Gaming machine

Abstract

To provide a game machine that can grasp more diverse information regarding a game.SOLUTION: In a game machine including first control means capable of controlling the progress of a game, second control means capable of controlling the provision of game value as the game progresses and capable of storing an effective game value amount that is the amount of game value which can be used in the game, display means connected to the second control means and capable of displaying information regarding the game, and first operation means which is connected to the second control means and can be operated, information regarding the game is displayed on the display means when the operation by the first operation means is not performed, and the effective game value amount is displayed on the display means when the operation by the first operation means is performed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, a jackpot lottery is conducted based on the entry of a game ball into a start winning opening provided in a game area. When a jackpot is won by the jackpot lottery, a special game in which a large winning opening into which a game ball can enter is opened can be executed. In such a gaming machine, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out based on the entry of a game ball into the start winning opening or the large winning opening. In recent years, a gaming machine has been devised in which a predetermined display is mounted on the mounting surface of electronic components such as the main control board that controls the progress of the game, and information related to the game such as a base value, which is the ratio of the number of prize balls paid out to the number of game balls launched, and the code of an error that has occurred can be displayed on this display (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] According to the gaming machine as described above, it becomes possible to grasp whether the game is progressing within the range of appropriate gaming performance on the hall side, whether an error has occurred, and the like. However, in recent years, different from conventional gaming machines, new gaming machines have been devised that manage the number of balls in possession of the player as numerical data within each gaming machine and can conduct games without directly lending out gaming balls or paying out bonus balls to the player. Thus, in recent years when the functions of gaming machines are evolving, it has been desired to be able to grasp more diverse information regarding games.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of grasping more diverse information regarding games.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] In order to achieve the above-described object, the present invention is configured as follows.

[0007] (1) The present Akira , a base portion, an opening / closing portion capable of opening and closing the front of the base portion, a first control means capable of controlling the progress of a game, a second control means communicably connected to the first control means, capable of controlling the granting of game value accompanying the progress of the game, and capable of storing an effective game value amount which is the amount of the game value usable in the game plate-shaped a second control means, a display means connected to the second control means and capable of displaying calculated based on the used game value information specific information, a first operation means connected to the second control means and relating to the display of the display means operation is capable of being operated and a second operation means , and is characterized in that an error occurs based on the fulfillment of a predetermined occurrence condition, and when the error has not occurred, when an operation by the first operation means is not being performed, the information is displayed on the display means, and when an operation by the first operation means is being performed, the effective game value amount is displayed on the display means specific . , when the error has occurred, when the operations by the first operation means and the second operation means have not been performed, a suggestion of the error is made in the display means, and when the operation by the first operation means has not been performed and the operation by the second operation means has been performed, the specific information is displayed in the display means. The game machine is such that the second control means is provided on the back surface of the opening / closing portion, the first operation means and the second operation means are provided on the front surface of the second control means, and the second operation means is provided at a position closer to the open end when the opening / closing portion is opened than the first operation means. According to the game according to the present invention, a display means is connected to a second control means capable of controlling the granting of game value accompanying the progress of the game, and on this display means,

[0008] information regarding the game is specific calculated based on the used game valueSince not only information but also the amount of effective game value that can be used in the game (the so-called number of balls held by the player) is displayed, more diverse information regarding the game can be grasped. Also, when no error has occurred, When the operation by the first operation means is not performed, specific information is displayed, and the amount of effective game value is displayed only when the operation by the first operation means is performed. Therefore, in the normal state, specific while it is possible to grasp information at all times, the amount of effective game value can be grasped only when necessary.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine capable of grasping more diverse information regarding the game.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. (Outline of Management Gaming Machine P) The gaming machine according to this embodiment is a management gaming machine P. The management gaming machine P is a new type of gaming machine aimed at strengthening countermeasures against illegal acts (so-called cheating acts) and reducing the workload of hall staff. Similar to conventional pachinko machines, the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment uses game balls as gaming media and allows the player to play by hitting out the game balls. However, a predetermined number (45 in this embodiment) of game balls are circulated within each management gaming machine P, and by using these game balls for the game, the lending of game balls and the payout of prize balls can be carried out without directly performing them on the player (that is, without the player directly touching the game balls), and the number of game balls owned by the player (so-called the number of balls in hand, hereinafter also referred to as the number of balls in hand) is configured to be managed as numerical data within each management gaming machine P.

[0013] In addition, a dedicated unit U, which is a device dedicated to the management gaming machine P having the same role as a conventional game ball lending device (so-called CR unit) used for lending game balls, is connected to the management gaming machine P. In the conventional game ball lending device, every time a lending operation is performed on a pachinko machine, a predetermined number of lent balls (for example, 125) of game balls are lent directly from the game ball lending device or indirectly via the gaming machine (that is, the game balls are paid out to the upper tray provided on the pachinko machine). However, in the dedicated unit U, every time a pressing operation of a lending button provided in a lending switch LS (hereinafter also referred to as a lending operation) described later in the dedicated unit U is performed, instead of physically lending out game balls, a lending command indicating the lending of the above-mentioned number of lent balls is transmitted to the management gaming machine P.

[0014] The following is a brief explanation. The management gaming machine P belongs to the same classification as a conventional pachinko machine. The player plays the game by shooting a game ball into the game area 12 formed on the game board 11 described later. (2) It does not have an upper tray and a lower tray that can receive game balls, which a conventional pachinko machine has. (3) A lower unit 500 described later that circulates a predetermined number of game balls required for launching is configured within each management gaming machine P. During the circulation, a launching device 502 with the same game ball launching performance as a conventional pachinko machine, a cleaning unit 540 for removing dirt attached to the game balls, etc. are provided. (4) The number of balls in hand is managed and displayed as numerical data by each management gaming machine P (the frame control board 200 described later). (5) From the dedicated unit U, a lending command indicating the lending of the above-mentioned number of lent balls is transmitted to the management gaming machine P by a lending operation. When the number of balls in hand is 1 or more in the management gaming machine P, a counting command indicating the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P is transmitted to the dedicated unit U by pressing a counting switch 6b (hereinafter also referred to as a counting operation).

[0015] (External Configuration of Management Gaming Machine P) Although not particularly shown, in the hall where the management gaming machine P is installed, one or more management gaming machines P are arranged in a predetermined installation area, and the dedicated unit U is installed adjacent to the management gaming machine P. One dedicated unit U (for example, the dedicated unit U installed adjacent to the left side of the management gaming machine P) is associated with the management gaming machine P, and each management gaming machine P is connected to the corresponding dedicated unit U.

[0016] The dedicated unit U can accept the insertion of paper money and a storage medium (card) in which value information corresponding to the number of game balls is stored. Each time a lending operation is performed once in the dedicated unit U after inserting paper money or inserting a card, a lending command indicating the number of lent balls is transmitted from the dedicated unit U to the management gaming machine P. When the lending command transmitted from the dedicated unit U is received by the management gaming machine P, the number of lent balls is added to the number of balls held and managed within the management gaming machine P. The player can then eject the number of game balls corresponding to the number of balls held and managed. Also, for example, when a counting operation is performed on the management gaming machine P when the number of balls held is one or more, such as when ending the game, a counting command indicating the number of balls held is transmitted from the management gaming machine P to the dedicated unit U.

[0017] The management gaming machine P according to this embodiment includes a machine frame 1 which is a substantially rectangular frame fixed to the installation area, and an inner frame 2 which is a substantially rectangular frame attached to this machine frame so as to be openable and closable by a hinge mechanism H1 and has a hollow portion (not particularly shown), and an outer frame 3 which is a substantially rectangular frame attached to this inner frame 2 so as to be openable and closable by a hinge mechanism H2 and has an opening 3a (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Also, the hinge mechanisms H1 and H2 are respectively provided at the left end as viewed from the player facing the game board 11 described later in the inner frame 2 and the outer frame 3 (see FIG. 2). That is, the right ends of the inner frame 2 and the outer frame 3 on the side opposite to the hinge mechanisms H1 and H2 are open ends. Then, by rotating this open end in the front direction (the direction in which the player facing the game board 11 is located) around the hinge mechanisms H1 and H2 as the axis, the inner frame 2 and the outer frame 3 are opened.

[0018] Although not particularly shown, a game board 11 (see FIG. 3) for forming a game area 12 is accommodated in the hollow portion of the inner frame 2. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the outer frame 3 is provided with a transparent plate 4 that covers the opening 3a, a deck portion 3b that is located below the opening 3a and protrudes forward, an operation handle 5 that is attached to the lower right of the deck portion 3b (the lower right corner of the outer frame 3) for performing a shooting operation of a game ball, and speakers 10 as sound output devices that are attached one by one to the upper left and right and lower left and right of the transparent plate 4. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the deck portion 3b of the outer frame 3 is provided with a game ball number display unit 6 for displaying and counting the held balls, and an effect operation device 9 capable of performing various operations related to the effects described later. Furthermore, various lamps 23 as lighting devices for performing effects and notifying various errors described later are provided on the outer periphery of the outer frame 3, which emit light in various colors and light emission patterns. All of these lamps 23 are composed of LEDs capable of emitting light in a plurality of colors.

[0019] In this management gaming machine P, when the inner frame 2 is closed with respect to the machine frame 1 and further the outer frame 3 is closed, the transparent plate 4 is positioned with a gap in front of the game board 11. Thereby, the game board 11 located behind can be visually recognized through the transparent plate 4.

[0020] The operation handle 5 is formed so that a player can perform a rotation operation in a predetermined direction. When the player rotates the operation handle 5 when the number of balls in hand managed by the management gaming machine P is 1 or more, the game balls accommodated in a circulatable manner within the management gaming machine P are sent to the launcher 502, and the launcher 502 launches the game balls toward the game area 12 with a launch intensity corresponding to the rotation angle of the operation handle 5. The game balls launched with a launch intensity equal to or higher than the launch intensity at which the game balls can reach the game area 12 (hereinafter also referred to as the game area reach launch intensity) are guided by a pair of rails 13a and 13b fixed to the game board 11 and ascend to reach the game area 12. On the other hand, the game balls launched with a launch intensity less than the game area reach launch intensity cannot reach the game area 12, are guided by the rails 13a and 13b and descend, and reach a storage tank 510 (described later) provided at the lower front of the inner frame 2 via a far ball passage 610 (described later) communicating with the lower space of the rails 13a and 13b. In this specification, the game balls that could not reach the game area 12 after being launched are also referred to as "far balls".

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the game ball number display unit 6 includes a game ball number display device 6a that displays the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P (described later), and a count switch 6b that can be pressed and is used to perform the above-described counting operation. The game ball number display device 6a is composed of six 7-segment displays with decimal points arranged side by side, and can display the number of balls in hand from 0 to 999999. For example, when a new game is started on the management gaming machine P where no game is being played, usually, since the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P is 0, the ball number display device 6a displays that the number of balls in hand is 0 (for example, a display such as "000000"). At this time, when a lending operation is performed in the dedicated unit U, the above-described lending command is transmitted to the management gaming machine P, and the number of lent balls (125 balls) is added to the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P, and the number of balls in hand after this addition is displayed on the ball number display device 6a. For example, as described above, when a lending operation is performed once when the number of balls in hand is 0, the ball number display device 6a displays that the number of balls in hand is 125 (for example, a display such as "000125"). Also, when the game is ended or the like, when a counting operation is performed by pressing the counting switch 6b when the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P is 1 or more, the above-described counting command indicating the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P is transmitted to the dedicated unit U. As a result, all the balls in hand that were managed within the management gaming machine P are transmitted to the dedicated unit U, the number of balls in hand managed within the management gaming machine P becomes 0, and the ball number display device 6a displays that the number of balls in hand is 0. Also, every time one game ball is launched, the number of balls in hand being managed is decremented by 1, and accordingly, the number of balls in hand displayed on the ball number display device 6a is also decremented by 1. When the launched game ball becomes a foul ball, since the foul ball should not be used in the game and should be returned to the balls in hand, the number of balls in hand being managed is incremented by 1, and accordingly, the number of balls in hand displayed on the ball number display device 6a is also incremented by 1. When a game ball enters each winning port described later, the number of prize balls corresponding to the ball entry is added to the number of balls in hand being managed, and accordingly, the number of balls in hand displayed on the ball number display device 6a also increases by the number of prize balls. Note that the number of 7-segment displays constituting the held ball number display device 6a is not particularly limited as long as it can display the upper limit of the number of game balls that can be acquired in the management gaming machine P, and it may be five or less, or seven or more. Further, the held ball number display device 6a may be configured not by 7-segment displays but by a liquid crystal display, a dot matrix display, or the like.

[0022] The game area 12 is a portion of the space formed between the game board 11 and the transparent plate 4 with the inner frame 2 and the outer frame 3 closed with respect to the machine frame 1, and is partitioned into a substantially circular shape by a pair of rails 13a and 13b fixed to the game board 11, and is an area where game balls can flow down. As shown in FIG. 3, this game area 12 is composed of a first game area 12a which is the area on the left when viewed from the player facing the management gaming machine P, and a second game area 12b which is the area on the right when viewed from the player facing the management gaming machine P. These two game areas 12 are made to have different entry possibilities for game balls depending on the above-described launch intensity. Specifically, a game ball launched at a launch intensity equal to or higher than the above-described game area arrival launch intensity and not reaching the highest point of the game area 12 (hereinafter also referred to as the highest point arrival launch intensity) enters the first game area 12a. On the other hand, a game ball launched at a launch intensity equal to or higher than the highest point arrival launch intensity can enter the second game area 12b.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3, inside this game area 12, there are a windmill and a number of nails for making the flow direction of the game balls irregular, a general winning opening 14 into which game balls can enter, a first starting winning opening 15 and a second starting winning opening 16 as starting areas, a gate 20 through which game balls can pass, an attacker device 17 that operates by satisfying a predetermined condition, an out opening 19 that guides game balls outside the game area 12, and an effect display device 21 as an effect device that performs effects as the game progresses.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 3, the general winning opening 14 is provided at the lower left side of the game area 12. When a game ball enters the general winning opening 14, the number of bonus balls corresponding to the ball entry (5 balls in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls held and managed by the management gaming machine P. Note that the number and installation position of the general winning openings 14 are not particularly limited.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the first start winning opening 15 is provided at a position slightly below the center of the game area 12. Game balls flowing down in the first game area 12a can enter the first start winning opening 15, and game balls flowing down in the second game area 12b can hardly enter. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, the second start winning opening 16 is provided at a position to the right of the center of the game area 12 (that is, within the second game area 12b). Game balls flowing down in the second game area 12b can enter the second start winning opening 16, and game balls flowing down in the first game area 12a can hardly enter.

[0026] Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the second start winning opening 16 is provided with a movable piece 16b (ordinary electric accessory) that can open and close left and right. When the movable piece 16b is closed, the second start winning opening 16 is in a closed state, and it is impossible or difficult for game balls to enter the second start winning opening 16. On the other hand, when the movable piece 16b opens, the second start winning opening 16 is in an open state, and this movable piece 16b functions as a guide member that guides game balls toward the second start winning opening 16, making it easier for game balls to enter the second start winning opening 16. Note that the installation positions of the first start winning opening 15 and the second start winning opening 16 are not particularly limited.

[0027] When a game ball enters the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16, the number of prize balls corresponding to the ball entry (1 ball in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls held and managed by the management gaming machine P, and a jackpot lottery is conducted to determine one special symbol from a plurality of predetermined special symbols. Various gaming benefits are associated with each special symbol, and depending on the type of the determined special symbol, gaming benefits such as execution of a special game advantageous to the player and setting of a predetermined gaming state can be obtained. Note that the number of prize balls corresponding to the entry of a game ball into the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16 is not particularly limited as long as it is one or more, and can be any number. Also, the number of prize balls may be the same or different between the start winning opening provided with the movable piece 16b (the second start winning opening 16) and the start winning opening not provided with the movable piece 16b (the first start winning opening 15).

[0028] As shown in FIG. 3, the gate 20 is provided above the second start winning opening 16. When a game ball passes through this gate 20, a normal symbol lottery described later is conducted. And when the result of the lottery is a win, the movable piece 16b provided in the above-described second start winning opening 16 is opened for a predetermined time.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the attacker device 17 is provided below the second start winning opening 16. This attacker device 17 includes a large winning opening 18 into which a game ball can enter and an opening / closing door 18b that opens and closes the large winning opening 18. In a normal state, since the opening / closing door 18b is closed and the large winning opening 18 is closed, it is impossible for a game ball to enter the large winning opening 18. However, when the above-described special game is executed, the opening / closing door 18b opens, the large winning opening 18 is opened, and the opening / closing door 18b functions as a tray member that guides the game ball to the large winning opening 18, making it possible for a game ball to enter the large winning opening 18. When a game ball enters the large winning opening 18, the number of prize balls corresponding to the ball entry (10 balls in this embodiment) is added to the number of balls held and managed by the management gaming machine P.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 3, the out port 19 is provided at the lowermost part of the game area 12 and receives game balls that have not entered any of the general winning port 14, the first start winning port 15, the second start winning port 16, and the big winning port 18. Then, all the game balls received at the out port 19 and the game balls that have entered the above-mentioned winning ports (general winning port 14, first start winning port 15, second start winning port 16, big winning port 18) all reach the out passage 600 described later, and through this out passage 600, they reach a storage tank 510 described later provided at the lower front part of the inner frame 2. Note that after factory shipment, no game balls for circulation are stored in the management gaming machine P, and after installation in the hall, a predetermined number (45) of game balls are replenished into the management gaming machine P. Specifically, by opening the outer frame 3 and inserting game balls into the out port 19, game balls for circulation are replenished.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 3, the effect display device 21 is provided substantially at the center of the game area 12. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 21. The effect display device 21 is provided with a display unit 21a for displaying images such as moving images and still images. In the display unit 21a, in addition to the background image being displayed, a variable effect is executed in accordance with the variable display of the special symbol. In this variable effect, the effect symbol 50 (dummy symbol) is variably displayed, and the result of the big win lottery is notified (suggested) to the player according to the stop display mode of each effect symbol 50. The effect display device 21 is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, and for example, a drum-type display device that performs various displays using a plurality of drums with symbols attached to the outer periphery may be used. Note that the effect device is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, a lamp 23, etc., and an effect device that operates in various timings and various modes may be provided.

[0032] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, as the effect operation device 9 disposed in the above-described deck unit 3b, there are provided an operation button 9a capable of advancing or switching the effect by a pressing operation, a volume change button 9b capable of changing the volume of the sound output from the speaker 10 by a pressing operation, a light quantity change button 9c capable of changing the light quantity of the lamp 23 by a pressing operation, and a cross key 9d capable of performing setting operations on a menu screen (displayed on the display unit 21a) for performing various settings related to the effect by a pressing operation.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, at the lower right part of the game board 11 and outside the game area 12, as a device for displaying various situations regarding the game, a first special symbol display device 30, a second special symbol display device 31, a first special symbol hold display device 38, a second special symbol hold display device 39, a normal symbol display device 32, and a normal symbol hold display device 33 are provided.

[0034] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, a lower unit 500 for circulating game balls is provided at the lower front part of the inner frame 2 (below the game board 11). This lower unit 500 is composed of a plurality of devices, mainly including a launching device 502 for launching game balls, a storage tank 510 capable of storing game balls, a rectifier 520 for sending game balls to the launching device, a pumping unit 530 for pumping the game balls in the storage tank 510 to a ball passage 620 described later, a cleaning unit 540 for removing dirt attached to the game balls, and the like.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the above-described out passage 600 is provided above the lower unit 500. As described above, all the game balls that have entered the general winning opening 14, the first starting winning opening 15, the second starting winning opening 16, the big winning opening 18, and the game balls received at the out opening 19 reach the out passage 600. Then, these game balls flow down through the out passage 600 and reach the storage tank 510 through a communication port 630 provided at the most downstream of the out passage 600 (see FIG. 5). The arrow A in FIG. 5 indicates the path of the game balls flowing down through the out passage 600. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, an out sensor 601 capable of detecting a game ball flowing down the out passage 600 is provided in the middle of the out passage 600 and on the front side of the communication port 630.

[0036] Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the above-mentioned far passage 610 is provided above the lower unit 500 and to the left of the out passage 600. As described above, the far balls that could not reach the game area 12 of the launched ones reach the far passage 610. Then, the far balls flow down the far passage 610 and reach the storage tank 510 (see FIG. 5). The arrow B in FIG. 5 indicates the path of the far balls flowing down the far passage 610. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, a far ball sensor 611 capable of detecting a far ball flowing down the far passage 610 is provided at the most downstream of the far passage 610 and at the entrance of the storage tank 510.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 5, the storage tank 510 is provided in the lower center of the lower unit 500 and stores the game balls flowing down the out passage 600 and the far balls flowing down the far passage 610. The game balls stored in the storage tank 510 reach the pumping unit 530 arranged downstream of this storage tank 510. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the storage tank 510 is provided with an excessive circulating ball number sensor 511 and a shortage of circulating ball number sensor 512. The excessive circulating ball number sensor 511 is for detecting a state of excessive circulating ball number in which the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 (that is, the game balls circulating in the management game machine P) is equal to or more than a predetermined upper limit circulating number (for example, 47, etc.). The shortage of circulating ball number sensor 512 is for detecting a state of shortage of circulating ball number in which the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 is less than a predetermined lower limit circulating number (for example, 43, etc.). In addition, the storage tank 510 is openable and closable, and has a discharge port (not particularly shown) for discharging the stored game balls to the outside of the management gaming machine P, and an opening / closing lever 515 for opening and closing the discharge port (see FIGS. 4 and 5). By operating this opening / closing lever 515, the discharge port is opened, and the game balls stored in the storage tank 510 can be discharged to the outside of the management gaming machine P from this discharge port.

[0038] The lifting unit 530 lifts the game balls that have reached from the storage tank 510 to the ball passage 620 disposed on the front side of the fall passage 610 above the lifting unit 530. The lifting unit 530 includes a screw conveyor 531 that lifts the game balls toward the ball passage 620, and a lifting motor 532 that rotates the screw conveyor 531 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). When the lifting motor 532 operates, the screw conveyor 531 rotates, and the game balls that have reached from the storage tank 510 are lifted from the lower part to the upper part by this screw conveyor 531 and reach the ball passage 620. Also, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a rotation sensor 533 capable of detecting the rotation of the screw conveyor 531 based on the operation of the lifting motor 532 is provided below the screw conveyor 531.

[0039] The cleaning unit 540 is provided beside the screw conveyor 531 with a predetermined gap (a gap slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball), and includes a polishing roller 541 capable of polishing the game balls lifted by the screw conveyor 531 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). A polishing cloth (not particularly shown) for polishing the game balls is attached to the outer periphery of this polishing roller 541. The game balls are lifted while being sandwiched between the screw conveyor 531 and the outer periphery of the polishing roller 541, and are polished by the polishing cloth during this lifting.

[0040] Downstream of the above-described ball passage 620, a rectifier 520 is provided, and downstream of this rectifier 520, a launching device 502 is provided (see FIG. 4). The rectifier 520 includes a rectifier solenoid 521 that sends game balls to the launching device 502 (see FIG. 4). Although not particularly shown, the launching device 502 includes a hammer that launches the game balls sent from the rectifier 520 one by one, and a launching motor 503 that rotates the hammer. Note that the launching motor 503 may be configured by a solenoid. The game balls lifted by the screw conveyor 51 and reaching the ball passage 620 flow down this ball passage 620 and reach the rectifier 520. Then, when the operation handle 5 is rotated, the rectifier solenoid 521 operates, the game balls are sent to the launching device 502, and the launching motor 503 operates to rotate the hammer, whereby the game balls are launched (fired). Also, at the most downstream of the ball passage 620 and at the inlet of the rectifier 520, a rectifier inlet sensor 522 capable of detecting the game balls located at the inlet is provided, and at the outlet of the rectifier 520, a rectifier outlet sensor 523 capable of detecting the game balls located at the outlet is provided (see FIG. 7). When a game ball is detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522, a rectifier inlet detection signal is output to a frame control board 200 described later, and when a game ball is detected by the rectifier outlet sensor 523, a rectifier outlet detection signal is output to the frame control board 200.

[0041] Also, as shown in FIG. 6, at the upper center on the back side of the game board 11, a main control board 100 that stores setting values, main control states, etc. to be described later and controls the basic operations of the game of the management gaming machine P is mounted in a transparent box-shaped main control board case 150. Below the main control board 100, a sub-control board 300 that controls various effects is mounted in a transparent box-shaped sub-control board case 350. Below the sub-control board 300, a frame control board 200 that controls the launching of game balls, the circulation of game balls in the management gaming machine P, the management (storage) and display of the number of held balls, etc., and the display of game performance information to be described later is mounted in a transparent box-shaped frame control board case 250.

[0042] Also, at the lower part on the back side of the game board 11, near the open end of the inner frame 2 (to the left of the frame control board 200 in FIG. 6), a power supply board 700 for supplying power to each board is provided, and a power switch 750 is provided on this power supply board 700. The power switch 750 can be switched on or off. When the power switch 750 is turned on, power is supplied from the power supply board 700 to each board, and when the power switch 750 is turned off, the supply of power from the power supply board 700 to each board stops. In this specification, when the power switch 750 is turned on and power is supplied, it is also referred to as "power on", "power restoration after power failure", etc., and when the power switch 750 is turned off and the supply of power stops, it is also referred to as "power off", "occurrence of power failure", etc.

[0043] (Configuration of the control means of the management gaming machine P) Next, the control means for controlling the operation of the management gaming machine P will be described. As shown in FIG. 8, the above-described control means is composed of a main control board 100, a frame control board 200, a sub-control board 300, and a power supply board 700 (not particularly shown). Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the frame control board 200 and the sub-control board 300 are connected to the main control board 100. Although not particularly shown, the power supply board 700 is connected to each board.

[0044] (Outline of the main control board 100) As described above, the main control board 100 stores set values, main control states, etc., and controls the games performed in the management gaming machine P. Specifically, it controls the special figure game started when a game ball enters the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16, the general figure game started when a game ball passes through the gate 20, and the above-mentioned special games, etc.

[0045] Here, in the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, as settings related to ball payout, a plurality of levels from setting value 1 to setting value 6 are defined, and the jackpot winning probability varies depending on the difference in the setting values. For example, setting value 6 has a higher jackpot winning probability than setting value 1. Since a higher jackpot winning probability increases the possibility of obtaining prize balls, changing the setting value changes the amount of prize balls paid out assumed in the gaming machine P. Note that the number of levels of the setting value may be not six levels but two to five levels, or only one setting value may be provided.

[0046] Also, the gaming machine P according to this embodiment has a main control state managed by the main control board 100, including a playable state where the game can be executed, a setting confirmation state where the set setting value can be confirmed, a setting change state where the set setting value can be changed, and a game stop state where game execution, confirmation, and change of the setting value are impossible. When the power is on, it stays in one of the main control states. When the main control state is the setting change state, the set setting value can be changed (switched) by performing a predetermined setting change operation.

[0047] On the surface of the main control board 100 in this embodiment, although not particularly shown, a main CPU 101, a main ROM 102, a main RAM 103, a setting value display device 104, a setting switch 105, a RAM clear switch 106, etc. are mounted.

[0048] The main CPU 101 is an electronic component that performs various arithmetic operations. The main ROM 102 is an electronic component (Read Only Memory) with a read-only storage area that stores the gaming machine specific code indicating the manufacturer and model of the management gaming machine P, control programs necessary for gaming, tables, etc. The main RAM 103 is an electronic component (Read Write Memory) with a readable and writable storage area used for storing the above-mentioned set values, main control states, various data related to the progress of the game (for example, execution phase data indicating the progress of special figure games, general figure execution phase data indicating the progress of general figure games), etc., and temporarily storing data during arithmetic processing by the main CPU 101. Based on signals from various sensors and timers connected to the main control board 100, the main CPU 101 reads out the control programs and tables stored in the main ROM 102 and performs arithmetic processing, etc. It also controls various devices connected to the main control board 100 and performs command transmission processing, etc. to other boards (frame control board 200, sub-control board 300) based on the detection by the above-mentioned sensors and the results of arithmetic processing.

[0049] The set value display device 104 is a device that displays the set set values and is composed of a 7-segment display. During the setting confirmation state or the setting change state, the current set value stored in the main RAM 103 is displayed. Also, during the setting confirmation state, the setting change state, and the game stop state, a code indicating that is displayed. Note that the set value display device 104 may be composed of a liquid crystal display, a dot matrix display, etc. instead of being composed of a 7-segment display.

[0050] The setting switch 105 is referred to for setting the main control state (playable state, setting confirmation state, setting change state, game stop state) when the power is turned on. The setting switch 105 is provided with an operation part (not particularly shown) having a keyhole, and is formed such that a rotation operation is possible with a predetermined key inserted into the keyhole. In a normal state, the setting switch 105 is off, but when a rotation operation is performed, the setting switch 108 turns on. The RAM clear switch 106 is used for clearing predetermined data stored in the main RAM 103 and the frame control RAM 203 described later, and for changing setting values. The RAM clear switch 106 is provided with a RAM clear button (not particularly shown) that can be pressed. When the RAM clear button is not pressed, the RAM clear switch 106 is off, but when the RAM clear button is pressed, the RAM clear switch 106 turns on.

[0051] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, regardless of the main control state set before the power failure, when the power is turned on from off (when recovering from a power failure) with both the setting switch 105 and the RAM clear switch 106 being on, the main CPU 101 sets the setting change state and clears the predetermined data stored in the main RAM 103 and the frame control RAM 203. When the playable state or the setting confirmation state was set before the power failure, and the power is turned on from off with the setting switch 105 being on and the RAM clear switch 106 being off, the main CPU 101 sets the setting confirmation state. Regardless of the main control state set before the power failure, when the power is turned on from off with both the setting switch 105 and the RAM clear switch 106 being off, the main CPU 101 sets the main control state set before the power failure. Regardless of the main control state set before the power failure, when the power is turned on from off with the setting switch 105 being off and the RAM clear switch 106 being on, the main CPU 101 sets the main control state set before the power failure and clears the predetermined data stored in the main RAM 103 and the frame control RAM 203. Also, when the setting switch 105 is turned off during the setting change state, the main CPU 101 sets the playable state, and when the setting switch 105 is turned off during the setting confirmation state, the playable state is set. And by pressing the RAM clear button (turning on the RAM clear switch 106) during the setting change state, the set value can be changed (switched). As described above, the set value is stored in the main RAM 103, and when the set value is changed, the set value stored in this main RAM 103 is changed. Note that in this specification, the clearing of the predetermined data stored in the main RAM 103 and the frame control RAM 203 by the RAM clear switch 106 is also simply referred to as "RAM clear".

[0052] Further, as shown in FIG. 8, on the main control board 100, there are connected a general winning opening detection sensor 14a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning opening 14, a first start winning opening detection sensor 15a for detecting that a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 15, a second start winning opening detection sensor 16a for detecting that a game ball has entered the second start winning opening 16, a big winning opening detection sensor 18a for detecting that a game ball has entered the big winning opening 18, a gate detection sensor 20a for detecting that a game ball has passed through the gate 20, a setting switch 105, and a RAM clear switch 106. And detection signals output from these respective sensors and signals indicating on or off of each switch are input to the main control board 100. Note that the RAM clear switch 106 may be connected not to the main control board 100 but to the frame control board 200. And when connected to the frame control board 200, when the RAM clear button is pressed and the RAM clear switch 106 is turned on, a RAM clear command indicating that fact is transmitted from the frame control board 200 to the main control board 100, and the main CPU 101 may execute the above-described various processes based on receiving the RAM clear command.

[0053] Furthermore, on the main control board 100, as devices to be controlled, there are connected a start winning opening solenoid 16c for opening and closing the movable piece 16b of the second start winning opening 16, a big winning opening solenoid 18c for opening and closing the opening / closing door 18b of the big winning opening 18, a first special symbol display device 30, a second special symbol display device 31, a normal symbol display device 32, a first special symbol hold display device 38, a second special symbol hold display device 39, a normal symbol hold display device 33, and a setting value display device 104. And by the main control board 100, opening / closing control of the second start winning opening 16 and the big winning opening 18 is performed by driving each solenoid, and display control of each display device is also performed.

[0054] (Overview of the frame control board 200) As described above, the frame control board 200 mainly controls the launching of game balls, the circulation of game balls within the management gaming machine P, the management (storage) and display of the number of held balls, etc., and the display of game performance information.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 8, the frame control board 200 is connected so as to be capable of two-way communication with the main control board 100 and is also connected so as to be capable of two-way communication with the dedicated unit U. The dedicated unit U may be directly connected to the frame control board 200 by a predetermined cable or the like, or may be indirectly connected to the frame control board 200 via a predetermined relay board.

[0056] In addition, the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment has a control state (hereinafter also referred to as a frame control state) managed by the frame control board 200, which includes a startup preparation state that is the state from when the power is turned on until communication with the main control board 100 and the dedicated unit U becomes possible, a normal state in which communication with the main control board 100 and the dedicated unit U is possible, and a ball extraction state indicating that game balls housed within the management gaming machine P are being taken out. When the power is on, it stays in one of the frame control states. When the main control state is a playable state and the frame control state is a normal state, the execution of the game becomes possible.

[0057] Although not particularly shown, on the surface of the frame control board 200, a frame control CPU 201, a frame control ROM 202, and a frame control RAM 203 are mounted, and in addition, a frame control display device 210, an error release switch 220, a game ball number clear switch 230, a ball extraction switch 240, etc. are mounted (see FIGS. 6 and 7), and these electronic components are connected to the frame control board 200.

[0058] The frame control CPU 201 is an electronic component that performs various arithmetic operations, similar to the main CPU 101. The frame control ROM 202 is an electronic component (Read Only Memory) with a read-only storage area that stores the above-mentioned gaming machine specific code, control programs necessary for various controls performed on the frame control board 200, and the like. The frame control RAM 203 is an electronic component (Read Write Memory) with a readable and writable storage area used for counting the number of bonus balls, storing the number of held balls, temporarily storing data during arithmetic processing by the frame control CPU 201, and the like. Based on signals from various sensors and timers connected to the frame control board 200, the frame control CPU 201 reads out the control program stored in the frame control ROM 202 to perform arithmetic processing and the like, and also performs control of various devices connected to the frame control board 200, processing of transmission and reception of commands to and from the dedicated unit U, and the like.

[0059] Also, in the frame control RAM 203, counting is performed for the number of bonus balls based on the entry of game balls into each winning port, the number of game balls that have reached the game area 12 among the launched game balls (that is, the value calculated by the number of launched game balls - the number of foul balls, hereinafter also referred to as the out number), and the like. Specifically, in the frame control RAM 203, the total number of out numbers (hereinafter also referred to as the total out number) during all game states and special games in a predetermined calculation period, the total number of out numbers (hereinafter also referred to as the low probability total out number) during the normal game state (a game state combining the low probability game state and the non-time shortening game state) described later, the total number of bonus balls during the normal game state (hereinafter also referred to as the low probability total bonus ball number), and the like are counted. That is, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, a predetermined storage area in the frame control RAM 203 functions as a counter for counting the above-mentioned various values. And in the frame control RAM 203, game performance information is derived using the above count value. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, as the game performance information, a base value during a normal game state in a predetermined calculation period is derived. The base value is the ratio of the total number of prize balls to the total number of outs (that is, the value calculated by total number of prize balls / total number of outs), and the base value during the normal game state (hereinafter also referred to as the low-probability base value) is the ratio of the total number of low-probability prize balls to the total number of low-probability outs (that is, the value calculated by total number of low-probability prize balls / total number of low-probability outs). Note that the derived game performance information is not limited to the base value. For example, a special electric accessory ratio (the ratio of the total number of prize balls based on the game balls entering the big winning opening 18 (hereinafter also referred to as the total number of special electric accessory prize balls) to the total number of prize balls, that is, the value calculated by total number of special electric accessory prize balls / total number of prize balls), or an accessory ratio (the ratio of the total number of prize balls based on the game balls entering the first start winning opening 15, the second start winning opening 16, and the big winning opening 18 (hereinafter also referred to as the total number of accessory prize balls) to the total number of prize balls, that is, the value calculated by total number of accessory prize balls / total number of prize balls) may be derived.

[0060] Furthermore, in the frame control RAM 203, the number of hold balls is stored as numerical data in a predetermined hold ball storage area. Specifically, as described above, when a new game is started in the management gaming machine P where no game is being played, usually, the number of hold balls managed in the management gaming machine P is 0, and at this time, the number of hold balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 is 0. Also, every time a lending operation is performed in the dedicated unit U, the above-described lending command is transmitted from the dedicated unit U. When the frame control CPU 201 receives this lending command, it adds the number of lent balls (125 balls in this embodiment) to the number of balls in possession stored in the frame control RAM 203. For example, when the number of balls in possession stored in the frame control RAM 203 is 0 and the lending command is received from the dedicated unit U, the number of balls in possession becomes 125. Note that instead of transmitting a lending command indicating the lending of the number of lent balls from the dedicated unit U to the frame control board 200, numerical data indicating the number of lent balls itself may be transmitted as a command, and when this command is received, the frame control CPU 201 may add the number of lent balls (125 balls) included in the command to the number of balls in possession. Also, every time one game ball is launched, the frame control CPU 201 decrements the number of balls in possession stored in the frame control RAM 203 by 1. When the launched game ball becomes a foul ball, the frame control CPU 201 increments the number of balls in possession stored in the frame control RAM 203 by 1. Also, when a game ball enters a winning port, the entry is detected by a corresponding sensor, and a bonus ball designation command corresponding to the winning port into which the game ball has entered is transmitted from the main control board 100 to the frame control board 200. When the frame control CPU 201 receives this bonus ball designation command, it adds the number of bonus balls corresponding to the bonus ball designation command to the number of balls in possession stored in the frame control RAM 203. For example, when the number of balls in possession stored in the frame control RAM 203 is 100 and a game ball enters the first start winning port 15, the number of bonus balls corresponding to this entry (1 ball in this embodiment) is added, and the number of balls in possession becomes 101. Note that instead of transmitting the above-described bonus ball designation command from the main control board 100 to the frame control board 200, numerical data itself indicating the number of bonus balls corresponding to the winning port into which the game ball has entered may be transmitted, and when this numerical data is received, the frame control CPU 201 may add the number of bonus balls indicated by this numerical data to the number of balls in possession. Also, when the counting operation is performed by pressing the counting switch 6b when the number of balls held stored in the frame control RAM 203 is one or more, the frame control CPU 201 transmits the above-described counting command to the dedicated unit U. As a result, the number of balls held stored in the frame control RAM 203 is transmitted to the dedicated unit U, and the number of balls held stored in the frame control RAM 203 becomes zero. Note that the number of balls held stored in the frame control RAM 203 is displayed on the above-described number-of-balls-held display device 6a.

[0061] The frame control display device 210 is provided at the upper left portion on the surface of the frame control board 200 and is composed of six 7-segment displays with decimal points arranged side by side (from the leftmost, the first display 210a, the second display 210b, the third display 210c, the fourth display 210d, the fifth display 210e, and the sixth display 210f) (see FIGS. 6 and 7). The frame control display device 210 in this embodiment does not incorporate a processing device such as a CPU that performs arithmetic processing independently, and only performs a frame control management error indication that suggests that the above-described low-probability base value is being displayed and that an error (hereinafter also referred to as a frame control management error) managed by the frame control board 200 described later has occurred. The display of the low-probability base value, the indication of the frame control management error, etc. will be described in detail later.

[0062] Also, the number of 7-segment displays constituting the frame control display device 210 in this embodiment is the same as the number of 7-segment displays constituting the above-described number-of-balls-held display device 6a. For example, even when the number of balls held cannot be displayed on the number-of-balls-held display device 6a due to a failure or the like, the number of balls held can be accurately displayed on the frame control display device 210.

[0063] Note that the installation position of the frame control display device 210 is not limited to the upper left part of the surface of the frame control board 200. For example, it may be provided in the lower left part, upper right part, lower right part, etc. Also, the number of 7-segment displays constituting the frame control display device 210 may be 5 or less, or may be 7 or more. Further, it may be the same as or different from the number of 7-segment displays constituting the held ball number display device 6a. Also, the frame control display device 210 may be constituted not by 7-segment displays but by a liquid crystal display, dot matrix display, etc. Further, the frame control display device 210 may incorporate another device as long as it does not incorporate a device that performs arithmetic processing independently. For example, it may incorporate a driver circuit or the like for controlling the operation of the frame control display device 210. Also, the above-described display of the low-probability base value and the suggestion of the frame control management error are not performed in the frame control display device 210 mounted on the surface of the frame control board 200, but may be performed in a separate display device that can be connected to the frame control board 200 via a cable, relay board, etc. However, since there is a risk of illegal acts such as transmitting an illegal signal via a cable or relay board, it is desirable to perform the above in the frame control display device 210. Note that if the frame control display device 210 is mounted on the frame control board 200, a display device that displays the same content as the frame control display device 210 may be separately provided at a predetermined location other than the frame control board 200 (for example, on another board or at a predetermined position inside the management gaming machine P).

[0064] The error release switch 220, the game ball count clear switch 230, and the ball extraction switch 240 are provided side by side at the lower left part of the surface of the frame control board 200 (see FIG. 6). In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, the error release switch 220 is provided on the leftmost side, the game ball clear switch 230 is provided on the right side of the error release switch 220, and the ball extraction switch 240 is provided on the right side of the game ball clear switch 230. That is, among these switches, the error release switch 220 is located closest to the open end of the inner frame 2, and the ball extraction switch 240 is located farthest from the open end of the inner frame 2. Therefore, the person who opens the inner frame 2 can most easily operate the error release switch 220 among the above-mentioned switches.

[0065] The error release switch 220 is used to release a specific error among the above-mentioned frame control management errors. The error release switch 220 is provided with an error release button 220a that can be pressed (see FIG. 7). When the error release button 220a is pressed while the above-mentioned specific error is occurring, the error release switch 220 turns on, and the error being generated is released by the frame control CPU 201.

[0066] The game ball count clear switch 230 is used to clear the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203. The game ball count clear switch 230 is provided with a game ball count clear button 230a that can be pressed (see FIG. 7). When the game ball count clear button 230a is not pressed, the game ball count switch 230 is off, but when the game ball count clear button 230a is pressed, the game ball count clear switch 230 turns on. When the power is turned on from off (when power is restored) with the game ball count clear switch 230 on, the frame control CPU 201 clears the number of hold balls stored in the frame control RAM 203, but does not clear other data stored in the frame control RAM 203 (the total number of total outs, the number of low-probability total outs, the number of low-probability total prize balls counted in the frame control RAM 203, and the low-probability base value calculated using these). Along with the clearing of the number of hold balls, the display of the number of hold balls on the hold ball number display device 6a is also cleared, and a display indicating that the number of hold balls is 0 is made. Note that even when the game ball count clear switch 230 is turned on during power-on, the number of hold balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 may be cleared.

[0067] The ball discharge switch 240 is referred to for setting the above-described ball discharge state when the power is turned on. The ball discharge switch 240 is provided with a ball discharge button 240a that can be pressed (see FIG. 7). When the ball discharge button 240a is not pressed, the ball discharge switch 240 is off, but when the ball discharge button 240a is pressed, the ball discharge switch 240 is on. When the power is turned on from off (when power is restored) with the number of hold balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 being 0 and the ball discharge switch 240 on, the frame control CPU 201 sets the frame control state to the ball discharge state. Also, when the power is re-applied with the ball discharge switch 240 off during the ball discharge state, the frame control CPU 201 sets the frame control state to the normal state via the startup preparation state.

[0068] Further, as shown in FIG. 8, on the frame control board 200, as devices related to the control of the launch of the game balls, there are a touch sensor 5a that detects when a player touches the operation handle 5, an operation volume 5b that detects the operation angle (rotation angle) of the operation handle 5, a launch stop switch 5c that stops the launch of the game balls, a rectifier solenoid 521, a rectifier inlet sensor 522, a rectifier outlet sensor 523, and a launch motor 503, which are connected. Control signals output from the touch sensor 5a, the operation volume 5b, and the launch stop switch 5c are input to the frame control board 200.

[0069] The rectifier inlet sensor 522 turns on when detecting a game ball located at the inlet of the rectifier 520, and outputs a rectifier inlet detection signal to the frame control board 200. While the game ball is being detected, the rectifier inlet detection signal is continuously output. Also, the rectifier inlet sensor 522 turns off when it stops detecting a game ball located at the inlet of the rectifier 520, and stops outputting the rectifier inlet detection signal to the frame control board 200.

[0070] The rectifier outlet sensor 523 turns on when detecting a game ball located at the outlet of the rectifier 520, and outputs a rectifier outlet detection signal to the frame control board 200. While the game ball is being detected, the rectifier outlet detection signal is continuously output. Also, the rectifier outlet sensor 523 turns off when it stops detecting a game ball located at the outlet of the rectifier 520, and stops outputting the rectifier outlet detection signal to the frame control board 200.

[0071] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the main control state is the playable state, the frame control state is the normal state, the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 is 1 or more, the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is on, and the rectifier outlet sensor 523 is off, when the player touches the operation handle 5 and performs a rotation operation, control signals from the touch sensor 5a and the operation volume 5b (hereinafter also referred to as handle rotation operation signals) are input to the frame control board 200. When the handle rotation operation signal is input, the frame control CPU 201 controls to energize the rectifier solenoid 521 to send the game balls in the rectifier 520 to the launching device 502, and controls to energize the launching motor 503 to launch the game balls sent to the launching device 502. Then, when the contact with the operation handle 5 is released or the rotation operation of the operation handle 5 stops, the input of the handle rotation operation signal to the frame control board 200 stops, and the control to send the game balls to the launching device 502 and the control to launch the game balls also stop. Also, even when the handle rotation operation signal is input to the frame control board 200, when the control signal from the launch stop switch 5c (hereinafter also referred to as the launch stop signal) is input to the frame control board 200, the frame control CPU 201 controls to stop the energization of the rectifier solenoid 521 to stop the sending of the game balls to the launching device 502, and controls to stop the energization of the launching motor 503 to stop the launch of the game balls. Also, when the main control state is the game stop state, or when the frame control state is other than the normal state (start-up preparation state, ball extraction state), even if the handle rotation operation signal is input to the frame control board 200, the rectifier solenoid 521 and the launching motor 503 are not energized, and the control to send the game balls to the launching device 502 and the control to launch the game balls are not performed.

[0072] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, by performing the control of sending the above-described game balls to the launcher 502 and the control of launching the game balls, the game balls are sent out from the rectifier 520 to the launcher 502 one by one and launched. Then, every time one game ball is launched, the on / off switching of the rectifier outlet sensor 523 is performed. Therefore, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the rectifier outlet sensor 523 changes from on to off, the frame control CPU 201 decrements the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 as if one game ball has been launched.

[0073] Further, as shown in FIG. 8, on the frame control board 200, a lift motor 532, a rotation sensor 533, a circulation ball number excess sensor 511, and a circulation ball number shortage sensor 512 are connected as devices related to the control of the circulation of game balls in the management gaming machine P.

[0074] The rotation sensor 533 turns on when detecting the rotation of the screw conveyor 531 and outputs a rotation detection signal to the frame control board 200, and while the rotation is being detected, the rotation detection signal is continuously output. Also, the rotation sensor 533 turns off when it stops detecting the rotation of the screw conveyor 531 and stops outputting the rotation detection signal to the frame control board 200.

[0075] The circulation ball number excess sensor 511 turns on when the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 becomes equal to or more than the above-described upper limit circulation number and outputs an excess detection signal to the frame control board 200, and while it is equal to or more than the upper limit circulation number, the excess detection signal is continuously output. Also, the circulation ball number excess sensor 511 turns off when the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 becomes less than the above-described upper limit circulation number and stops outputting the excess detection signal to the frame control board 200.

[0076] When the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 is greater than the above-mentioned lower limit circulation number, the insufficient circulation ball sensor 512 is turned on and outputs a signal indicating that the lower limit has been exceeded to the frame control board 200. While the number of balls is greater than the lower limit circulation number, the signal indicating that the lower limit has been exceeded is continuously output. Also, when the number of game balls stored in the storage tank 510 becomes less than or equal to the lower limit circulation number, the insufficient circulation ball sensor 512 is turned off and the output of the signal indicating that the lower limit has been exceeded to the frame control board 200 is stopped.

[0077] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the above-mentioned handle rotation operation signal is continuously input to the frame control board 200 for a predetermined input time (for example, 1 second), the frame control CPU 201 starts control to energize the lifting motor 532 and lift the game balls located below the lifting unit 530 upward. After the start of the control, if game balls are detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 for a predetermined detection time (for example, 2 seconds) (the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is turned on), or if the input of the handle rotation operation signal stops for a predetermined stop time (for example, 2 seconds), the frame control CPU 201 ends the above-mentioned control. On the other hand, when the main control state is the game stop state, or when the frame control state is other than the normal state (start preparation state, ball extraction state), even if the handle rotation operation signal is input to the frame control board 200, the lifting motor 532 is not energized and the control to lift the game balls upward is not performed. Also, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the outer frame 3 is opened for a predetermined opening time (for example, 2 seconds), the frame control CPU 201 also starts the above-mentioned control. After the start of the control, if game balls are detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 for the above-mentioned detection time (2 seconds), or if the closing of the outer frame 3 continues for a predetermined closing time (for example, 2 seconds), the frame control CPU 201 ends the above-mentioned control. Note that the trigger for starting the above-mentioned control is not limited to the above-mentioned content. For example, a sensor for detecting that a game ball has stopped at a predetermined location in the ball passage 620 may be provided, and based on the fact that the detection of the game ball by this sensor has not been performed for a predetermined time (for example, 0.8 seconds, etc.), the control to energize the lifting motor 532 and lift the game balls upward may be started.

[0078] In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, the frame control board 200 is connected with an inner frame opening detection sensor 2a for detecting the open state of the inner frame 2, an outer frame opening detection sensor 3a for detecting the open state of the outer frame 3, an out sensor 601, a far ball sensor 611, and a radio wave detection sensor 35 for detecting radio waves irradiated on the game board 11.

[0079] When the inner frame detection sensor 2a detects that the inner frame 2 is open, it turns on and outputs an inner frame opening detection signal to the frame control board 200. During the opening of the inner frame 2, the inner frame opening detection signal is continuously output. Also, when the inner frame detection sensor 2a stops detecting that the inner frame 2 is open, it turns off and stops the output of the inner frame opening detection signal.

[0080] When the outer frame opening detection sensor 3a detects that the outer frame 3 is open, it turns on and outputs an outer frame opening detection signal to the frame control board 200. During the opening of the outer frame 3, the outer frame opening detection signal is continuously output. Also, when the outer frame opening detection sensor 3a stops detecting that the outer frame 3 is open, it turns off and stops the output of the outer frame opening detection signal.

[0081] When the out sensor 601 detects a game ball, it turns on and outputs an out signal to the frame control board 200. During the detection of the game ball, the out signal is continuously output. Also, when the out sensor 601 stops detecting the game ball, it turns off and stops the output of the out signal to the frame control board 200.

[0082] When the far ball sensor 611 detects a game ball, it turns on and outputs a far signal to the frame control board 200. During the detection of the game ball, the far signal is continuously output. Also, when the far ball sensor 611 stops detecting the game ball, it turns off and stops the output of the far signal to the frame control board 200. Also, as described above, when the launched game ball becomes a foul ball, the foul ball is not used in the game and should be returned to the held balls. Therefore, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the foul ball sensor 611 is turned on, the frame control CPU 201 increments the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 by 1.

[0083] The radio wave detection sensor 35 is provided at a predetermined position on the game board 11. When the radio wave detection sensor 35 detects a radio wave, it turns on and outputs a radio wave detection signal to the frame control board 200, and while detecting the radio wave, the radio wave detection signal is continuously output. Also, when the radio wave detection sensor 35 stops detecting the radio wave, it turns off and stops outputting the radio wave detection signal to the frame control board 200.

[0084] Also, as shown in FIG. 8, a held ball number display device 6a and a counting switch 6b are connected to the frame control board 200. As described above, the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 is displayed on the held ball number display device 6a. Each time the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 is updated, the frame control CPU 201 updates and displays the number of held balls displayed on the held ball number display device 6a.

[0085] As described above, the counting switch 6b is used to transmit the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 to the dedicated unit U. The counting switch 6b is provided with a count button 6c that can be pressed (see FIG. 1). When the count button 6c is pressed, the counting switch 6b turns on. Then, when the counting switch 6b turns on when the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 is 1 or more, the frame control CPU 201 transmits a count command indicating the number of held balls to the dedicated unit U and clears the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203. As a result, all the held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 are transmitted to the dedicated unit U.

[0086] Although not particularly shown, the dedicated unit U connected to the frame control board 200 is provided with a bill insertion slot into which bills can be inserted, a card insertion slot into which cards can be inserted, etc., a value information display device VD, a lending switch LS having a lend button (not particularly shown) that can be pressed, and a return switch RS having a return button (not particularly shown) that can be pressed (see FIG. 8). Also, although not particularly shown, the dedicated unit U incorporates electronic components such as a dedicated CPU for executing various processes and a dedicated RAM for storing value information and the like.

[0087] When bills are inserted from the bill insertion slot or a card (i.e., a card with remaining value) storing value information enabling the lending of game balls is inserted and recognized from the card insertion slot, value information indicating the number of game balls that can be lent is stored in the dedicated RAM described above and displayed on the value information display device VD. Then, when the lend button is pressed and the lending switch LS is turned on while value information enabling the lending of game balls is stored in the dedicated RAM (i.e., when there is remaining value of the value information), the dedicated CPU subtracts the value information corresponding to the number of lent balls from the value information stored in the dedicated RAM and updates the display of the value information display device VD to the value information after the subtraction. Also, the dedicated CPU transmits a lending command to the management gaming machine P (frame control board 200). Also, when the return button is pressed and the return switch RS is turned on while value information enabling the lending of game balls is stored in the dedicated RAM, the dedicated CPU stores the value information in the card housed in the dedicated unit U and controls to eject the card from the card insertion slot. In addition, even when a card (i.e., a card with no remaining value of the value information) storing no value information enabling the lending of game balls is inserted into the dedicated unit U, the dedicated CPU controls to eject the card from the card insertion slot.

[0088] (Outline of the sub-control board 300) The sub-control board 300 controls the effects executed during the game, standby, etc. As shown in FIG. 8, the sub-control board 300 includes a sub-CPU 301 that performs various arithmetic processes, a sub-ROM 302 that stores a control program for executing effects, data, tables, etc. necessary for executing the effects, and a sub-RAM 303 that is used as a temporary storage area during arithmetic processes. The sub-control board 300 is connected so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 100 to the sub-control board 300.

[0089] Based on a command transmitted from the main control board 100 and a signal from a timer, the sub-CPU 301 reads out the control program stored in the sub-ROM 302 to perform arithmetic processes, and transmits commands for executing effects to an image control board (not particularly shown) for controlling image display, an audio control board (not particularly shown) for controlling audio output, and a lighting control board (not particularly shown) for controlling lighting of a lamp.

[0090] Further, an effect display device 21 is connected to the sub-control board 300 via the image control board, a speaker 10 is connected via the audio control board, and a lamp 23 and an effect operation device 9 (operation buttons 9a, volume change button 9b, light quantity change button 9c, cross keys 9d) are connected via the lighting control board. Based on the command transmitted from the sub-control board 300, the image control board controls image display by the effect display device 21, the audio control board controls audio output from the speaker 10, and the lighting control board controls lighting of the lamp 23.

[0091] (Outline of the game of the management gaming machine P) Next, an outline of the game of the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment will be described. As described above, in the management gaming machine P according to the present embodiment, a special drawing game and a normal drawing game proceed in parallel. Further, as game states for proceeding with these two games, either a low-probability game state (so-called non-variable state) or a high-probability game state (so-called variable state) in which the probability of winning a jackpot by jackpot lottery is different, and a non-time-reduced game state or a time-reduced game state in which the ease of opening the movable piece 16b is different are combined to set any game state. In the management gaming machine P according to the present embodiment, either a normal game state which is a game state combining a low-probability game state and a non-time-reduced game state, or a high-probability time-reduced game state which is a game state combining a high-probability game state and a time-reduced game state is set. Note that after the first power-on after factory shipment (i.e., the initial state) or after RAM clearing, the normal game state is set.

[0092] In the management gaming machine P according to the present embodiment, when a game ball launched by the launching device 502 and flowing down the game area 12 enters the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16, a predetermined random number is acquired, and a jackpot lottery is performed based on the acquired random number. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 15, the variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display device 30. When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 16, the variable display of the special symbol is started on the second special symbol display device 31. In the jackpot lottery, based on the above-mentioned random number, it is determined whether or not a jackpot is won (jackpot or loss), and any special symbol associated with the result of the determination (jackpot or loss) is determined from a plurality of predetermined special symbols. Further, when the variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, accordingly, a variable effect for notifying the result of the jackpot lottery is started on the display unit 21a of the effect display device 21. After a predetermined variable time has elapsed, in the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, the variable display of the special symbol stops, and the special symbol determined by the jackpot lottery is stopped and displayed. That is, when winning the jackpot, the special symbol associated with the jackpot is stopped and displayed, and when losing, the special symbol associated with the loss is stopped and displayed. Further, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed, accordingly, the variable effect being performed in the effect display device 20 ends, and the result of the jackpot lottery is notified. And when the special symbol associated with the jackpot is stopped and displayed, the big winning opening 18 is opened, and a special game is started in which it is possible to enter game balls into the big winning opening 18.

[0093] During the special game, after the big winning opening 18 is opened, a round game that ends when either a predetermined opening time elapses or a predetermined number of game balls enter the big winning opening 18 is executed a plurality of times. The number of round games, the opening time of the big winning opening 18, etc. are determined according to the type of special symbol determined in the jackpot lottery. And after the special game ends, a high-probability short-time game state is set, and then, when the jackpot lottery is conducted a predetermined number of times without winning the jackpot, the game shifts to the normal game state. Note that as a result of the jackpot lottery, not only the jackpot and loss, but also a minor win may be provided, which is a game different from the special game and in which the big winning opening 18 is opened and the execution of the minor win game is determined. Also, after the special game ends, instead of always setting the high-probability short-time game state, a game state corresponding to the type of special symbol determined in the jackpot lottery may be set. For example, when the special symbol A is determined, the high-probability short-time game state is set after the special game ends, but when the special symbol B is determined, a low-probability short-time game state, which is a game state combining the low-probability game state and the short-time game state, may be set after the special game ends.

[0094] Also, here, while the variable display of the special symbol is being performed in the first special symbol display device 30 or the second special symbol display device 31, or during the execution of the special game, when a game ball enters the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16, the random number obtained based on the entry of the ball is stored (held). The number of stored (held) random numbers based on the entry of the game ball into the first start winning opening 15 is displayed on the first special symbol hold display device 38, and the held number based on the entry of the game ball into the second start winning opening 16 is displayed on the second special symbol hold display device 39, respectively. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, the first special symbol hold display device 38 and the second special symbol hold display device 39 are each composed of four lamps, and the held number is notified by the number of lit lamps. And when the variable display of the special symbol ends or the special game ends, a jackpot lottery is performed based on the held random number. The maximum number of held numbers is four. When a jackpot lottery is performed based on the held random number, the held number is reduced, and accordingly, the display of the first special symbol hold display device 38 or the second special symbol hold display device 39 is also reduced.

[0095] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when a game ball passes through the gate 20, a predetermined random number is obtained, and based on the obtained random number, a lottery is performed to determine whether to open the movable piece 16b provided in the second start winning opening 16 to open the second start winning opening 16. This lottery is performed as a normal symbol lottery for determining one normal symbol from a plurality of types of normal symbols respectively associated with the opening (win) and non-opening (loss) of the second start winning opening 16. And when the result of the lottery is a win, the movable piece 16b opens for a predetermined time, and the second start winning opening 16 is opened.

[0096] When a game ball passes through the gate 20, the variable display of the normal symbol starts on the normal symbol display device 32. Then, when a predetermined normal symbol variation time elapses, the variable display of the normal symbol stops on the normal symbol display device 32, and the normal symbol indicating the result of the above-mentioned lottery stops being displayed. That is, in the case of a win, the normal symbol associated with the win stops being displayed, and in the case of a loss, the normal symbol associated with the loss stops being displayed. When the normal symbol associated with the win stops being displayed, the second start winning opening 16 is opened. When the second start winning opening 16 is open, more game balls can be made to enter the second start winning opening 16, increasing the chance of undergoing the jackpot lottery and enabling a more advantageous state than when the second start winning opening 16 is not open.

[0097] Also, while the variable display of the normal symbol is being performed on the normal symbol display device 32, if a game ball passes through the gate 20, the random numbers obtained based on the passage are held up to a maximum of four, and the held number is displayed on the normal symbol hold display device 33. Then, when the variable display of the normal symbol ends, the normal symbol lottery is performed based on the holds, the held number is decreased, and the display on the normal symbol hold display device 33 is decreased.

[0098] (Display of low probability base value (game performance information)) In the frame control RAM 203 in this embodiment, as described above, the total number of all outs, the total number of low probability outs, and the total number of low probability prize balls are counted during a predetermined calculation period. Also, a low probability base value (game performance information) is calculated using these count values, and the calculated low probability base value is displayed on the frame control display device 210.

[0099] Specifically, although not particularly illustrated, the frame control RAM 203 in this embodiment has a first area that counts the number of outs during all game states and special games in a predetermined calculation period and stores the total number of outs, a second area that counts the number of outs during the normal game state in the calculation period and stores the low-probability total number of outs, a third area that counts the number of bonus balls based on the entry of game balls into each winning opening during the normal game state in the calculation period and stores the low-probability total number of bonus balls, a fourth area that calculates and stores the low-probability base value for the calculation period based on the low-probability total number of outs stored in the second area and the low-probability total number of bonus balls stored in the third area, and a fifth area that can store the low-probability base value (hereinafter also referred to as the final low-probability base value) stored at the end of the calculation period for a maximum of N calculation periods (for example, 3 periods). During a predetermined calculation period, the total number of outs stored in the first area is updated each time the number of outs is counted during all game states and special games, the low-probability total number of outs stored in the second area is updated each time the number of outs is counted during the normal game state, and the low-probability total number of bonus balls stored in the third area is updated each time the number of bonus balls is counted during the normal game state. Also, during a predetermined calculation period, the low-probability base value stored in the fourth area is updated each time the number of outs is counted during the normal game state or each time the number of bonus balls is counted during the normal game state. That is, during a predetermined calculation period, each time the low-probability total number of outs or the low-probability total number of bonus balls is updated, the low-probability base value stored in the fourth area is also updated. As described above, the low-probability base value is the ratio of the low-probability total number of bonus balls to the low-probability total number of outs and is a decimal value calculated by low-probability total number of bonus balls / low-probability total number of outs. However, in the fourth area and the fifth area, instead of storing the decimal value as it is, a value obtained by converting this decimal value to a percentage and rounding the first digit after the decimal point is stored in the fourth area and the fifth area. Also, in the pachinko machine P according to this embodiment, when the value after rounding exceeds "100", "99" is stored as the low-probability base value in the fourth area and the fifth area. Therefore, the low-probability base value stored in the fourth area and the fifth area is an integer value in the range of "0 to 99".

[0100] The calculation period in this embodiment is the period from when the count of the total number of outputs in the first area starts until the total number of outputs reaches a predetermined reference number (60,000 in this embodiment). In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, the calculation preparation period starts after the first power-on after factory shipment. During this calculation preparation period, although the count of the total number of outputs is performed in the first area, the count of the low-probability total number of outputs in the second area, the count of the low-probability total number of winning balls in the third area, and the calculation of the low-probability base value in the fourth area are not performed. And when the total number of outputs stored in the first area reaches the end number of the preparation period (for example, 200), the calculation preparation period ends. When the calculation preparation period ends, the first area, the second area, the third area, and the fourth area are all cleared (initialized), and the first calculation period starts. When one calculation period starts, the count of the total number of outputs in the first area, the count of the low-probability total number of outputs in the second area, the count of the low-probability total number of winning balls in the third area, and the calculation of the low-probability base value in the fourth area start. When the total number of outputs stored in the first area reaches the reference number, the calculation period ends. When the calculation period ends, the low-probability base value (the final low-probability base value) stored in the fourth area at this time is stored in the fifth area, and the first area, the second area, the third area, and the fourth area are all cleared, and the next calculation period starts. Also, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, even when the RAM is cleared, the first area, the second area, the third area, the fourth area, and the fifth area of the frame control RAM 203 are not cleared, and only the holding ball storage area where the number of holding balls is stored is cleared. In this specification, the calculation period in which the total number of outputs, the count of the low-probability total number of outputs, the count of the low-probability total number of winning balls, and the calculation of the low-probability base value are actually performed is also referred to as the "current calculation period".

[0101] Also, the fifth area in this embodiment is composed of a total of three storage parts from the first storage part to the third storage part, and can store the final low-probability base values of up to three calculation periods. Specifically, every time a calculation period ends (i.e., every time the total number stored in the first area reaches the reference number), the final low-accuracy base value stored in the first storage unit and the second storage unit of the fifth area is shifted to the storage unit with a larger number by one, and the low-accuracy base value stored in the fourth area at that time is stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area. In other words, every time a calculation period ends, the final low-accuracy base value stored in the third storage unit is updated to the final low-accuracy base value stored in the second storage unit, the final low-accuracy base value stored in the second storage unit is updated to the final low-accuracy base value stored in the first storage unit, and the final low-accuracy base value stored in the first storage unit is updated to the low-accuracy base value stored in the fourth area at the end of the calculation period. As a result, the first storage unit of the fifth area stores the final low-accuracy base value in the calculation period immediately before the current calculation period, the second storage unit of the fifth area stores the final low-accuracy base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period, and the third storage unit of the fifth area stores the final low-accuracy base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period. That is, the fifth area always stores the final low-accuracy base values in the most recent three calculation periods in order from the first storage unit.

[0102] More specifically, for example, when the first calculation period (hereinafter also referred to as the first calculation period) started after the end of the calculation preparation period ends, the low-accuracy base value (hereinafter also referred to as the first final low-accuracy base value) stored in the fourth area at this end time is stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area. At the time of the first power-on, no final low-accuracy base value is stored in any of the first storage unit, the second storage unit, and the third storage unit. Therefore, when the first calculation period ends, although the above shift is performed, no final low-accuracy base value is yet stored in the second storage unit and the third storage unit. Therefore, during the calculation period (hereinafter also referred to as the second calculation period) started after the end of the first calculation period, the first final low-accuracy base value is stored in the first storage unit, and no final low-accuracy base value is stored in the second storage unit and the third storage unit.

[0103] When the second calculation period ends, the first final low probability base value stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area is shifted to the second storage unit, and the low probability base value stored in the fourth area at this end time (hereinafter, also referred to as the second final low probability base value) is stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area. Similar to the above, the final low probability base value is not yet stored in the third storage unit. Therefore, during the calculation period (hereinafter, also referred to as the third calculation period) started after the end of the second calculation period, the second final low probability base value is stored in the first storage unit, the first final low probability base value is stored in the second storage unit, and the final low probability base value is not stored in the third storage unit.

[0104] When the third calculation period ends, the first final low probability base value stored in the second storage unit of the fifth area is shifted to the third storage unit, the second final low probability base value stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area is shifted to the second storage unit, and the low probability base value stored in the fourth area at this end time (hereinafter, also referred to as the third final low probability base value) is stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area. Therefore, during the calculation period (hereinafter, also referred to as the fourth calculation period) started after the end of the third calculation period, the third final low probability base value is stored in the first storage unit, the second final low probability base value is stored in the second storage unit, and the first final low probability base value is stored in the third storage unit.

[0105] When the fourth calculation period ends, the second final low probability base value stored in the second storage unit of the fifth area is shifted to the third storage unit, the third final low probability base value stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area is shifted to the second storage unit, and the low probability base value stored in the fourth area at this end time (hereinafter, also referred to as the fourth final low probability base value) is stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area. Note that the first final low probability base value stored in the third storage unit is erased as the above shift is performed. Therefore, during the calculation period (hereinafter, also referred to as the fifth calculation period) started after the end of the fourth calculation period, the fourth final low probability base value is stored in the first storage unit, the third final low probability base value is stored in the second storage unit, and the second final low probability base value is stored in the third storage unit.

[0106] Similarly, when the calculation period ends, the final low-probability base value stored in the third storage unit is erased, the final low-probability base value stored in the second storage unit is shifted to the third storage unit, the final low-probability base value stored in the first storage unit is shifted to the second storage unit, and the low-probability base value stored in the fourth area at this end time is stored in the first storage unit. Therefore, during one calculation period after the fourth calculation period, the first storage unit stores the final low-probability base value in the calculation period immediately preceding the one calculation period, the second storage unit stores the final low-probability base value in the calculation period two periods before the one calculation period, and the third storage unit stores the final low-probability base value in the calculation period three periods before the one calculation period.

[0107] Then, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to display, while sequentially switching, the low-probability base value stored in the fourth area (that is, the low-probability base value during the current calculation period), the final low-probability base value stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area (that is, the final low-probability base value in the calculation period immediately preceding the current calculation period), the final low-probability base value stored in the second storage unit of the fifth area (that is, the final low-probability base value in the calculation period two periods before the current calculation period), and the final low-probability base value stored in the third storage unit of the fifth area (that is, the final low-probability base value in the calculation period three periods before the current calculation period) at every predetermined switching time (5 seconds in this embodiment).

[0108] In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, among the six 7-segment displays constituting the frame control display device 210, the above-described low-probability base value and final low-probability base value are displayed on the third display 210c, the fourth display 210d, the fifth display 210e, and the sixth display 210f. Specifically, on the fifth display 210e and the sixth display 210f, a display indicating the target low probability base value or the final low probability base value is performed. As described above, the low probability base value and the final low probability base value during the current calculation period stored in the fourth region and the fifth region are integer values in the range of 0 to 99. On the fifth display 210e, the tens digit value of the target low probability base value or the final low probability base value is displayed, and on the sixth display 210f, the units digit value of the target low probability base value or the final low probability base value is displayed. Also, on the third display 210c and the fourth display 210d, a display indicating the type of calculation period corresponding to the currently displayed low probability base value or the final low probability base value is performed. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, as a display indicating the current calculation period, a display of the characters "bL" (the character "b" is displayed on the third display 210c and the character "L" is displayed on the fourth display 210d), as a display indicating the calculation period one before the current calculation period, a display of the characters "b1" (the character "b" is displayed on the third display 210c and the character "1" is displayed on the fourth display 210d), as a display indicating the calculation period two before the current calculation period, a display of the characters "b2" (the character "b" is displayed on the third display 210c and the character "2" is displayed on the fourth display 210d), and as a display indicating the calculation period three before the current calculation period, a display of the characters "b3" (the character "b" is displayed on the third display 210c and the character "3" is displayed on the fourth display 210d) are performed. Note that the display indicating the type of calculation period is not limited to these as long as it can identify each calculation period.

[0109] For example, when the low probability base value (the low probability base value stored in the fourth region) during the current calculation period is "75", a lighting display of the characters "bL75" is performed on the frame control display device 210. That is, a lighting display of the character "b" is performed on the third display 210c, a lighting display of the character "L" is performed on the fourth display 210d, a lighting display of the character "7" is performed on the fifth display 210e, and a lighting display of the character "5" is performed on the sixth display 210f. Also, for example, when the final low-certainty base value (the final low-certainty base value stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area) in the calculation period immediately before the current calculation period is "82", the frame control display device 210 performs a lighting display of the characters "b182". That is, the lighting display of the character "b" is performed on the third display 210c, the lighting display of the character "1" is performed on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the character "8" is performed on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the character "2" is performed on the sixth display 210f. Also, for example, when the final low-certainty base value (the final low-certainty base value stored in the second storage unit of the fifth area) in the calculation period two before the current calculation period is "5", the frame control display device 210 performs a lighting display of the characters "b205". That is, the lighting display of the character "b" is performed on the third display 210c, the lighting display of the character "2" is performed on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the character "0" is performed on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the character "5" is performed on the sixth display 210f. Also, for example, when the final low-certainty base value (the final low-certainty base value stored in the third storage unit of the fifth area) in the calculation period three before the current calculation period is "0", the frame control display device 210 performs a lighting display of the characters "b300". That is, the lighting display of the character "b" is performed on the third display 210c, the lighting display of the character "3" is performed on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the character "0" is performed on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the character "0" is performed on the sixth display 210f.

[0110] Hereinafter, more specifically, the display of the low-certainty base value and the final low-certainty base value in this embodiment will be described. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the calculation preparation period starts after the first power-on after factory shipment, the display on the frame control display device 210 starts. As described above, during the calculation preparation period, the counting of the low-probability total out number, the counting of the low-probability total prize ball number, and the calculation of the low-probability base value are not performed. Also, since the calculation period has not started, the low-probability base value during the current calculation period is not stored in the fourth area, and in the fifth area, none of the final low-probability base values in the calculation period one before the current calculation period, the final low-probability base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period, and the final low-probability base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period are stored. Therefore, during this calculation preparation period, a display indicating that each low-probability base value is not stored is performed.

[0111] Specifically, when the calculation preparation period starts, in the frame control display device 210, an unrecorded display P1 indicating that the low certainty base value for the current calculation period is not stored (for example, the character "b" blinks on the third display 210c, the character "L" blinks on the fourth display 210d, and the character "-" lights up on both the fifth display 210e and the sixth display 210f, etc.) is started. Then, every time the above-mentioned switching time elapses, an unrecorded display P2 indicating that the final low certainty base value in the calculation period immediately before the current calculation period is not stored (for example, the character "b" blinks on the third display 210c, the character "1" blinks on the fourth display 210d, and the character "-" lights up on the fifth display 210e and the sixth display 210f, etc.) → an unrecorded display P3 indicating that the final low certainty base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period is not stored (for example, the character "b" blinks on the third display 210c, the character "2" blinks on the fourth display 210d, and the character "-" lights up on the fifth display 210e and the sixth display 210f, etc.) → an unrecorded display P4 indicating that the final low certainty base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period is not stored (for example, the character "b" blinks on the third display 210c, the character "3" blinks on the fourth display 210d, and the character "-" lights up on the fifth display 210e and the sixth display 210f, etc.) are sequentially switched. After the unrecorded display P4 is performed, it returns to the unrecorded display P1. These displays are repeatedly executed until the calculation preparation period ends. In this way, during the calculation preparation period, in the frame control display device 210, a cyclic display of unrecorded display P1 for 5 seconds → unrecorded display P2 for 5 seconds → unrecorded display P3 for 5 seconds → unrecorded display P4 for 5 seconds → unrecorded display P1 for 5 seconds → ··· is always performed.

[0112] After that, when the calculation preparation period ends and the calculation period starts, following the display indicating that each low certainty base value in the above-mentioned calculation preparation period is not stored, the display of the low certainty base value and the final low certainty base value for the current calculation period is performed. Specifically, when the calculation period starts, in the frame control display device 210, the display C1 of the low certainty base value for the current calculation period (for example, in the third display 210c, the character "b" is lit, in the fourth display 210d, the character "L" is lit, in the fifth display 210e, the tens digit of the low certainty base value stored in the fourth area is lit, and in the fifth display 210e, the units digit of the low certainty base value stored in the fourth area is lit) starts. Then, every time the above-mentioned switching time elapses, the display C2 of the final low certainty base value in the previous calculation period of the current calculation period (for example, in the third display 210c, the character "b" is lit, in the fourth display 210d, the character "1" is lit, in the fifth display 210e, the tens digit of the low certainty base value stored in the first storage part of the fifth area is lit, and in the fifth display 210e, the units digit of the low certainty base value stored in the first storage part of the fifth area is lit) → the display C3 of the final low certainty base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period (for example, in the third display 210c, the character "b" is lit, in the fourth display 210d, the character "2" is lit, in the fifth display 210e, the tens digit of the low certainty base value stored in the second storage part of the fifth area is lit, and in the fifth display 210e, the units digit of the low certainty base value stored in the second storage part of the fifth area is lit) → the display C4 of the final low certainty base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period (for example, in the third display 210c, the character "b" is lit, in the fourth display 210d, the character "2" is lit, in the fifth display 210e, the tens digit of the low certainty base value stored in the third storage part of the fifth area is lit, and in the fifth display 210e, the units digit of the low certainty base value stored in the third storage part of the fifth area is lit) are sequentially switched. After the display C4 is performed, it returns to the display C1. These displays are repeatedly executed after the start of the calculation period. Thus, after the start of the calculation period, on the frame control display device 210, a cyclic display of 5 - second display C1 → 5 - second display C2 → 5 - second display C3 → 5 - second display C4 → 5 - second display C1 → ··· is always performed.

[0113] Also, during the first calculation period after the end of the calculation preparation period, the final low - certainty base value in the calculation period immediately preceding the current calculation period, the final low - certainty base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period, and the final low - certainty base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period have not yet been stored. Therefore, during this calculation period, instead of displays C2, C3, and C4 being performed, un - stored displays P2, P3, and P4 are performed. Also, during the second calculation period after the end of the calculation preparation period, the final low - certainty base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period and the final low - certainty base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period have not yet been stored. Therefore, during this calculation period, instead of displays C3 and C4 being performed, un - stored displays P3 and P4 are performed. Also, during the third calculation period after the end of the calculation preparation period, the final low - certainty base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period has not yet been stored. Therefore, during this calculation period, instead of display C4 being performed, un - stored display P4 is performed.

[0114] Note that instead of always performing the above - mentioned displays C1, C2, C3, and C4 during each calculation period, the display mode may be made different according to the total number of all outputs since the start of each calculation period. For example, until the total number of all outputs since the start of each calculation period reaches a predetermined switching number (e.g., 6000), the third display 210c and the fourth display 210d perform a blinking display of characters, and after reaching the switching number, the third display 210c and the fourth display 210d perform a lighting display of characters. In this case, by the display of the frame control display device 210, it is possible to grasp whether the state is one where the total number of all outputs has not been reached or one where the total number of all outputs has been reached during each calculation period.

[0115] In addition, the game performance information calculated and stored in the frame control RAM 203 and displayed on the frame control display device 210 is not limited to the low probability base value. For example, the above-mentioned special electric accessory ratio, accessory ratio, etc. may be calculated, stored, and displayed.

[0116] (Outline of Frame Control State Error Suggestion) In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when a frame control management error managed by the frame control board 200 occurs, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to display an error code corresponding to the generated frame control management error, thereby suggesting that the frame control management error is occurring. This frame control state error suggestion is started when the start condition corresponding to each error is satisfied (when the corresponding frame control management error occurs) and ends when the end condition corresponding to each error is satisfied.

[0117] Specifically, as frame control management errors, there are 21 types in total, including frame control RAM abnormal error, frame control backup abnormal error, main control mismatch error, in-machine communication abnormal error of the management gaming machine, radio wave detection error, winning abnormal error, rectifier outlet abnormal error, rectifier solenoid abnormal error, rectifier inlet abnormal error, ball lifting abnormal error, out sensor abnormal error, out passage ball jam error, farl passage ball jam error, game ball circulation abnormal error, excessive number of circulating balls error, insufficient number of circulating balls error, main control unconnected error, dedicated unit unconnected error, game ball number clear error, outer frame opening error, and inner frame opening error. When the start condition corresponding to each error is satisfied, a frame control management error suggestion indicating the occurrence of the error is executed.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 9, the frame control ROM 202 in this embodiment is provided with a frame control management error suggestion table ET that defines control data such as error codes, start conditions, end conditions, and priority levels (described later) to be displayed on the frame control display device 210 for each possible frame control management error. The frame control CPU 201 controls the execution of the frame control management error suggestion by referring to this frame control management error suggestion table ET. The following describes the outline of each frame control management error, and with reference to FIG. 9, the control data of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to each frame control management error will be specifically described.

[0119] (1) Frame control RAM abnormal error The frame control RAM abnormal error is an error indicating that data reading and writing to the frame control RAM 203 are impossible. For example, when data reading and writing to the frame control RAM 203 become impossible at a predetermined judgment point (for example, when power is restored after a power failure or when data reading and writing to the frame control RAM 203 are performed) due to damage to components mounted on the frame control board 200, a frame control RAM abnormal error occurs. When a frame control RAM abnormal error occurs, the power supply to the hoisting motor 532, the power supply to the rectifier solenoid 521, and the power supply to the emission motor 503 are stopped. In the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a frame control RAM abnormal error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error, and the re-power-on (power restoration after a power failure) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error. That is, when a frame control RAM abnormal error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the power is re-powered (the power is turned off and on and restored from a power failure), the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the frame control RAM abnormal error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H02" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "0" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "2" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the frame control RAM abnormal error is "first" (the highest priority).

[0120] (2) Frame control backup abnormal error The frame control backup abnormal error is an error indicating that there is an inconsistency in the data stored in the frame control RAM 203 when power is restored after a power failure. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, a backup process for backing up the data stored in the frame control RAM 203 is executed when a power failure occurs. Then, when a power failure occurs and there is an inconsistency between the data of the frame control RAM 203 backed up at the time of the power failure and the data of the frame control RAM 203 stored at the time of power restoration, a frame control backup abnormal error occurs. Also, at the first power-on after factory shipment, since the backup process has not been executed and there is no data of the frame control RAM 203 that has been backed up, a frame control backup abnormal error occurs. When a frame control backup abnormal error occurs, the power supply to the hoist motor 532, the power supply to the rectifier solenoid 521, and the power supply to the firing motor 503 are stopped. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a frame control backup abnormal error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when a frame control backup abnormal error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the error release button 220a is pressed and the error release switch 220 is turned on, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, a code corresponding to the frame control backup abnormal error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H01" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "0" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "1" on the sixth display 210f)) is performed. Also, the priority of the frame control backup abnormal error is "second" (the second priority).

[0121] (3) Main control mismatch error The main control mismatch error is an error indicating that the gaming machine identification code received from the main control board 100 does not match the gaming machine identification code stored in the frame control ROM 202 of the frame control board 200. In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, at a predetermined transmission time (for example, at the time of power failure recovery, etc.), the main CPU 101 of the main control board 100 transmits the gaming machine identification code stored in the main ROM 102 to the frame control board 200. Then, if the gaming machine identification code received from the main control board 100 does not match the gaming machine identification code stored in the frame control ROM 202, a main control mismatch error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the main control mismatch error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the elapse of a predetermined automatic release time (for example, 3 seconds, etc.) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when the main control mismatch error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the above-mentioned automatic release time elapses, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the main control mismatch error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H08" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "0" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "8" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the main control mismatch error is "3" (the third priority).

[0122] (4) Communication abnormality error within the management gaming machine The communication abnormality error within the management gaming machine is an error indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the communication with the main control board 100. As described above, the main control board 100 and the frame control board 200 are connected so as to be capable of two-way communication, but when an abnormality occurs in the transmission of data or commands to the main control board 100 or the reception of data or commands from the main control board 100, a communication abnormality error within the management gaming machine occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of an in - machine communication error in the management gaming machine is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the turning - on of the error release switch 220 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when an in - machine communication error in the management gaming machine occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the error release button 220a is pressed and the error release switch 220 is turned on, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, in the frame control display device 210, a code corresponding to the in - machine communication error in the management gaming machine is displayed (for example, the display of the characters "H06" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "0" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "6" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the in - machine communication error in the management gaming machine is "4th" (the fourth priority).

[0123] (5) Radio wave detection error The radio wave detection error is an error indicating that radio waves are irradiated onto the management gaming machine P. When a radio wave detection signal based on the detection of radio waves by the radio wave detection sensor 35 is received, or when a disconnection of the cable connecting the radio wave detection sensor 35 and the frame control board 200 is detected for a predetermined disconnection detection time (for example, 100 milliseconds), a radio wave detection error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a radio wave detection error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error is that the reception of the radio wave detection signal stops (that is, radio waves are no longer detected), or the above - mentioned disconnection is not detected for a predetermined disconnection release time (for example, 60 milliseconds). That is, when a radio wave detection error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the reception of the radio wave detection signal stops, or the above - mentioned disconnection is not detected for the above - mentioned disconnection release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. In addition, in this frame control management error indication, the frame control display device 210 displays a code corresponding to a radio wave detection error (for example, the display of the characters "H66" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "6" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "6" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the radio wave detection error is "fifth" (the fifth priority).

[0124] (6) Prize winning abnormality error The prize winning abnormality error is an error indicating that the number of game balls detected by the out sensor 601 is excessive compared to the number of game balls launched (that is, indicating that non-award balls not based on the launch of game balls are occurring). When the number obtained by subtracting the number of game balls launched (the number of times the rectifier outlet sensor 523 changes from on to off) from the number of game balls detected by the out sensor 601 (the number of times the out signal is output) is equal to or greater than a predetermined abnormal detection number (for example, 100), a prize winning abnormality error occurs. In the frame control management error indication table ET, the occurrence of a prize winning abnormality error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error indication of this error, and the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error indication of this error. That is, when a prize winning abnormality error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error indication is started, and when the error release button 220a is pressed and the error release switch 220 is turned on, the frame control management error indication ends. In addition, in this frame control management error indication, the frame control display device 210 displays a code corresponding to a prize winning abnormality error (for example, the display of the characters "H69" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "6" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "9" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the prize winning abnormality error is "sixth" (the sixth priority).

[0125] (7) Rectifier outlet abnormality error The rectifier outlet abnormal error indicates that game balls are stuck at the outlet of the rectifier 520 (i.e., there is a jam of game balls). When the rectifier outlet sensor 523 detects game balls for a predetermined outlet abnormal detection time (e.g., 500 milliseconds), that is, when the rectifier outlet sensor 523 turns on (a rectifier outlet detection signal is output) for the predetermined outlet abnormal detection time, a rectifier outlet abnormal error occurs. When a rectifier outlet abnormal error occurs, the power supply to the lifting motor 532 and the power supply to the rectifier solenoid 521 are stopped. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a rectifier outlet abnormal error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error, and the non-occurrence of detection of game balls by the rectifier outlet sensor 523 for a predetermined outlet abnormal release time (e.g., 500 milliseconds) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error. That is, when a rectifier outlet abnormal error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of game balls by the rectifier outlet sensor 523 does not occur for the above-mentioned outlet abnormal release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, a code corresponding to the rectifier outlet abnormal error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (e.g., the display of the characters "H32" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "3" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "2" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the rectifier outlet abnormal error is "7th" (the seventh priority).

[0126] (8) Rectifier solenoid abnormal error The rectifier solenoid abnormality error is an error indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the rectifier solenoid 521. When the outer frame 3 is closed and the rectifier inlet sensor 522 remains on for a predetermined judgment start time (e.g., 1.5 seconds) or more even though the rectifier solenoid 521 is not energized, if the rectifier inlet sensor 522 changes from on to off (when the output of the rectifier inlet detection signal stops), a rectifier solenoid abnormality error occurs. When the outer frame 3 is open, a rectifier solenoid abnormality error does not occur even if the above-mentioned conditions are satisfied. Furthermore, when a rectifier solenoid abnormality error occurs, energization to the lifting motor 532 is stopped. In addition, in the managed gaming machine P of this embodiment, a predetermined timer provided on the frame control board 200 measures the time that the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is on, making it possible to determine that the rectifier inlet sensor 522 has been on continuously for a predetermined judgment start time or longer. In the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a rectifier solenoid abnormality error is defined as a start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined as an end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. In other words, when a rectifier solenoid abnormality error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the error release button 220a is pressed and the error release switch 220 is turned on, the frame control management error suggestion is ended. In addition, in response to this frame control management error indication, the frame control display device 210 displays a code corresponding to a rectifier solenoid abnormality error (for example, the letters "H14" (for example, the letter "H" is displayed lit on the fourth display 210d, the number "1" is displayed lit on the fifth display 210e, and the number "4" is displayed lit on the sixth display 210f)). In addition, the priority of the rectifier solenoid abnormality error is "8" (the eighth priority).

[0127] (9) Rectifier inlet abnormality error The rectifier inlet abnormality error indicates that game balls are stuck at the inlet of the rectifier 520 (game ball jamming has occurred). If the game balls are detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 for a predetermined inlet abnormality detection time (e.g., 1 second) even though the rectifier solenoid 521 is energized, that is, if the rectifier inlet sensor 522 remains on (the rectifier inlet detection signal remains output), the rectifier inlet abnormality error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the rectifier inlet abnormality error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when the rectifier solenoid abnormality error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the error release button 220a is pressed and the error release switch 220 is turned on, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the rectifier inlet abnormality error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H15" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "1" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "5" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the rectifier inlet abnormality error is "9th" (the ninth priority).

[0128] (10) Elevating and feeding abnormality error The elevating and feeding abnormality error indicates that an abnormality has occurred in the elevating and feeding motor 532. If the rotation of the screw conveyor 531 is not detected by the rotation detection sensor 533 even though the elevating and feeding motor 532 is energized, that is, if the rotation detection sensor 533 does not turn on (the rotation detection signal is not output), the elevating and feeding abnormality error occurs. When the elevating and feeding abnormality error occurs, the power supply to the elevating and feeding motor 532 and the power supply to the rectifier solenoid 521 are stopped. In the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a lifting and conveying abnormality error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when a lifting and conveying abnormality error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the error release button 220a is pressed and the error release switch 220 is turned on, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the display of a code corresponding to the lifting and conveying abnormality error is performed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H17" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "1" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "7" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the lifting and conveying abnormality error is "10th" (the 10th priority).

[0129] (11) Out sensor abnormality error The out sensor abnormality error is an error indicating that the cable connecting the out sensor 601 and the frame control board 200 is disconnected. When the disconnection of the cable is detected for a predetermined out sensor disconnection detection time (for example, 100 milliseconds), the out sensor abnormality error occurs. When the out sensor abnormality error occurs, the power supply to the lifting and conveying motor 532 stops. In the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the out sensor abnormality error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the non-detection of the above disconnection for a predetermined out sensor disconnection release time (for example, 100 milliseconds) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when the out sensor abnormality error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the above disconnection is not detected for the above out sensor disconnection release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Further, in this frame control management error suggestion, a code corresponding to the out sensor abnormality error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H26" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "2" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "6" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the out sensor abnormality error is "11th" (the 11th priority).

[0130] (12) Out passage ball clogging error The out passage ball clogging error is an error indicating that game balls are staying in the out passage 600 (game balls are clogged). When game balls are detected by the out sensor 601 for a predetermined out passage clogging time (for example, 500 milliseconds), that is, when the out sensor 601 is turned on (an out signal is output) for the predetermined out passage clogging time, the out passage ball clogging error occurs. When the out passage ball clogging error occurs, the power supply to the lifting motor 532 is stopped. In the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the out passage ball clogging error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the non-occurrence of the detection of game balls by the out sensor 601 for a predetermined out passage clogging release time (for example, 500 milliseconds) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when the out passage ball clogging error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of game balls by the out sensor 601 does not occur for the above-mentioned out passage clogging release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Further, in this frame control management error suggestion, a code corresponding to the out passage ball clogging error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H30" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "3" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "0" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the out passage ball clogging error is "12th" (the 12th priority).

[0131] (13) Pharrel passage ball clogging error The Pharrel passage ball clogging error is an error indicating that the game balls are staying in the Pharrel passage 610 (game balls are clogged). When the game balls are detected by the Pharrel ball sensor 611 for a predetermined Pharrel passage clogging time (for example, 222 milliseconds), that is, when the Pharrel ball sensor 611 is turned on (a Pharrel signal is output) for the predetermined Pharrel passage clogging time, the Pharrel passage ball clogging error occurs. When the Pharrel passage ball clogging error occurs, the power supply to the lifting motor 532 is stopped. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the Pharrel passage ball clogging error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the non-occurrence of the detection of the game balls by the Pharrel ball sensor 611 for a predetermined Pharrel passage clogging release time (for example, 222 milliseconds) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when the Pharrel passage ball clogging error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of the game balls by the Pharrel ball sensor 611 is not performed for the above-mentioned Pharrel passage clogging release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the Pharrel passage ball clogging error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H31" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "3" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "1" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the Pharrel passage ball clogging error is "13th" (the 13th priority).

[0132] (14) Game ball circulation abnormality error The abnormal game ball circulation error indicates that the game balls have not reached up to the inlet of the rectifier 520 (the game balls are not positioned at the inlet of the rectifier 520). When the detection of the game balls by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is not performed within a predetermined circulation abnormal time (for example, 1.5 seconds, 1 second while the outer frame 3 is open), that is, when the rectifier inlet sensor 522 turns off (the rectifier inlet detection signal is not output) within the predetermined circulation abnormal time, the abnormal game ball circulation error occurs. When the abnormal game ball circulation error occurs, the energization to the rectifier solenoid 521 stops. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the abnormal game ball circulation error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error, and the detection of the game balls by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error. That is, when the abnormal game ball circulation error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the game balls are detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the display of the code corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error (for example, the display of the characters "H21" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "2" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "1" on the sixth display 210f)) is performed on the frame control display device 210. Also, the priority of the abnormal game ball circulation error is "14th" (the 14th priority).

[0133] (15) Excessive circulating ball number error The excessive circulating ball number error indicates that the number of game balls housed in the pachinko machine P is excessive. When the outer frame 3 is open and the control for lifting the game balls is not being performed, or within a predetermined circulating ball number determination time (for example, 10 seconds) after the outer frame 3 is closed, if the detection of game balls by the excessive circulating ball number sensor 511 is performed for a predetermined excessive detection time (for example, 1 second), that is, if the excessive circulating ball number sensor 511 turns on (an excessive detection signal is output) for the predetermined excessive detection time, the excessive circulating ball number error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the excessive circulating ball number error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error, and the non-occurrence of the detection of game balls by the excessive circulating ball number sensor 511 for a predetermined excessive release time (for example, 1 second) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error. That is, when the excessive circulating ball number error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of game balls by the excessive circulating ball number sensor 511 is not performed for the above-mentioned excessive release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the excessive circulating ball number error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H25" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "2" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "5" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the excessive circulating ball number error is "15th" (the 15th priority).

[0134] (16) Excessive circulating ball number shortage error The insufficient circulating balls error is an error indicating that the number of game balls housed in the gaming machine P is insufficient. When the outer frame 3 is open and the control for elevating the game balls is not being performed, or when the outer frame 3 is closed and until the above-mentioned circulating balls number determination time (10 seconds) has elapsed, if the detection of game balls by the insufficient circulating balls sensor 512 is not performed for a predetermined insufficient detection time (for example, 1 second), that is, when the insufficient circulating balls sensor 51 is turned off (the output of the insufficient detection signal stops) for the predetermined insufficient detection time, the insufficient circulating balls error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the insufficient circulating balls error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error, and the detection of game balls by the insufficient circulating balls sensor 512 being performed for a predetermined insufficient release time (for example, 1 second) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of this error. That is, when the insufficient circulating balls error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of game balls by the insufficient circulating balls sensor 512 is performed for the above-mentioned insufficient release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the display of the code corresponding to the insufficient circulating balls error (for example, the display of the characters "H24" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "2" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "4" on the sixth display 210f)) is performed on the frame control display device 210. Also, the priority of the insufficient circulating balls error is "16th" (the 16th priority).

[0135] (17) Main control not connected error The main control unconnected error is an error indicating that the main control board 100 and the frame control board 200 are not connected. In the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the main control startup process performed on the main control board 100 at the time of power failure recovery is completed, a main command permission signal indicating that the main control board 100 can receive commands from the frame control board 200 is transmitted from the main control board 100 to the frame control board 200. Then, if the frame control board 200 does not receive the main command permission signal within a predetermined non-reception determination time (for example, 100 ms), a main control unconnected error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the main control unconnected error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the reception of the above-described main command permission signal from the main control board 100 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when the main control unconnected error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the main command permission signal is received from the main control board 100, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the main control unconnected error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H07" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "0" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "7" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the main control unconnected error is "17th" (the 17th priority).

[0136] (18) Dedicated unit unconnected error The dedicated unit unconnected error indicates that the dedicated unit U and the frame control board 200 are not connected. In the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the dedicated unit startup process performed at the time of power-on of the dedicated unit U ends, a dedicated command permission signal indicating that the dedicated unit U can receive commands from the frame control board 200 is transmitted from the dedicated unit U to the frame control board 200. If the frame control board 200 does not receive the dedicated command permission signal within a predetermined dedicated non-reception determination time (for example, 100 ms), a dedicated unit unconnected error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of the dedicated unit unconnected error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the reception of the above-mentioned dedicated command permission signal from the dedicated unit U is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when a dedicated unit unconnected error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the above-mentioned dedicated command permission signal is received from the dedicated unit U, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the dedicated unit unconnected error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H04" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "0" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "4" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the dedicated unit unconnected error is "18th" (the 18th priority).

[0137] (19) Game ball number clear error The game ball number clear error indicates that the number of balls held stored in the frame control RAM 203 has been cleared. When the game ball number clear button 230a is pressed and the power is restored while the game ball number clear switch 230 is in the on state, a game ball number clear error occurs. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of a game ball number clear error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the reception of the above-mentioned main command permission signal from the main control board 100 is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when a game ball number clear error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the above-mentioned main command permission signal is received from the main control board 100, the frame control management error suggestion ends. Also, in this frame control management error suggestion, the code corresponding to the game ball number clear error is displayed on the frame control display device 210 (for example, the display of the characters "H67" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "6" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "7" on the sixth display 210f)). Also, the priority of the game ball number clear error is "19th" (the 19th priority).

[0138] (20) Outer frame opening error The outer frame opening error is an error indicating that the outer frame 3 is open. When the outer frame opening detection sensor 3a detects the opening of the outer frame 3 within a predetermined outer frame opening detection time (for example, 100 milliseconds), that is, when the outer frame opening detection sensor 3a turns on within the predetermined outer frame opening detection time, an outer frame opening error occurs. When an outer frame opening error occurs, the energization of the rectifier solenoid 521 stops. And in the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of an outer frame opening error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the non-occurrence of the detection of the opening of the outer frame 3 by the outer frame opening detection sensor 3a within a predetermined outer frame opening release time (for example, 100 milliseconds) (that is, the outer frame 3 is closed during the outer frame opening release time) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when an outer frame opening error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of the opening of the outer frame 3 by the outer frame opening sensor 3a does not occur within the above-mentioned outer frame opening release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. In addition, in this frame control management error suggestion, the frame control display device 210 displays a code corresponding to the outer frame opening error (for example, the display of the characters "H64" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "6" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "4" on the sixth display 210f)). In addition, the priority of the outer frame opening error is "20th" (the 20th priority).

[0139] (21) Inner frame opening error The inner frame opening error is an error indicating that the inner frame 2 is open. When the inner frame opening detection sensor 2a detects the opening of the inner frame 2 within a predetermined inner frame opening detection time (for example, 100 milliseconds), that is, when the inner frame opening detection sensor 2a turns on within the predetermined inner frame opening detection time, an inner frame opening error occurs. When an inner frame opening error occurs, the energization of the rectifier solenoid 521 stops. In the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the occurrence of an inner frame opening error is defined as the start condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error, and the non-occurrence of the detection of the opening of the inner frame 2 by the inner frame opening detection sensor 2a within a predetermined inner frame opening release time (for example, 100 milliseconds) (that is, the inner frame 2 is closed within the inner frame opening release time) is defined as the end condition corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion of the error. That is, when an inner frame opening error occurs, the corresponding frame control management error suggestion is started, and when the detection of the opening of the inner frame 2 by the inner frame opening sensor 2a does not occur within the above-mentioned inner frame opening release time, the frame control management error suggestion ends. In addition, in this frame control management error suggestion, the frame control display device 210 displays a code corresponding to the inner frame opening error (for example, the display of the characters "H65" (for example, the lighting display of the character "H" on the fourth display 210d, the lighting display of the number "6" on the fifth display 210e, and the lighting display of the number "5" on the sixth display 210f)). In addition, the priority of the inner frame opening error is "21st" (the 21st priority).

[0140] Also, although not particularly illustrated, when the above-described frame control management error occurs, in addition to suggesting the frame control management error in the frame control display device 210, in a predetermined display area (for example, the upper center of the display unit 21a) of the display unit 21a of the effect display device 21, an error image (for example, when a frame control RAM abnormality error occurs, an image such as "Frame control RAM abnormality error in progress") that suggests the occurred frame control management error is displayed. Specifically, when a predetermined frame control management error occurs, the frame control CPU 201 transmits a frame control management error command indicating that fact to the main control board 100. When the main CPU 101 receives the frame control management error command, it transmits a frame control management error designation command for suggesting the occurrence of the predetermined frame control management error to the sub-control board 300. When the sub CPU 301 receives the frame control management error designation command, it executes control to cause the error image corresponding to the occurred frame control management error to be displayed on the effect display device 21. Note that when a frame control management error occurs, not only the display of the error image but also, for example, lighting the lamp 23 in a manner corresponding to the occurred frame control management error or outputting a voice corresponding to the error from the speaker 10 may be performed to suggest the occurrence of the frame control management error.

[0141] (Outline of various controls when executing frame control management error suggestion) As described above, during the calculation preparation period that starts after the first power-on after factory shipment, a display indicating that each low probability base value is not stored is constantly performed on the frame control display device 210, and during the calculation period that starts after the end of the calculation preparation period, the low probability base value or the final low probability base value of the current calculation period is constantly displayed on the frame control display device 210. Here, in the management gaming machine P according to the present embodiment, when a frame control management error occurs while the above-described each display (hereinafter also referred to as low probability base value related display) is being performed on the frame control display device 210, the frame control CPU 201 restricts the execution of the low probability base value related display, and instead of the low probability base value related display, causes the frame control display device 210 to execute a frame control management error suggestion. That is, when the low-probability base value-related display and the frame control management error suggestion overlap due to the occurrence of a frame control management error, the frame control management error suggestion is executed with priority over the low-probability base value-related display.

[0142] In addition, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, the conditions for each frame control management error to occur are different for each error, and these conditions may hold separately. Therefore, when any one of the frame control management errors occurs and the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the error is being performed, it is possible for other frame control management errors to occur repeatedly. Therefore, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when a plurality of frame control management errors occur repeatedly, the frame control CPU 201 preferentially causes the frame control display device 210 to execute the frame control management error suggestion for the frame control management error with a higher priority determined for each of the occurring errors. That is, when the execution of a plurality of frame control management error suggestions overlaps due to the occurrence of a plurality of frame control management errors repeatedly, first, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with the highest priority is executed. When the frame control management error suggestion ends due to the establishment of the end condition, if the end condition of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with the next highest priority is not satisfied, the frame control management error suggestion is executed.

[0143] In addition, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the error release button 220a is pressed while the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the occurring frame control management error is being executed on the frame control display device 210, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to execute the low-probability base value-related display instead of the currently executed frame control management error suggestion during the pressing operation of the error release button 220a (that is, while the error release switch 220 is on). That is, even during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion, when the error release button 220a is pressed, the low-probability base value-related display is executed with priority over the frame control management error suggestion during this pressing operation. The same applies when a plurality of frame control management errors occur repeatedly. During the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220, the low-probability base value related display is executed. Note that the low-probability base value related display during the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a is performed in the same manner as the low-probability base value related display when the frame control management error suggestion is not executed (that is, in the manner of sequentially switching and circularly displaying the low-probability base value and the final low-probability base value at each of the above switching times).

[0144] Also here, when the error cancellation button 220a is pressed during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to one frame control management error, and the low-probability base value related display is executed preferentially to the frame control management error suggestion, and when the turning on of the error cancellation switch 220 is defined as the end condition of the frame control management error suggestion, at the time when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends (that is, at the time when the error cancellation switch 220 changes from on to off), the frame control CPU 201 terminates the above frame control management error suggestion and executes the low-probability base value related display. That is, in the above case, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, the above frame control management error suggestion is not re-executed, and the low-probability base value related display is executed.

[0145] On the other hand, when the error cancellation button 220a is pressed while a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to a certain frame control management error is being executed, and a low probability base value related display is being executed with priority over the said frame control management error suggestion, and if the content other than the turning on of the error cancellation switch 220 is defined as the end condition of the said frame control management error suggestion, the frame control CPU 201, if the end condition of the said frame control management error suggestion is not satisfied when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, causes the above-mentioned frame control management error suggestion to be executed again, and if the end condition of the said frame control management error suggestion is satisfied when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, causes the low probability base value related display to be executed without causing the above-mentioned frame control management error suggestion to be executed again. That is, in the above-mentioned case, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, if the end condition of the above-mentioned frame control management error suggestion is not satisfied, the said frame control management error suggestion is executed again, and if the end condition of the said frame control management error suggestion is satisfied, the low probability base value related display is executed.

[0146] Also, when multiple frame control management errors occur repeatedly and the error cancellation button 220a is pressed while a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with the highest priority (hereinafter also referred to as the most priority error suggestion) is being executed, and a low probability base value related display is being executed with priority over the said most priority error suggestion, and if the turning on of the error cancellation switch 220 is defined as the end condition of the said most priority error suggestion, at the time when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends (at the time when the error cancellation switch 220 turns off from on), the frame control CPU 201 ends the above-mentioned most priority error suggestion. And at the above-mentioned time point, if there is a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to a frame control management error whose end condition is not satisfied, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with the highest priority among them to be executed. On the other hand, if there is no frame control management error suggestion corresponding to a frame control management error whose end condition is not satisfied at the above-mentioned time point, the frame control CPU 201 causes the low probability base value related display to be executed without causing the frame control management error suggestion to be executed. That is, in the above case, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, the above-described highest-priority error suggestion is not re-executed. When there is an error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to a frame control management error for which the end condition is not satisfied, the error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to the highest-priority frame control management error is executed. When there is no error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to a frame control management error for which the end condition is not satisfied, a low-probability base value-related display is executed.

[0147] On the other hand, when a plurality of frame control management errors occur repeatedly and the error cancellation button 220a is pressed while the highest-priority error suggestion is being executed, and a low-probability base value-related display is executed with priority over the highest-priority error suggestion, and when the content other than the turning on of the error cancellation switch 220 is defined as the end condition for the highest-priority error suggestion, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends (when the error cancellation switch 220 turns off from on), if the end condition for the highest-priority error suggestion is not satisfied, the highest-priority error suggestion is re-executed. Also, when the end condition for the highest-priority error suggestion is satisfied at the above-described time point, if there is an error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to a frame control management error for which the end condition is not satisfied, the frame control CPU 201 executes the error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to the highest-priority frame control management error among them. On the other hand, if there is no error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to a frame control management error for which the end condition is not satisfied, the frame control CPU 201 executes a low-probability base value-related display without executing an error suggestion for frame control management. That is, in the above case, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, if the end condition for the above-described highest-priority error suggestion is not satisfied, the highest-priority error suggestion is re-executed. If the end condition for the highest-priority error suggestion is satisfied, when there is an error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to a frame control management error for which the end condition is not satisfied, the error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to the highest-priority frame control management error is executed. When there is no error suggestion for frame control management corresponding to a frame control management error for which the end condition is not satisfied, a low-probability base value-related display is executed.

[0148] In addition, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when a plurality of frame control management errors are repeatedly generated with the on state of the error release switch 220 defined as an end condition, when the pressing operation of the error release switch 220 ends, the frame control CPU 201 does not end all the frame control management error suggestions in which the on state of the error release switch 220 is defined as an end condition. Instead, only the frame control management error suggestion executed after the end of the pressing operation (that is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with the highest priority (the highest priority error suggestion)) is ended, and the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error suggestion not executed after the end of the pressing operation (that is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with the second and subsequent priorities) is not ended. In addition, in the above case, when the pressing operation of the error release switch 220 ends, all the frame control management error suggestions in which the on state of the error release switch 220 is defined as an end condition may be ended.

[0149] Hereinafter, the control in the case of executing the frame control management error suggestion will be described with specific examples. (Specific Example 1) For example, it is assumed that a hoisting abnormality error occurs during the calculation preparation period. During the calculation preparation period, although a display indicating that each low probability base value is not stored is executed on the frame control display device 210, due to the occurrence of the hoisting abnormality error, instead of the display indicating that each low probability base value is not stored, a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the hoisting abnormality error (display of the code "H17") is executed. That is, the display indicating that each low probability base value being executed on the frame control display device 210 is not stored is switched to the above-mentioned frame control management error suggestion. When the error cancel button 220a is pressed during the execution of this frame control management error suggestion, during the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a, if there is a calculation preparation period at that time, instead of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the currently executing hoisting abnormality error, a display indicating that each low probability base value is not stored is executed. Also, if that time is the calculation period, instead of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the currently executing hoisting abnormality error, the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. That is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the currently executing hoisting abnormality error on the frame control display device 210 switches to the low probability base value related display. Here, as an end condition for the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the hoisting abnormality error, it is determined that the error cancel switch 220 is turned on (see FIG. 9). Therefore, when the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a ends, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the hoisting abnormality error that should have been executed thereafter ends, so that the frame control management error suggestion is not re-executed, and the low probability base value related display is executed.

[0150] (Specific Example 2) For example, it is assumed that a game ball circulation abnormality error occurs during the calculation period. During the calculation period, although the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed on the frame control display device 210, due to the occurrence of the game ball circulation abnormality error, instead of the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value, a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the game ball circulation abnormality error (display of the code "H21") is executed. That is, the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value being executed on the frame control display device 210 switches to the above-mentioned frame control management error suggestion. When the error cancel button 220a is pressed during the execution of this frame control management error suggestion, during the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a, instead of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the currently executing hoisting abnormality error, the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. That is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the currently executing game ball circulation abnormality error on the frame control display device 210 switches to the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value. Here, as an end condition for the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error, it is determined that the game ball is detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 (see FIG. 9). Therefore, when the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a ends, if the game ball is detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 at this time, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error has ended, so the frame control management error is not re-executed, and the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. Also, if the game ball is not detected by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 at this time, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error is re-executed.

[0151] (Specific Example 3) For example, when an abnormal game ball circulation error occurs during the calculation period, instead of displaying the low probability base value and the final low probability base value, a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error (display of the code "H21") is being executed, and further, it is assumed that a lifting abnormality error occurs. According to the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the priority of the abnormal game ball circulation error is "14th", and the priority of the lifting abnormality error is "10th". Since the lifting abnormality error has a higher priority than the abnormal game ball circulation error, instead of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error being executed, a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error (display of the code "H17") is executed. That is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error being executed on the frame control display device 210 is switched to the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error. And when the error cancel button 220a is pressed during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to this lifting abnormality error, during the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a, instead of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error being executed, the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. That is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error being executed on the frame control display device 210 is switched to the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value. Here, as described above, as the end condition of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting and conveying abnormality error, it is determined that the error release switch 220 is turned on. As the end condition of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error, it is determined that the detection of the game ball by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is performed (see FIG. 9). Therefore, when the pressing operation of the error release button 220a ends, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting and conveying abnormality error that should have been executed thereafter ends, so that the frame control management error suggestion is not re-executed. And if the detection of the game ball by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is being performed at this time, since the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error has ended, the frame control management error suggestion is not re-executed, and the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. Also, if the detection of the game ball by the rectifier inlet sensor 522 is not being performed at this time, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the abnormal game ball circulation error is re-executed.

[0152] (Specific Example 4) For example, when a radio wave detection error occurs during the calculation period and instead of the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the radio wave detection error (display of the code "H66") is being executed, and further, it is assumed that a lifting and conveying abnormality error has occurred. According to the frame control management error suggestion table ET, the priority of the radio wave detection error is "5th" and the priority of the lifting and conveying abnormality error is "10th". Since the radio wave detection error has a higher priority than the lifting and conveying abnormality error, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting and conveying abnormality error (display of the code "H17") is not executed, and the ongoing radio wave detection error continues. When the error cancellation button 220a is pressed during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to this radio wave detection error, during the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a, instead of the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the ongoing radio wave detection error, the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. That is, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the ongoing radio wave detection error on the frame control display device 210 switches to the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value. Here, it is stipulated that the end condition for the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the radio wave detection error is the stop of receiving the radio wave detection signal, and it is stipulated that the end condition for the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the transmission abnormality error is that the error cancellation switch 220 is turned on (see Fig. 9). Then, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, if the reception of the radio wave detection signal has stopped, since the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the radio wave detection error has ended, the frame control management error suggestion is not re-executed. Also, due to the end of the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the transmission abnormality error that should have been executed later ends, so the frame control management error suggestion is not executed either, and the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. On the other hand, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, if the reception of the radio wave detection signal has not stopped, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the radio wave detection error is re-executed. Although it is stipulated that the end condition for the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the transmission abnormality error is that the error cancellation switch 220 is turned on as described above, after the end of the above pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the radio wave detection error is preferentially executed, and the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the transmission abnormality error is not executed. Therefore, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the transmission abnormality error does not end due to the end of the above pressing operation. After that, when the reception of the radio wave detection signal stops, the frame control management error indication corresponding to the radio wave detection error ends, and the frame control management error indication corresponding to the uplink error is re-executed. This frame control management error indication ends when the error cancellation button 220a is pressed again and the pressing operation ends.

[0153] (Specific Example 5) For example, when an uplink error occurs during the calculation period, instead of displaying the low probability base value and the final low probability base value, a frame control management error indication corresponding to the uplink error (display of the code "H17") is being executed, and further, it is assumed that a rectifier solenoid error has occurred. According to the frame control management error indication table ET, the priority of the rectifier solenoid error is "8", and the priority of the uplink error is "10". Since the rectifier solenoid error has a higher priority than the uplink error, instead of the frame control management error indication corresponding to the uplink error being executed, a frame control management error indication corresponding to the rectifier solenoid error (display of the code "H14") is executed. That is, the frame control management error indication corresponding to the uplink error being executed in the frame control display device 210 switches to the frame control management error indication corresponding to the rectifier solenoid error. Then, when the error cancellation button 220a is pressed during the execution of the frame control management error indication corresponding to the rectifier solenoid error, during the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a, instead of the frame control management error indication corresponding to the rectifier solenoid error being executed, the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value is executed. That is, the frame control management error indication corresponding to the rectifier solenoid error being executed in the frame control display device 210 switches to the display of the low probability base value and the final low probability base value. Here, it is determined that the error cancellation switch 220 is turned on as the end condition for both the frame control management error indication corresponding to the rectifier solenoid error and the frame control management error indication corresponding to the uplink error (see FIG. 9). When the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a ends, although the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the rectifier solenoid abnormality error that should have been executed thereafter ends due to this end, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error does not end. Therefore, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the rectifier solenoid abnormality error is not re-executed, and the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error is executed. After that, when the pressing operation of the error cancel button 220a is performed again and the pressing operation ends, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the lifting abnormality error ends.

[0154] (Outline of the display on the frame control display device 210 when the ball extraction switch 240 is on) In the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when the frame control state is the normal state, when the ball extraction button 240a is pressed and the ball extraction switch 240 is turned on, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to display the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203. When the pressing operation of the ball extraction button 240a ends and the ball extraction switch 240 is turned off, the display of the number of balls in hand ends. That is, in the management gaming machine P according to this embodiment, even during the execution of the low-probability base value-related display and the frame control management error suggestion, while the ball extraction button 240a is being pressed (while the ball extraction switch 240 is on) in the above-mentioned normal state, instead of these executions, the frame control display device 210 executes the display of the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 (switches to the display of the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203). It should be noted that when the error cancel switch 220 is turned on during the execution of the frame control management error and the ball extraction switch 240 is turned on repeatedly when the low-probability base value-related display is being executed, similarly to the above, on the frame control display device 210, instead of the low-probability base value-related display, the display of the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 is executed.

[0155] As described above, in the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, in the frame control display device 210, the low probability base value during the current calculation period, the final low probability base value in the calculation period immediately before the current calculation period, the final low probability base value in the calculation period two periods before the current calculation period, and the final low probability base value in the calculation period three periods before the current calculation period are constantly displayed. Thereby, based on this information, for example, it is possible to surely grasp a situation where the difficulty of the game balls entering the general winning opening 14, the first start winning opening 15, etc. has changed due to so-called random actions or the occurrence of malfunctions, etc., and thus it is possible to prevent the situation from being left unattended for a long period of time.

[0156] Further, in the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when a frame control management error occurs, instead of displaying the above-mentioned low probability base value and final low probability base value, a frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the occurred frame control management error is executed in the frame control display device 210. Thereby, the occurred frame control management error can be surely grasped by the frame control management error suggestion.

[0157] Further, in the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, when a plurality of frame control management errors occur repeatedly, the frame control management error suggestion corresponding to the frame control management error with a higher priority is preferentially executed. Thereby, it is possible to surely grasp the occurrence of the frame control management error with a higher priority by the frame control management error suggestion.

[0158] Further, in the gaming machine P according to this embodiment, even during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion, when the error release button 220a is pressed (the error release switch 220 is turned on), the frame control management error suggestion in the frame control display device 210 switches to the low probability base value related display, and the low probability base value related display is continuously executed during this pressing operation. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a situation where the low probability base value, etc. cannot be confirmed and the above-mentioned random actions or the occurrence of malfunctions cannot be grasped while the frame control management error suggestion is not released. Also, the display of the low-probability base value and the final low-probability base value during the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a is performed in such a manner that the low-probability base value and the final low-probability base value are sequentially switched and cyclically displayed at each of the above-described switching times, similar to the display of the low-probability base value and the final low-probability base value when the frame control management error suggestion is not executed. Thereby, even during the occurrence of the frame control management error, similar to when the frame control management error suggestion is not executed, all of the low-probability base value during the current calculation period, the final low-probability base value in the calculation period immediately before the current calculation period, the final low-probability base value in the calculation period two before the current calculation period, and the final low-probability base value in the calculation period three before the current calculation period can be surely grasped. Also, when the pressing operation of the error cancellation button 220a ends, if the end condition is not satisfied, the frame control management error suggestion is re-executed. Therefore, even after the end of the pressing operation, the occurring frame control management error can be surely grasped by the display on the frame control display device 210.

[0159] Also, in the gaming machine P according to the present embodiment, even during the display related to the low-probability base value and the execution of the frame control management error suggestion, when the ball payout button 240a is pressed while the frame control state is the normal state, instead of the execution of these, the number of held balls stored in the frame control RAM 203 is displayed on the frame control display device 210. Thereby, for example, even when the number of held balls is not displayed on the held ball number display device 6a due to the occurrence of a failure or the like, the number of held balls can be surely grasped on the frame control display device 210.

[0160] (Outline of processing in the gaming machine P) Next, the outline of the main processing executed by the main control board 100 will be described using a flowchart. First, the main processing executed by the main control board 100 (hereinafter, also referred to as the main processing of the main control board 100) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 10.

[0161] In step 100, the main CPU 101 executes the power-failure recovery process to be performed when returning from a power failure. In this power-failure recovery process, processes such as setting the main control state based on conditions such as the on or off state of the setting switch 105, the on or off state of the RAM clear switch 106, clearing the main RAM 103, and transmitting a main command permission signal to the frame control board 200 are performed. Also, when the main control state is set to the setting change state, in this power-failure recovery process, processes such as changing the set value based on the pressing operation of the RAM clear button are also performed. Further, when the main control state is set to the setting change state or the setting confirmation state, in this power-failure recovery process, a process of maintaining the setting change state or the setting confirmation state until the setting switch 105 is turned off is also performed, and a process of ending the setting change state or the setting confirmation state when the setting switch 105 is turned off is also performed. Note that this power-failure recovery process is executed only at the time of power-failure recovery and is not executed other than at the time of power-failure recovery. Then, it proceeds to the next step 101. In step 101, the main CPU 101 executes a timer update process for updating various timer counters. Then, it proceeds to the next step 102.

[0162] In step 102, the main CPU 101 executes a special figure game control process for performing various processes such as a jackpot lottery, a process related to holding the obtained random number, and a variable display and stop display of a special symbol based on the entry of a game ball into the first start winning opening 15 or the second start winning opening 16. Then, it proceeds to the next step 103. In step 103, when the main CPU 101 wins the jackpot by the jackpot lottery in the special game control process of step 102 above, it executes a special game control process for performing various processes such as executing a special game and setting the game state after the end of the special game. Then, it proceeds to the next step 104.

[0163] In step 104, based on the game ball passing through gate 20, the main CPU 101 executes general pattern game control processing, which includes various processes such as lottery of the normal pattern, processing related to holding the obtained random number, variable display and stop display of the normal pattern, and operation control of the movable piece 16b according to the result of the lottery of the normal pattern. Then, it proceeds to the next step 105. In step 105, when detection signals are input from the general winning port detection sensor 14a, the first start winning port detection sensor 15a, the second start winning port detection sensor 16a, and the big winning port detection sensor 18a, the main CPU 101 transmits to the frame control board 200 the winning ball designation commands corresponding to the respective detection signals (that is, corresponding to the winning port into which the game ball has entered). Then, it proceeds to the next step 106.

[0164] In step 106, the main CPU 101 outputs to various ports the start winning port solenoid data for opening and closing the movable piece 16b of the second start winning port 16, the big winning port solenoid data for controlling the opening and closing of the big winning port 18, the display data of various display devices (the first special pattern display device 30, the second special pattern display device 31, the normal pattern display device 32, the first special pattern holding display device 38, the second special pattern holding display device 39, and the normal pattern holding display device 33), etc., or transmits to the sub-control board 300 various commands used for executing various effects and suggestions, and executes output control processing. Then, the main processing of the main control board 100 ends.

[0165] Next, regarding the outline of the processing executed by the frame control board 200, mainly centering on the processing related to the number of held balls, the low probability base value, the frame control management error, etc., it will be described using a flowchart. Although not particularly illustrated, in the frame control board 200 in this embodiment, at the time of power failure recovery, frame control state setting processing is executed to set the frame control state to the normal state through the startup preparation state, or to set it to the ball extraction state on the condition that the ball extraction switch 240 is on. Also, at the time of the first power-on after factory shipment, calculation preparation period start processing is executed.

[0166] First, the calculation preparation period start process executed at the first power-on will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11. In step 2000, the frame control CPU 201 starts counting the switching time by setting the switching time (5 seconds in this embodiment) in a predetermined switching time timer counter. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2001. In step 2001, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the calculation preparation period flag indicating that it is the calculation preparation period. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2002.

[0167] In step 2002, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the unrecorded display flag corresponding to the unrecorded display P1. Here, the unrecorded display flag is a flag for controlling which of the unrecorded displays P1, P2, P3, and P4 to execute during the calculation preparation period, and there are provided unrecorded display flags corresponding to the unrecorded display P1, unrecorded display flags corresponding to the unrecorded display P2, unrecorded display flags corresponding to the unrecorded display P3, and unrecorded display flags corresponding to the unrecorded display P4. In the frame control display device 210, the unrecorded display corresponding to the turned-on unrecorded display flag becomes executable. At the start of the calculation preparation period, since the unrecorded display flag corresponding to the unrecorded display P1 is turned on as described above, the unrecorded display P1 becomes executable in the frame control display device 210. Then, the calculation preparation period start process ends.

[0168] Also, in the frame control board 200, the frame control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 12 is executed by generating clock pulses at a predetermined period (for example, 0.4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided in the frame control board 200. Hereinafter, the frame control timer interrupt process will be described. In step 2100, the frame control CPU 201 executes a timer update process for updating various timer counters provided in the frame control board 200. In the frame control board 200, a subtraction timer is adopted, and each time the frame control timer interrupt process is executed, the timer counter is decremented by 1, and when it reaches 0, the decrement stops. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2101. In step 2101, the frame control CPU 201 executes a command reception process for storing the commands received from the main control board 100 and the dedicated unit U in a predetermined storage area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2102.

[0169] In step 2102, the frame control CPU 201 executes a lending / counting control process related to the lending from the dedicated unit U and the counting of the number of balls in hand. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2103. In step 2103, based on the input of the handle rotation operation signal, the frame control CPU 201 energizes the rectifier solenoid 521 to send out a game ball to the launcher 502, energizes the launch motor 503 to launch the game ball, and based on the stop of the input of the handle rotation operation signal, stops the energization of the rectifier solenoid 521 and the launch motor 503 to stop the launch of the game ball, and executes a launch control process. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2104.

[0170] In step 2104, based on the input of the handle rotation operation signal, the input of the outer frame opening signal, etc., the frame control CPU 201 energizes the lift motor 532 to execute a circulation control process for lifting the game ball upward. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2105. In step 2105, the frame control CPU 201 executes an out number counting process related to the counting of the number of outs. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2106.

[0171] In step 2106, the frame control CPU 201 executes a bonus ball number counting process related to the counting of the number of bonus balls. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2107. In step 2107, the frame control CPU 201 executes period control processing for performing various processes related to the calculation preparation period and the calculation period. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2108.

[0172] In step 2108, the frame control CPU 201 executes display flag control processing for performing various processes related to non-stored display and low-probability base value display. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2109. In step 2109, the frame control CPU 201 executes error indication flag control processing for performing various processes related to frame control management error indication. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2110.

[0173] In step 2110, the frame control CPU 201 executes frame control display device control processing related to various displays on the frame control display device 210. Then, it ends the frame control timer interrupt processing.

[0174] Next, the lending / counting control processing in step 2102 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 13. In step 2200, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether or not it has received a lending command from the dedicated unit U. If it determines that it has not received the lending command, it proceeds to step 2202. On the other hand, if it determines that it has received the lending command, it proceeds to the next step 2201. In step 2201, the frame control CPU 201 adds the number of lent balls corresponding to the received lending command to the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203. Also, the frame control CPU 201 causes the number of balls in hand currently stored in the frame control RAM 203 to be displayed on the number-of-balls-in-hand display device 6a. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2202.

[0175] In step 2202, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 is 1 or more and whether the counting switch 6b is on. If it is determined that the number of balls in hand stored is 0 or the counting switch 6b is not on (i.e., off), the lending / counting control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of balls in hand stored is 1 or more and the counting switch 6b is on, the process proceeds to the next step 2203. In step 2203, the frame control CPU 201 transmits a counting command indicating the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 to the dedicated unit U. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2204.

[0176] In step 2204, the frame control CPU 201 clears the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203. Then, the lending / counting control process ends.

[0177] Next, the outnumber counting process of step 2105 described above will be explained with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 14. In step 2300, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the rectifier outlet sensor 523 has changed from on to off. If it is determined that it has not changed from on to off, the process proceeds to step 2307. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has changed from on to off, the process proceeds to the next step 2301. In step 2301, the frame control CPU 201 decrements the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203 by 1. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2302.

[0178] In step 2302, the frame control CPU 201 causes the number of balls in hand currently stored in the frame control RAM 203 to be displayed on the balls-in-hand display device 6a. That is, the number of balls in hand displayed on the balls-in-hand display device 6a is updated to the number of balls in hand after being decremented by 1 in step 2301 described above. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2303. In step 2303, the frame control CPU 201 increments by 1 the total number of outs stored (counted) in the first area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2304.

[0179] In step 2304, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the current time is during the normal game state. If it determines that it is not during the normal game state, it proceeds to step 2307. On the other hand, if it determines that it is during the normal game state, it proceeds to the next step 2305. Note that when the game state is set, the main CPU 101 in this embodiment transmits a game state designation command indicating the set game state to the frame control board 200. As a result, the frame control board 200 can also grasp the game state being set. In step 2305, the frame control CPU 201 increments by 1 the low-probability total number of outs stored (counted) in the second area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2306.

[0180] In step 2306, the frame control CPU 201 calculates a low-probability base value based on the currently stored low-probability total number of outs and the low-probability total number of prize balls, and stores the low-probability base value in the fourth area of the frame control RAM 203. That is, the low-probability base value stored in the fourth area is updated to the calculated low-probability base value described above. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2307. In step 2307, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the foul ball sensor 611 has turned on. If it determines that the foul ball sensor 611 has not turned on, it ends the out count process. On the other hand, if it determines that the foul ball sensor 611 has turned on, it proceeds to the next step 2308.

[0181] In step 2308, the frame control CPU 201 increments by 1 the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2309. In step 2309, the frame control CPU 201 causes the number of balls in hand currently stored in the frame control RAM 203 to be displayed on the number-of-balls-in-hand display device 6a. That is, the number of balls in hand displayed on the number-of-balls-in-hand display device 6a is updated to the number of balls in hand after being incremented by 1 in the above-described step 2308. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2310.

[0182] In step 2310, the frame control CPU 201 decrements the total number of outs stored in the first area of the frame control RAM 203 by 1. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2311. In step 2311, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the current time is during the normal game state. If it is determined that it is not during the normal game state, the out-counting process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is during the normal game state, the process proceeds to the next step 2312.

[0183] In step 2312, the frame control CPU 201 decrements the low-probability total number of outs stored in the second area of the frame control RAM 203 by 1. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2313. In step 2313, the frame control CPU 201 calculates a low-probability base value based on the currently stored low-probability total number of outs and the low-probability total number of prize balls, and stores the low-probability base value in the fourth area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, the out-counting process ends.

[0184] Next, the prize-ball counting process in step 2106 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 15. In step 2400, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether it has received a prize-ball designation command (a command indicating the winning port into which the game ball has entered) from the main control board 100. If it is determined that the prize-ball designation command has not been received, the prize-ball counting process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the prize-ball designation command has been received, the process proceeds to the next step 2401. In step 2401, the frame control CPU 201 adds the number of prize balls corresponding to the received prize ball designation command to the number of balls held stored in the frame control RAM 203. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2402.

[0185] In step 2402, the frame control CPU 201 causes the number of balls held currently stored in the frame control RAM 203 to be displayed on the ball - holding number display device 6a. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2403. In step 2403, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the current time is during the normal game state. If it is determined that it is not during the normal game state, the prize ball number counting process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is during the normal game state, it proceeds to the next step 2404.

[0186] In step 2404, the frame control CPU 201 adds the number of prize balls corresponding to the received prize ball designation command to the low - probability total prize ball number (counted) stored in the third area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, it proceeds to the next step 2405. In step 2405, the frame control CPU 201 calculates a low - probability base value based on the currently stored low - probability total out number and low - probability total prize ball number, and stores the low - probability base value in the fourth area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, the prize ball number counting process ends.

[0187] Next, regarding the period control process of step 2107 described above, it will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 16. In step 2500, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the calculation preparation period flag is on. If it is determined that the calculation preparation period flag is not on (i.e., it is off), it proceeds to step 2508. On the other hand, if it is determined that the calculation preparation period flag is on, it proceeds to the next step 2501. In step 2501, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the total number of all outputs currently stored has reached the number at the end of the preparation period (200 in this form). If it is determined that it has not reached, the process proceeds to step 2508. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has reached, the process proceeds to the next step 2502.

[0188] In step 2502, the frame control CPU 201 clears the first area, second area, third area, and fourth area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2503. In step 2503, the frame control CPU 201 turns off the calculation preparation period flag. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2504.

[0189] In step 2504, the frame control CPU 201 turns off all the un-stored display flags. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2505. In step 2505, the frame control CPU 201 starts counting the switching time by setting the switching time in the switching time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2506.

[0190] In step 2506, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the calculation period flag indicating that it is the calculation period. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2507. In step 2507, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the display flag corresponding to display C1 (display of the low certainty base value for the current calculation period). Here, the display flag is a flag for controlling which of displays C1, C2, C3, and C4 to execute during the calculation period, and there are provided a display flag corresponding to display C1, a display flag corresponding to display C2, a display flag corresponding to display C3, and a display flag corresponding to display C4. In the frame control display device 210, it becomes possible to execute the display corresponding to the turned-on display flag. At the start of the first calculation period, since the display flag corresponding to display C1 is turned on as described above, it becomes possible to execute display C1 in the frame control display device 210. Note that if the final low certainty base value is not stored and displays C2, C3, and C4 cannot be executed, instead of the display flag, the corresponding non-stored display flag is turned on. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2508.

[0191] In step 2508, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the calculation period flag is on. If it is determined that the calculation period flag is not on (i.e., it is off), the period control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the calculation period flag is on, the process proceeds to the next step 2509. In step 2509, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the total number of all outputs currently stored has reached the reference number (60,000 in this embodiment). If it is determined that it has not reached, the period control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has reached, the process proceeds to the next step 2510.

[0192] In step 2510, the frame control CPU 201 executes the final low certainty base value shift process. Specifically, the final low certainty base value stored in the first storage unit and the second storage unit of the fifth area in the frame control RAM 203 is shifted to the storage unit with a larger number by one, and the low certainty base value currently stored in the fourth area in the frame control RAM 203 is stored in the first storage unit of the fifth area. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2511. In step 2511, the frame control CPU 201 clears the first area, the second area, the third area, and the fourth area of the frame control RAM 203. Then, the period control process ends.

[0193] Next, regarding the display flag control process of step 2108 described above, it will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 17. In step 2600, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the calculation preparation period flag is on. If it is determined that the calculation preparation period flag is not on, the process proceeds to step 2605. On the other hand, if it is determined that the calculation preparation period flag is on, the process proceeds to the next step 2601. In step 2601, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the switching time has elapsed. If it is determined that the switching time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step 2605. On the other hand, if it is determined that the switching time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 2602.

[0194] In step 2602, the frame control CPU 201 turns off the unrecorded display flag that is on. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2603. In step 2603, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the unrecorded display flag corresponding to the next display target (that is, the next unrecorded display flag of the unrecorded display flag that was on). For example, if the unrecorded display corresponding to the unrecorded display flag that was turned off in step 2602 above is P1, the unrecorded display flag corresponding to the unrecorded display P2 is turned on. Also, for example, if the unrecorded display corresponding to the unrecorded display flag that was turned off in step 2602 above is P4, the unrecorded display flag corresponding to the unrecorded display P1 is turned on. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2604.

[0195] In step 2604, the frame control CPU 201 starts counting the switching time by setting the switching time in the switching time timer counter. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2605. In step 2605, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the calculation period flag is on. If it is determined that the calculation period flag is not on, the display flag control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the calculation preparation period flag is on, the process proceeds to the next step 2606.

[0196] In step 2606, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the switching time has elapsed. If it is determined that the switching time has not elapsed, the display flag control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the switching time has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step 2607. In step 2607, the frame control CPU 201 turns off the display flag that is on. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2608.

[0197] In step 2608, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the display flag corresponding to the next display target (that is, the next display flag of the display flag that was on). For example, if the display corresponding to the display flag turned off in step 2607 above was C1, the display flag corresponding to display C2 is turned on. Also, for example, if the display corresponding to the display flag turned off in step 2607 above was C4, the display flag corresponding to display C1 is turned on. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2609. In step 2609, the frame control CPU 201 starts counting the switching time by setting the switching time in the switching time timer counter. Then, the display flag control process ends.

[0198] Next, the error suggestion flag control process of step 2109 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 18. In step 2700, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether any frame control management error has occurred, that is, whether the conditions for the occurrence of any frame control management error are satisfied. If it is determined that no frame control management error has occurred, the process proceeds to step 2702. On the other hand, if it is determined that a frame control management error has occurred, the process proceeds to the next step 2701. In step 2701, the frame control CPU 201 turns on the error indication flag corresponding to the occurred frame control management error. Here, the error indication flag is a flag for controlling the execution of each frame control management error, and an error indication flag corresponding to each frame control management error is provided. In the frame control display device 210, the frame control management error indication corresponding to the error indication flag that is on becomes executable. When there are a plurality of error indication flags that are on, the frame control management error indication of the one with the highest priority among the frame control management errors corresponding to the error indication flags becomes executable. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 2702.

[0199] In step 2702, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the end condition of the frame control management error indication is satisfied for the frame control management error corresponding to the error indication flag that is on. If it is determined that the end condition is not satisfied, the error indication flag control process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that the end condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to the next step 2703. In step 2703, the frame control CPU 201 turns off the error indication flag corresponding to the frame control management error for which the end condition of the frame control management error indication is satisfied. Note that when a plurality of error indication flags are on and the error indication flag corresponding to the frame control management error in which the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined as the above end condition is included, when the error release switch 220 is turned on, if the priority of the frame control management error in which the turning on of the error release switch 220 is defined among the above is the highest, the error indication flag corresponding to the frame control management error is turned off. Then, the error indication flag control process ends.

[0200] Next, regarding the frame control display device control process in step 2110 described above, it will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 19. In step 2800, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the ball extraction switch 240 is on. If it is determined that the ball extraction switch 240 is on, the process proceeds to step 2805. On the other hand, if it is determined that the ball extraction switch 240 is not on (i.e., off), the process proceeds to the next step 2801. In step 2801, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether there is an error indication flag that is on. If it is determined that there is no error indication flag that is on, the process proceeds to step 2804. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is an error indication flag that is on, the process proceeds to the next step 2802.

[0201] In step 2802, the frame control CPU 201 determines whether the error reset switch 220 is on. If it is determined that the error reset switch 220 is on, the process proceeds to step 2804. On the other hand, if it is determined that the error reset switch 220 is not on (i.e., off), the process proceeds to the next step 2803. In step 2803, when there is only one error indication flag that is on, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to execute the frame control management error indication corresponding to the error indication flag. When there are multiple error indication flags that are on, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to execute the frame control management error indication of the frame control management error with the highest defined priority. Then, the frame control display device control process ends.

[0202] Also, when it is determined in step 2801 described above that there is no error suggestion flag that is on, in step 2804 that proceeds when it is determined in step 2802 described above that the error release switch is on, if any of the unrecorded display flags is on, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to execute the unrecorded display corresponding to the unrecorded display flag, and if any of the display flags is on, causes the frame control display device 210 to execute the display corresponding to the display flag. Then, the frame control display device control process ends. Also, in step 2805 that proceeds when it is determined in step 2800 described above that the ball extraction switch 240 is on, the frame control CPU 201 causes the frame control display device 210 to display the number of balls in hand stored in the frame control RAM 203. Then, the frame control display device control process ends.

[0203] Next, a modification of the present embodiment described above will be described. In the present embodiment, when there is no frame control management error and no frame control management error suggestion is executed, low probability base value related display is always executed on the frame control display device 210, but it is not limited to this. For example, a predetermined switch for performing an operation related to the execution of the low probability base value related display may be provided on the frame control board 200, and when the switch is operated, the low probability base value related display may be started or the low probability base value related display may be sequentially switched. Even in the case as described above, the same operational effects as those of the present embodiment will be achieved.

[0204] In the present embodiment, when a frame control management error occurs, a frame control management error suggestion is executed instead of the low probability base value related display, but the execution modes of the low probability base value related display and the frame control management error suggestion are not limited to this. For example, the low probability base value related display and the frame control management error suggestion may be switched at regular intervals. Also, in the frame control display device 210, it may be configured to simultaneously execute the low-probability base value related display and the frame control management error suggestion. Specifically, for example, after setting the code of the frame control management error as a two-digit character code, the code of the frame control management error may be displayed using a display that is not used for the low-probability base value related display simultaneously with the low-probability base value related display. Even in the case as described above, the same operational effects as those of this embodiment will be achieved.

[0205] In the frame control display device 210 in this embodiment, the low-probability base value, which is the base value during the normal game state, was displayed. However, the types of base values that can be displayed are not limited to this. For example, the base value during the high-probability short game state, the base value during all game states, etc. may be displayed on the frame control display device 210. Also, in addition to the frame control management error suggestion, when the start preparation state and the ball payout state are set as the frame control states in the frame control display device 210, it may be configured to give a suggestion that the said frame control state has been set. Specifically, similar to the frame control management error suggestion, when the start preparation state is set, a code corresponding to the start preparation state is displayed on the frame control display device 210 instead of the low-probability base value related display, and when the ball payout state is set, a code corresponding to the ball payout state is displayed on the frame control display device 210 instead of the low-probability base value related display. Also, priorities are defined for these frame control states together with the frame control management error. When the occurrence of the frame control management error and the setting of these frame control states overlap, the suggestion with the higher defined priority may be preferentially executed. Also, for other controls such as when the error release switch 220 is turned on or when the ball payout switch 240 is turned on, it may be the same as the frame control management error suggestion. Even in the case as described above, the same operational effects as those of this embodiment will be achieved.

[0206] In this embodiment, only the frame control management error, which is an error managed by the frame control board 200, is suggested by the frame control display device 210. However, the suggestible errors are not limited to this. For example, for the errors managed by the main control board 100, when such an error occurs, it may also be suggested by the frame control display device 210. Specifically, when an error managed by the main control board 100 occurs, the main CPU 101 transmits an error designation command indicating the occurrence of the error to the frame control board 200. When the frame control CPU 201 receives the error designation command, it may cause the frame control display device 210 to display an error code corresponding to the command instead of the low probability base value related display. Also, priorities may be determined for the errors managed by the main control board 100 as well as the frame control management errors. When the frame control management error and the errors managed by the main control board 100 occur simultaneously, the suggestion with the higher priority may be preferentially executed. Also, for other controls such as when the error release switch 220 is turned on or when the ball removal switch 240 is turned on, it may be the same as the frame control management error suggestion. Examples of the errors managed by the main control board 100 include, for example, the second start winning opening abnormal winning error based on excessive entry of game balls into the second start winning opening 16, the big winning opening excessive winning error based on excessive entry of game balls into the big winning opening 18, and the big winning opening discharged ball shortage state error based on the number of game balls entering the big winning opening 18 not matching the number of game balls discharged from the big winning opening 18 to the out passage 600. Even in the case of the above, the same operational effects as in this embodiment will be achieved.

[0207] In this embodiment, the set value display device 104 is mounted on the main control board 100, and the current set value can be displayed on this set value display device 104. However, it is not limited thereto, and a set value display device may be mounted on the frame control board 200 so that the current set value can be displayed on this set value display device. Further, a predetermined switch for performing an operation related to the display of the set value may be provided on the frame control board 200, and the set value may be displayed on the frame control display device 210 on the condition that the switch is operated. Even in the case as described above, the same operational effects as those of this embodiment are achieved.

[0208] In this embodiment, even while the ball extraction switch 240 is on during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion, the number of balls in hand was displayed on the frame control display device 210. However, the switch used for the display of the number of balls in hand is not limited thereto. For example, a dedicated switch for performing an operation to switch to the display of the number of balls in hand during the execution of the frame control management error suggestion may be provided on the frame control board 200, and the number of balls in hand may be displayed on the frame control display device 210 while the switch is on. Even in the case as described above, the same operational effects as those of this embodiment are achieved.

[0209] In this embodiment, the control of the frame control display device 210 related to the management of the number of balls in hand, the suggestion of the frame control management error, and the display of the game performance information, etc. has been performed on the frame control board 200. However, it is not limited thereto, and it may be performed on the main control board 100. Specifically, a device similar to the frame control display device 210 may be provided on the main control board 100, and the number of balls in hand, the number of bonus balls, etc. may be stored in the main RAM 103, and the game performance information may be derived so that various controls similar to those of this embodiment are executed on the main control board 100. Even in the case as described above, the same operational effects as those of this embodiment are achieved.

[0210] Incidentally, the above-described modified examples can also be configured by combining them with each other within the possible range. In addition, various controls of this embodiment can also be applied to gaming machines other than the management gaming machine. For example, a pachinko machine that pays out physical game balls as in the past, a conventional slot machine that plays a game using game medals as game media, a management slot machine that manages the game medals owned by a player as numerical data and plays a game similar to a conventional slot machine without using game medals, etc. may be applicable.

[0211] In addition, the main control board 100 in this embodiment corresponds to the first control means of the present invention. Also, the number of balls held in this embodiment corresponds to the effective game value amount of the present invention. Further, the frame control board 200 in this embodiment corresponds to the second control means of the present invention. Also, the low probability base value and the final low probability base value in this embodiment correspond to the information related to the game of the present invention. Further, the frame control display device 210 in this embodiment corresponds to the display means of the present invention. Also, the ball extraction switch 240 provided with the ball extraction button 240a in this embodiment corresponds to the first operation means of the present invention. Further, the management gaming machine P in this embodiment corresponds to the gaming machine of the present invention. Also, the error release switch 220 provided with the error release button 220a in this embodiment corresponds to the second operation means of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0212] P Management gaming machine U Dedicated unit 6a Number-of-balls-held display device 100 Main control board 200 Frame control board 210 Frame control display device 220 Error release switch 240 Ball extraction switch

Claims

【Claim 1】 A base, an opening / closing part capable of opening and closing the front of the base, a first control means capable of controlling the progress of the game, a plate-shaped second control means communicably connected to the first control means, capable of controlling the granting of game value accompanying the progress of the game, and capable of storing the effective game value amount which is the amount of the game value usable in the game, a display means connected to the second control means and capable of displaying specific information which is information calculated based on the game value used in the game, a first operation means and a second operation means connected to the second control means and capable of operating on the display of the display means, and comprising: an error occurs based on the establishment of a predetermined occurrence condition, when the error has not occurred and the operation by the first operation means has not been performed, the specific information is displayed on the display means, and when the operation by the first operation means has been performed, the effective game value amount is displayed on the display means, when the error has occurred and the operations by the first operation means and the second operation means have not been performed, a suggestion of the error is made on the display means, and when the operation by the first operation means has not been performed and the operation by the second operation means has been performed, the specific information is displayed on the display means, a gaming machine, the second control means is provided on the back surface of the opening / closing part, the first operation means and the second operation means are provided on the surface of the second control means, and the second operation means is provided at a position closer to the open end when the opening / closing part is opened than the first operation means.

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