information specifying the mask pattern used when generating the QR code 200, the format area 208 stores error correction level information. An error in reading the QR code 200 refers to a situation where a reader erroneously obtains information that is not intended by the designer of the QR code 200 when a part of the read target area 202 excluding the position detection pattern 204 of the QR code 200 cannot be read normally due to dirt or damage (tears). Specifically, this corresponds to a case where a bright area As0 is read as a dark area As1 due to dirt or the like. Error correction refers to correcting (restoring) the erroneously obtained data using a redundant code included in the QR code 200 when erroneous information is read from a part of the read target area 202 excluding the position detection pattern 204 of the QR code 200.

[0029] The error correction level information is stored in the two leftmost squares of the format area 208 (the area surrounded by a dashed line in Figure 5) located below the position detection pattern 204 in the upper left corner of the format area 208, and this area is designated as the error correction level area 209.

[0030] The error correction level is information indicating the level of error correction, and there are four levels, from lowest to highest: error correction level L, error correction level M, error correction level Q, and error correction level H. In other words, the error correction level can be expressed by 2 bits.

[0031] When the error correction level is L (error correction level L), about 7% of errors in each read small area As can be corrected. Specifically, when the error correction level is L, QR code 200 contains enough redundant codes to restore normal data even if an area corresponding to approximately 7% of reading target area 202 excluding position detection pattern 204 in QR code 200 cannot be read normally due to dirt or damage, thereby enabling QR code 200 to be read normally. Similarly, error correction level M is said to be able to correct approximately 15% of errors, error correction level Q is said to be able to correct approximately 25% of errors, and error correction level H is said to be able to correct approximately 30% of errors. In other words, the higher the error correction level, the more areas of the QR code 200 that cannot be read normally are permitted to be allowed to exist.

[0032] In the error correction level area 209, when the error correction level is level L, both the left and right small regions As are composed of dark regions As1, when the error correction level is level M, the left small region As is composed of dark region As1 and the right small region As is composed of light region As0, when the error correction level is level Q, the left small region As is composed of light region As0 and the right small region As is composed of dark region As1, and when the error correction level is level H, both the left and right small regions As are composed of light region As0 (see Figure 6).

[0033] In QR code 200, the area not included in position detection pattern 204, alignment pattern 205, timing pattern 206, and separation pattern 207 is set as coding area 210 (area hatched with diagonal lines in FIG. 7) except for one cell (area indicated by a black circle in FIG. 7).

[0034] The encoding area 210 is divided into a format area 208, a data area 211 in which information obtained when the QR code 200 is read and which is to be transmitted (user data) is stored, and a correction code area 212 in which an error correction code that corrects the read QR code 200 is stored.

[0035] In the coding area 210 , the area located roughly on the right side is a data area 211 , and the area located roughly on the left side is a correction code area 212 .

[0036] The ratio of the area of ​​the data area 211 to the area of ​​the correction code area 212 in the coding area 210 varies depending on the error correction level. Specifically, the higher the error correction level, the more correction codes there are, and the higher the ratio of the correction code area 212. On the other hand, the lower the error correction level, the fewer correction codes there are, and the higher the ratio of the data area.

[0037] The ratio of the data area 211 to the correction code area 212 is shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the more the version of the QR code 200 is updated, the more data can be stored. However, when comparing within the same version, the higher the correction level is, the larger the correction code area 212 becomes and the less data can be stored in the data area 211.

[0038] The quiet zone 203 is provided as the outermost region of the QR code 200 in order to increase the possibility that the QR code 200 will be read properly. Specifically, the quiet zone 203 is provided as an area on the outer periphery of the reading target area 202 which is mainly composed of the position detection pattern 204 , the alignment pattern 205 , the timing pattern 206 , the separation pattern 207 and the coding area 210 .

[0039] The quiet zone 203 is a frame-shaped area having four sides, and it is desirable that the short-side length L2 of each side is four or more times the length L1 of one side of the small area As (see FIG. 9).

[0040] In the following description, the length L2 of each side constituting the quiet zone 203 in the short direction is referred to as the "frame width L2 of the quiet zone 203."

[0041] The frame width L2 of the quiet zone 203 may be different depending on the location.

[0042] Although details will be described later, the gaming machine 1 is also provided with a QR code 200 in which the frame width L2 of the quiet zone 203 is less than four times the length L1 of one side of the small area As.

[0043] The above describes the version 2 QR code 200, but QR codes 200 with a size larger than version 7 have a model number area 213 in which version information is stored.

[0044] Specifically, the QR code 200 shown in FIG. 10 is of version 7, and has six alignment patterns 205 and two areas enclosed by dashed lines as model number areas 213.

[0045] Furthermore, the number of small areas As of the QR code 200 increases as the version increases. Specifically, the number of small regions As in the version 1 QR code 200 is 441 in total, with 21 each arranged vertically and horizontally, while the number of small regions As in the version 2 QR code 200 is 625 in total, with 25 each arranged vertically and horizontally. As the version increases by one, the number of small regions As arranged vertically and horizontally increases by four. In addition, if the size of the small regions As is the same across versions, the number of small regions As increases as the version becomes larger, and therefore the size of the QR code 200 also increases as the number of small regions As increases.

[0046] Next, an example of the micro QR 201 is shown in FIG. There are three versions, M1, M2, M3, and M4, of the micro QR 201. The example shown in Fig. 11 is an example of the micro QR 201 of version M4 in which 17 small areas As are arranged vertically and horizontally.

[0047] The small area As is a bright area As0 that is a white area when representing a bit "0", and is a dark area As1 that is a black area when representing a bit "1".

[0048] Each small area As has a specific function depending on where it is located.

[0049] The functions of each area of ​​the version M4 micro QR201 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. In Fig. 11, the grid-like auxiliary lines are drawn as in the past for ease of understanding.

[0050] A position detection pattern 204 is arranged near the upper left corner of the reading target area 202 of the Micro QR code 201. That is, unlike the QR code 200, the Micro QR code 201 is provided with only one position detection pattern 204.

[0051] The aspect of one position detection pattern 204 included in the micro QR code 201 is configured similarly to the position detection pattern 204 of the QR code 200. That is, the position detection pattern 204 is an area consisting of seven squares vertically and horizontally.

[0052] The micro QR 201 does not have an alignment pattern 205.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 11, an L-shaped area (hatched area in FIG. 11) consisting of one row of squares on the outer side of the position detection pattern 204 is formed as a separation pattern 207.

[0054] In the micro QR code 201, of the small areas As constituting the top and left ends of the reading target area 202 consisting of 17 small areas As in each of the vertical and horizontal directions, the portions not included in the position detection pattern 204 and the separation pattern 207 are provided as timing patterns 206.

[0055] That is, the timing pattern 206 is the area surrounded by a dashed line in FIG. 11, and is a row of nine squares in which dark areas As1 and light areas As0 are alternately arranged.

[0056] In the region further outside the separation pattern 207 with respect to the position detection pattern 204 (the region on the opposite side of the separation pattern 207 from the position detection pattern 204), the region other than the timing pattern 206 is formed as a format region 208. The format region 208 is indicated by oblique line hatching in FIG.

[0057] The three-square area at the left end of the format area 208 (the area surrounded by a dashed line in FIG. 13) is used as an error correction level area 209 that is used as a storage area for error correction level information. The information stored in the error correction level area 209 of the QR code 200 indicates only the error correction level information. On the other hand, the information stored in the error correction level area 209 of the micro QR 201 includes version information in addition to the error correction level information.

[0058] That is, the 3-bit data stored in the error correction level area 209 when the error correction level is L in the micro QR 201 of version M2 is different from the 3-bit data stored in the error correction level area 209 when the error correction level is L in the micro QR 201 of version M4 (see Figure 14).

[0059] In the format area 208, in addition to error correction level information including version information, information specifying the mask pattern used when the micro QR code 201 was generated is stored.

[0060] The error correction level is information indicating the level of correction, and there are four levels: error detection only, error correction level L, error correction level M, and error correction level Q, in order of decreasing correction level.

[0061] The error correction level of the Micro QR201 version M1, "error detection only," is not capable of correcting erroneous bits, but only of detecting the presence of errors.

[0062] In the case of error correction level L, it is possible to correct approximately 7% of errors in each read small area As. Similarly, in the case of error correction level M, it is possible to correct approximately 15% of errors, and in the case of error correction level Q, it is possible to correct approximately 25% of errors.

[0063] In addition, unlike the QR code 200, the error correction level H cannot be set for the micro QR 201.

[0064] In the reading target area 202 of the micro QR code 201, the area excluding the position detection pattern 204, the separation pattern 207, and the timing pattern 206 is provided as an encoding area 210. The encoding area 210 is divided into a format area 208, a data area 211 in which information obtained when the QR code 200 is read and which is to be transmitted is stored, and a correction code area 212 in which an error correction code that corrects the read QR code 200 is stored.

[0065] In the coding area 210 , the area located roughly on the right side is a data area 211 , and the area located roughly on the left side is a correction code area 212 .

[0066] The ratio of the area of ​​the data area 211 to the area of ​​the correction code area 212 in the coding area 210 varies depending on the error correction level. Specifically, the higher the error correction level, the more correction codes there are, and the higher the ratio of the correction code area 212. On the other hand, the lower the error correction level, the fewer correction codes there are, and the higher the ratio of the data area.

[0067] The ratio of the data area 211 to the correction code area 212 in the micro QR code 201 is shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the amount of data that can be stored increases as the version of the micro QR 201 increases, but when comparing the same version, the higher the correction level, the larger the correction code area 212 becomes and the amount of data that can be stored in the data area 211 decreases.

[0068] Similar to the QR code 200, the Micro QR code 201 has a quiet zone 203 on the outer periphery of the read target area 202 as the outermost area of ​​the Micro QR code 201.

[0069] The quiet zone 203 is a frame-shaped area, and the frame width L2 of the quiet zone 203 is set to be at least twice the length L1 of one side of the small area As (see FIG. 13).

[0070] Also, the number of small regions As of the Micro QR 201 increases as the version becomes larger. Specifically, the number of small areas As in the micro QR201 of version M1 is 121 in total, with 11 arranged vertically and 11 arranged horizontally, while the number of small areas As in the micro QR201 of version M2 is 169 in total, with 13 arranged vertically and 13 arranged horizontally. As the version increases by one, the number of small areas As arranged vertically and horizontally increases by two. In addition, if the size of the small regions As is the same across all versions, the number of small regions As increases as the version becomes larger, and therefore the size of the micro QR 201 also increases with the increase in the number of small regions As.

[0071] The configurations of the QR code 200 and the micro QR code 201 have been explained above. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the term "QR code 200" may include micro QR code 201.

[0072] <2. Configuration of the gaming machine> The overall structure of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0073] In the following description, the right direction as seen by a player facing the gaming machine 1 is the right direction of the gaming machine 1, and the left direction as seen by a player facing the gaming machine 1 is the left direction of the gaming machine 1. The vertically upward direction is the upward direction of the gaming machine 1, and the vertically downward direction is the downward direction of the gaming machine 1. The direction from the gaming machine 1 to the player facing the gaming machine 1 is the forward direction of the gaming machine 1, and the direction from the player facing the gaming machine 1 is the rear direction of the gaming machine 1. The left and right directions of the gaming machine 1 are the same as the width direction of the gaming machine 1.

[0074] The gaming machine 1 is a so-called smart pachinko machine in which game balls enclosed therein are circulated and used for playing games.

[0075] 16 and 17, the gaming machine 1 comprises a wooden outer frame 3, an inner frame 5 attached to the outer frame 3 by a hinge mechanism 4 so as to be openable and closable, and a front frame 7 attached to the inner frame 5 by the hinge mechanism 4 so as to be openable and closable. The hinge mechanisms 4 are provided at the upper and lower left ends of the gaming machine 1. The inner frame 5 is formed in a picture frame shape, and holds a gaming board 9 inside.

[0076] The front frame 7 holds a transparent glass 11 in the center, and a side unit 13 is provided so as to surround all or part of the periphery of the transparent glass 11. The side unit 13 is decorated to match the theme of the gaming machine 1, and may be provided with presentation means such as LEDs and movable accessories inside. The side unit 13 exerts a presentation effect that conveys the atmosphere of the game to the player. The side unit 13 is attached to the front frame 7 in a replaceable manner.

[0077] A key cylinder 15 for unlocking the door is provided at the right end of the front frame 7. By inserting a key into this key cylinder 15 and operating it to one side, the locked state of the front frame 7 relative to the inner frame 5 is released, allowing the front frame 7 to be opened to the front. By operating it to the other side, the locked state of the inner frame 5 relative to the outer frame 3 is released, allowing the inner frame 5 to be opened to the front.

[0078] A front operation panel 17 is disposed below the front frame 7. A handle device 19 for launching game balls from the launching device 31 is provided on the right end side of the front operation panel 17.

[0079] A game ball number display 21 and a counting switch 23 are provided on the left side of the front operation panel 17. The game ball number display 21 is composed of a 6-digit 7-segment LED, and displays the number of game balls managed by the gaming machine 1 (the number of game balls owned by the player: hereinafter referred to as the managed game ball number). The counting switch 23 accepts an operation input from the player to transfer the managed game ball number to a game value medium (card) of the game ball etc. lending device.

[0080] In addition, operation buttons 25 that are configured to be operable by the player are provided on the front operation panel 17. The operation buttons 25 include a performance button 25a, a direction key 25b, a brightness change button 25c, and a volume change button 25d.

[0081] The effect button 25a is operable (input acceptable) during a predetermined input acceptance period, and can bring about changes in the effect by performing a predetermined operation (pressing, tapping repeatedly, pressing and holding, etc.). The effect button 25a also serves as an operator for instructing the confirmation of an item selected by the directional key 25b. A later-described effect vibration device 77 is attached to the effect button 25a, and the effect vibration device 77 can further enhance the effect of the effect by vibrating the effect button 25a at a predetermined timing.

[0082] Furthermore, the effect button 25a also functions as an operator for displaying a menu screen while a demo screen is being displayed on the LCD unit (liquid crystal display device) 57 during standby for a game.

[0083] The direction keys 25b are operators that allow users such as players and hall staff to select various items, give direction instructions, etc. The direction keys 25b include an up key provided on the upper side for pointing up, a left key provided on the left side for pointing left, a right key provided on the right side for pointing right, and a down key provided on the lower side for pointing down.

[0084] The directional keys 25b are controls that are operated to select a desired item from the menu items arranged vertically or horizontally on the above-mentioned menu screen. The player can operate the effect button 25a to display the menu screen, operate the directional keys 25b to make the desired menu item selectable, and operate the effect button 25a again to select the desired menu item.

[0085] The brightness change button 25c is an operator for adjusting the brightness of the performance LED 27 related to the performance, and includes a plus button for increasing the brightness of the performance LED 27 and a minus button for decreasing the brightness of the performance LED 27. The volume change button 25d is an operator for adjusting the volume of the sound output from the speaker 29, and includes a plus button for increasing the volume and a minus button for decreasing the volume.

[0086] A plurality of performance LEDs 27 that are controlled to emit light in various lighting modes and colors are provided at appropriate positions on the front frame 7. A large number of performance LEDs 27 are provided around the gaming machine 1, for example, on the periphery of the front frame 7, inside the side unit 13, and inside the gaming board 9, and their illumination is controlled by a performance control board 120 (see Figs. 20 and 21).

[0087] Additionally, around the gaming machine 1, for example around the periphery of the front frame 7, a plurality of speakers 29 for outputting sound are provided. The multiple speakers 29 enable so-called stereophonic sound reproduction or multi-channel sound reproduction for sounds related to the performance.

[0088] The inner frame 5 is provided with a circulation mechanism 34 including a launching device 31 and a lifting device 33 below the game board 9. The circulation mechanism 34 is a mechanism for circulating game balls within the game machine 1. The launching device 31 launches game balls toward a game area 37 with strength according to the amount of operation (rotation angle) of the handle 19a of the handle device 19 by the player. The lifting device 33 transports game balls discharged from the game area 37 (game board 9) to the launching device 31. In addition, the lifting device 33 is equipped with a polishing device that polishes the game balls while lifting them.

[0089] A vibration device is provided at the lower portion of the inner frame 5 and the front frame 7 to prevent the game balls from clogging in the circulation mechanism 34. The vibration device is configured to include a vibration device and a vibration transmission section.

[0090] Next, the configuration of the game board 9 will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a front view of the game board 9.

[0091] As shown in Fig. 18, the game board 9 is provided with an outer rail 35 and an inner rail 36 for guiding the launched game ball. The outer rail 35 extends in an arc shape from the slightly lower left end in the left-right direction, passing through the upper center end in the left-right direction and extending to the upper right. The roughly circular area surrounded by the outer rail 35 is formed as a game area 37, and the area outside the roughly circular area is formed as a non-game area.

[0092] The game area 37 is a space formed between the game board 9 and the transparent glass 11, and is an area where game balls can flow down. The inner rail 36 extends in an arc shape from the slightly lower left end to the upper left end along the outer rail 35. The area between the outer rail 35 and the inner rail 36 is formed as a game ball guide path 35a. The game ball guide path 35a is a path along which the game balls launched from the launching device 31 pass, and guides the game balls launched from the launching device 31 to a game area 37.

[0093] The play area 37 is divided into a left play area 37a and a right play area 37b on the left and right sides by a center ornament 39 provided in the center. The center ornament 39 has a center apex 39a that protrudes most upward to divide the left play area 37a and the right play area 37b. The center apex 39a does not have to be in the center in the left-right direction, but may be formed at a position shifted to the right or left from the center. A game ball launched by the launching device 31 at less than a predetermined launch strength that does not exceed the center apex 39a will flow down the left game area 37a, and a game ball launched at or above the predetermined launch strength that exceeds the center apex 39a will flow down the right game area 37b.

[0094] The game area 37 is provided with a collision stopper 38 that is continuous with the upper right end of the outer rail 35. The collision stopper 38 is disposed at a position along the outer rail 35, so that the game balls launched by the launching device 31 with a predetermined launch strength or higher are collided with the collision stopper 38 and guided to the right game area 37b.

[0095] In addition, a backflow prevention member 40 is provided at the upper left end of the inner rail 36. The backflow prevention member 40 is biased counterclockwise by a spring (not shown) so as to block the game ball guide path 35a, and can rotate clockwise around the upper left end of the inner rail 36 as a fulcrum by a game ball entering the game area 37 from the game ball guide path 35a. Thus, the backflow prevention member 40 functions to prevent a game ball that has entered the game area 37 from flowing back into the game ball guide path 35a.

[0096] A special symbol 1 start hole 41 is provided at the center lower side of the game board 9. The special symbol 1 start hole 41 is a winning hole related to the start condition of the variable display operation of the first special symbol (hereinafter, referred to as special symbol 1, and may be abbreviated to special symbol 1) in the main display 63, and is configured as a fixed start hole.

[0097] A special symbol 2 start port 43 is provided on the right side of the game board 9. The special symbol 2 start port 43 is a winning port related to the start condition of the variable display operation of the second special symbol (hereinafter, referred to as special symbol 2, and may be abbreviated to special symbol 2) in the main display 63, and is configured as a variable start port whose opening and closing is controlled by the normal electric role 45.

[0098] By operating the movable piece 45a, the normal electric device 45 can be switched between an open state, which allows the game ball to enter the special pattern 2 starting hole 43, and a closed state, which makes it difficult or impossible for the game ball to enter the special pattern 2 starting hole 43.

[0099] Above the special symbol 2 start hole 43 in the right game area 37b, a normal symbol start hole 47 through which the game ball can pass is provided. This normal symbol start hole 47 is a gate related to the variable display operation of the normal symbol in the main display 63.

[0100] A special winning hole 49 is provided below the special symbol 2 starting hole 43 in the right game area 37b. The special winning hole 49 is controlled to open and close by a special electric device 51. By operating the movable piece 51a, the special electric device 51 can be switched between an open state that allows the game ball to enter the large prize opening 49 and a closed state that makes it difficult or impossible for the game ball to enter the large prize opening 49.

[0101] In addition, a plurality of winning holes 53 are provided on the left and right lower sides of the game area 37. In addition, an outlet 55 is provided at the center lower end of the game area 37, and game balls that do not enter any of the winning holes are discharged from the game area 37 through the outlet 55.

[0102] Although only game balls that have flowed down the left game area 37a can enter the special pattern 1 starting hole 41, game balls that have flowed down the right game area 37b may also be allowed to enter the special pattern 1 starting hole 41. In addition, only game balls that have flowed down the right game area 37b can enter the special pattern 2 starting hole 43, the normal pattern starting hole 47, and the big prize hole 49, but game balls that have flowed down the left game area 37a may also be able to enter or pass through them.

[0103] In the gaming machine 1, when a gaming ball enters one of the various winning holes provided in the gaming area 37, the number of prize balls set for the winning hole into which the gaming ball entered is paid out (for example, 3 balls for the special pattern 1 starting hole 41, 1 ball for the special pattern 2 starting hole 43, 15 balls for the big winning hole 49, and 5 balls for the winning hole 53) is paid out.

[0104] An LCD unit 57 and an illumination panel 59 are provided in the area surrounded by the center decoration 39 in the center of the game board 9. The LCD unit 57 displays, for example, three decorative symbols in a variable or stationary manner and displays various images (still images and moving images) for various effects, according to the control of the effect control board 120 described later.

[0105] The decorative symbols displayed on the LCD unit 57 come in a variety of types, including numbers and symbols, and the combination of three decorative symbols displayed in a stopped state notifies the player of the results of the jackpot lottery, which will be described later.

[0106] The illumination panel 59 is made of a plate-like transparent synthetic resin material, and is disposed facing the LCD unit 57 on the player side (front side) of the LCD unit 57. The illumination panel 59 has predetermined patterns such as letters, figures, symbols, designs, etc. formed by uneven processing on the front or back surface. When light is not incident on the illumination panel 59 from the side, the patterns are invisible or difficult to see, but when light is incident on the side, the patterns emit diffuse light, making them visible to the player.

[0107] A space is formed between the LCD unit 57 and the illumination panel 59, and one or more movable parts 61 are disposed in this space. Figure 18 illustrates one of the movable parts 61. The movable device 61 is disposed in front of the LCD unit 57, and is normally retracted to a position where it cannot be seen by the player, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. The movable body device 61, as shown by the solid line in Figure 18, is driven by the movable body motor 61a (see Figure 21) while the decorative patterns are being displayed in a varying manner (while special patterns 1 and 2 are being displayed in a varying manner), and moves to the front of the LCD unit 57, giving the player a sense of anticipation of a jackpot.

[0108] A main display 63 made of a dot display is provided in the non-play area at the lower left of the game board 9. In addition, a fourth symbol display 65 made of a dot display is provided at the lower right of the LCD unit 57 on the game board 9.

[0109] Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining the main display 63 and the fourth symbol display 65. The main display 63 is controlled by the main control board 100 (see Fig. 20), and displays (reports) information regarding the progress of the game by turning on, blinking, and turning off the LED. In the following, turning on, blinking, and turning off the LED will be collectively referred to as "lighting display."

[0110] As shown in Fig. 19(a), the main display 63 is provided with a special symbol 1 display 63a for performing a variable display operation (lighting display) of the special symbol 1, a special symbol 2 display 63b for performing a variable display operation of the special symbol 2, and a normal symbol display 63c for performing a variable display operation of the normal symbol. The main display 63 is also provided with a special symbol 1 reserved number display 63d for displaying the reserved number of special symbol 1, a special symbol 2 reserved number display 63e for displaying the reserved number of special symbol 2, a normal symbol reserved number display 63f for displaying the reserved number of normal symbols, a round display 63g for displaying the prescribed number of rounds (maximum number of rounds) related to a jackpot, a game state display 63h for displaying the game state (time-saving state, high probability state), and a right-hit display 63i for encouraging the player to hit right.

[0111] Note that right hit means that the player operates the handle 19a to launch the game ball toward the right game area 37b. The right hit indicator 63i is an indicator for informing the player that it is more advantageous for the player to launch the game ball toward the right game area 37b than to launch the game ball toward the left game area 37a.

[0112] The fourth symbol display 65 is controlled by the performance control board 120, and notifies information regarding the progress of the game by lighting up the LEDs. As shown in Fig. 19(b), the fourth symbol display 65 is provided with a special symbol 1 display 65a for performing the variable display operation of the special symbol 1, and a special symbol 2 display 65b for performing the variable display operation of the special symbol 2. The fourth symbol display 65 is also provided with a special symbol 1 reserved number display 65c for displaying the reserved number of special symbol 1, a special symbol 2 reserved number display 65d for displaying the reserved number of special symbol 2, and a right hit display 65e for encouraging the player to hit right.

[0113] <3. Control configuration of gaming machine> 20 and 21 are block diagrams showing the control configuration of the gaming machine 1. The control configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to the block diagrams of FIGS.

[0114] The gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is mainly composed of a main control board 100 that is responsible for overall control related to the progress of the game (gaming operation control), a frame control board 110 that is responsible for overall control related to the management of the number of gaming balls (prize balls) and control related to the management of the gaming balls (launching, circulation), a presentation control board 120 that receives presentation control commands from the main control board 100 and is responsible for overall control of the execution of presentations by the presentation means, a power supply board 130 that generates and supplies the power supply voltage required for the gaming machine 1 from an external power source, a gaming ball etc. lending device connection terminal board 140 that is connected to the gaming ball etc. lending device, a decorative relay board 150 on which components related to the presentation means are mounted or connected, a front frame relay board 160, an upper decorative board 170, and a decorative board 180.

[0115] <3-1. Main control board> The main control board 100 includes a main control unit 101 and a system reset circuit 103. The main control unit 101 is a microprocessor including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and an RWM (Read / Write Memory). The ROM stores a control program for controlling game operations as well as various data required for game operation control. The RWM functions as a work area and buffer memory. The CPU controls game operations by executing the control program stored in the ROM.

[0116] A system reset circuit 103 detects power-on, power-off, power supply abnormality, etc., and outputs a system reset signal to reset the main control unit 101. Although not shown, the main control unit 101 also includes a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) for implementing periodic interrupts, a constant-period pulse output creation function (bit rate generator), and a time measurement function, an interrupt controller circuit that performs interrupt enable / disable functions such as a timer interrupt that issues an interrupt signal, a watchdog timer (WDT) circuit that monitors for abnormal operation of the control program, an IAT (Inhibit Running Outside Designated Area) circuit that monitors whether a program is being executed correctly within a preset address range, and a counter circuit (random number generation circuit) for generating random numbers within a certain range (hard random number values) in a hardware manner.

[0117] The counter circuit includes a random number generating circuit that generates random numbers, and a sampling circuit that samples random numbers from the random number generating circuit at a predetermined timing, and functions as a 16-bit counter as a whole. The main control unit 101 sends an instruction to the sampling circuit according to the processing state, thereby obtaining the number indicated by the random number generating circuit as a random number for jackpot determination (0 to 65535), and uses the random number for jackpot determination in the jackpot determination lottery. Note that the random number for jackpot determination is obtained by adding the software random number generated by software processing and the hard random number in order to prevent cheating such as aiming for a jackpot.

[0118] The main control board 100 is connected to a special symbol 1 start port switch 41a that detects the entry of a game ball into the special symbol 1 start port 41, a special symbol 2 start port switch 43a that detects the entry of a game ball into the special symbol 2 start port 43, a normal symbol start port switch 47a that detects the passage of a game ball into the normal symbol start port 47, a prize port switch 53a that detects the entry of a game ball into the prize port 53, and a large prize port switch 49a that detects the entry of a game ball into the large prize port 49. The detection signals output from each of these switches are input to the main control unit 101. Therefore, the main control unit 101 can grasp which prize port the game ball has entered (passed through) based on the detection signals from each switch.

[0119] In addition, the main control board 100 is connected to a special winning port solenoid 51b that operates the special electric role 51 (movable piece 51a) that opens and closes the special winning port 49, and a normal electric role solenoid 45b that operates the normal electric role 45 (movable piece 45a) that opens and closes the special symbol 2 starting port 43. The main control unit 101 outputs control signals for controlling these solenoids.

[0120] The game board 9 is also provided with a magnetic sensor 67 for detecting magnetism, a radio wave sensor 69 for detecting radio waves, and a vibration sensor 71 for detecting vibrations, and each of these sensors is connected to the main control board 100. Signals from each of these sensors are input to the main control unit 101.

[0121] A main display 63 is also connected to the main control board 100. The main control unit 101 outputs a control signal for turning on the main display 63.

[0122] The main control board 100 is connected to the frame control board 110 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The main control board 100 (main control unit 101) transmits to the frame control board 110 control commands mainly including information about winning balls, and launch control signals indicating whether or not game balls can be launched. The main control board 100 also receives from the frame control board 110 a door opening signal indicating the opening of the front frame 7, an RWM clearing signal for clearing the RWM, a power supply abnormality signal indicating a power supply abnormality, and a frame communication confirmation signal for confirming communication. Furthermore, the main control board 100 receives drive power (DC35VA, DC12VA, DC5VA, backup power supply) from the frame control board 110.

[0123] The main control board 100 transmits various performance control commands, including information related to the special symbol variation display game and information related to errors, to the performance control board 120. However, in order to prevent fraudulent acts such as cheating, the main control board 100 only transmits signals to the performance control board 120, and is configured for one-way communication in which it cannot receive signals from the performance control board 120.

[0124] <3-2. Frame control board> The frame control board 110 is equipped with a frame control unit 111, an RWM clear switch 112a, a game ball number clear switch 112b, a ball removal switch 112c, an error release switch 112d, a performance indicator 113, a system reset circuit 114, a power supply abnormality signal generating circuit 115, a launch control circuit 116 and a backup power supply generating circuit 117.

[0125] The frame control unit 111 is a microprocessor equipped with a CPU, a ROM, and a RWM. The ROM stores control programs for managing the number of game balls, controlling the launching device 31 and the lifting device 33, and various data required for these controls. The RWM functions as a work area and a buffer memory. The CPU manages the number of game balls, controls the launching device 31 and the lifting device 33, and the like, by executing the control programs stored in the ROM.

[0126] The RWM clear switch 112a, the game ball count clear switch 112b, the ball removal switch 112c, and the error reset switch 112d are push button type switches. If the RWM clear switch 112a was pressed when the power was turned on, the frame control unit 111 clears the RWM and transmits an RWM clear signal to the main control board 100. The main control unit 101 that receives the RWM clear signal clears a predetermined area of ​​the RWM.

[0127] When the game ball count clear switch 112b is pressed when the power is turned on, the frame control unit 111 clears the game ball count that it manages. When the game ball count is cleared, the game ball count display 21 displays 0.

[0128] When the ball removal switch 112c is pressed when the power is turned on, the frame control unit 111 performs a ball removal process to discharge the game balls enclosed in the gaming machine 1 to the outside. Specifically, the frame control unit 111 drives the lifting motor 33a on the condition that a game ball is detected by the lifting inlet switch 33f described later.

[0129] If the error reset switch 112d is pressed when a specific error occurs, the frame control unit 111 resets the specific error that has occurred.

[0130] The performance display 113 is composed of, for example, a 6-digit 8-segment (7-segment + 1-dot) display. The performance display 113 is controlled by the frame control unit 111, and displays game performance information calculated based on game results over a predetermined period (for example, every 6000 games). The game performance information includes continuous role ratio, role ratio, base, etc. The continuous role ratio is the ratio of the number of prize balls that have won the large prize opening 49 to the total number of prize balls. The role ratio is the ratio of the number of prize balls that have won the special pattern 2 start opening 43 and the number of prize balls that have won the large prize opening 49 to the total number of prize balls. The base is the ratio of the total number of prize balls to the number of game balls shot out. In addition, the performance display 113 can switch and display the gaming performance information for each predetermined period (each section).

[0131] The system reset circuit 114 detects when the power is turned on, when the power is turned off, or when there is a power abnormality, and outputs a system reset signal to reset the frame control unit 111 .

[0132] The power supply abnormality signal generating circuit 115 monitors voltage drops of the drive power supply (5V DC voltage (DC5VA), 12V DC voltage (DC12VA)) supplied from the power supply board 130, and outputs a power supply abnormality signal to the main control unit 101 when the voltage falls below a predetermined threshold. The power supply abnormality signal generating circuit 115 may also be configured to monitor voltage drops of 24V AC voltage (AC24V).

[0133] The launch control circuit 116 controls the launch of game balls from the launch device 31 by controlling the drive of the launch device 31 (a ball feed solenoid 31a and a launch solenoid 31b, which will be described later).

[0134] The backup power generation circuit 117 generates a backup power (VBB) to be supplied to the RWM of the main control unit 101 and the frame control unit 111 when the power is cut off. The RWM of the main control unit 101 and the frame control unit 111 that receives the backup power can hold (back up) the stored data for a certain period of time even when the power is cut off.

[0135] A door open sensor 73 provided on the inner frame 5 is connected to the frame control board 110. When the door open sensor 73 detects at least one of that the front frame 7 is opened relative to the inner frame 5 and that the inner frame 5 is opened relative to the outer frame 3, it outputs a door open signal to the main control board 100 via the frame control board 110.

[0136] The circulation mechanism 34 provided in the inner frame 5 is provided with a lifting motor 33a, an out ball switch 33b, a foul ball switch 33c, an excess position detection switch 33d, an insufficient position detection switch 33e, a lifting inlet switch 33f, a lifting outlet switch 33g, and a lifting position detection switch 33h, which are connected to the frame control board 110.

[0137] The circulation mechanism 34 is formed with a pre-lifting path along which game balls discharged from the game area 37 are guided, a lifting path along which game balls that have passed through the pre-lifting path are lifted, and a post-lifting path along which game balls lifted up by the lifting path are guided to the launching device 31. In the circulation mechanism 34, game balls discharged from the game area 37 are guided to the bottom end of the lifting path through a pre-lifting path. The game balls guided to the bottom end of the lifting path are lifted upward in the lifting path by the lifting device 33. The game balls that reach the top end of the lifting path are then sent to a post-lifting path and guided to the launching device 31 through the post-lifting path.

[0138] The lifting motor 33a is controlled by the frame control unit 111 and rotates, for example, a spiral member arranged in the lifting path. The rotated spiral member guides the game balls that have reached the downstream end of the pre-lifting path to the lifting path, and lifts the game balls that are retained in the lifting path upward. It also sends the game balls from the top end of the lifting path to the post-lifting path.

[0139] The out ball switch 33b, the foul ball switch 33c, the excessive position detection switch 33d, the insufficient position detection switch 33e, the lifting inlet switch 33f, and the lifting outlet switch 33g are switches that detect game balls, and when a game ball is detected, they output a detection signal to the frame control board 110 (frame control unit 111).

[0140] The out ball switch 33b is disposed upstream of the pre-lifting path and detects a game ball (out ball) that is discharged from the game area 37 and guided to the pre-lifting path.

[0141] The foul ball switch 33c is arranged on a foul ball junction path connected between the positions on the pre-lifting path where the out ball switch 33b and the excess position detection switch 33d are respectively arranged, and detects game balls among those launched from the launching device 31 that do not reach the playing area 37 and are returned to the pre-lifting path through the foul ball junction path.

[0142] The excessive position detection switch 33d and the insufficient position detection switch 33e are disposed downstream of the out ball switch 33b on the pre-lift path at a predetermined distance, and detect game balls remaining in the pre-lift path. The excessive position detection switch 33d is disposed upstream of the insufficient position detection switch 33e on the pre-lift path.

[0143] Then, when the power is turned on, if the over-abundance position detection switch 33d does not detect any game balls and the under-abundance position detection switch 33e detects game balls, that is, if there are game balls at the position where the under-abundance position detection switch 33e is located and there are no game balls at the position where the over-abundance position detection switch 33d is located, the frame control unit 111 determines that the normal number of game balls are enclosed in the gaming machine 1.

[0144] On the other hand, if the under-detection switch 33e does not detect any game balls when the power is turned on, the frame control unit 111 judges that there are few game balls enclosed in the gaming machine 1, and if the over-detection switch 33d detects any game balls when the power is turned on, the frame control unit 111 judges that there are many game balls enclosed in the gaming machine 1. That is, in these cases, the frame control unit 111 judges that the normal number of game balls are not enclosed in the gaming machine 1. In this case, the frame control unit 111 transmits a signal indicating that the normal number of game balls are not enclosed to the main control unit 101, and the main control unit 101 transmits a performance control command indicating that the normal number of game balls are not enclosed to the performance control unit 121. Then, the performance control unit 121 notifies the hall staff, etc., by displaying the fact that the normal number of game balls are not enclosed on the LCD unit 57, etc.

[0145] The lifting inlet switch 33f is disposed near the downstream end of the pre-lifting path, and detects game balls remaining near the downstream end of the pre-lifting path. The lift-up exit switch 33g is disposed midway along the path after lift-up and detects the game ball remaining at that position.

[0146] The frame control unit 111 rotates the lifting motor 33a when a game ball is detected by the lifting inlet switch 33f (game balls are accumulated in the pre-game path) and when a game ball is not detected by the lifting outlet switch 33g (when a predetermined number of game balls are not accumulated in the post-lifting path).

[0147] Then, the frame control unit 111 stops the lifting motor 33a when a gaming ball is detected by the lifting exit switch 33g, that is, when a predetermined number of gaming balls are retained in the post-lifting path.

[0148] The lifting position detection switch 33h detects the rotation angle of the lifting motor 33a. The frame control unit 111 rotates the lifting motor 33a based on the rotation angle detected by the lifting position detection switch 33h.

[0149] The launch device 31 includes a ball feed solenoid 31a, a launch solenoid 31b, and a subtraction port switch 31c.

[0150] Based on the control by the frame control unit 111, the ball feeding solenoid 31a sends the game ball located at the downstream end of the path after it is lifted to a launch position within the launching device 31.

[0151] The launch solenoid 31b launches the game ball sent to the launch position by the ball sending solenoid 31a toward the game area 37 based on the control by the frame control unit 111.

[0152] The subtraction port switch 31c is disposed at the downstream end of the post-lift path and detects the game ball being sent to the launch position within the launch device 31 by the ball feed solenoid 31a.

[0153] When a game ball is detected by the subtraction calculation port switch 31c, the frame control unit 111 subtracts 1 from the managed game ball number. Also, when a game ball launched from the launching device 31 does not reach the play area 37 and is guided to the pre-lifting path through the foul ball junction path and is detected by the foul ball switch 33c, the frame control unit 111 adds 1 to the managed game ball number to return the subtracted value.

[0154] In addition, when the frame control unit 111 receives a control command indicating the number of winning balls from the main control board 100 (main control unit 101), it adds the number of winning balls indicated in the command to the number of managed game balls.

[0155] In addition, when the player operates the counting switch 23 provided on the front frame 7, the frame control unit 111 transfers the number of managed game balls to the game value medium of the game ball lending device etc. via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 140.

[0156] Specifically, when the counting switch 23 is operated for a time shorter than a predetermined time, a signal is output to the game ball etc. lending device to subtract 1 from the number of managed game balls and to increment the number of game balls recorded on the game value medium by 1. As a result, the game ball etc. lending device increments the number of game balls recorded on the game value medium by 1.

[0157] Furthermore, when the counting switch 23 is operated for a period of time longer than a predetermined period of time, a signal is outputted to the game ball etc. lending device at regular intervals to subtract 250 from the number of managed game balls and to add 250 to the number of game balls recorded on the game value medium. As a result, the game ball etc. lending device adds 250 to the number of game balls recorded on the game value medium every time it receives a signal.

[0158] Furthermore, when the frame control unit 111 receives a loan notification for loaning game balls from the game ball etc. loaning device based on the number of game balls or monetary information stored in the game value medium, the frame control unit 111 adds the number of game balls according to the loan notification to the number of managed game balls. As a result, the number of game balls or monetary information recorded in the game value medium is subtracted by a value corresponding to the number of game balls according to the loan notification.

[0159] The handle device 19 provided on the front frame 7 is provided with a touch sensor 19b, a firing stop switch 19c, and a firing intensity VR 19d, and these sensors are connected to a frame control board 110. The frame control board 110 is capable of receiving detection signals from the touch sensor 19b, the firing stop switch 19c, and the firing intensity VR 19d.

[0160] The touch sensor 19b detects when a player touches the handle 19a. The firing stop switch 19c is a push button type switch. The firing intensity VR19d detects the amount of operation (rotation angle) of the handle 19a.

[0161] The launch control circuit 116 controls the energization of the ball feed solenoid 31a and the launch solenoid 31b based on the launch control signal output from the main control unit 101 and the frame control unit 111, thereby launching the game ball from the launch device 31. Specifically, when the main control unit 101 and the frame control unit 111 output a launch control signal permitting launch, the touch sensor 19b detects that the player is touching the handle 19a, and the launch stop switch 19c is not operated, the launch operation of the launch device 31 to launch the game ball is permitted. The launch control circuit 116 controls the launch solenoid 31b so that the game ball is launched with a launch intensity according to the amount of operation detected by the launch intensity VR19d.

[0162] In addition, the frame control board 110 is connected to the game ball number display 21. The frame control board 110 transmits a control signal to the game ball number display 21 for lighting up the managed game ball number.

[0163] The front frame 7 is provided with a radio wave sensor 75 that detects radio waves at a position opposite the foul ball switch 33c, and the radio wave sensor 75 is connected to the frame control board 110. The radio wave sensor 75 is provided with a coil and detects radio waves based on an induced magnetic field applied to the coil. The radio wave sensor 75 mainly detects unauthorized radio waves directed at the foul ball switch 33c, and outputs a detection signal to the frame control board 110.

[0164] <3-3. Power supply board> A power switch 131 capable of switching between an ON state and an OFF state is provided on the power supply board 130. For example, the power switch 131 is a so-called seesaw switch.

[0165] The power supply board 130 is configured to include a power supply generating circuit 133 . When the power switch 131 is in the ON state, the power generation circuit 133 generates a DC voltage that serves as a drive power source for each component based on an AC input power source (AC 24 V) input to the power supply board 130 from the outside. Specifically, the power generation circuit 133 generates a 35V DC voltage (DC35VA, DC35VB), a 12V DC voltage (DC12VA, DC12VB), and a 5V DC voltage (DC5VA) from the AC input power input to the power supply board 130.

[0166] The generated 35V DC voltage (DC35VA), 12V DC voltage (DC12VA), 5V DC voltage (DC5VA), and the AC input power (AC24V) input from outside are supplied to the frame control board 110.

[0167] In addition, the 35V DC voltage (DC35VA), 12V DC voltage (DC12VA), and 5V DC voltage (DC5VA) supplied to the frame control board 110 are also supplied to the main control board 100 together with the backup power generated by the frame control board 110. The generated 35V DC voltage (DC35VB) and 12V DC voltage (DC12VB) are supplied to the performance control board 120. The generated 12V DC voltage (DC12VB) is also supplied to the front frame relay board 160.

[0168] <3-4. Performance control boards, etc.> As shown in Figure 21, the performance control board 120 is connected to a decorative relay board 150, a front frame relay board 160 and an LCD unit 57, and is also connected to an upper decorative board 170 via the front frame relay board 160.

[0169] A movable body motor 61a that drives the movable body part 61, a movable body position detection switch 61b that detects the position of the movable body part 61, a fourth pattern display 65, and a decorative board 180 are connected to the decorative relay board 150.

[0170] In addition, the decorative relay board 150 is provided with a motor driver 61c that drives the movable body motor 61a and an LED driver 27a that controls the lighting of the performance LEDs 27.

[0171] The front frame relay board 160 is provided below the hinge mechanism 4 side of the front frame 7, and is arranged so that the connector is exposed on the rear side (the game board 9 side) (see FIG. 17).

[0172] The front frame relay board 160 is connected to a speaker 29, an operation button 25, a vibration device 77 for providing vibrations to the player, a decorative board 180, and a vibration device 81. In addition, the front frame relay board 160 is provided with a power supply generating circuit 161 that generates a 5V DC voltage (DC5VB) from a 12V DC voltage (DC12VB). The 5V DC voltage (DC5VB) generated by the power supply generating circuit 161 is supplied to the upper decorative board 170 together with the 12V DC voltage (DC12VB).

[0173] The upper decorative board 170 is provided with a motor driver 61c for driving the movable body motor 61a, a performance LED 27, and an LED driver 27a for controlling the lighting and display of the performance LED 27.

[0174] The upper decorative board 170 is provided in the upper center of the front frame 7, and is positioned so that the connector is exposed on the rear side (the game board 9 side) (see FIG. 17). The upper decorative board 170 is connected to the movable body motor 61a, the movable body position detection switch 61b, the wind device 79, and the decorative board 180.

[0175] The wind device 79 is driven under the control of the performance control unit 121 and blows wind toward the player.

[0176] The decorative boards 180 include those on which the performance LEDs 27 are mainly arranged, and those on which the performance LEDs 27 and LED drivers 27a are arranged, and different decorative boards 180 may be connected in series (see the game board 9 and front frame 7 in Figure 21). The number and connection relationship of the decorative substrates 180 are merely an example, and other configurations may be used.

[0177] The performance control board 120 includes a performance control unit 121, a sound ROM 123, an audio IC 125, a VDP circuit 127, and a power generation circuit 129.

[0178] The performance control unit 121 is a microprocessor equipped with a CPU, a ROM, and a RWM. The ROM stores a control program for the performance means and various data required for performance operation control. The RWM functions as a work area and a buffer memory. The CPU controls the performance means by expanding the control program stored in the ROM into the RWM and executing it.

[0179] The performance control unit 121 performs calculations for various performance operations and controls each performance means based on the performance control program and the performance control commands received from the main control board 100. The performance means is a device that notifies or suggests whether or not a favorable state occurs to the player while the game is in progress, or performs a performance during a big win game, and includes the performance LED 27, the speaker 29, the LCD unit 57, the illumination panel 59, the movable role 61, the performance vibration device 77, and the wind device 79.

[0180] The performance control unit 121 receives a performance control command from the main control board 100, and determines a performance scenario based on the performance control command. Then, the performance control unit 121 controls the performance means to execute a performance based on the determined performance scenario.

[0181] For example, the performance control unit 121 instructs the motor driver 61c to move the movable body role object 61 based on the performance scenario, and instructs the LED driver 27a to light the performance LED 27 based on the performance scenario. The LED driver 27a provided on the decorative relay board 150 instructs the fourth symbol display 65 to light in addition to the performance LED 27.

[0182] Furthermore, the performance control unit 121 drives the performance vibration device 77 to generate vibrations based on a performance scenario, and drives the wind device 79 to blow air based on a performance scenario. In addition, the performance control unit 121 drives the vibration device 81 in accordance with the progress of the game, and applies vibration to the circulation mechanism 34 to reduce (eliminate) clogging of the game balls.

[0183] The sound ROM 123 stores sound data such as background music and sound effects. The sound IC 125 reads out sound data corresponding to the determined performance pattern from the sound ROM 123 and outputs it to the speaker 29. This causes the speaker 29 to produce background music and sound effects corresponding to the determined performance scenario.

[0184] The VDP circuit 127 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), an image ROM, and a VRAM (Video RAM). The VDP controls all video output processes, including image expansion and image drawing. The image ROM stores image data that is to be subjected to image development processing by the VDP. The VRAM is an image memory area that temporarily stores image data rendered by the VDP. The VDP circuit 127 generates various image data based on the performance scenario, and outputs it to the LCD unit 57. As a result, various performance images are displayed on the LCD unit 57.

[0185] The power supply generating circuit 129 generates a 5V DC voltage (DC5VB) from a 12V DC voltage (DC12VB).

[0186] <4. Circuit Board Arrangement> As described above, the gaming machine 1 is equipped with various boards. An example of the arrangement of the boards in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. Figure 22 is a rear view of the gaming board 9, and Figure 23 is a rear view of the gaming machine 1.

[0187] The main control board 100 is disposed at the rear (back surface) of the game board 9, approximately in the center in the left-right direction and below, as shown in FIG.

[0188] The frame control board 110 is disposed below the rear cover 83 disposed on the rear side of the game board 9, as shown in FIG.

[0189] As shown in FIG. 22, the performance control board 120 is disposed at the rear (back surface) of the game board 9, approximately in the center in the left-right direction and slightly above. The performance control board 120 is disposed above the main control board 100 on the game board 9.

[0190] As shown by the dashed line in Fig. 23, the power supply board 130 is mostly disposed in front of the frame control board 110. The power switch 131 provided on the power supply board 130 is positioned at a position offset from the frame control board 110 and can be operated from the rear side of the gaming machine 1 without being obstructed by the frame control board 110.

[0191] As shown in FIG. 17, the front frame relay board 160 is disposed near the lower end of the rear (back surface) of the front frame 7.

[0192] As shown in FIG. 17, the upper decorative board 170 is disposed near the upper end of the rear (back surface) of the front frame 7.

[0193] The decorative boards 180 are arranged in various locations, for example, near the performance LEDs 27 arranged in various locations on the gaming machine 1.

[0194] <5. QR code placement> QR codes 200 are arranged, provided, formed, placed, posted, or displayed at various locations on the gaming machine 1. An example of the arrangement of the QR codes 200 on the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0195] <5-1. QR code in the inner frame> The QR codes 200 arranged in various parts of the inner frame 5 of the gaming machine 1 will be described. First, on the front side of the gaming machine 1, at the bottom of the gaming board 9 held by the inner frame 5, a certificate sticker 85 on which the serial number of the gaming machine 1 and the like are written is affixed (see FIG. 18, etc.).

[0196] A QR code 200 is arranged on the certificate stamp sticker 85. The QR code 200 arranged on the certificate stamp sticker 85 will be referred to as a "certificate stamp QR code 200a."

[0197] The location of the certificate stamp sticker 85 in the gaming machine 1 is the lower part of the gaming board 9, and is included in the certificate stamp placement area Ar1 shown by the dashed line in FIG. 18, and is placed near the lower right end of the gaming board 9. The location corresponds to the back side of the key cylinder 15 placed in the front frame 7 when viewed from the player's side, and is the location that touches the hand of the operator when the operator inserts the key into the key cylinder 15 and opens the front frame 7, so that it is easy to notice that the certificate stamp sticker 85 is placed. In addition, when the player faces the gaming machine 1 with the front frame 7 closed, it is desirable that the certificate stamp sticker 85 is placed so that part or all of the certificate stamp QR code 200a, or part or all of the text information 87a placed near the certificate stamp QR code 200a, overlaps the front frame 7, and at least one of the certificate stamp QR code 200a and the text information 87a is partially or completely invisible to the player.

[0198] Further, on the gaming board 9, a performance display sticker 86 on which some of the performance of the gaming machine 1 is displayed is attached. The performance display sticker 86 displays at least a portion of information such as the model name of the gaming machine 1, the number of winning balls when each winning slot wins, and the probability of winning the big win lottery.

[0199] A QR code 200 is arranged on the performance display sticker 86. The QR code 200 arranged on the performance display sticker 86 will be referred to as a "performance display QR code 200b."

[0200] The performance display sticker 86 in the gaming machine 1 is attached near the edge of the gaming board 9, for example, in any location included in the performance display sticker arrangement area Ar2 shown by the dashed line in Fig. 24. Specifically, the performance display sticker arrangement area Ar2 is near the bottom edge or near the four corners of the gaming board 9.

[0201] In the inner frame 5 of the gaming machine 1, other QR codes 200 may be arranged in addition to the certificate stamp QR code 200a and the performance indication QR code 200b. The QR codes 200 placed in these inner frames 5 are referred to as "inner frame QR codes 200c".

[0202] The location of the inner frame QR code 200c is included in the inner frame arrangement area Ar3, as shown by the dashed line in Fig. 25. Specifically, the periphery of the play area 37 on the game board 9 (near the edge of the game board 9) and the area below the game board 9 are provided as the inner frame arrangement area Ar3.

[0203] 25, three QR codes 200 are arranged as the inner frame QR code 200c. The inner frame QR code 200c arranged in the upper right area of ​​the game board 9 is referred to as "inner frame QR code 200c1."

[0204] Additionally, the inner frame QR code 200c arranged in the lower left area of ​​the game board 9 is referred to as "inner frame QR code 200c2." Furthermore, the inner frame QR code 200c arranged in the area below the game board 9 and in the lower area of ​​the inner frame 5 is referred to as an "inner frame QR code 200c3."

[0205] <5-2. QR code in the front frame>

[0206] Next, the QR code 200 arranged on the front frame 7 of the gaming machine 1 will be described. A QR code 200 may be placed on the back side (inside) of the front frame 7. This QR code will be referred to as "front frame QR code 200d."

[0207] The location of the front frame QR code 200d is the hatched area shown in Fig. 26. That is, the location of the front frame QR code 200d is the area where parts are arranged around the transparent glass 11, that is, the area where the other side (the player side) of the transparent glass 11 cannot be seen when the transparent glass 11 is viewed from behind. The placement location of the front frame QR code 200d is included in the front frame placement area Ar4.

[0208] <5-3. QR code on the main control board and main board case> It is equipped with a main control board 100 and a main board case 300 in which the main control board 100 is housed (see Figures 27 and 28). The main board case 300 has a main board upper case 301 and a main board lower case 302, and the two components are combined to form an arrangement space inside in which the main control board 100 is arranged.

[0209] The main board upper case 301 and the main board lower case 302 are provided with a sealing means (e.g., a crimped portion) for maintaining the airtight state when the main board case 300 is assembled, and an anti-opening seal 303 which serves as a means for detecting that the airtight state is being maintained by leaving evidence that the main board case 300 has been opened.

[0210] QR codes 200 are arranged in various places on the main control board 100 and main board case 300 configured in this manner.

[0211] For example, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, an electronic component QR code 200e is disposed on the surface of an electronic component 304 mounted on the main control board 100.

[0212] Furthermore, a board QR code 200f is arranged in an area of ​​the main control board 100 where no electronic components 304 are mounted. The board QR code 200f may be arranged to avoid the wiring member, or may be arranged on the wiring member.

[0213] A main board management sticker 305 for managing the main control board 100 is affixed to a main board upper case 301 of a main board case 300 in which the main control board 100 is housed. A board management QR code 200g is arranged on the main board management sticker 305.

[0214] Furthermore, an anti-tamper sticker 303 attached to the main board case 300 has an anti-tamper QR code 200h arranged on it.

[0215] In addition to the board management QR code 200g and the open prohibition QR code 200h, a QR code 200 is arranged (attached or printed) on the main board case 301 of the main board case 300. Such a QR code 200 is referred to as a "case QR code 200i."

[0216] <5-4. QR code on the performance control board and sub board case> It is equipped with a performance control board 120 and a sub-board case 320 in which the performance control board 120 is stored (see Figures 29 and 30).

[0217] The sub-board case 320 has a sub-board upper case 321 and a sub-board lower case 322, and the combination of these two components forms an arrangement space inside in which the performance control board 120 is placed.

[0218] The performance control board 120 in this example is constructed by combining two boards one behind the other.

[0219] The board QR code 200f is arranged in an area where the electronic components 323 are not mounted on the performance control board 120. The board QR code 200f may be arranged to avoid the wiring member, or may be arranged on the wiring member.

[0220] A case QR code 200i is arranged on the surface of the sub-board case 320 in which the performance control board 120 is housed.

[0221] The QR code 200 may also be arranged on a board other than the main control board 100 or the performance control board 120, such as the frame control board 110. Specifically, a board QR code 200f is arranged in an area on the board where no electronic components are mounted. And a case QR code 200i is arranged on a board case that protects the board.

[0222] <5-5. QR code on LCD unit> Various images Gr are displayed on the LCD unit 57. Some of the images Gr include a QR code 200.

[0223] The QR code 200 contained in the image Gr displayed on the LCD unit 57 is referred to as "LCD QR code 200j."

[0224] FIG. 31 shows an example of an image Gr displayed on the LCD unit 57, which includes a liquid crystal QR code 200j. The image Gr shown in the figure is an image Gr for presenting a setting screen to a user. In the image Gr, a plurality of item selection options Ci are arranged vertically in the left area, and an LCD QR code 200j and explanatory text Tx are arranged above and below the LCD QR code 200j in the right area. In addition, a character image consisting of an illustration of the main character of the machine may be displayed together with the explanatory text Tx near the liquid crystal QR code 200j. By displaying the explanatory text Tx and the character image together, it is possible to make it easier for the player to pay attention to the liquid crystal QR code 200j and prevent the player from starting the game by overlooking it. In addition, the character displayed in the character image may be the same type of character as the character used in the performance pattern or background image, or a different type of character.

[0225] The player can select one of the multiple item options Ci by operating the directional key 25b, and can select the selected item option Ci by operating the effect button 25a.

[0226] The timing of displaying the liquid crystal QR code 200j shown in FIG. 31 is during a customer waiting state (a state in which the pattern is not changing and the pattern is stopped). The notification may be displayed when the device is turned on or during a demo screen (when a predetermined time has elapsed since the device was turned on and an image movie for that model is being displayed).

[0227] <6. Features of each QR code> The following describes the characteristics of the various QR codes 200 described above. In the following description, the directions are not shown based on the gaming machine 1, but are shown when the QR code 200 is viewed from the front. In other words, each QR code 200 is rectangular and bounded by an upper side, a lower side, a left side, and a right side.

[0228] <6-1. QR code for certificate> The features of the stamp QR code 200a will be described. An example of the stamp QR code 200a is shown in FIG.

[0229] The certificate stamp QR code 200a is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205. The error correction level area 209a is configured such that the left small area As is a light area As0 and the right small area As is a dark area As1. That is, the error correction level of the certificate stamp QR code 200a is an error correction level Q that can correct approximately 25% of errors.

[0230] Of the four sides of the quiet zone 203a of the certificate stamp QR code 200a, the top, left and bottom sides have a frame width L2a that is four or more times the length L1a of one side of the small area As.

[0231] On the other hand, the frame width L2a of the right side of the quiet zone 203a of the certificate stamp QR code 200a is set to be less than four times the length L1a of one side of the small area As. This makes it difficult to read the certificate stamp QR code 200a.

[0232] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the certificate stamp QR code 200a includes part of the character information 87a arranged in the vicinity of the certificate stamp QR code 200a. The information stored in the data area 211 of the certificate stamp QR code 200a is the character information 87a arranged in the vicinity of the certificate stamp QR code 200a, and includes the character information 87a arranged (printed) on the certificate stamp sticker 85 on which the certificate stamp QR code 200a is provided.

[0233] The information stored in the data area 211 of the stamp QR code 200a is information (such as a serial number) that can uniquely identify each gaming machine 1. That is, the information stored in the data area 211 of the stamp QR code 200a includes information that differs for each gaming machine 1.

[0234] <6-2. Performance display QR code> The features of the performance indicating QR code 200b will be described. An example of the performance display QR code 200b is shown in FIG.

[0235] The performance indicating QR code 200b is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209b, the left small area As is configured with a dark area As1 and the right small area As is configured with a light area As0. That is, the error correction level in the performance indicating QR code 200b is set to an error correction level M that can correct approximately 15% of errors.

[0236] The quiet zone 203b of the performance indicating QR code 200b has a frame width L2b that is four times or more longer than the length L1b of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right). This makes it easier to read the performance indicating QR code 200b.

[0237] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the performance indicating QR code 200b does not include the character information 87b arranged in the vicinity of the performance indicating QR code 200b.

[0238] <6-3. Inner frame QR code> The features of the inner frame QR code 200c will be described. An example of the inner frame QR code 200c is shown in FIG.

[0239] The inner-frame QR code 200c shown in FIG. 34 is an example of the inner-frame QR code 200c1 shown in FIG.

[0240] The inner frame QR code 200c1 is arranged together with the text information 87c on a management sticker 88c1 affixed to the upper right of the game board 9.

[0241] The inner frame QR code 200c1 is, for example, a version 2 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209c, the left small area As is configured with a dark area As1 and the right small area As is configured with a light area As0. That is, the error correction level in the inner frame QR code 200c1 is set to error correction level M, which is capable of correcting approximately 15% of errors.

[0242] The quiet zone 203c of the inner frame QR code 200c1 has a frame width L2c that is four or more times the length L1c of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0243] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the inner frame QR code 200c1 includes a portion of the character information 87c arranged near the inner frame QR code 200c1. Note that the information stored in the data area 211 of the inner frame QR code 200c1 is the character information 87c arranged near the inner frame QR code 200c1, that is, the character information 87c arranged (printed) on the management sticker 88c1 on which the inner frame QR code 200c1 is arranged.

[0244] The management sticker 88c1 on which the inner frame QR code 200c1 is arranged is attached so as to fit into a positioning recess 89 provided on the game board 9, as shown in the AA cross-sectional view of Fig. 34. The positioning recess 89 is formed on the game board 9 as a mark for attaching the management sticker 88c1 to a predetermined position.

[0245] Another example of the inner frame QR code 200c is shown in FIG. The inner-frame QR code 200c shown in FIG. 35 is an example of the inner-frame QR code 200c2 shown in FIG.

[0246] The inner frame QR code 200c2 is, for example, a version 3 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209c, the left small area As is configured with a dark area As1 and the right small area As is configured with a light area As0. That is, the error correction level in the inner frame QR code 200c2 is set to error correction level M, which is capable of correcting approximately 15% of errors.

[0247] Of the four sides of the quiet zone 203c of the inner frame QR code 200c2, the left, right and bottom sides have a frame width L2c that is four or more times longer than the length L1c of one side of the small area As.

[0248] On the other hand, for one upper side of the quiet zone 203c of the inner frame QR code 200c2, the frame width L2c is set to be less than four times the length L1c of one side of the small area As. This makes it difficult to read the inner frame QR code 200c2.

[0249] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the inner frame QR code 200c2 includes a portion of the character information 87c arranged near the inner frame QR code 200c2. The information stored in the data area 211 of the inner frame QR code 200c2 includes the character information 87c arranged near the inner frame QR code 200c2, which is arranged (printed) on the management sticker 88c2 on which the inner frame QR code 200c2 is provided.

[0250] The management sticker 88c2 on which the inner frame QR code 200c2 is arranged is attached so as to fit within a positioning frame 90c2 provided on the game board 9, as shown in Fig. 35. The positioning frame 90c2 is a frame-shaped groove formed on the game board 9 as a mark for attaching the management sticker 88c2 to a predetermined position, as shown in the B-B cross-sectional view of Fig. 35.

[0251] Yet another example of an inner frame QR code 200c is shown in FIG. The inner-frame QR code 200c shown in FIG. 36 is an example of the inner-frame QR code 200c3 shown in FIG.

[0252] The inner frame QR code 200c3 is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have the alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209c, both left and right small areas As are configured by bright areas As0. That is, the error correction level in the inner frame QR code 200c3 is an error correction level H that can correct approximately 30% of errors.

[0253] The quiet zone 203c of the inner frame QR code 200c3 has a frame width L2c that is four or more times the length L1c of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0254] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the inner frame QR code 200c3 is completely consistent with the character information 87c arranged near the inner frame QR code 200c3. The information stored in the data area 211 of the inner frame QR code 200c3 is the character information 87c arranged near the inner frame QR code 200c3, and includes the character information 87c arranged (printed) on the management sticker 88c3 on which the inner frame QR code 200c3 is provided.

[0255] 36, the management label 88c3 on which the inner frame QR code 200c3 is arranged is affixed so as to fit within an area surrounded by a positioning mark 91c3 provided on the inner frame 5. The positioning mark 91c3 is formed by ink or the like printed on the inner frame 5 as a mark for affixing the management label 88c3 to a predetermined position.

[0256] As described above with reference to several examples, in the gaming machine 1, various types of QR codes 200 are arranged as the inner frame QR code 200c.

[0257] <6-4. Front frame QR code> The features of the front frame QR code 200d will be described. An example of a front frame QR code 200d is shown in FIG.

[0258] The front-frame QR code 200d is, for example, a version 3 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209d, the left small area As is configured with a light area As0 and the right small area As is configured with a dark area As1. That is, the error correction level in the front-frame QR code 200d is an error correction level Q capable of correcting approximately 25% of errors.

[0259] The quiet zone 203d of the front frame QR code 200d has a frame width L2d that is four or more times the length L1d of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0260] The information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the front-frame QR code 200d includes a portion of the character information 87d arranged near the front-frame QR code 200d. The information stored in the data area 211 of the front-frame QR code 200d includes the character information 87d arranged near the front-frame QR code 200d, and arranged (printed) on a management sticker 88d on which the front-frame QR code 200d is provided.

[0261] The management sticker 88d on which the front frame QR code 200d is arranged is affixed so as to fit within an area surrounded by a positioning frame 90d provided on the front frame 7, as shown in Fig. 37. As shown in the CC cross-sectional view of Fig. 37, the positioning frame 90d is formed as a frame-shaped ridge provided on the front frame 7 as a mark for affixing the management sticker 88d in a predetermined position.

[0262] Although FIG. 26 shows an example in which only one front frame QR code 200d is arranged on the front frame 7, two or more front frame QR codes 200d may be arranged. Furthermore, the front frame QR code 200d may be arranged not only at the bottom of the front frame 7, but also at the top, left and right.

[0263] <6-5. QR code for electronic parts> The features of the electronic component QR code 200e will be described. An example of an electronic component QR code 200e is shown in FIG.

[0264] The electronic component QR code 200e is a QR code 200 arranged on an electronic component 304 such as an IC chip, and is, for example, a version 3 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. The error correction level area 209e is configured such that the left small area As is a light area As0 and the right small area As is a dark area As1. That is, the error correction level in the electronic component QR code 200e is an error correction level Q capable of correcting approximately 25% of errors. It is preferable that the electronic component QR code 200e is directly printed on the electronic component 304 by a means such as laser printing. If the electronic component QR code 200e is arranged on a sticker and the sticker is attached to the electronic component 304, the adhesive of the sticker may melt due to heat generated by the electronic component 304, causing the sticker to peel off from the electronic component 304. Therefore, it is preferable to directly print the electronic component 304. Furthermore, the electronic component QR code 200e is arranged so as not to overlap the main board management sticker 305 or the heat dissipation holes. The electronic component QR code 200e can be read even when the main control board 100 is stored in the main board case 300, which simplifies the reading of the electronic component QR code 200e.

[0265] Of the four sides of the quiet zone 203e of the electronic component QR code 200e, the left and right sides have a frame width L2e that is four or more times the length L1e of one side of the small area As.

[0266] On the other hand, for the two sides, the upper side and the lower side, of the quiet zone 203e of the electronic component QR code 200e, the frame width L2e is set to be less than four times the length L1e of one side of the small area As. This makes it difficult to read the electronic component QR code 200e.

[0267] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the electronic component QR code 200e includes a part of the character information 87e arranged near the electronic component QR code 200e. The information stored in the data area 211 of the electronic component QR code 200e includes the character information 87e arranged near the electronic component QR code 200e, which is arranged (printed) on the electronic component 304 on which the electronic component QR code 200e is provided.

[0268] In the electronic component QR code 200e, the brightness difference between the bright area As0 and the dark area As1 is smaller than the brightness difference between white and black. This makes the electronic component QR code 200e even more difficult to read compared to other QR codes 200. The standard for color brightness conforms to the Japanese Industrial Standard "Color display method - Display by three attributes" (JIS8721-1993).

[0269] In addition, in the electronic component QR code 200e, the color of the bright area As0 is the same as the color of the surface of the electronic component 304. This makes it possible to eliminate the need for paint, stickers, or the like for forming the quiet zone 203, thereby reducing costs.

[0270] Moreover, the electronic component QR code 200e is located at a position shifted from the surface of the board in the thickness direction of the board. When reading the QR code 200, it is necessary to focus on the surface of the electronic component 304 with the electronic component QR code 200e located within the angle of view of the camera function of the smartphone as a reading device. However, in a reading operation, the board enters the angle of view before the electronic component 304, so the focus is on the board. Even if the electronic component QR code 200e is captured within the angle of view in this state, the electronic component QR code 200e is located at a position shifted from the board in the optical axis direction of the camera, making it difficult to refocus and read the QR code 200.

[0271] <6-6. Circuit board QR code> An example of a board QR code 200f is shown in FIG.

[0272] The substrate QR code 200f1 is the QR code 200 arranged on the main control substrate 100. The substrate QR code 200f1 is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209f, both left and right small areas As are composed of dark areas As1. That is, the error correction level in the substrate QR code 200f1 is an error correction level L that can correct approximately 7% of errors.

[0273] The quiet zone 203f of the substrate QR code 200f1 has a frame width L2f that is four or more times the length L1f of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0274] The information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the substrate QR code 200f1 includes a portion of the character information 87f arranged near the substrate QR code 200f1. The information stored in the data area 211 of the substrate QR code 200f1 includes the character information 87f arranged near the substrate QR code 200f1, and arranged (printed) outside the management sticker 306f1 on which the substrate QR code 200f1 is provided.

[0275] The management label 306f1 on which the substrate QR code 200f1 is arranged is different from the management label 88 described above in that corners 306f1a are rounded.

[0276] 39, the management sticker 306f1 is affixed so as to fit within the area surrounded by the positioning mark 91f1 and the edge of the main control board 100. The positioning mark 91f1 is formed of ink or the like printed on the main control board 100 as a mark for affixing the management sticker 306f1 to a predetermined position.

[0277] The positioning mark 91f1 is provided with an orientation mark 92 for attaching the management sticker 306f1 to the main control board 100 in the correct orientation. 39, the orientation mark 92 is provided to indicate the upper right position of the management sticker 306f1. However, the orientation mark 92 may be provided to indicate the upper left position, the lower left position, or the lower right position of the management sticker 306f1.

[0278] Another example of a board QR code 200f is shown in FIG. The substrate QR code 200f2 is the QR code 200 arranged on the performance control substrate 120. The substrate QR code 200f2 is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205. The error correction level area 209f is configured such that the left small area As is a dark area As1 and the right small area As is a light area As0. That is, the error correction level in the substrate QR code 200f2 is an error correction level M that can correct approximately 15% of errors.

[0279] Of the four sides of the quiet zone 203f of the board QR code 200f2, the left side, upper side, and lower side have a frame width L2f that is four or more times the length L1f of one side of the small area As.

[0280] On the other hand, for the right side of the quiet zone 203f of the substrate QR code 200f2, the frame width L2f is set to be less than four times the length L1f of one side of the small area As. This makes it difficult to read the board QR code 200f2.

[0281] No characters or the like are arranged near the board QR code 200f2. Therefore, the information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the board QR code 200f2 does not include information about the vicinity of the board QR code 200f2.

[0282] The management sticker 324f2 on which the substrate QR code 200f2 is arranged differs from the management sticker 306f1 described above in that corners 324f2a are not rounded but are formed at right angles.

[0283] As shown in FIG. 40, the management sticker 324f2 is attached so as to fit within the area on the performance control board 120 where the positioning mark 91f2 is formed. The positioning mark 91f2 is an area formed on the performance control board 120 as a mark for attaching the management sticker 324f2 to a predetermined position. The positioning mark 91f2 is provided on the performance control board 120 by being formed in a color different from the surrounding area of ​​the positioning mark 91f2, for example. In addition, it is desirable that the board QR code 200f2 is placed on the performance control board 120 so as not to overlap with heat dissipation holes and the like provided on the sub-board upper case 321.

[0284] Yet another example of a substrate QR code 200f is shown in FIG. The substrate QR code 200f3 is the QR code 200 arranged on the performance control substrate 120. The substrate QR code 200f3 is, for example, a version 2 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209f, both left and right small areas As are composed of bright areas As0. That is, the error correction level in the substrate QR code 200f3 is the error correction level H that can correct approximately 30% of errors.

[0285] The quiet zone 203f of the substrate QR code 200f3 has a frame width L2f that is four or more times the length L1f of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0286] No characters or the like are arranged near the board QR code 200f3. Therefore, the information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the board QR code 200f3 does not include information near the board QR code 200f3.

[0287] The management sticker 324f3 on which the substrate QR code 200f3 is arranged is different from the management sticker 306f1 described above in that it has right-angled corners.

[0288] As shown in FIG. 41, the management sticker 324f3 is attached so as to fit inside the positioning mark 91f3 formed on the performance control board 120. The positioning mark 91f3 is a mark drawn with ink or the like on the performance control board 120 as a guide for attaching the management sticker 324f3 to a predetermined position. The positioning mark 91f3 is provided, for example, so as to indicate the upper right position and the lower left position of the management sticker 324f3. In addition, it is desirable that the board QR code 200f3 is placed on the performance control board 120 so as not to overlap with the heat dissipation hole provided on the sub-board upper case 321.

[0289] <6-7. Board management QR code> The features of the board management QR code 200g will be described. An example of the board management QR code 200g is shown in FIG.

[0290] The board management QR code 200g is a QR code 200 printed on a main board management sticker 305 affixed to a main board case 300 in which the main control board 100 is stored. The board management QR code 200g is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205. The error correction level area 209g is configured such that the left small area As is a light area As0 and the right small area As is a dark area As1. That is, the error correction level in the board management QR code 200g is an error correction level Q that can correct approximately 25% of errors.

[0291] The quiet zone 203g of the board management QR code 200g has a frame width L2g that is four or more times the length L1g of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0292] A printing area 307 is provided on the upper part of the main board management seal 305. In the printing area 307, a board management QR code 200g and character information 87g are printed in the vicinity of the board management QR code 200g. The character information 87g is a serial number given to the main control board 100. Note that the character information 87g arranged on the main board management seal 305 and the character information 87a arranged on the stamp seal 85 may be partially identical. By comparing the character information 87g and the character information 87a and making them partially identical, it is possible to prevent the main control board 100 from being placed in an unintended gaming machine 1 during the manufacturing process of the gaming machine 1.

[0293] The information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the board management QR code 200g includes as part thereof a serial number as character information 87g arranged in the vicinity of the board management QR code 200g.

[0294] The main board management sticker 305 on which the board management QR code 200g is arranged is surrounded by the positioning protrusion 93 provided on the main board case 300 and is affixed so as to fit into an area where there are no heat dissipation holes, as shown in Fig. 42. By affixing the main board management sticker 305 to a flat portion where there are no heat dissipation holes, it is possible to prevent deterioration in reading accuracy caused by the board management QR code 200g being arranged on the unevenness of the heat dissipation holes. 42, the positioning protrusion 93 is formed in an L-shape and in a convex shape protruding from the main board upper case 301 of the main board case 300 toward the internal space (the main board lower case 302 side). In addition, the positioning protrusion 93 may be formed in a convex shape that stands up from the surface of the main board upper case 301.

[0295] When the main control board 100 and the main board case 300 are installed in the gaming machine 1, it is desirable that the arrangement surface of the board management QR code 200g is the rearmost surface of the gaming machine 1 among the upper surfaces of the electronic components 304 arranged on the main control board 100 and the upper surface of the main board case 301. When reading the board management QR code 200g installed in the gaming machine 1, if a component protruding rearward from the arrangement surface of the board management QR code 200g exists above the board management QR code 200g, a shadow may be cast on the board management QR code 200g depending on the way the light hits it, and the reading accuracy of the board management QR code 200g may deteriorate. By making the arrangement surface of the board management QR code 200g the rearmost surface among the upper surfaces of the electronic components 304 arranged on the main control board 100 and the upper surface of the main board case 301, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a shadow on the board management QR code 200g and improve the reading accuracy of the board management QR code 200g.

[0296] In the main control board 100, it is desirable not to place connection parts for connecting harnesses, etc., in a location corresponding to the upper part of the width area of ​​the main board management sticker 305, i.e., directly above the main board management sticker 305. When the main control board 100 and the main board case 300 are installed in the gaming machine 1 and the board management QR code 200g is read, depending on the way the light hits it, a shadow of the harness may be cast on the board management QR code 200g, deteriorating the reading accuracy of the board management QR code 200g. By not placing connection parts for connecting harnesses, etc., in a location corresponding to the upper part of the width area of ​​the main board management sticker 305 in the main control board 100, it is possible to prevent a shadow from being cast on the board management QR code 200g, and improve the reading accuracy of the board management QR code 200g.

[0297] <6-8. Do Not Open QR Code> We will explain the features of the Do Not Open QR Code 200h. An example of the do-not-open QR code 200h is shown in FIG.

[0298] The unopenable QR code 200h is a QR code 200 arranged on an unopenable sticker 303 affixed to the main board case 300.

[0299] The unsealing seal 303 has a decorative pattern 309 on the edge, and various text information 87h and marks are arranged together with the unsealing QR code 200h. The unsealing seal 303 further has cross-shaped cuts 310 formed at predetermined intervals to make the unsealing seal 303 difficult to peel off. The unsealing seal 303 is also configured so that if it is peeled off from the main board case 300, a trace will remain on the main board case 300 side.

[0300] The cut 310 is formed in such a manner that it does not impede reading of the open-prohibited QR code 200h. Also, the cut 310 does not have to be formed on the open-prohibited QR code 200h.

[0301] The open-prohibited QR code 200h is, for example, a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205. The error correction level area 209h is configured such that the left small area As is a light area As0 and the right small area As is a dark area As1. That is, the error correction level of the open-prohibited QR code 200h is an error correction level Q that can correct approximately 25% of errors.

[0302] The quiet zone 203h of the unopenable QR code 200h is formed as the area between the decorative pattern 309 and the small area As on the outermost periphery. The quiet zone 203h has a frame width L2h that is four or more times the length L1h of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0303] The information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the unopenable QR code 200h does not include the text information 87h arranged near the unopenable QR code 200h. A serial number capable of uniquely identifying the main control board 100 is printed as text information 87h near the unopenable QR code 200h, but the information stored in the data area 211 in the coding area 210 of the unopenable QR code 200h stores a unique ID different from the serial number.

[0304] 27, the unopenable sticker 303 on which the unopenable QR code 200h is arranged is folded and affixed to cover the top, side and bottom surfaces of the main board case 300. When the main board upper case 301 and the main board lower case 302 of the main board case 300 are separated, that is, when the main board case 300 is opened, the unopenable QR code 200h is broken by a cutter mechanism (not shown). Furthermore, the cutting mechanism may break the unopenable QR code 200h at a location that overlaps with at least one of the position detection patterns 204, or at a location where the unopenable QR code 200h breaks an area larger than the error-correctable encoding area 210, making the unopenable QR code 200h unreadable.

[0305] <6-9. Case QR code> The features of the case QR code 200i1 will be described. An example of a case QR code 200i1 is shown in FIG.

[0306] Case QR code 200i1 is a QR code 200 arranged on a model name display sticker 308 affixed to main board case 301. Case QR code 200i1 is, for example, a version 6 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. Error correction level area 209i is configured such that the left small area As is a dark area As1 and the right small area As is a light area As0. That is, the error correction level in case QR code 200i1 is error correction level M capable of correcting approximately 15% of errors.

[0307] The quiet zone 203i of the case QR code 200i1 has a frame width L2i that is four or more times the length L1i of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0308] The information stored in data area 211 in encoding area 210 of case QR code 200i1 includes a portion of character information 87i arranged near case QR code 200i1. Note that the information stored in data area 211 of case QR code 200i1 is character information 87i arranged near case QR code 200i1, and includes character information 87i arranged (printed) on model name display sticker 308 on which case QR code 200i1 is provided.

[0309] The model name display sticker 308 on which the case QR code 200i1 is arranged is attached so as to fit into an area surrounded by a positioning protrusion 93 provided on the main board case 300, as shown in Fig. 44. The positioning protrusion 93 is formed in a U-shape surrounding three sides of the model name display sticker 308 and in a protruding shape standing up from the surface of the main board case 301, as shown in the E-E cross section of Fig. 44.

[0310] Another example of a case QR code 200i is shown in FIG. The case QR code 200i2 is a QR code 200 arranged on a management sticker 306i2 affixed to the main board case 301. The case QR code 200i2 is, for example, a version 2 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209i, both the left and right small areas As are composed of bright areas As0. That is, the error correction level in the case QR code 200i2 is an error correction level H that can correct approximately 30% of errors.

[0311] The quiet zone 203i of the case QR code 200i2 has a frame width L2i on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right) that is four or more times longer than the length L1i of one side of the small area As.

[0312] No characters or the like are placed near the case QR code 200i2. Therefore, the information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the case QR code 200i2 does not include information about the vicinity of the case QR code 200i2.

[0313] The management sticker 306i2 is affixed to a position based on a positioning protrusion 93 formed on the main board upper case 301, as shown in Fig. 45. Specifically, the positioning protrusion 93 is formed on the main board upper case 301 as a mark for affixing the management sticker 306i2 to a predetermined position. As shown in the FF cross-sectional view of Fig. 45, the positioning protrusion 93 is formed in an L-shape along two sides, the right side and the bottom side, of the management sticker 306i2 and in a convex shape from the main board upper case 301 to the internal space side (the main board lower case 302 side).

[0314] Yet another example of a case QR code 200i is shown in FIG. Case QR code 200i3 is a QR code 200 arranged on a management sticker 324i3 affixed to sub-substrate case 321. Case QR code 200i3 is, for example, a version 3 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. Error correction level area 209i is configured such that the left small area As is a light area As0 and the right small area As is a dark area As1. That is, the error correction level in case QR code 200i3 is an error correction level Q capable of correcting approximately 25% of errors.

[0315] The quiet zone 203i of the case QR code 200i3 has a frame width L2i that is four or more times the length L1i of one side of the small area As on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right).

[0316] The information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the case QR code 200i3 is character information 87i arranged in the vicinity of the case QR code 200i3, and includes character information 87i arranged (printed) on the management sticker 324i3 on which the case QR code 200i3 is provided.

[0317] As shown in Fig. 46, the management sticker 324i3 is affixed to a position based on a positioning protrusion 93 formed on the sub-board upper case 321. Specifically, the positioning protrusion 93 is formed on the main board upper case 301 as a mark for affixing the management sticker 324i3 to a predetermined position. As shown in the GG cross-sectional view of Fig. 46, the positioning protrusion 93 is formed in a square shape along the four sides of the management sticker 324i3 and in a convex shape from the main board upper case 301 to the internal space side (the main board lower case 302 side).

[0318] <6-10. LCD QR code> The features of the LCD QR code 200j will be described. An example of the liquid crystal QR code 200j is shown in FIG.

[0319] The liquid crystal QR code 200j is a QR code 200 arranged on an image displayed on the LCD unit 57.

[0320] In this image, a liquid crystal QR code 200j is arranged together with a plurality of selection buttons 94.

[0321] The liquid crystal QR code 200j is, for example, a version 6 QR code 200 provided with one alignment pattern 205. In the error correction level area 209j, the left small area As is configured with a dark area As1 and the right small area As is configured with a light area As0. That is, the error correction level of the liquid crystal QR code 200j is set to an error correction level M capable of correcting approximately 15% of errors.

[0322] The liquid crystal QR code 200j is disposed approximately in the center of the area surrounded by the encircling line 95. The area between the encircling line 95 and the outermost small area As is set as a quiet zone 203j.

[0323] The quiet zone 203j of the liquid crystal QR code 200j has a frame width L2j that is four or more times the length L1j of one side of the small area As on all four sides, top, bottom, left and right.

[0324] The information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the LCD QR code 200j does not include part of the character information 87j arranged near the LCD QR code 200j. The information stored in the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the LCD QR code 200j is information indicating a storage location of the information on a network (i.e., URL: Uniform Resource Locator). Moreover, the character information 87j arranged near the LCD QR code 200j is text information that prompts reading of the LCD QR code 200j.

[0325] By accessing the URL information obtained by reading the LCD QR code 200j, the player can obtain useful information such as detailed machine information.

[0326] In addition to the liquid crystal QR code 200j, a QR code including the model information may be arranged in an area on the side unit 13 provided on the front frame 7 that is visible to the player from the front. In this case, it is better to set the error correction level higher than that of the liquid crystal QR code 200j. The liquid crystal QR code 200j can be made easier to read by adjusting the brightness of the LCD unit 57 even in a dark environment with little lighting, while the QR code 200 arranged in an area on the side unit 13 that is visible to the player from the front cannot be adjusted in brightness on the arrangement surface of the QR code 200, and is therefore more difficult to read than the liquid crystal QR code 200j. Therefore, by setting the error correction level of the QR code 200 on the side unit 13 higher than that of the liquid crystal QR code 200j, it is possible to arrange the QR code 200 on the side unit 13 without impairing the reading accuracy.

[0327] <7. QR Code Comparison> Some examples will be given to compare the various QR codes 200 mentioned above. <7-1. LCD QR code and stamp QR code> A comparison between the liquid crystal QR code 200j (see FIG. 47) and the certificate stamp QR code 200a (see FIG. 32) will be described. In the following description, the liquid crystal QR code 200j may be referred to as the "first QR code 200A," and the certificate stamp QR code 200a may be referred to as the "second QR code 200B."

[0328] The liquid crystal QR code 200j arranged on the LCD unit 57 is a QR code 200 presented for the purpose of providing the player with information related to the game. There is a lot of information to be provided to the player, and even if the version of the QR code 200 is upgraded, it is highly likely that the information will not fit into the capacity of the data area 211 in the encoding area 210 of the QR code 200. Furthermore, since the information to be provided to the player often includes not only text information but also image information, it is difficult to complete the information using only the QR code 200.

[0329] Therefore, the information to be stored in the data area 211 of the liquid crystal QR code 200j is optimally URL information for a web page that contains game information.

[0330] On the other hand, the certificate stamp QR code 200a placed on the certificate stamp sticker 85 is a QR code 200 printed on paper, and is used for management purposes by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 1 and the hall where the gaming machine 1 will be installed. Specifically, by linking the serial number stored in the certificate stamp QR code 200a with the serial number stored in the open-danger QR code 200h placed on the open-danger sticker 303, it becomes possible to identify the hall to which each manufactured gaming machine 1 will be delivered. Then, in the hall where the gaming machine 1 is to be installed, the certificate stamp QR code 200a is used to check whether the gaming machine 1 that was notified in advance has been properly delivered.

[0331] The information stored in the certificate stamp QR code 200a is information identifying the manufacturer of the gaming machine 1, the year of manufacture, a symbol indicating information about the part to which the certificate stamp sticker 85 is affixed, a serial number, etc. In other words, the information stored in the certificate stamp QR code 200a is a string of alphanumeric characters that can only be understood by related parties.

[0332] In view of these, the URL information stored in the liquid crystal QR code 200j tends to have a larger number of characters than character information used for manufacturing or management purposes, and the size of the QR code 200 is likely to be large.

[0333] Furthermore, the liquid crystal QR code 200j arranged on the image displayed on the LCD unit 57 must not overlap with other display objects such as buttons, designs, etc. For example, in order to improve readability, it is not preferable to make the liquid crystal QR code 200j transparent and superimpose it on other display objects.

[0334] Therefore, when considering arranging multiple display objects on the LCD unit 57, it is possible to reduce the size of the LCD QR code 200j by downgrading the version of the LCD QR code 200j, or to reduce the size of the generated LCD QR code 200j and arrange it.

[0335] However, if the version is downgraded, the amount of information that can be stored will decrease, and the URLs to be stored will not fit. Also, if the size is reduced, the reading accuracy will decrease, causing inconvenience to players. In particular, there is a possibility that optimal reading will not be possible depending on the performance of the smartphone used as a reading device by the player.

[0336] The liquid crystal QR code 200j in this embodiment has a lower error correction level than the certificate stamp QR code 200a and reduces the amount of data in the correction code area 212 in the coding area 210, thereby increasing the capacity of the data area 211 in the coding area 210 and reducing the size of the QR code 200.

[0337] Furthermore, by lowering the error correction level of the liquid crystal QR code 200j, when a malfunction occurs in the gaming machine 1 and the LCD unit 57 cannot display a proper image, it becomes difficult to correct errors in the liquid crystal QR code 200j and to read it correctly. This makes it easier for the player to notice the occurrence of a malfunction in the gaming machine 1.

[0338] That is, in the liquid crystal QR code 200j, the amount of information that can be stored is ensured by using a certain version (for example, version 2 or higher), but it is preferable to prevent the size of the QR code 200 from becoming too large by lowering the error correction level while maintaining the size and ensuring the amount of information that can be stored excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code).

[0339] On the other hand, the stamp sticker 85 on which the stamp QR code 200a is arranged is affixed to the game board 9 which occupies most of the game area 37. That is, in order to display information necessary for management in a limited area, the QR code 200 is suitably used in the stamp sticker 85.

[0340] If such a certificate stamp QR code 200a becomes too large to fit into a limited space, it is preferable to use a version 1 QR code 200 that does not have an alignment pattern 205.

[0341] As described above, the certificate stamp QR code 200a is a QR code 200 used to determine whether the gaming machine 1 has been delivered as scheduled. Therefore, even if the certificate stamp sticker 85 becomes slightly dirty during delivery of the gaming machine 1, it is desirable that the certificate stamp QR code 200a can be properly read.

[0342] The certificate stamp QR code 200a is designed to be read in a hall environment, where the hall lighting is often set to a low level in order to highlight the light emitted by the effects of the gaming machine 1. Therefore, depending on the positional relationship between the certificate stamp QR code 200a and the hall lighting, a shadow may be cast, which may interfere with reading of the QR code 200.

[0343] For this reason, it is desirable to set the error correction level of the certificate stamp QR code 200a high.

[0344] In contrast, since the LCD QR code 200j is presented on an LCD unit 57 that itself emits light, it is less affected by the dim lighting in the hall environment, and there is a high possibility that it can be read properly without increasing the error correction level.

[0345] Comparing the liquid crystal QR code 200j (first QR code 200A) and the certificate stamp QR code 200a (second QR code 200B) in light of the above points, it is preferable to set the error correction level lower for the liquid crystal QR code 200j than for the certificate stamp QR code 200a.

[0346] Furthermore, it is preferable that the amount of information that can be stored excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code) is greater for the liquid crystal QR code 200j than for the certificate stamp QR code 200a.

[0347] Furthermore, considering that the person performing the reading operation is a player and that there is variation in the imaging resolution of smartphones used as reading devices, it is desirable to make the size of the small area As (cell Ce) of the QR code 200 larger for the liquid crystal QR code 200j than for the certificate stamp QR code 200a.

[0348] <7-2. QR Codes Visible to Players and QR Codes on the Main Board Case> The QR code 200 visible to the player is, for example, a liquid crystal QR code 200j (see FIG. 47) or a performance display QR code 200b (see FIG. 33). Here, the liquid crystal QR code 200j and the performance display QR code 200b are collectively referred to as the "first QR code 200A."

[0349] The QR code 200 related to the main board case 300 is, for example, the board management QR code 200g (see FIG. 42), the unopenable QR code 200h (see FIG. 43), the above-mentioned case QR code 200i1 (see FIG. 44), the case QR code 200i2 (see FIG. 45), etc. Here, the board management QR code 200g, the unopenable QR code 200h, and the above-mentioned case QR codes 200i1, 200i2, etc. are collectively referred to as the "second QR code 200B".

[0350] As for the liquid crystal QR code 200j, as mentioned above, it is preferable to adopt a certain version (e.g., version 2 or higher) while lowering the error correction level, thereby increasing the capacity of the data area 211 while making it easier for the player to detect the occurrence of a malfunction in the gaming machine 1.

[0351] The board management QR code 200g, the do not open QR code 200h, the case QR code 200i1, and the case QR code 200i2 are QR codes 200 that are read primarily for management purposes by the manufacturer or hall personnel.

[0352] In particular, the board management QR code 200g is the QR code 200 placed on the main board management sticker 305, and is used in combination with the serial number stored in the certificate stamp QR code 200a to identify the hall to which each manufactured gaming machine 1 is delivered.

[0353] The board management QR code 200g further stores the serial number assigned to the main control board 100.

[0354] Therefore, by reading only either the certificate stamp QR code 200a or the board management QR code 200g, not only can it be determined whether the delivered gaming machine 1 is appropriate or not, but it is also possible to determine the shipping date of the gaming machine 1 even if either one of the stickers has been peeled off.

[0355] In addition, since the second QR code 200B, such as the board management QR code 200g or the no-opening QR code 200h, is the QR code 200 placed on the main board case 300, it is desirable to make it small in order to ensure visibility of the main control board 100 when stored in the main board case 300, thereby preventing tampering with the main control board 100.

[0356] That is, it is desirable that second QR code 200B be version 1 QR code 200 that does not have alignment pattern 205. Also, since it becomes difficult to perform the reading operation required for managing main control board 100 with reduced QR code 200, it is desirable that second QR code 200B be version 1.

[0357] Furthermore, when the second QR code 200B arranged on the main board case 300 is read in a hall, it is assumed that the reading will be performed with the inner frame 5 of the gaming machine 1 open to the front. In this case, the hall staff will read the code while peering into the back side of the open inner frame 5, which may make it difficult to read the code and may result in poor readability. It is also assumed that the second QR code 200B may become dirty during the manufacturing process or shipping stage. Therefore, it is desirable for the error correction level of the second QR code 200B to be high.

[0358] Comparing the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B in light of the above points, it is preferable that the amount of information that can be stored, excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code), be greater in the first QR code 200A than in the second QR code 200B.

[0359] Furthermore, it is preferable to set the error correction level lower for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B.

[0360] Furthermore, considering that the person performing the reading operation is a player and that there is variation in the imaging resolution of smartphones used as reading devices, it is desirable to make the size of the small area As (cell Ce) larger for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B.

[0361] <7-3. QR codes visible to players and electronic part QR codes> The QR code 200 visible to the player is, for example, a liquid crystal QR code 200j (see FIG. 47) or a performance display QR code 200b (see FIG. 33). Here, the liquid crystal QR code 200j and the performance display QR code 200b are collectively referred to as the "first QR code 200A." Furthermore, the electronic component QR code 200e (see FIG. 38) may be referred to as the "second QR code 200B" in relation to the first QR code 200A.

[0362] As for the liquid crystal QR code 200j, as mentioned above, it is preferable to adopt a certain version (e.g., version 2 or higher) while lowering the error correction level, thereby increasing the capacity of the data area 211 while making it easier for the player to detect the occurrence of a malfunction in the gaming machine 1.

[0363] The electronic component QR code 200e is the QR code 200 placed on the electronic component 304, and is the QR code 200 that is read during the manufacturing process or the like to check whether the appropriate electronic component 304 is mounted on the appropriate board. Important electronic components 304 are placed on various boards such as the main control board 100, and it is conceivable to place the electronic component QR code 200e on such important electronic components 304.

[0364] However, since the surface of the electronic component 304 is not necessarily flat, it is preferable to employ a QR code 200 of version 2 or later having an alignment pattern 205.

[0365] Furthermore, since the electronic component QR code 200e arranged on a non-flat electronic component 304 may have some small areas As (cells Ce) that cannot be read due to unevenness, it is desirable to configure the electronic component QR code 200e so that the unreadable small areas As (cells Ce) can be complemented by increasing the error correction level.

[0366] On the other hand, it is preferable that the electronic component QR code 200e placed on the electronic component 304 is difficult to read, in other words, difficult to recognize as the QR code 200 in the first place, from the viewpoint that reading it outside of manufacturing operations or management operations could lead to cheating.

[0367] Therefore, in the electronic component QR code 200e, by making the brightness difference between the light area As0 and the dark area As1 smaller than the brightness difference between white and black, it is difficult to distinguish the difference between the two colored small areas As (cells Ce), making it difficult for a reading device to recognize the QR code 200 in the first place. Furthermore, by making the frame width of the quiet zone 203 in the electronic component QR code 200e smaller than four times the width of the small area As (cell Ce), it is possible to make it more difficult to recognize the QR code 200.

[0368] By not making the frame width of the quiet zone 203 sufficient, it is possible to make the electronic component QR code 200e easier to read when the camera is pointed directly at it, and to make the quiet zone 203 even narrower and more difficult to read when the camera is pointed not directly at the electronic component QR code 200e. Furthermore, when reading the electronic component QR code 200e during manufacturing, if the reading operation is performed before the board is attached to the gaming machine 1, it is easy to read the electronic component QR code 200e by facing it head on. On the other hand, when reading the electronic component QR code 200e at any time other than during manufacturing, the board is attached to the gaming machine 1 and the inner frame 5 must be opened before the reading operation can be performed, making it difficult to read the electronic component QR code 200e by facing it head-on, which can reduce the ease of reading.

[0369] By configuring the electronic component QR code 200e in this manner, it is difficult to recognize it as the QR code 200, but once it is recognized as the QR code 200, it is possible to correct errors in the small areas As (cells Ce) that cannot be read as much as possible.

[0370] That is, it is possible to place on the electronic component 304 the electronic component QR code 200e that satisfies the conflicting demands of improving readability on the one hand and not improving readability on the other hand.

[0371] Comparing the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B (electronic component QR code 200e) in light of the above points, it is preferable to set the error correction level higher for the second QR code 200B than for the first QR code 200A.

[0372] Furthermore, it is preferable that the difference in brightness between the bright region As0 and the dark region As1 is smaller in the second QR code 200B than in the first QR code 200A.

[0373] Furthermore, it is preferable that the amount of information that can be stored excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code) is greater for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B. This is suitable when the first QR code 200A is a liquid crystal QR code 200j.

[0374] Furthermore, considering that the person performing the reading operation is a player and that there is variation in the imaging resolution of smartphones used as reading devices, it is desirable to make the size of the small area As (cell Ce) larger for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B.

[0375] <7-4. Circuit board QR code and certificate stamp QR code> Here, the board QR code 200f1 (see FIG. 39), the board QR code 200f2 (see FIG. 40), and the board QR code 200f3 (see FIG. 41) will be collectively referred to as "first QR code 200A." Furthermore, the certificate stamp QR code 200a (see FIG. 32) may be referred to as the "second QR code 200B" in relation to the first QR code 200A.

[0376] The first QR code 200A placed on the board is read when identifying the type of board, and is used to confirm the correctness of the combination of the board and electronic component 304, the correctness of the placement position of the board on the gaming machine 1, and the correctness of the combination of the model information of the gaming machine 1 and the board. These checks are mainly carried out during manufacturing.

[0377] If an identification number or the like for identifying the board were placed directly on the board, the characters would need to be large to make them easy to read, and there is a risk that they would interfere with the electronic components 304 and wiring patterns placed on the board.

[0378] To solve this problem, it is preferable to place QR code 200 at a predetermined position on the board. A specific description will be given with reference to Fig. 48. Fig. 48 is a diagram showing the mounting surface of main control board 100. The hatched area in main control board 100 indicates mounting area 311 where electronic components 304 and wiring patterns (not shown) are mounted. The non-hatched area in Fig. 48 is an area where neither electronic components 304 nor wiring patterns are mounted, and is non-mounting area 312.

[0379] It is desirable that the first QR code 200A be arranged so that the entirety of the code fits within the non-mounting area 312.

[0380] It is desirable to arrange the first QR code 200A for managing the board, rather than the QR code 200 (electronic component QR code 200e) for identifying the electronic component 304, so as to avoid the electronic components 304 and wiring patterns. By avoiding the electronic components 304 and wiring patterns, the arrangement location of the first QR code 200A is made flat, so the first QR code 200A may be of version 1, which does not have the alignment pattern 205 for correcting distortion.

[0381] Furthermore, since the non-mounting area 312 on the board where no electronic components 304 or wiring patterns are mounted is a limited area, it is possible to consider a mode in which the information stored in the data area 211 of the QR code 200 is not printed near the QR code 200, as shown in Figures 40 and 41. In addition, when considering that the first QR code 200A will be placed in a limited small area, it is more preferable that the first QR code 200A be version 1.

[0382] Furthermore, when the first QR code 200A is version 1, it is preferable to reduce the capacity of the correction code area 212 in order to store necessary information in the data area 211. In other words, it is preferable to lower the error correction level for the first QR code 200A.

[0383] In addition, since the reading environment of the first QR code 200A is assumed to be a fixed camera during manufacturing, appropriate camera settings make it difficult for errors to occur during reading. Therefore, even if the error correction level of the first QR code 200A is lowered, problems during manufacturing are unlikely to occur.

[0384] As described above, the certificate stamp QR code 200a is a QR code 200 that is expected to be read in the pachinko parlor to which the gaming machine 1 is delivered. Therefore, it is desirable that the code can be properly read even in a dark environment, and it is preferable that the error correction level of the certificate stamp QR code 200a is high.

[0385] Comparing the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B (certificate stamp QR code 200a) in light of the above points, it is preferable to set the error correction level higher for the second QR code 200B than for the first QR code 200A.

[0386] In addition, since the users who are expected to read the stamp QR code 200a are both users on the manufacturing side and users on the hall side, information generated under certain rules needs to be stored. On the other hand, since only the user on the manufacturing side performs the reading operation for the first QR code 200A, there is no need to store information generated based on a unified rule, and information generated according to different rules may be stored for each QR code 200. Considering that a number of models are manufactured at a manufacturing site, a very large number of types of circuit boards are handled at the manufacturing site. In order to identify these many circuit boards, it is preferable to store as much information as possible in the first QR code 200A.

[0387] Therefore, by making the amount of information that can be stored, excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code), greater for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in the generation rules for the stored information, thereby improving convenience.

[0388] <7-5. QR code on the circuit board and the circuit board case> Here, the board QR code 200f1 (see FIG. 39), the board QR code 200f2 (see FIG. 40), and the board QR code 200f3 (see FIG. 41) will be collectively referred to as "first QR code 200A."

[0389] The QR code 200 on the board case is, for example, a board management QR code 200g (see FIG. 42), an unopenable QR code 200h (see FIG. 43), a case QR code 200i1 (see FIG. 44), a case QR code 200i2 (see FIG. 45), a case QR code 200i3 (see FIG. 46), etc. Here, these boards are collectively referred to as "second QR code 200B".

[0390] As described above, in order to ensure readability, it is desirable that the first QR code 200A is arranged so that the entirety fits within the non-mounting area 312, which is an area where neither the electronic components 304 nor the wiring pattern are mounted. The first QR code 200A may be a version 1 QR code 200 that is arranged on a flat substrate and does not have the alignment pattern 205. Furthermore, it is desirable for the first QR code 200A to reduce the capacity of the correction code area 212 by lowering the error correction level in order to store necessary information in the data area 211.

[0391] As described above, the second QR code 200B is a QR code 200 that is expected to be read in the hall to which the gaming machine 1 is delivered, and in particular, the QR code 200 placed on the main board case 300 is preferably made small in size to ensure visibility on the main control board 100, and specifically, it is desirable for the QR code 200 to be a version 1 QR code that does not have the alignment pattern 205.

[0392] Furthermore, taking into consideration that the second QR code 200B is read by looking into the back side of the inner frame 5 with the inner frame 5 of the gaming machine 1 open to the front, and that the second QR code 200B may become dirty during the manufacturing process or shipping stage, it is desirable to have a high error correction level.

[0393] In consideration of the above, when comparing the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B, it is preferable that the amount of information that can be stored, excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code), be greater in the first QR code 200A than in the second QR code 200B.

[0394] Furthermore, it is preferable to set the error correction level lower for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B.

[0395] <7-6. PCB QR Code and Electronic Component QR Code> Here, the board QR code 200f1 (see FIG. 39), the board QR code 200f2 (see FIG. 40), and the board QR code 200f3 (see FIG. 41) will be collectively referred to as "first QR code 200A." Furthermore, the electronic component QR code 200e (see FIG. 38) may be referred to as the "second QR code 200B" in relation to the first QR code 200A.

[0396] As described above, in order to ensure readability, it is desirable that the first QR code 200A is arranged so that the entirety fits within the non-mounting area 312, which is an area where neither the electronic components 304 nor the wiring pattern are mounted. The first QR code 200A may be a version 1 QR code 200 that is arranged on a flat substrate and does not have the alignment pattern 205. Furthermore, it is desirable for the first QR code 200A to reduce the capacity of the correction code area 212 by lowering the error correction level in order to store necessary information in the data area 211.

[0397] As described above, for the second QR code 200B (electronic component QR code 200e), it is desirable to adopt a QR code 200 of version 2 or higher having an alignment pattern 205 and a high error correction level, taking into consideration the unevenness of the surface of the electronic component 304. Also, in order to prevent fraudulent activities, it is desirable to make the brightness difference between the bright region As0 and the dark region As1 smaller than the brightness difference between white and black, and to make the frame width of the quiet zone 203 smaller than four times the width of the small region As (cell Ce), so that the second QR code 200B is difficult to recognize as a QR code 200 in the first place.

[0398] Comparing the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B (electronic component QR code 200e) in light of the above points, it is preferable to set the error correction level higher for the second QR code 200B than for the first QR code 200A. Furthermore, it is preferable that the difference in brightness between the bright region As0 and the dark region As1 is smaller in the second QR code 200B than in the first QR code 200A.

[0399] Furthermore, in order to make it difficult for the second QR code 200B to be recognized as the QR code 200, it is preferable that the size of the small area As (cell Ce) of the first QR code 200A is made larger than that of the second QR code 200B.

[0400] <7-7. QR code of the main control board and the board QR code of the performance control board> The board QR code 200f of the main control board 100 is, for example, the board QR code 200f1 (see FIG. 39).

[0401] Further, the board QR code 200f of the performance control board 120 is a board QR code 200f2 (see FIG. 40) or a board QR code 200f3 (see FIG. 41), etc.

[0402] Here, the board QR code 200f2 (see FIG. 40), the board QR code 200f3, etc. will be collectively referred to as the "second QR code 200B." Furthermore, the substrate QR code 200f1 may be referred to as the "first QR code 200A" in relation to the second QR code 200B.

[0403] Both the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B are QR codes 200 placed on a board, and are expected to be read during manufacturing. Since various types of boards, such as boards with different roles or boards of different models, are handled at the manufacturing site, these QR codes 200 are read to prevent the boards from being mixed up.

[0404] In order to prevent mixing up the two, it is desirable to make the shapes (outer shapes) of the management sticker 306f1 on which the first QR code 200A is arranged different from those of the management sticker 324f2 and management sticker 324f3 on which the second QR code 200B is arranged.

[0405] Furthermore, it is preferable that the positioning means indicating the affixing position of the management sticker 306f1 and the positioning means indicating the affixing positions of the management sticker 324f2 and the management sticker 324f3 are different in form. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 39, the shape of the positioning mark 91f1 indicating the affixing position of the management sticker 306f1 is different from the shape of the positioning mark 91f2 and the positioning mark 91f3 indicating the affixing positions of the management sticker 324f2 and the management sticker 324f3.

[0406] Also, it is desirable that the amount of information stored in the first QR code 200A and the second QR code 200B differ depending on the importance of the board on which they are placed. Comparing the main control board 100 and the performance control board 120, the main control board 100 is a more important board than the performance control board 120. Therefore, it is desirable that the amount of information stored in the data area 211 of the board QR code 200f1 placed on the main control board 100 be greater than the amount of information stored in the data area 211 of the board QR code 200f2 and the board QR code 200f3 placed on the performance control board 120.

[0407] That is, it is preferable that the amount of information that can be stored excluding the correction code area 212 (error correction code) is greater in the first QR code 200A than in the second QR code 200B.

[0408] <7-8. Circuit board QR code or electronic component QR code and player-visible QR code> The board QR code 200f or the electronic component QR code 200e is the board QR code 200f2 (see FIG. 40) or the electronic component QR code 200e (see FIG. 38), etc. Here, these QR codes 200 are collectively referred to as the "first QR code 200A."

[0409] The QR code 200 that is visible to the player is a liquid crystal QR code 200j, a stamp QR code 200a, a performance display QR code 200b, etc. Here, these QR codes 200 are collectively referred to as a "second QR code 200B."

[0410] The first QR code 200A is a QR code 200 that is intended to be read at the time of manufacture, and is not intended to be read by hall personnel or players. Therefore, it is sufficient for the first QR code 200A to be read normally in a good reading environment (performance of the reading device and lighting conditions), and there is no need to improve the readability too much. In particular, in consideration of preventing cheating, it is preferable to make the first QR code 200A difficult to read except during manufacturing.

[0411] Therefore, by making the frame width of the quiet zone 203 of the first QR code 200A less than four times the width of the small area As (cell Ce), it is possible to make the first QR code 200A difficult to recognize as a QR code 200, and to suppress unnecessary reading.

[0412] On the other hand, the second QR code 200B is a QR code 200 that is expected to be read by a player or hall staff. Therefore, it is preferable that the second QR code 200B is configured so that it can be read normally even in a poor reading environment. That is, the readability of the second QR code 200B can be improved by ensuring that the frame width of the quiet zone 203 is four or more times the width of the small area As (cell Ce).

[0413] Also, considering that the person performing the reading operation is a player or hall staff member, and that there is variation in the imaging resolution of smartphones used as reading devices, it is desirable to make the size of the small area As (cell Ce) of the QR code 200 larger for the second QR code 200B than for the first QR code 200A.

[0414] <7-9. LCD QR Codes and other QR Codes> The other QR codes 200 are QR codes 200 other than the liquid crystal QR code 200j, in which at least a part of the information stored in the data area 211 is arranged (printed) as character information 87 in the vicinity.

[0415] Specifically, the other QR codes 200 include the certificate stamp QR code 200a (see Figure 32), inner frame QR code 200c1 (see Figure 34), inner frame QR code 200c2 (see Figure 35), inner frame QR code 200c3 (see Figure 36), front frame QR code 200d (see Figure 37), board QR code 200f1 (see Figure 39), board management QR code 200g (see Figure 42), case QR code 200i1 (see Figure 44), case QR code 200i3 (see Figure 46), etc.

[0416] Here, these QR codes 200 are collectively referred to as the "second QR code 200B." In contrast, the liquid crystal QR code 200j (see FIG. 47) may be referred to as the "first QR code 200A."

[0417] The second QR code 200B is a QR code 200 that is read during manufacturing, delivery to a hall, inspection, etc. It is important that such QR code 200 allows desired information to be obtained offline. This makes it possible to reduce the occurrence of unnecessary communication and improve convenience.

[0418] On the other hand, the liquid crystal QR code 200j is a QR code 200 to be provided to a player. The information provided to a player includes not only character information but also image data. Therefore, it is desirable that the information stored in the data area 211 of the liquid crystal QR code 200j be information on a location on a network (so-called URL).

[0419] Furthermore, by storing URL information in the liquid crystal QR code 200j, if a reading error occurs, the page becomes inaccessible or a different web page is connected, allowing the player to notice the reading error. Therefore, the risk of providing erroneous information to the player can be eliminated.

[0420] In addition, it is desirable to place text information 87 near liquid crystal QR code 200j, such as text indicating what information can be obtained by accessing the URL, or text encouraging the reading of QR code 200 (access to the URL). This makes it possible to provide players who are unfamiliar with the situation with appropriate information for playing the game, thereby improving convenience.

[0421] On the other hand, for second QR code 200B, the information stored in data area 211 of each QR code 200 is known by the manufacturer or hall staff, so there is no need to place text information 87 such as text encouraging the reader to read it nearby. Rather, it is more preferable to place text information 87 including the content to be read (i.e., the information stored in data area 211) near second QR code 200B, making it possible to check whether second QR code 200B has been affixed in the correct position. Furthermore, since second QR code 200B is a QR code 200 that should not be read outside of manufacturing and management situations, it is preferable not to place text information 87 prompting reading in the vicinity.

[0422] Comparing the first QR code 200A (liquid crystal QR code 200j) and the second QR code 200B in light of the above points, it is preferable that URL information is stored in the data area 211 of the first QR code 200A, and it is preferable that at least a portion of the character information 87 arranged in the vicinity of the QR code 200 is stored in the data area 211 of the second QR code 200B.

[0423] Furthermore, while it is preferable to place text or the like encouraging the reader to read the QR code 200 near the first QR code 200A, it is not preferable to place such text near the second QR code 200B, especially considering the narrowness of the placement area allowed for the second QR code 200B.

[0424] <7-10. QR code related to the main control board and the performance control board> The QR code 200 associated with the main control board 100 is a board QR code 200f1 arranged on the main control board 100, or a board management QR code 200g, a do not open QR code 200h, a case QR code 200i1, or a case QR code 200i2 arranged on the main board case 300. These QR codes 200 are collectively referred to as "first QR code 200A."

[0425] The QR code 200 associated with the performance control board 120 is, for example, a board QR code 200f2 or a board QR code 200f3 arranged on the performance control board 120, or a case QR code 200i3 arranged on the sub-board case 320. These QR codes 200 are collectively referred to as "second QR code 200B."

[0426] The first QR code 200A is the QR code 200 that is expected to be read not only at the manufacturing site but also in the hall. That is, as described above, it is expected that the QR code 200 will be read with the inner frame 5 of the gaming machine 1 open forward.

[0427] On the other hand, the second QR code 200B is a QR code 200 that is expected to be read only at the manufacturing site.

[0428] Considering this, it is preferable to set the error correction level higher for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B.

[0429] Furthermore, considering that the person performing the reading operation is a hall employee and that there is variation in the imaging resolution of the reading device, it is desirable to make the size of the small area As (cell Ce) of the QR code 200 larger for the first QR code 200A than for the second QR code 200B.

[0430] In addition, when comparing the QR code 200 related to the main control board 100 and the QR code 200 related to the performance control board 120, specific QR codes 200 may be compared with each other, or average values ​​may be compared with each other.

[0431] For example, when comparing specific QR codes 200, the size of the small area As can be compared between QR codes 200 that are expected to be read in the hall, and any of the QR codes 200 associated with the main control board 100, such as the board management QR code 200g, the do not open QR code 200h, or the case QR code 200i1, can be compared with any of the QR codes 200 associated with the performance control board 120, and the QR code 200 associated with the main control board 100 can be configured so that the size of the small area As is larger.

[0432] Alternatively, the size of the small area As (cell Ce) of the QR code 200 may be configured so that when comparing the average value of the board QR code 200f1, board management QR code 200g, unopenable QR code 200h, case QR code 200i1, and case QR code 200i2 with the average value of the board QR code 200f2, board QR code 200f3, and case QR code 200i3, the size of the former small area As is larger.

[0433] Alternatively, the maximum size of the small area As in the QR code 200 associated with the main control board 100 may be configured to be larger than the maximum size of the small area As in the QR code 200 associated with the performance control board 120.

[0434] <8.Other> The QR codes 200 placed on the main control board 100, such as the board management QR code 200g and the do not open QR code 200h, are QR codes 200 that are read for confirmation when the gaming machine 1 is delivered to the hall, and considering that a large number of gaming machines 1 are delivered, it is desirable that the reading operation for each machine can be carried out smoothly.

[0435] Incidentally, it is considered that the QR code 200 is read in a hall using a smartphone. When reading the QR code 200 with a smartphone, the operator does not accurately grasp the position of the camera lens, and the QR code 200 is often misaligned to the top, bottom, left, or right with respect to the angle of view.

[0436] In this case, the position or orientation of the smartphone is moved left / right or up / down so that the center of the angle of view coincides with the center of the QR code 200 to be read.

[0437] At this time, if there is another QR code 200 located vertically or horizontally away from the QR code 200 to be read, the QR code 200 different from the QR code 200 to be read will be read first. This causes a problem that the reading operation cannot be performed smoothly.

[0438] In order to solve this problem, the gaming machine 1 described above is configured so that no other QR codes 200 are placed above, below, or to the left or right of the board management QR code 200g or the unopenable QR code 200h.

[0439] A specific description will be given with reference to Figure 49. Figure 49 is a rear view of the gaming machine 1 with the rear cover 83 not shown.

[0440] As examples of the QR code 200 that is read in the hall, a board management QR code 200g shown in FIG. 42 and a case QR code 200i1 shown in FIG. 44 are given.

[0441] In FIG. 49, the areas positioned in the left-right direction and the areas positioned in the up-down direction of the board management QR code 200g are indicated as areas Ha1 hatched with diagonal lines slanting upward to the right.

[0442] In FIG. 49, the areas positioned in the left-right direction and the areas positioned in the up-down direction of the case QR code 200i1 are indicated as areas Ha2 hatched with diagonal lines slanting downward to the right.

[0443] No QR code 200 is arranged in the area Ha1 or the area Ha2, which makes it possible to smoothly read the QR code 200 to be read.

[0444] These points can also be applied to the certificate stamp QR code 200a arranged on the front side of the gaming machine 1.

[0445] In addition, the QR code 200 that is read when the gaming machine 1 is delivered is designed to be easily read even when the rear cover 83 is attached to the rear of the gaming machine 1.

[0446] FIG. 50 is a schematic diagram showing the rear of the gaming machine 1, in which the outer shape of the gaming machine 1 is shown by a two-dot chain line, and the rear cover 83, the main control board 100, and the performance control board 120 are shown by dashed lines.

[0447] The rear cover 83 is provided with an insertion hole 83a used for routing cables, etc. Also, the insertion hole 83a is formed in a portion facing the main board management sticker 305 and the model name display sticker 308 so that the main board management sticker 305 and the model name display sticker 308 affixed to the main board case 300 can be easily seen from the rear.

[0448] This can further improve the readability of the board management QR code 200g placed on the main board management sticker 305 and the case QR code 200i1 placed on the model name display sticker 308.

[0449] Of the various types of QR codes 200 described above, the target person for reading the QR codes 200 other than the liquid crystal QR code 200j and the performance display QR code 200b is not the player.

[0450] Therefore, at least some of those QR codes 200, particularly those arranged facing the player (stamp QR code 200a, inner frame QR code 200c1, inner frame QR code 200c2, inner frame QR code 200c3), may be made invisible (unreadable) from the front due to certain components provided in the gaming machine 1, and may be made visible (readable) only from an oblique angle when the front frame 7 is not opened. Such a QR code 200 may be preferably readable when the front frame 7 is in an open state.

[0451] This allows the user who is the object of reading the QR code 200 to naturally feel that he or she is not a player. Even when the front frame 7 is not open, the QR code 200 can be seen by peeking at it from an angle, so that hall personnel can easily grasp the location of the QR code 200. Furthermore, since the QR code 200 can be easily read with the front frame 7 open, the management work of the gaming machine 1 is not impeded.

[0452] In the above description, a pachinko game machine using game balls as game media is exemplified, but there is no particular limitation as long as the game machine 1 can achieve the object of the present invention. For example, the above-mentioned configuration can be applied to a game machine 1 using game media with a shape other than a sphere as a game medium, a reel type game machine, etc.

[0453] The various examples described above can be combined as appropriate to the extent that combinations are not impossible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0454] 1. Gaming machines 9 Game Board 37 Gaming area 57 LCD unit (display device) 87a, 87b, 87c, 87d, 87e, 87f, 87g Text information 90c2, 90d Positioning frame 91c3, 91f1, 91f2, 91f3 Positioning marks 92 Orientation Mark 93 Positioning protrusion 110 Frame control board 120 Performance control board 200 QR Codes 200A 1st QR Code 200B 2nd QR code 203 Quiet Zone 204 Position detection pattern 205 Alignment Pattern 211 Data Area 212 Correction code area 300 Main board case 304 Electronic Components 320 Sub-board case As0 light area As1 dark area Ce Cell Tx Description

Claims

[Claim 1] A main control board; a main board case in which the main control board is housed; A specific board other than the main control board; a specific substrate case in which the specific substrate is housed, A first two-dimensional code is arranged in an area visible to a player; A second two-dimensional code is disposed on the main board case; the second two-dimensional code does not have an alignment pattern; The first two-dimensional code has a larger amount of information that can be stored excluding an error correction code than the second two-dimensional code, and an error correction level is set lower than that of the second two-dimensional code; a third two-dimensional code is arranged on a specific IC chip arranged on at least one of the main control board or the specific board; A frame-shaped quiet zone is placed around the periphery of each two-dimensional code, a frame width of the quiet zone in the second two-dimensional code is set to be four times or more the length of one side of a cell constituting the second two-dimensional code; The frame width of the quiet zone in the third two-dimensional code is at least partially set to a width less than four times the length of one side of a cell constituting the third two-dimensional code. Amusement machine.

Images