JP4208700B2 - Slot machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a slot machine formed such that a reference point when counting the number of rotation steps of a stepping motor is handled as a result.

Conventionally, in a slot machine in which a lottery for winning a prize is performed and the stop control of the rotating reel is controlled by a control device based on the lottery result, a rotating reel having a start index is rotated using a stepping motor, and the start index is detected by a sensor. Based on the number of rotation steps after the detection, the current position of the symbol is detected, and control is performed to stop the predetermined symbol at the predetermined position.
Specifically, when the start switch is operated, the pulse transmission device of the control device transmits a pulse signal, and the stepping motor starts rotating. When the sensor detects the start index of the rotating reel, the pulse signal transmitted from the pulse transmitter is counted with reference to the time when the start index is detected. In addition, the control device stores the range of the number of steps corresponding to each symbol, that is, the number of steps from the reference and what symbol, with the rotation distance of the rotating reel rotated by one pulse as one step. ing. The step position at the time when the stop switch is operated is stored, and the symbol to which the step position belongs can be specified.

  Then, the symbol corresponding to the step position at the time of operating the stop switch is used as the reference stop symbol, and it is determined whether the symbol can be stopped at the corresponding position based on the stop table provided for each symbol according to the winning pattern. On the other hand, the symbol that may be stopped at a predetermined position is stopped at that position (so-called pull-in), and the symbol that should not be stopped at the predetermined position is not stopped at that position (so-called kicking).

However, in the conventional slot machine described above, the step position at the time of the stop switch operation is specified by the count value of the number of steps from the start index detection, and so-called pulling and kicking are set by the stop control corresponding to the pattern at the time of the stop switch operation. Therefore, as long as the stop switch is operated within a predetermined step range, stop control corresponding to the symbol is always performed. Therefore, there has been a certain limit even if it is attempted to create a game that reflects the timing of the stop switch operation, that is, the so-called skill of pushing, or a game that eliminates the effect of pushing.
Therefore, the invention described in the claims has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and the object of the invention is as follows.

  That is, the invention according to claim 1 is intended to provide a slot machine that can eliminate or change the effect of pressing according to a predetermined condition.

(Feature point)
The invention described in the claims has been made to achieve the above-described object, and features of the invention will be described below using the embodiments of the invention shown in the drawings.
In addition, a code | symbol shows the code | symbol used in embodiment of this invention, and does not limit the technical scope of this invention.
The drawing numbers also indicate the drawing numbers used in the embodiments of the invention, and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.
(Claim 1)
The invention described in claim 1 is characterized by the following points.

That is, the invention described in claim 1 includes a reel (40) having a plurality of symbols displayed around it, a reel unit (60) having a stepping motor for rotating the reel (40), and the reel unit. A start switch (30) for starting the drive of (60), a stop switch (50) for stopping the drive of the reel unit (60), the reel unit (60), the start switch (30) And a control device (20 ) for controlling the stop switch (50) , the control device (20) is a winning determination table (a winning determination table having a winning area for each winning item) extracted from the random number generating means (111). 113) and a winning lottery means (110) for drawing a winning lottery that determines a winning when a random number matches one of the winning areas, and when winning, a symbol corresponding to the winning is displayed on the effective winning line. Pull in to align When there is no winning, kicking is performed so that the symbols corresponding to the winning are not aligned on the effective winning line, and rotation stop control means (120) for controlling stop of the rotating reel (40) is provided. In the state where the plurality of rotating reels (40) are stopped, the winning is confirmed on the condition that the symbols won in the winning lottery are aligned on the effective winning line, and the medal is paid out when the winning is confirmed. Slot machine. The rotation stop control means (120) clears the number of steps counted before the recognition of a predetermined reference point, and measures the number of rotation steps of the stepping motor thereafter from the initial value “0”. The step position measuring means (123) for recognizing the step position corresponding to the rotating reel (40) and the number of rotation steps of the stepping motor as the entire area are displayed on the respective symbols displayed on the rotating reel (40). A table that defines a range (hereinafter referred to as step unit) from one corresponding step position to another step position, and specifies a reference step unit to be pulled or kicked to stop the rotating reel (40) A step unit table (122) for determining whether the step position at the time of operating the stop switch recognized by the step position measuring means (123) , To identify the corresponding step units on the step unit table (122) is a slot machine to stop the reels to set the pull-in or kick the symbols corresponding to the step unit (40). Then, the present invention is the the rotary reel (40), as a start index, a plurality of light emitting portions which are shifted in phase in the rotational direction is provided, wherein the step position measuring means (123), wherein the index sensor is either detects the start index by receiving light emitted from the start index, recognizes the step position at the time of detection as a reference point, by changing the light-emitting unit that emits light among the plurality of the light emitting portion, wherein the reels ( The position of the start index corresponding to the symbol 40) is changed so that the reference point recognized by the step position measuring means (123) can be changed .

Here, the “number of steps” is the number of pulse transmissions for the stepping motor to rotate, and “step” means the angle at which the rotating reel 40 rotates with one pulse. Specifically, “1 step” corresponds to an angle obtained by dividing the total number of steps of the stepping motor by 360. The “step position” is the number of steps from a predetermined reference point corresponding to the rotary reel 40, and the “step unit” is a unit serving as a reference for determining stop control, Specifically, it exists on a table that defines stop control (see FIG. 5).
The "stop control" is to stop the rotation of the rotary reel 40 based on the winning lottery result so as to stop a predetermined symbol at a predetermined position or not to stop at a predetermined position. Control using a stop table may be performed, or control may be performed while determining whether or not to stop.

In the present invention, a step unit composed of a predetermined number of steps corresponds to each symbol 61 of the rotating reel 40, and stop control corresponding to the symbol is provided for each step unit. When the stop switch 50 is operated, the step position measuring means 123 stores the step position, and the symbol corresponding to the step unit to which the step position belongs is referred to as a reference for stop control (hereinafter referred to as a reference stop symbol). ), And stop control corresponding to the symbol is performed.
At this time, the operation position of the stop switch 50 is recognized by counting the number of steps with a predetermined reference point (for example, the step position corresponding to the start index provided on the rotating reel 40) as zero. By changing the light emitting unit at the time of exit, the measured values up to the operation position of the stop switch 50 are different. As a result, a symbol different from that measured from the original reference point is specified as the reference stop symbol, and stop control is performed based on the symbol. Therefore, it cannot be said that it is necessarily effective even if the user looks at the design 61 of the rotary reel 40. On the other hand, a player who is not good at pushing may be advantageous.

Since this invention is comprised as mentioned above, there exists an effect as described below.
That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a slot machine capable of eliminating or changing the effect of pressing according to a predetermined condition.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Reference embodiments and embodiments for understanding the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Explanation of drawings)
1 to 7 show a reference form of the present invention, but are described for understanding the present invention. The present invention uses the description as it is except for the reference form in which the number of steps of the initial value is changed from “0” among the configurations of the reference form.
1 is a block diagram of input, control and output of the slot machine, FIG. 2 is a front view of the appearance of the slot machine, and FIGS. 3, 4, 6 and 7 show a schematic flow of the operation of the slot machine. is there. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a step unit table.

(Slot machine 10)
As shown in FIG. 2, the slot machine 10 includes a square box-shaped casing 11. The casing 11 is formed with a display window 12 facing the player side. Further, the display window 12 is formed with a symbol display window 13 through which the symbols 61 of the three rotating reels 40 can be seen. Has been. A medal slot 14 is provided at a substantially central end of the slot machine 10.
Although not shown in the figure, a control device 20 (see FIG. 1) for controlling the overall operation of the slot machine 10 is built in the slot machine 10.
(Control device 20)
Although not shown, the control device 20 is configured around a CPU and includes a ROM, a RAM, an I / O, and the like. Here, the number of CPUs is not limited to one and may be controlled by two or more CPUs. Further, the CPU, ROM, RAM, I / O, and the like may be integrated to form a one chip. Then, the CPU reads the program stored in the ROM, thereby configuring the following devices (1) and (2).

(1) Game control device 21
(2) Production control device 22
The game control device 21 is for controlling the rotation and stop of the rotary reel 40 by operating the start switch 30 and the stop switch 50. The rotation stop control means 120 is for stopping the predetermined symbol 61 of the rotary reel 40 at a predetermined position based on the winning lottery result. The effect control device 22 is for controlling a display device 66 such as a lamp or a speaker. Details of these will be described later.
Incidentally, the control device 20 may be composed of a main control device and a sub control device, and the game control device 21 may be arranged in the main control device, and the effect control device 22 may be arranged in the sub control device. In this way, various effects can be performed without changing the memory capacity of the game control device 21. Also, by exchanging only the sub-control device, it is possible to produce completely different effects even for the same model.

(Input stage)
As shown in FIG. 1, the following parts are connected to the input stage of the control device 20.
(1) Switch 15
(2) Bet switch 16
(3) Checkout switch 17
(4) Start switch 30
(5) Stop switch 50
The input stage is not limited to the parts (1) to (5) described above.

(On switch 15)
As shown in FIG. 2, the insertion switch 15 is a switch built under the medal insertion slot 14 and is used for detecting a inserted game medal.
(Bet switch 16)
As shown in FIG. 2, the bet switch 16 is a switch located below the rotary reel 40, and is for reducing the number of stored medals and replacing them with medals.
(Checkout switch 17)
As shown in FIG. 2, the settlement switch 17 is a switch located obliquely below the rotary reel, and is used for paying out the stored inserted medal.

(Start switch 30)
As shown in FIG. 2, the start switch 30 is a lever that is positioned obliquely below the rotary reel 40, on condition that a game medal is inserted or a bet switch 16 is inserted, or during "replay". This is for starting the driving of the reel unit 60 on condition that a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous game.
Here, “Replay” means that the “Replay” flag is established by the lottery of the winning lottery means 110, and the “Replay” symbol is on the effective winning line. Thus, in the next game, the game can be played again without newly inserting a game medal.

(Stop switch 50)
The stop switch 50 is for stopping the driving of the reel unit 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the stop switch 50 includes three switches corresponding to each rotary reel 40, and one stop switch 50 is arranged below each rotary reel 40. The operation of the stop switch 50 corresponding to the rotating reel 40 is set so that the corresponding rotating reel 40 stops rotating.
(Output stage)
As shown in FIG. 1, the following parts are connected to the output stage of the control device 20.

(1) Reel unit 60
(2) Hopper unit 65
(3) Display device 66
(4) Reference point display section 67
The output stage is not limited to the parts (1) to (4) described above.
(Reel unit 60)
The reel unit 60 includes three motors that are fixed or supported by a frame, and three rotary reels 40 that are fixed to the output shafts of the motors. Each rotating reel 40 includes a rotating drum made of a synthetic resin and a tape-like reel tape 42 attached around the rotating drum. On the outer peripheral surface of the reel tape 42, a plurality of (for example, 21) symbols 61 are displayed.

Although not shown in particular, each rotary reel 40 is provided with a start index, and the frame of the reel unit 60 is provided with a light shielding sensor (index sensor) for each rotary reel 40.
(Hopper unit 65)
Although not shown, the hopper unit 65 is for paying out medals to the player based on the game result.
(Display device 66)
The display device 66 performs various effects such as notifying the player of a prize or the like under the control of the effect control device 22. Specifically, the display device 66 includes a lamp 68 and a speaker 69. The lamp 68 and the speaker 69 are used for notifying a winning or the like by lighting or blinking of the light emitter and generating a winning sound.

(Reference point display section 67)
As shown in FIG. 2, the reference point display unit 67 is a lamp provided below each rotary reel 40, and is used for measuring the number of rotation steps of the rotary reel 40 under the control of the reference point notification unit 140. The position on the rotating reel 40 is informed of the reference point, that is, the start index.
The reference point display unit 67 may be provided at a place other than the above, for example, on the rotary reel 40. Specifically, the reel tape 42 is marked, or a special symbol is provided at the start index position.

Further, the means for notifying the reference point is not limited to visual means. For example, when the reference point comes to a predetermined position, it may be notified by a dial tone.
(Game control device 21)
Next, the game control device 21 will be described in detail.
The game control device 21 is for controlling the rotation and stop of the rotary reel 40 by operating the start switch 30 and the stop switch 50. The game control device 21 functions as the following means (1) to (4).
(1) Normal game control means 70
(2) Special game control means 80
(3) Winning lottery means 110
(4) Rotation stop control means 120
The game control device 21 is not limited to the above-described means (1) to (4), and may include other means.

(Normal game control means 70)
The normal game control means 70 is for causing a normal game to be performed.
That is, when the start switch 30 is operated on the condition that the medal is inserted or the bet switch 16 is inserted, or when a predetermined time has elapsed from the previous game at the time of “Replay”, the reel unit 60 is driven, The rotating reels 40 start to rotate.
Thereafter, when one of the stop switches 50 is operated, the rotation of the corresponding rotary reel 40 is stopped.
When all three stop switches 50 have been operated, all the rotations of the three rotary reels 40 are stopped. At this time, when a predetermined symbol 61 stops on the effective pay line of the display window 12, a predetermined number of medals are paid out via the hopper unit 65. In addition, you may credit instead of paying out a medal.

  The prizes involve paying out game medals, and there is no small prize winning that gives the player profits, special prizes that give the player even more profit than this small prize winning, and no game medal payouts, It is equipped with “Replay” that allows a game to be played again without newly inserting a game medal. When the lottery result is any winning, a winning flag corresponding to the winning is established. Then, when the lottery result is a special prize, a special prize flag is established, and during the special prize flag is established, the combination of the stop symbol 61 of the rotating reel 40 of the reel unit 60 is a predetermined special prize. The winning is determined on the condition that the symbol 61 (for example, three “7” s are arranged on the effective winning line) is matched, and the player is allowed to play a special game advantageous to the player. On the other hand, if the special winning flag is established by lottery, but the combination of the stop symbol 61 of the rotating reel 40 does not match the special winning symbol 61, the right to establish the special winning flag is carried over to the subsequent games. Is set. Note that the winning combination flag for the small role is not carried over to the next game with the right to establish the winning flag if the winning is not confirmed in the game in which the winning flag is established.

  Whether or not the corresponding winning symbol 61 can be aligned on the effective winning line while any winning flag is established depends on the timing of the stop switch 50 when the rotation speed of the rotary reel 40 is constant. It is. Specifically, since the rotary reel 40 is set to stop within 190 ms after operating the stop switch 50, it can be stopped as it is after operating the stop switch 50, or can be stopped within 190 ms. When the corresponding winning symbol 61 is included in the retractable symbols 61 on the circumference of the rotary reel 40, for example, four consecutive retractable symbols 61 from the stop symbol, the time until the stop is stopped. Delaying the time, the rotating reel 40 draws the winning symbol 61 on the effective winning line and stops. On the other hand, when the corresponding winning symbol 61 is not included in the four retractable symbols 61, the winning symbol 61 cannot be drawn on the effective winning line and stopped.

(Special game control means 80)
The special game control means 80 is for causing the player to perform a special game advantageous based on the lottery result of the lottery means.
The special game is roughly divided into the following games.
(1) Specific introduction game (BB game)
(2) Specific game (RB game)
(3) Special winning game (JAC game)
Note that a specific game, for example, an RB game, may be performed during a specific introduction game, for example, a BB game, or may be performed independently when not in a BB game. The specific winning game, so-called JAC game, is played during the RB game. Further, the special game is not limited to the games (1) to (3) described above.

As shown in FIG. 1, the special game control means 80 is roughly divided into the following means.
(1) Specific introduction game control means 91 (BB game control means 90)
(2) Specific game control means 101 (RB game control means 100)
(Specific introduction game control means 91)
The specific introduction game control means 91 is for controlling the BB game.
Specifically, in a normal game, although not shown, for example, when three symbols 61 such as “7” are arranged on the effective pay line, for example, 15 medals are paid out through the hopper unit 65. At this time, the BB game is started.

When shifting to the BB game, it starts by inserting a maximum of three medals as in a normal game. When the rotation of each of the three rotating reels is stopped, whether or not winning symbols are aligned on the effective winning line is determined. A medal is paid out.
Therefore, during the BB game, a lottery including a small role is performed every time as in a normal game. However, when the specific winning symbols for shifting to the RB game are arranged on the effective winning line during the BB game, the game shifts to the RB game thereafter.
Normally, during the BB game, the transition to the RB game is performed, for example, up to three times. Therefore, after the first RB game is finished, the same as the normal game as described above. A lottery and control are performed.

In the BB game, the BB game is ended when the RB game in the BB game is completed at a predetermined maximum number of times, for example, 3 times, or the normal game in the BB game is ended at a predetermined maximum number of times, for example, 30 times at the maximum. It is.
(Specific game control means 101)
The specific game control means 101 is for controlling the RB game.
Specifically, when a transition is made to the RB game, one medal is inserted, and a specific winning game is performed in which winning is confirmed when a predetermined symbol 61 of the rotating reel 40 is aligned on the center line of the display window 12. It is. In the RB game, the specific winning game whether or not to win can be performed 12 times at the maximum, of which 8 times can be confirmed at the maximum. In other words, the RB game is ended when a maximum of 8 winnings are confirmed or when a maximum of 12 specific winning games are completed.

(Winning lottery means 110)
The winning lottery means 110 performs a lottery for determining whether or not to win based on a predetermined lottery probability. Then, a winning flag is established when the lottery result by the winning lottery means 110 is a winning, and on the condition that the combination of the stop symbols of the rotating reel 40 matches a predetermined winning symbol while the winning flag is established. It is set so that a winning is confirmed and a profit such as paying out medals or special games is given to the player.
As shown in FIG. 1, the winning lottery means 110 is roughly divided into the following means.
(1) Random number generator 111
(2) Random number extraction means 112
(3) Winning determination table 113
(4) Determination means 114
The winning lottery means 110 is not limited to the above (1) to (4).

(Random number generator 111)
The random number generating means 111 generates a random number for winning lottery within a predetermined area (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal number).
(Random number extraction means 112)
The random number extraction unit 112 extracts a random number generated by the random number generation unit 111 under a predetermined condition (for example, operation of the start switch 30). This extracted random number is used as extracted random number data.
Here, as the “random number generating means”, in addition to the means that can generate random numbers by means of an average sampling method as a soft random number, a “random number generating means” is configured by using a counter that adds numbers in a certain range one by one at high speed. You can also For example, a counter in which numbers in the range of 0 to 16383 are sequentially repeated about 7 million times per second can be considered. The “random number extraction means” reads the counter number at the timing when the start switch is pressed.

When formed in this way, the “random number generating means” does not generate random numbers, but the numbers extracted by the “random number extracting means” are distributed as if they were random numbers. As described above, a means for obtaining a number indicating a distribution such as a random number as a result is considered to be included in the “random number generating means” or the “random number extracting means”.
(Winning determination table 113)
The winning determination table 113 has a winning area for each winning item in the entire random number area taken by the random number generator 111.
(Determination means 114)
The judging means 114 is based on the extracted random number data extracted by the random number extracting means 112 and the lottery probability data in the winning judgment table 113, and includes a winning area consisting of winning areas for each winning item in the entire random number area taken by the random number generating means 111. The determination area data is collated and a winning corresponding to the winning area to which the extracted random number data belongs is determined.

(Rotation stop control means 120)
Next, the rotation stop control means 120 will be described in detail.
The rotation stop control means 120 is for performing control for stopping or not stopping the predetermined symbol 61 of the rotary reel 40 at a predetermined position. The rotation stop control device 120 has the following means (1) to (4) as shown in FIG.
(1) Stop table 121
(2) Step unit table 122
(3) Step position measuring means 123
(4) Condition determining means 124
The rotation stop control means 120 is not limited to the above-described means (1) to (4), and may include other means.

(Stop table 121)
The stop table 121 defines how many steps from a predetermined step unit to rotate to stop the rotating reel for each step unit according to a predetermined condition.
Specifically, when the winning flag is established, the stop position is determined in advance on the table so that the symbols corresponding to the winning flag are aligned on the effective winning line. It is what it has. In addition, when the winning flag is not established, the stop position is determined in advance on the table so that other winning symbols are not aligned on the effective winning line, and a kind of so-called kick setting is provided. is there.

  The stop table may be created assuming that the stop switch 50 is operated at every position for each step unit, but since all combinations must be made for each step unit, the number of tables is limited. Become enormous. Therefore, stop position candidates may be determined according to the stop table, and stop symbols may be determined while judging the validity of the candidates. The stop control in this case is provided with a bit corresponding to the winning symbol divided into a winning symbol to be stopped and a symbol that should not be stopped, and the stop position candidate is valid based on the data stored in the bit. In such a case, the vehicle is stopped at that position, and when it is not appropriate, another appropriate position is determined and stopped.

(Step unit table 122)
The step unit table 122 defines a predetermined step unit with the total number of steps of the stepping motor as the entire area. The step unit table 122 is for acquiring the stop position on the stop table corresponding to the step position when the stop switch 50 is operated.
That is, the total number of steps (for example, 504 steps) of the stepping motor during one rotation of the rotating reel 40 divided by the number of symbols 61 (for example, 21) is the number of steps constituting one step unit. The step unit corresponding to the predetermined symbol 61 is specified according to the number of steps from the reference point. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the range of the step positions 24 to 48 is a unit corresponding to the symbol T.

Here, the step unit table does not match the step unit corresponding to the symbol when the step position is allocated on the rotating reel 40, that is, the step unit defined in the symbol determination table . Note that the symbol determination table specifies, for each symbol 61, the number of steps from the reference point in the range of steps to specify the current position of the rotating reel 40. It is. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5B , the number of steps is shifted in the rotation direction with respect to the symbol determination table (FIG. 5A) . This takes into account the time from when the stop switch 50 is operated until the symbol stops facing the front, including the inertia of the rotary reel 40.
A special step unit that does not coincide with the symbol corresponding step unit may be provided as the step unit. For example, a step unit set over a plurality of symbol corresponding step units or a step unit set by dividing one symbol corresponding step unit is included. By providing such an irregular step unit that does not correspond to the symbol, when the operation position of the stop switch 50 belongs within the range of the step unit, control unrelated to the symbol corresponding to the stop switch operation position is performed. This is performed (for example, a stop table corresponding to the next symbol is selected), and the effect of pushing can be eliminated.

(Step position measuring means 123)
The step position measuring means 123 counts the number of rotation steps of the stepping motor from the reference point, and compares the count value with the step unit table to recognize a predetermined step position. The symbol determination table defines for each symbol 61 the number of steps from the reference point in the range from what step to how many steps.
Specifically, the step position measuring unit 123 includes a counting unit and a determining unit, although not particularly illustrated.

The counting means counts pulse signals transmitted from the pulse transmission device in the control device 20. Specifically, when the rotating reel 40 starts to rotate, the index sensor is turned on, and a detection signal is issued when the start index is first sensed. The counting means that has received the signal starts counting the number of steps using the step position at the time of receiving the signal as a reference point.
The determination means compares the count value at a predetermined time, for example, when the stop switch 50 is operated with the step unit table, and recognizes the step position when the stop switch is operated.
(Reference point changing means 130)
Further, the step position measuring means 123 has a reference point changing means 130 as shown in FIG. The reference point changing means 130 produces an effect as if the reference position when the step position measuring means 123 counts the number of steps is changed according to a predetermined condition.

Specifically, the reference point changing unit 130 adds or subtracts a predetermined number of steps n when detecting the start index in accordance with the determination of the condition determining unit 125, which will be described later. It produces an effect.
The effect as if the reference point has been changed can be performed as follows.
The counting means normally counts the total number of steps of the stepping motor from 0 to 503, assuming that the count value at the time of detecting the start index is zero (that is, n = zero). That is, after counting up to 503, the count value is cleared and returned to zero, and the count value of the next step is set to 1.

  However, if, for example, 24 is added to the count value after clearing when the start index is detected (step number is 24 clear), the position that is originally zero becomes 24 on the count. Then, the position which is 480 originally becomes 0, and after that, it is counted from 1 to 23 and reaches the start index. That is, the step position measuring means 123 recognizes the reference point by moving forward by 24 steps. On the other hand, when the start index is detected, for example, 24 is subtracted from the count value (step number minus 24 clear), the step position measuring means 123 recognizes the reference point with a delay of 24 steps.

In this way, when the start index is detected, the count value is cleared to + n or -n to create a situation as if the reference index has already passed or will pass through the start index. The effect is as if the reference point was changed without changing the position of the start index.
Next, stop control when it is handled as if the reference point has been changed will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 5A schematically shows a symbol determination table. In the figure, the number on the left indicates the step position, and the alphabet indicates the range of the symbol. The reference point is the position of the start index. 5B and 5C schematically show the step unit table corresponding to FIG. 5A. In the figure, the alphabet indicates a step unit corresponding to each symbol.

First, the case where stop control is performed using the reference point as the step position corresponding to the start index will be described.
When the stop switch 50 is operated, the determining means recognizes the step position X at the time of operating the stop switch from the count value of the counting means at that time. And in order to specify the step unit to which the said step position X belongs, it compares with a step unit table. That is, as shown in FIG. 5B, the step unit to which the step position X of the x step from the reference point 0 belongs is recognized as the reference stop step unit. In this case, the step unit R is authorized. Therefore, a stop position corresponding to the step unit R of the stop table 121 is acquired, and stop control is performed according to the stop position.

Next, when stop control is performed by shifting the reference point by a predetermined number of steps from the step position corresponding to the start index, the following is performed.
First, when the predetermined condition for clearing the step number n is satisfied, the reference point changing unit 130 adds a predetermined count value when the start index is detected, and the counting unit calculates the step number from the count value. I will count. When the stop switch 50 is operated, as in the case described above, the step position X at the time of operating the stop switch is recognized, and the step unit is specified. However, since a predetermined count value is added to the reference count value, the recognized reference stop step unit is different from the case described above.

For example, if 24 steps corresponding to one symbol are added (the number of steps is 24), 24 steps have already elapsed when passing the reference point on the count, and the stop switch 50 is operated at the x step from the reference point. In this case, the count is treated as if the stop switch 50 was operated at the step position X ′ of x + 24 shown in FIG. That is, the original reference point 0 is treated as if the step position 0 ′ (step position is 24 ) shifted in the direction opposite to the 24-step rotation direction is the reference point. Then, the counting means recognizes the step unit to which the step position X ′ of the ( x + 24) th step from the reference point 0 belongs as the reference stop step unit. In this case, the step unit Q is authorized. Therefore, a stop position corresponding to the step unit Q is acquired, and stop control is performed according to the stop position.
Above it has dealt with the case of adding a predetermined number of steps, to subtract a predetermined number of steps in reverse is not particularly shown, so that the reference point is treated as shifted in the direction of rotation.

In this way, by changing the position of the reference point, different stop tables are selected and different stop control is performed even if the eye is pushed at the same position. That is, in the normal, if the observation push aimed at symbols R, is applied stop control symbol R even able to draw a pattern R, when the reference point changes, based stop control for other symbols In some cases, the design will not be able to be drawn in as usual.
Note that when shifting the reference point in the rotational direction (i.e. - when the n) hardly draws early design aimed not press the stop switch 50. On the other hand, shifting the reference point in the direction opposite to the rotation (that is, + n) is advantageous for a player who seems to be late.

By the way, the reference point changing means 130 can determine the n value when changing the reference point as follows.
(1) Fixed n value is determined in advance. For example, when the condition is met, 12 steps are always added or subtracted.
(2) Determined according to the winning lottery result For example, the n value should be added if the lottery result is winning, subtracted if lost, added if small winning, or subtracted if special winning such as BB. Can do. Also, the number of steps to be added or subtracted can be determined according to the lottery result, such as 10 steps if the lottery result is a win and 24 steps if the lottery is lost.

(3) Determination corresponding to a specific game period For example, 12 steps can be added during the BB game, and 12 steps can be subtracted during the RB game.
(4) Determined by game results For example, when n steps are added (shifted in the rotation direction), the number of winning decisions or payout medals, and when n steps are subtracted (shifted in the reverse direction) After memorizing the number of paid-out medals and grasping the tendency of the player's popularity, select the n step clear with the better game results, or conversely with the n clear step with the poor game results You can choose.

Further, the number n of steps to be adjusted may be determined according to the game results.
(5) Determination by lottery Each time a predetermined condition is met, a lottery is performed to determine the n value. Or you may determine by said lottery also regarding said (1) thru | or (4).
(Embodiment of the present invention)
In the present invention, when the step position measuring means 123 clears the number of steps n, the reference point is handled as a result of being changed, but the reference point is changed by moving the start index. You can also.

For example, although not particularly illustrated, a plurality of light emitting units whose phases are shifted in the rotation direction are provided as the start index, and the index sensor detects the start index by receiving a light beam emitted from the start index. The step position measuring means 123 recognizes the step position at the time of detection as a reference point. Then, in response to a predetermined condition, by changing the light-emitting unit to the plurality of light emitting portions sac Chi emission, to change the position of the start index corresponding to the symbols of the reels 40, wherein said step position measuring means 123 recognizes The reference point can be changed.
Alternatively, a plurality of index sensors may be provided, and the reference point may be changed depending on which index sensor detects the start index.
(Condition determining means 124)
The condition determining means 124 is for determining whether or not the game situation or the like meets a predetermined condition for clearing the number n of steps, when the operation of the start switch 30 is determined.

Examples of conditions that the condition determining means 124 determines include the following.
(1) Winning lottery result The n value is changed based on the lottery result of the winning lottery means 110. For example, the n value can be changed when the lottery result is lost, or the n value can be changed when a predetermined winning is achieved.
In this way, the player can know that the player is out of play even if he or she makes a mistake, or that he / she wins any combination, and can make a winning announcement.
(2) Presence / absence of winning decision The n value is changed depending on whether or not winning is confirmed at the time of winning. For example, the next game after winning is confirmed, the n value can be changed, or the n value can be changed within a certain period, for example, when the number of confirmed winnings in 30 games is more than a certain value. In this way, it is difficult for the player who has a lot of winnings to confirm.

Further, the n value may be changed when it is determined that a winning is not confirmed in one game. For example, if a winning symbol cannot be pulled in at the first stop of the rotating reel 40 at the time of winning a prize, it is determined that no winning is made, but in that case, the n value is changed for the other non-stop rotating reels 40. Is. In this way, it is possible to notify the player that there is no confirmed winning.
(3) Number of acquired medals The n value is changed according to the difference between the number of inserted medals and the number of paid out medals. For example, the n value can be changed when the difference number exceeds a certain value, and the n value can be returned to the original value (that is, n = zero) when the difference value becomes less than a certain value. In this way, the player who has more medals gets more difficult to hit.

Conversely, when the payout medal is less than a certain value, the n value is changed, and when the payout medal is greater than a certain value, the n value is returned to the original value.
(4) Specific game period A game period in which the n value is changed is provided. The specific game period may be based on a predetermined prize, such as during a BB game or RB game, or may be 30 games after the end of the BB game, or the n value is changed every 50 normal games. You may make it do.
(5) Lottery result The n value is changed based on the lottery result performed during the game. For example, each time the start switch is operated or after the end of a predetermined game period such as a BB game, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to change the n value, and the change can be made according to the result. Further, the above (1) to (4) may be determined by lottery.

(Operation of slot machine 10)
Next, an outline of the operation of the slot machine having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.
First, in step 100 shown in FIG. 3, when the start switch 30 is operated, the start switch 30 is turned ON. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 101.
In step 101, the lottery process is performed by the winning lottery means 110. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 102.
In step 102, rotation of the rotary reel 40 is started. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 103.

In step 103, when the stop switch 50 is operated, the stop switch 50 is turned ON. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 104.
In step 104, rotation stop processing for the rotary reel 40 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 105.
In step 105, it is determined whether or not the operation of the stop switch 50 corresponding to the three rotary reels 40 has been performed. If it is determined that the stop switch 50 corresponding to the three rotary reels 40 has been operated, the process proceeds to the next step 106.
In step 106, it is determined whether or not the winning symbols corresponding to the winning flag are aligned on the effective winning line while the winning flag is established, that is, whether or not the winning is confirmed. If it is determined that the winning is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step 107.

In step 107, medals corresponding to winning symbols are paid out. Then, the game ends.
If it is determined in step 105 that the stop switch 50 corresponding to the three rotary reels 40 has not been operated, the process returns to step 103.
If it is determined in step 106 that no winning has been confirmed, the process jumps to step 107 and the game ends.
The lottery process in step 101 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step 200, random numbers are extracted by random number extraction means 112 from random numbers generated by random number generation means 111 of winning lottery means 110. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 201.

In step 201, the extracted random number is stored inside the random number extraction means 112. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 202.
In step 202, the determination means 114 compares the extracted random number with the winning determination area data in the winning determination table 113. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 203.
In step 203, the determination means 114 determines which winning area of the winning determination table 113 the extracted random number is included in, and the evaluation of the lottery process is determined. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 204.
In step 204, the stop table 121 corresponding to the evaluation is selected. That is, when the lottery result is a win, a winning symbol stop table is selected, and when a lottery is lost, a lost table is selected. Then, the lottery process ends.

Here, the measurement of the number of steps after starting the rotation of the rotary reel 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
First, after the rotating reel 40 starts rotating, in step 300, it is determined whether or not the condition determining means 124 satisfies a condition for changing the reference point. If the condition is not met, the process proceeds to the next step 301.
In step 301, the count is set to 0 simultaneously with the reference point detection. That is, the count means of the step position measuring means 123 that has received the start index detection signal from the index sensor clears the count value to zero. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 304.

In step 304, counting of the number of steps is started. Specifically, the counting means of the step position measuring means 123 counts the pulse signal transmitted by the pulse transmitting device.
If it is determined in step 300 that the condition for changing the reference point is satisfied, the process proceeds to step 302.
In step 302, the n value is determined. Specifically, the reference point changing unit 130 determines whether to increment the count value by + n or -n when a start index is detected based on a predetermined condition. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 303.

In step 303, the count value is set to 0 + n or 503-n simultaneously with the reference point detection. That is, the reference point changing means 130 adds or subtracts n to the initial count value (zero), and shifts the reference point on the count from the position of the start index. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 304.
Next, the rotation stop process of the rotary reel 40 in step 104 described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
First, in step 400, the step position when the stop switch is operated is stored. Specifically, the step position measuring means 123 that has received the stop switch operation signal stores the count value of the counting means as the step position. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 401.

In step 401, a step unit is specified. That is, the determination unit of the step position measurement unit 123 compares the step position stored in step 400 with the step unit table to determine which step unit the step position belongs to. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 402.
In step 402, comparison with the stop table 121 is performed. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 403.
In step 403, a stop position corresponding to the step unit is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to next Step 404.

In step 404, based on the acquired stop position, a rotation stop process of the rotary reel 40 is performed.
(Other embodiments regarding stop control)
By the way, the stop control described above as the embodiment of the present invention is performed using the stop table. However, the stop control can also be performed without using the stop table. In this case, when any winning is won in the lottery, control is performed so that symbols corresponding to the winning (winning symbols) stop at a predetermined position as much as possible, and other symbols do not stop.

Specifically, the bit corresponding to the winning symbol is provided separately for the winning symbol that should be stopped and the symbol that should not be stopped. First, control is performed so as not to stop symbols that should not be stopped, and then control is performed to stop symbols that should be stopped. These controls are performed based on the data stored in the aforementioned bits.
In the case of this control method, a predetermined symbol kicking and a predetermined symbol pull-in are set in step 204 described with reference to FIG.
Then, the reel rotation stop process in step 104 shown in FIG. 3 is as shown in the flow of FIG.

In step 500 in FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not the kick setting has been achieved for a predetermined symbol. And when it determines with the setting of kicking of a predetermined symbol not being achieved, it progresses to the following step 501.
In step 501, the rotary reel 40 is rotated by one symbol. That is, kicking is performed for one symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the next step 502.
In step 502, it is determined whether or not the number of symbols rotated by the rotary reel 40 by one symbol described above corresponds to the fourth symbol after the stop switch 50 is operated. Then, after operating the stop switch 50, if the number of symbols shifted by rotating the rotary reel 40 by one symbol is the fourth, the process proceeds to the next step 503.

In step 503, the rotation of the rotary reel 40 is stopped. Thus, the operation of the slot machine 10 from the medal insertion to the rotation stop of the rotary reel 40 is completed.
If it is determined in step 500 that the predetermined symbol kick setting has been achieved, the process proceeds to the next step 504.
In step 504, it is determined whether or not the drawing is set for any symbol. If it is determined that the drawing is set for any of the symbols, the process proceeds to the next step 505.
In step 505, it is determined whether the pull-in setting has been achieved. If it is determined that the pull-in setting has been achieved, the process proceeds to the next step 503.

If it is determined in step 504 that no drawing is set for any symbol, the process proceeds to step 503.
If it is determined in step 505 that the pull-in setting has not been achieved, the process proceeds to step 501.
In step 502, after the stop switch 50 is operated, if the number of symbols shifted by rotating the rotary reel 40 one by one is not the fourth, the process returns to step 500.
In the above-described embodiment, the stop processing of the rotary reel 40 has been described in steps 501 to 505. However, this example is an example of so-called minimum pull-in stop control, and conversely as maximum pull-in stop control. good.

(Production control device 22)
Next, the production control device 22 will be described in detail.
The effect control device 22 is used to control the effects associated with the game, such as making a sound from the speaker 69 or blinking the lamp 68 in accordance with the progress of the game, based on various signals from the game control device 21. Is.
As shown in FIG. 1, the effect control device 22 includes reference point notification means 140, but the effect control device 22 is not limited to this, and may include other means.
(Reference point notification means 140)
The reference point notifying means 140 notifies the player of the position on the rotating reel of the reference point when the step position measuring means 123 of the rotation stop control means 120 counts the number of steps. Is.

That is, the reference point notifying means 140 has a predetermined point on the reference point indicator 67 provided corresponding to the rotary reel 40 when a portion corresponding to the reference point in one rotary reel 40 is located at a predetermined place. Is displayed.
Specifically, it is possible to notify that the reference point has passed a predetermined position by receiving a signal in which the index sensor senses the start index and causing the lamp of the reference point indicator 67 to emit light.
In this way, by notifying the reference point, the player can use it as a guide for pushing. However, if the step number n is cleared when the reference point passes, the notified reference point may not match the step number 0. In such a case, even if a normal eye is pressed, it is shifted, so that an advanced user can know the change of the reference point.

Further, the reference point notification may be performed constantly, but may be performed according to a predetermined condition. For example, notification may be made only when the winning lottery result is a win or only during a specific game period.
Furthermore, you may provide the case where false notification is made. For example, during the period of reporting the reference point, the reference point display 67 is turned on at a predetermined rate, shifted from the sensing signal of the index sensor.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing input, control and output of the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an external front view showing the slot machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is an embodiment of the present invention and is a flow showing an outline of the operation of the slot machine. It is an embodiment of the present invention, and is a flow showing an outline of lottery processing among operations of the slot machine. It is an embodiment of the present invention and is a schematic diagram of reference point change. It is an embodiment of the present invention, and is a flowchart showing an outline of step count counting in the operation of the slot machine. It is an embodiment of the present invention, and is a flowchart showing an outline of rotation stop processing of a rotating reel in the operation of the slot machine. It is other embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a flow which shows the outline of a rotation stop process of a rotation reel among operation | movement of a slot machine.

Explanation of symbols

10 slot machine 11 chassis
12 Display window 13 Symbol display window
15 Insert switch 16 Bet switch
17 Checkout switch 20 Control device
21 Game control device 22 Production control device
30 Start switch 40 turn reel
42 Reel tape 50 Stop switch
60 reel unit 65 hopper unit
66 Display 70 Normal game control means
80 Special game control means 91 Specially introduced game control means
101 Specific game control means 110 Winning lottery means
111 Random number generator 112 Random number extractor
113 Winning judgment table 114 Judging means
120 Rotation stop control means
130 Reference point changing means 140 Reference point notifying means

Claims (1)

A rotating reel having a plurality of symbols displayed around it, and a reel unit having a stepping motor for rotating the rotating reel;
A start switch for starting the driving of the reel unit;
A stop switch for stopping the driving of the reel unit;
A control device for controlling the reel unit, the start switch and the stop switch ;
The control device compares a random number extracted from the random number generating means with a winning determination table having a winning area for each winning item, and performs a lottery of winning to determine a winning when the random number matches any winning area Lottery means;
When winning, draw in so that the symbols corresponding to the winning line are aligned on the effective winning line, and when not winning, kick out so that the symbols corresponding to the winning line are not aligned on the effective winning line, and the rotating reel Rotation stop control means for controlling the stop of
A slot machine in which a winning is confirmed on the condition that the winning lotteries are arranged on the effective winning line with a plurality of rotating reels stopped, and medals are paid out when the winning is confirmed. And
The rotation stop control means includes
When recognizing a predetermined reference point, the number of steps counted before that time is cleared, and the number of subsequent rotation steps of the stepping motor is measured from the initial value “0”, and the step position corresponding to the rotation reel is recognized. Step position measuring means for
A table defining a range (hereinafter referred to as a step unit) from one step position to another step position corresponding to each symbol displayed on the rotating reel with the number of rotation steps of the stepping motor as a whole area; A step unit table for specifying a reference step unit for pulling or kicking to stop the rotating reel;
From the step position at the time of the stop switch operation recognized by the step position measuring means, the corresponding step unit on the step unit table is specified, and drawing or kicking is set for the symbol corresponding to the step unit, and the rotating reel is In the slot machine to be stopped,
The rotating reel is provided with a plurality of light emitting portions whose phases are shifted in the rotating direction as a start index,
The step position measuring means, the index sensor detects the start index by the receiving light emitted by the start index of the one, recognizing the step position at the time of detection as a reference point,
By changing the light-emitting unit that emits light among the plurality of the light emitting portion, said position of the start index corresponding to the symbols of the reels change, the step position measuring means has a changeable reference point recognized A featured slot machine.