JP2002143372A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine having an operation device capable of adjusting an operation state of the game machine by easy operation, and to provide a game machine having an operation device for allowing a game player himself to freely set an operation state of the game machine. SOLUTION: In this game machine 1 having a game board, the game machine 1 is provided with the operation device 31 for controlling the operation state of the game machine 1, and the operation device 31 is formed of a touch panel 33 for performing control corresponding to a position by detecting the position touched with an object.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine characterized by operating means for controlling an operation state of the gaming machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a gaming machine provided with a gaming board on a front surface thereof, for example, a slot machine, a pachinko machine and the like can be exemplified. Usually, in this type of gaming machine, an operation unit for playing a game is provided on the front of the gaming machine. Hereinafter, the gaming machine in the present description will be described in detail as a slot machine. The slot machine is provided with a plurality (usually three) of rotatable reels on which a plurality of symbols are displayed and rotatable at positions visible to the player, and a start switch (start lever) for rotating the reels. Is located below the rotating reel.

Also, stop switches for stopping the rotation of the rotating reels in order to align the symbols displayed on the rotating reels are provided one by one below the rotating reels corresponding to the number of the rotating reels. In addition, a medal holding number counter for detecting and counting inserted medals, a medal investment setting switch (hereinafter referred to as a BET switch) for reducing the number of stored medals and replacing them with inserted medals, and a medal investment number. A medal investment switch (hereinafter, referred to as a MAX BET switch) set at the highest limit and a payment switch for paying out the stored medals are provided collectively below the rotating reel.

[0004] These switches are formed by a button-type switch for mechanically operating a contact switch or a button-type switch having an optical detection switch.

[0005]

However, the button switch of the mechanical contact type or the button switch provided with the optical detection switch provided in the conventional operation unit is a predetermined item as described above, that is, the button switch described above. Only the operation corresponding to the switches can be performed. Thereby,
There is a problem that all models are similar and the game itself lacks interest.

Further, in the case of the conventional mechanical contact type button switch, it is impossible to avoid deterioration of the contact portion of the contacting switch, and the operability of the mechanical contact type button switch is reduced due to poor contact or the like. There were also problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve such a problem in a conventional game machine, and a game machine provided with an operation device capable of adjusting an operation state of the game machine by an easy operation. It is an object to provide a machine.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine provided with an operating device that allows the player to freely set the operating state of the gaming machine.

[0009]

In order to achieve the above object, a game machine of the present invention employs the following means. That is, the present invention provides a gaming machine having a gaming board, wherein the gaming machine is provided with operating means for controlling an operation state of the gaming machine, and the operating means detects a position touched by an object, and Is formed by a touch panel that performs control corresponding to.

The gaming machine according to the present invention comprises the above-mentioned essential components, but is established even when the components are specifically as follows. The specific constituent elements include: a position detection sensor in which the operating means is provided with a plurality of electrodes and detects a touched position of an arbitrary object; and a position detection sensor connected to each of the plurality of electrodes and detected by the position detection sensor. And a control means for changing an operation state of the gaming machine based on a command signal corresponding to the position of the electrode.

As described above, by using the touch panel as the operation means, a plurality of controls relating to the gaming machine can be performed by one device. In addition, as described above, despite the fact that a plurality of controls can be performed by one device, the configuration of the operation means is simplified, and the productivity and productivity can be improved.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the operating means is provided on the front side of the gaming machine. Further, the operation means is provided on the game board.

[0013] Thus, it becomes possible for the player himself to set the operation state relating to the game. further,
Since the operation means in the present invention is provided on the game board for playing a game, the player can operate the operation device with less movement of the line of sight even during the game.

Further, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the operating means has a plurality of functions for controlling operating states of a plurality of types of devices of the gaming machine.

This allows the player himself to control the operating state of the gaming machine. Of course, it is also possible to control the gaming machine so that the player himself / herself enjoys the game.

Further, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the operating means has an operating area of a predetermined space. Further, the operation means is characterized in that it is divided into at least two operation areas.

Thus, the operation means can expand the operation area corresponding to the control item. This leads to an improvement in the operability of the operation means.

Further, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the operation means changes a position and a size of the operation area.

This makes it possible to improve the operability of the operating means and the effect of the effect.

Further, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the number of the operation areas changes in the operation area. Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the operation area is provided corresponding to the number of control items for controlling the operation state of the gaming machine, the content of the control items can be freely changed. I do.

Thus, the function of the operation means can be given a wide range, and various controls relating to the gaming machine can be performed. Also, in one operation area,
Since various control items for controlling the operation state of the gaming machine can be freely corresponded, not only functions set at the time of manufacturing the gaming machine but also other functions can be easily added.

Further, the gaming machine of the present invention is provided with a sound output device for outputting a sound, and the operation means controls the sound output device. In particular,
The operating means in the gaming machine includes: a volume adjusting means for adjusting a volume of a sound emitted from the sound output device during a game; and a sound type adjusting means for adjusting a type of sound emitted from the sound output device during a game. It is characterized by having.

[0024] This allows the player to select a sound that suits the player's preference by himself / herself, so that it is possible to enhance the effect produced by hearing. Along with this, the game can be made more interesting.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is characterized in that a display device for displaying an image on the gaming board of the gaming machine is provided, and the operation means changes the image on the display device. . In particular, the operation unit includes an image brightness adjustment unit that controls brightness of an image projected by the display device, and an image type selection unit that selects a type of the image displayed by the display device. Features.

This makes it possible for the player himself to select a luminance suitable for the player's preference and to improve the visual effect. In addition, since the visibility is improved, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to feel tired even when playing the game for a long time.

The display device in the gaming machine of the present invention may be a liquid crystal display or electroluminescence (hereinafter referred to as E).
L).

Thus, it is possible to change the image displayed on the display device in accordance with the operation by the operation means in the present invention. Further, an image displayed on the liquid crystal display or the EL display can be displayed in association with an operation item operated by the operation means.

Further, the gaming machine of the present invention comprises a rotatable rotating body having a plurality of symbols displayed at positions visible to the player, and the operating means controls the rotating speed of the rotating body. It is characterized by the following.

[0029] This allows the player himself to change the game state, so that the player can play the game with interest under the game state desired by the player himself. Further, since the rotation speed of the rotating body can be changed, it is possible to play a game in accordance with the game ability of the player.

In the gaming machine according to the present invention, the control of the rotation speed of the rotating body changes according to the progress of the game.

Thus, the player becomes more interested in the game and can continue the game without getting bored.

Further, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes a profit giving means for giving a profit in return for winning when a symbol attached to the rotating body becomes a predetermined combination, and the profit giving means comprises a When the rotation speed is high, more benefits are provided than when the rotation speed of the rotating body is low.

As a result, since the profit given at the time of winning is changed depending on the rotation speed, the player has more interest in the game and interest in the game is increased. Further, by this, the profit given when the rotating speed of the rotating body is high and the profit given when the rotating speed of the rotating body is slow can be adjusted fairly, which impairs the player's willingness to play. There is no danger of causing it.

Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the operating means includes a game starting means for performing control relating to the start of the game and a game ending means for performing control relating to the end of the game.

This makes it possible to collectively provide these control means (game start means, game end means, etc.), which were conventionally formed of separate parts, at separate places, thereby enabling operation. The performance is also improved.

[0036]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A specific embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<First Embodiment> First, in order to smoothly explain the present invention, a description will be given of a gaming machine according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine in the present description will be described as a slot machine. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a frame 2 formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a back panel 3 attached to the bottom of the frame 2.
A shelf 4 projecting from the middle of the rear panel 3 into the frame 2, and a front panel 5 attached to the front of the frame 2.
Almost all of the main components of the gaming machine 1 are collectively provided on the frame 2 and the front panel 5.

The main components provided in the frame body 2 include a reel unit 7 having a rotating reel 6 having a plurality of symbols attached to the outer peripheral surface thereof. A hopper unit 8 that pays out a predetermined number of medals to a player based on a game result, and a control device 9 that controls the hopper unit 8 and the like are included.

The front panel 5 has a symbol display window 10 on which the symbol of the rotating reel 6 faces, a medal insertion slot 11 for inserting medals required for playing a game, and a hopper unit 8 which discharges the medals. A medal tray 12 for receiving medals, an illuminated item 13 composed of a decorative LED and a decorative fluorescent lamp, a start switch 14 (start lever) serving as a trigger for starting (rotating) the rotating reel 6, or each rotating reel 6 A stop switch 1 provided for stopping the rotation of the corresponding reel 6
Switches for operating an operation state related to the fifth-grade game are provided. Hereinafter, these configurations will be described in detail.

The reel unit 7 is fixed on the shelf 4 and has a reel tape 16 on which a plurality of types of symbols are drawn.
And a plurality of rotating reels 6 each having the reel tape 16 adhered to the outer peripheral surface thereof; a reel motor 17 individually provided for each of the rotating reels 6; And a reel frame 18 that is provided on the axis and holds each rotating reel 6 vertically on the shelf 4.

A hopper unit 8 is provided below the shelf 4. The hopper unit 8 takes out a predetermined number of medals based on the result of the game from the medal storage tank 19 provided in the medal storage tank 19 for storing a plurality of medals, and discharges the medals into the medal tray 12. And a medal discharge device 20.

Further, on the rear panel 3 provided opposite to the front panel 5, there is provided a control device 9 for electrically controlling devices such as the hopper unit 8 and the reel unit 7 described above. The control device 9 includes a game control circuit board (not shown) for controlling the progress of the game,
It is composed of an effect control circuit board (not shown) for controlling the illuminated article 13 and the sound output device unit provided on the front panel 5, etc. These various control boards include, as shown in FIG. , CPU 39 (central processing unit), ROM (R
read-only memory) 38, RAM (Ra)
ndom Access Memory) 41, I / O
A plurality of components such as a port (input / output port) 40 are provided. Each of these bases stores a control program required for various controls.

In this game circuit control board, a hit or miss is determined based on a combination of symbols facing the symbol display window 10. If the symbol combination is a hit, a predetermined number of medals are sent to the hopper unit 8. An instruction to discharge the token into the medal tray 12 is given. On the other hand, in the hopper unit 8 receiving the medal discharge command, the medal storage tank 19
Medal discharge device 2 to discharge a predetermined number of medals from within
The medals are to be discharged by measuring the number of medals to be discharged with 0.

Further, in the game circuit control board, an operation signal issued when performing control relating to the operation state of the game machine is input / output via the I / O port 40. Similarly, the medal insertion slot 11 is also I / O
The port is connected to the game circuit control board via the port 40, and a signal indicating whether or not a medal has been inserted into the medal insertion slot 11 is input / output.

Further, a symbol display window 10 and a medal payout table 21 are provided above the front panel 5. The symbol display window 10 is a horizontally long opening formed in the middle of the front panel 5 so that the symbol of the rotating reel 6 can be seen, and a transparent window 22 formed of a glass plate is attached to the opening. On the other hand, the medal payout table 21 indicates that the symbol display window 10
And a semi-transparent resin plate 23 indicating the number of medals paid out for each winning symbol is embedded in a part of the front panel 5. In the center of the resin plate 23,
When a predetermined symbol is arranged in the symbol display window 10, a number-of-payouts display window 24 is provided for immediately displaying the number of medals to be paid corresponding to the combination of the symbols. It should be noted that a fluorescent lamp (not shown) is provided on the back side of the medal payout table 21, and the medal payout table 21 is illuminated on the front panel 5 by the fluorescent light. Thus, it can be said that the medal payout table 21 can be an effect device that not only informs the rules of the game but also generates a light effect that appeals to the player's vision.

Further, below the symbol display window 10, there is provided a medal storage number display counter 25 for displaying the number of stored medals which have been inserted into the medal insertion slot 11 and have not been invested in the game. A BET switch 26 for setting the number of medals to be invested in the game by reducing the number of stored medals and a MAX BET switch 2 for setting the number of medals to be invested to the maximum are provided at the lower left.
7 are provided.

Further, the BET switch 26 and the MA
Below the X BET switch 27, a medal return switch 28 for discharging medals stored in the gaming machine 1 into the medal tray 12 is provided.

A plurality of illuminations 13 are attached so as to surround the symbol display window 10 and the medal payout table 21. The illuminated article 13 includes a resin lens formed of a transparent synthetic resin material, a fluorescent lamp provided in the resin lens, an LED, and the like, and is lit according to the progress of the game. Or it flashes. That is, it has a function as a light effect device. In addition, the illuminated article 13 is connected to the effect control circuit board, and is controlled so as to be repeatedly turned on and off in response to, for example, the progress state of the game shifting to the special game state. Here, the special game state refers to a game state in which the stop of the rotating reel 6 is controlled so that the symbol attached to the rotating reel 6 can be easily stopped in a combination satisfying a predetermined winning condition.

On the lower side of the middle of the front panel 5,
One sound output device 29 is provided on each of the left and right sides. This sound output device 29 can be used to produce an effect that gives an interest in the game, or a BGM (Background) that continuously flows during the game.
d Music). The sound output device 2
The mounting position of 9 may be any position on the upper panel or lower panel of the front panel 5 as long as the effect is enhanced.

Further, below the sound output device 29 (ie, below the front panel 5), there is provided a medal tray 12 for receiving medals when a predetermined number of medals are discharged when a predetermined combination of winning symbols is completed. ing. The medal tray 12 is formed by combining a plurality of synthetic resin members. A medal discharge port connected to the hopper unit 8 is provided in the medal tray 12, and the medals discharged from the hopper unit 8 are discharged into the medal tray 12 from the medal discharge port. An ashtray 30 is provided on the left side of the medal tray 12.

The gaming machine 1 described above is provided with an operating device 31 for changing the operating state of the gaming machine 1.
Hereinafter, the operation device 31 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 1, the operating device 31 according to the present embodiment is provided near the symbol display window 10 through which the spinning reel 6 can be seen. In this embodiment, the rotating reel 6 includes three reels: a first rotating reel 6a, a second rotating reel 6b, and a third rotating reel 6c. The operating device 31 in the present embodiment is provided on the right side of the third rotating reel 6c.

As shown in FIG. 4, the operating device 31
It is formed by a touch panel 33 having a liquid crystal display 32. The touch panel 33 has a pressure sensor attached to the liquid crystal display 32 in outline, and is a pressure-sensitive type that outputs the coordinates of the position where the item displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 is pressed by a finger or the like as a matrix signal. And an optical (or photoelectric) type in which a light emitting element and a light receiving element are provided corresponding to the periphery of a liquid crystal display. In addition, the touch panel 3
Since the display location of the item displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of No. 3 is a mere display image, the switches displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of the touch panel 33 are referred to as virtual switches. In the present description, the former pressure-sensitive touch panel 33 is used. Hereinafter, the pressure-sensitive touch panel 33 will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 4, the pressure-sensitive touch panel 33 has a multi-layer structure, and the protective film 3 is arranged in order from the surface layer.
4, three layers of a film sensor 35 and a spacer 36. The protective film 34 is a transparent film made of vinyl chloride, and is attached to the surface of the film sensor 35. If the protective film 34 is torn or has many scratches on the surface, the display becomes difficult to see. Can be peeled off and replaced with a new protective film 34.
The protection film 34 shields electromagnetic waves and X-rays generated from the liquid crystal display 32 to some extent and protects the surface of the film sensor 35.

The film sensor 35 is a pressure sensor and is attached to the spacer 36 by a double-sided tape. An electrode (not shown) is connected to the periphery of the film sensor 35. A thin flat cable (not shown) is connected to this electrode, and the flat cable is connected to an input processing device attached to the back side of the touch panel 33 main body (the back side of the game board). The film sensor 35 cuts off the voltage at the position contacted (pressed) by a finger or the like, and detects the contacted (pressed) position.

The spacer 36 is made of colorless and transparent acrylic, and is mounted such that the front surface of the spacer 36 and the window of the front panel 5 are flush with each other, and the back surface of the spacer 36 and the surface of the liquid crystal display 32 are in close contact. It is attached to be. That is, the front surface of the operation device 31 is one step higher than the original front surface of the liquid crystal display 32 due to the protection film 34 and the film sensor 35. When the spacer 36 is detachably provided, the protection film 34 attached to the spacer 36 and the film sensor 35 are removed.
Also becomes detachable. As a result, when the protection film 34 or the like is damaged or damaged, it can be replaced and the convenience is improved.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the operation device 31 including the touch panel 33 having the above-described configuration is connected to a control board via a bus 37. This control infrastructure
ROM 38 in which various processing programs are stored, CPU 39 for issuing commands for processing and control of the entire apparatus based on the processing programs, I / O port 40 for inputting and outputting commands from CPU 39, A timer 75 for controlling, a RAM 41 having a working area for storing data generated during processing, a display driving circuit 42 for driving the liquid crystal display 32, and a touch panel for outputting coordinates of a position touched on the touch panel 33 as a matrix signal A matrix circuit 43 is provided.

The ROM 38 stores a game control program 44, a screen control program 45, a sound output control program 46, a medal number management program 47, and the like.

The RAM 41 further includes a game control table 48 for temporarily storing data relating to the start and stop of the game, a rotation speed table 49 for temporarily storing the rotation speed of the rotating reel 6, A screen table 50 for temporarily storing the current screen state and a sound table 51 for temporarily storing the current state of the sound output device 29.
Further, a table corresponding to the program of the ROM 38, such as a stored medal number table 52 for temporarily storing the number of currently stored medals, is stored.

The touch panel 33 having the above configuration is
It is used as the operation device 31 in the present embodiment.

Then, the operating device 3 in the present embodiment
1 includes a volume adjustment unit 53 that adjusts the volume of sound emitted from the sound output device 29, that is, a volume, and an image brightness adjustment unit 54 that adjusts the brightness of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32 of the touch panel 33. Have been. The volume adjustment unit 53 includes a plus (+) virtual switch 55 for increasing the volume and a virtual switch 56 for decreasing the volume (−). The image brightness adjustment unit 54 includes the liquid crystal display 32.
And a virtual switch 57 for brightening the screen (+) and a virtual switch 58 for darkening the screen (-).
The sound data and the image data correspond to the R data described above.
It is stored in a volume table 59 in a table relating to sounds stored in the AM 41 and an image luminance table 60 in a table relating to images.

Hereinafter, the case where the sound volume adjusting unit 53 and the image brightness adjusting unit 54 are selected and input will be described with reference to the electric control block diagram shown in FIG. 3 and the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In this description, for convenience of explanation, the description will be made assuming that the volume adjustment unit 53 is operated first, and then the image brightness adjustment unit 54 is operated.

First, it is determined whether or not a finger or the like has touched the coordinate area of the volume control unit 53 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 (step 01). When it is determined that the virtual switch of the volume adjustment unit 53 is not in contact with the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, the process waits until an operation is performed. When it is determined that the virtual switch of the volume adjustment unit 53 has been touched, a predetermined value (for example,
1 second) to start counting clocks (step 02).

Next, the CPU 39 reads a matrix signal indicating the position of the touched touch panel 33 from the touch panel matrix circuit 43 (step 03). Then, a processing program corresponding to the selected virtual switch of the volume control unit 53 (here, the volume control program 7
6) is retrieved from the ROM 38 (step 04). still,
This program is a program for outputting a sound from the sound output device 29 at a volume set by the player.

Thereafter, an execution command signal of the volume control program 76 extracted from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40 and executed by the I / O port 40 (step 05). That is, when the (+) virtual switch 55 is input through the I / O port 40, the sound is output from the sound output device 29 at a large volume,
When the (-) virtual switch 56 is input, a sound is output at a small volume.

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a finger or the like has touched the coordinate area of the image brightness adjusting unit 54 (step 0).
6). Here, when it is determined that there is a contact, a predetermined value (for example, one second) is set in the timer 75 and the clock counting is started, as in the case where the virtual switch of the volume adjusting unit 53 has been contacted ( Step 07).

Then, the CPU 39 reads a matrix signal indicating the position of the touched touch panel 33 from the touch panel matrix circuit 43 (step 08).
Then, a processing program (here, the image brightness control program 77) corresponding to the virtual switch of the selected image brightness adjustment unit 54 is extracted from the ROM 38 (step 0).
9). The image brightness control program 77 is a program for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display 32 at the brightness set by the player.

Thereafter, an execution command signal of the image brightness control program 77 fetched from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40,
(Step 10).

Next, it is determined whether or not the coordinate area of the volume adjustment section 53 or the image brightness adjustment section 54 is touched (step 11). Here, when it is determined that the virtual switch (the virtual switch 55 of (+) or the virtual switch 56 of (-)) of the volume adjustment unit 53 has been contacted (step 12), the process returns to step 02 and performs the same control. Is repeated.

If it is determined that the virtual switch of the image brightness adjusting section 54 has been touched, the process returns to step 07 and the same control is repeated.

Then, the virtual switch of the volume control unit 53,
When it is determined that neither of the virtual switches of the image brightness adjusting unit 54 has touched (step 13), it is determined whether or not the game is continued (step 14). Therefore, when it is determined that the game is continuing, the process returns to step 01 and waits until the next operation is performed, and the control is repeated at the same time as the operation is performed. On the other hand, if the game has ended, this control also ends.

If it is determined in step 11 that there is no contact in any of the coordinate areas of the volume adjustment section 53 and the image brightness adjustment section 54, the process proceeds to step 14 and the above-described control is performed.

According to the operation device 31 of the present embodiment, the player himself can freely adjust the volume of the sound output from the sound output device 29 during the game, so that he can concentrate on the game. become. Note that the maximum volume and the minimum volume are set in advance, and can be freely set within a range that does not significantly bother other players.

Further, since the player can set the volume according to his / her own preference, it is possible to play the game in a comfortable environment.

Further, since the player himself can freely change the brightness (brightness) of the screen of the liquid crystal display 32, the lighting condition of the hall in which the gaming machine 1 is installed, for example, the brightness of the lighting, The liquid crystal display 32 can be reliably viewed without being influenced by the type of illumination, the angle of illumination, and the like. In the description of the present embodiment, the rotating reel 6 has been described as a rotating body such as a cylinder, but the rotating reel 6 may be a liquid crystal display.

<Second Embodiment> As shown in FIG. 7, an operation device 31 according to the present embodiment includes a sound type selection section 61 for selecting a type of sound (music), and a liquid crystal display 32 of a touch panel 33. A virtual switch of an image type selection unit 62 for selecting the type of image displayed on the screen of the (display device) is provided. The gaming machine and the touch panel 33
Is the same as that of the gaming machine 1 and the touch panel 33 described above, and the description is omitted for convenience of description.

Further, in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the rotating reels 6 include three rotating reels 6 of a first rotating reel 6a, a second rotating reel 6b, and a third rotating reel 6c.
Consists of Then, the operating device 31 in the present embodiment
Is also provided on the right side of the third rotating reel 6c similarly to the first embodiment.

The sound type selection section 61 includes a virtual switch 63 (man) for outputting a sound (music) for a man, and a virtual switch 63 for outputting a sound (music) for a woman. Woman) and a virtual switch 64. Also,
As the image type selection unit 62, a virtual switch indicating an item of an image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of the touch panel 33 is provided. In the present embodiment, as an example, a virtual switch 65 indicating an image of a domestic car (domestic), a virtual switch 66 indicating an image of a foreign car (external car), and a car of F1 (Formula 1) A virtual switch 67 (F1) indicating the image of FIG. These sounds (music) are stored in the RAM 4 described above.
The images are stored in the sound type table 68 in the one sound table 51, and these images are stored in the image type table 69 in the screen table 50 of the RAM 41 described above.

Hereinafter, the case where the sound type selection unit 61 and the image type selection unit 62 are selected and input will be described with reference to the electric control block diagram shown in FIG. 3 and the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In this description, for convenience of explanation, the description will be made assuming that the sound type selection unit 61 is operated first, and then the image type selection unit 62 is operated.

First, whether a finger or the like touches the coordinate area of the touch panel 33 that is the same as the virtual switch ((male) or (female) virtual switch) of the sound type selection unit 61 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. (Step 10
0). If it is determined that the virtual switch of the sound type selection unit 61 is not in contact with the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, the process waits until an operation is performed. If it is determined that the virtual switch of the sound type selection unit 61 has touched the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, the timer 75 is set to a predetermined value (for example, one second) and the clock count is started (step 101). .

Next, CPU 39 reads a matrix signal indicating the position of touched touch panel 33 from touch panel matrix circuit 43 (step 102).
Then, a processing program (here, the sound type selection program 78) corresponding to the virtual switch of the selected sound type selection unit 61 is extracted from the ROM 38 (step 10).
3). Note that the sound type selection program 78 is a program that causes the sound output device 29 to output the sound selected by the player.

Thereafter, an execution command signal of the sound type selection program 78 extracted from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40 and executed by the I / O port 40 (step 104). That is, I / O
Through the port 40, a sound (music) for a man or a sound (music) for a woman is output from the sound output device 29.

Next, the virtual switch ((domestic) virtual switch 65, the (external car) virtual switch 66, and (F) of the image type selection unit 62 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 are displayed.
It is determined whether or not a finger or the like has touched the coordinate area with any one of the virtual switches 67 in 1) (step 105).
Further, the image type selection unit 6 is displayed in the coordinate area of the touch panel 33.
When it is determined that the virtual switch of the sound type selection unit 61 has touched,
A predetermined value (for example, one second) is set in the timer 75, and counting of the clock is started (step 106).

Next, the CPU 39 reads from the touch panel matrix circuit 43 a matrix signal indicating the position of the touch panel 33 with which the touch has been made (step 107).
Then, a processing program (here, the image type selection program 79) corresponding to the virtual switch of the selected image type selection unit 62 is retrieved from the ROM 38 (step 1).
08). The image type selection program 79 is a program for displaying an image selected by the player on the liquid crystal display 32 of the touch panel 33.

Thereafter, an execution command signal of the image type selection program 79 fetched from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40,
(Step 109). That is,
The selected one of the images of the domestic car, the foreign car, and the F1 car is displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of the touch panel 33 by the I / O port 40.

Next, it is determined whether or not there is a contact in the coordinate area of the sound type selection unit 61 or the image type selection unit 62 (step 110). Here, when it is determined that the virtual switch of the sound adjustment selection unit 61 has been touched (step 111), the process returns to step 100 and the same operation is repeated. If it is determined that the virtual switch of the image type selection unit 62 has been touched (step 112),
Returning to step 101, the same control is repeated.

If it is determined that neither the sound type selection section 61 nor the image type selection section 62 has touched the virtual switch, it is determined whether or not the game is continued (step 113). Then, when it is determined that the game is continued, the process returns to step 100 and waits until the next operation is performed, and the control is repeated at the same time as the operation is performed. On the other hand, if the game has ended, this control also ends.

In step 110, the sound type selection unit 6
If it is determined that there is no contact with either the coordinate area 1 or the coordinate area of the image type selection unit 62, the process proceeds to step 113 to perform the above-described control.

As described above, according to the operation device 31 of the present embodiment, the player himself can play the sound output device 29 during the game.
Since the type of the sound (music) emitted from can be freely selected according to taste, the player can play the game in a comfortable environment. It is assumed that various types of sounds (music) can be set in advance as the types of the sounds (music).

Further, since it is possible to exert a staging effect for visual and auditory senses, the player can continue the game without getting tired of the game.

Further, by incorporating music having a relaxation effect into the sound (music) and incorporating an eye-friendly image such as a flower or a forest into the image, the player can refresh eyes and nerves tired by the game. It becomes possible to alleviate the feeling of fatigue.

<Third Embodiment> As shown in FIG.
The operation device 31 according to the present embodiment uses the above-described touch panel 33 as an operation switch for performing an operation indispensable for playing a game. Note that the gaming machine to which the operating device 31 according to the present embodiment is attached and the operating device 31
The touch panel 33 is similar to that described above, and the description is omitted.

The operating device 31 according to the present embodiment includes a start switch 14 (not a start lever) provided below the rotating reel 6 for starting a game, and a corresponding rotating reel 6 provided for each rotating reel 6. And a stop switch 15 for stopping the rotation.

The data corresponding to these are stored in the game start table 70 and the game stop table 71 in the game control table 48 of the RAM 41 described above.

The case where the start switch 14 and the stop switch 15 are input will be described below with reference to the electric control block diagram shown in FIG. 3 and the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In this description, for convenience of explanation, the description will be made assuming that the start switch 14 is operated first, and then the stop switch 15 is operated.

First, it is determined whether a finger or the like touches the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, which is the same as the virtual switch of the start switch 14 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 (step 200). If it is determined that the virtual switch of the start switch 14 is not in contact with the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, the process waits until the next operation is performed. When it is determined that the virtual switch of the start switch 14 has touched the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, the timer 75 is set to a predetermined value (for example, 1 second) and the counting of the clock is started (step 201).

Next, the CPU 39 reads a matrix signal indicating the position of the touched touch panel 33 from the touch panel matrix circuit 43 (step 202).
Then, the processing program corresponding to the virtual switch of the selected start switch 14 (here, the start control program 80) is extracted from the ROM 38 (step 20).
3). The start control program 80 is a program for supplying electric power to each of the reel motors 17 and rotating each of the rotating reels 6 at the same time.

Thereafter, the execution command signal of the start control program 80 fetched from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40 and executed by the I / O port 40 (step 204). That is, power is supplied to each reel motor 17 by the I / O port 40, and the three rotating reels 6 are simultaneously operated.

Subsequently, in the same manner as when the virtual switch of the start switch 14 is selected, the liquid crystal display 32
It is determined whether or not a finger or the like has touched the coordinate area of the virtual switch of the stop switch 15 displayed in (2) (step 205). Here, if it is determined that there is a contact, clock counting is started in the same manner as when the start switch 14 is contacted (step 206).

If it is determined that there is no contact in the coordinate area of the stop switch 15, the stop switch 1
Wait until contact 5 is made.

Next, the CPU 39 reads a matrix signal indicating the position of the touched touch panel 33 from the touch panel matrix circuit 43 (step 207).
Then, the processing program corresponding to the selected virtual switch of the stop switch 15 (here, the stop control program 81) is extracted from the ROM 38 (step 20).
8). The stop control program 81 is a program that shuts off the electric power supplied to each reel motor 17 and stops the rotation of each rotating reel 6.

Thereafter, the execution command signal of the stop control program 81 fetched from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40 and executed and output by the I / O port 40 (step 209). That is, I /
The rotation of the rotating reel 6 is stopped by the O port 40.

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not all the virtual switches of the three stop switches 15 provided corresponding to the respective rotating reels have contacted (step 210). here,
If it is determined that there is a virtual switch of the stop switch 15 that is not touching, the process returns to step 205 and waits until the stop switch 15 touches. If it is determined that the virtual switches of all the stop switches 15 have been touched, the game is terminated and the present control is terminated (step 211).

The operating device 31 according to the present embodiment
Is provided with not only a start switch 14 and a stop switch 15 but also a virtual switch of a BET switch 26 for setting the number of invested medals and a virtual switch of a MAX BET switch 27 for setting the invested number of medals to the maximum. Is also good.

As described above, by using the touch panel 33 for the operation device 31 in the present embodiment, the player does not have to be conscious of operating (pressing) a switch like a mechanical button switch. for that reason,
The player can concentrate on the game with almost no trouble of operating the operation device.

The operation device 31 is provided with a liquid crystal display 3.
Since both the touch panel 2 and the touch panel 33 are used, the position of each operation switch can be freely changed, and the operability is improved. For example, the arrangement of the switches of the conventional operation unit is usually arranged such that a start switch 14 (start lever) and a stop switch 15 are arranged in order from the left side of the front of the gaming machine 1. This allows the right-handed player to play the game without any problems, but the left-handed player has some troubles. Therefore, by using the operating device 31 in the present embodiment, the operating device 31 in which the start switch 14 and the stop switch 15 are arranged for the right-handed player, and the start switch 14 and the stop switch 15 for the left-handed player. It is possible to provide two types of gaming machines with the operating device 31 in which the is arranged at low cost.

Further, by using the touch panel 33 as the operation device 31, it is possible to freely change the size of the operation switch which has been designed at the time of manufacture and has a fixed size. For example, by displaying each operation switch in a large size, visibility is improved, and the coordinate area of each operation switch is also widened. Therefore, it is possible to prevent useless operation such as erroneous operation switch pressing or operation switch pressing failure. it can.

Further, by using the liquid crystal display 32 and the touch panel 33 in combination with the operation device 31, it is possible to change the color of the switch before and after the touch, so that the visibility can be improved and the visual quality can be improved. The effect of the production can be exhibited.

<Fourth Embodiment> As shown in FIG.
The operating device 31 according to the present embodiment includes a rotating reel 6.
Is provided with a rotation speed adjusting unit 72 for adjusting the rotation speed. The configuration of the gaming machine to which the operation device 31 according to the present embodiment is attached and the configuration of the touch panel 33 as the operation device 31 are the same as those described above, and a description thereof will be omitted.

The operating device 31 in the present embodiment is provided near the symbol display window 10 through which the rotating reel 6 can be peeped. In this embodiment, similarly to the first and second embodiments, the rotating reel 6 includes a first rotating reel 6a, a second rotating reel 6b, and a third rotating reel 6c.
Consists of three reels. The operating device 31 in the present embodiment is also provided on the right side of the third rotating reel 6c as in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

The operating device 31 is provided with a (+) virtual switch 73 for increasing the rotation speed of the rotating reel 6 and the rotating reel 6.
(-) Virtual switch 74 for reducing the rotation speed of Note that data on the rotation speed of the rotating reel 6 is as follows.
It is stored in a rotation speed table 49 in the RAM 41. Hereinafter, the case where the rotation speed adjusting unit 72 is operated will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, a finger or the like is placed in the same coordinate area of the touch panel 33 as the virtual switch (the virtual switch 73 of (+) or the virtual switch 74 of (-)) of the rotation speed adjusting unit 72 displayed on the liquid crystal display 32. It is determined whether the contact has been made (step 300). And touch panel 3
If it is determined that the virtual switch of the rotation speed adjusting unit 72 is not in contact with the coordinate area 3, the process waits until the next operation is performed. If it is determined that the virtual switch of the rotation speed adjusting unit 72 has touched the coordinate area of the touch panel 33, the timer 75 is set to a predetermined value (for example, 1 second) and the clock count is started (step 30).
1).

Next, the CPU 39 reads a matrix signal indicating the position of the touched touch panel 33 from the touch panel matrix circuit 43 (step 302).
Then, a processing program (here, the rotation speed control program 82) corresponding to the selected virtual switch of the rotation speed adjustment unit 72 is extracted from the ROM 38 (step 3).
03). This program is a program for rotating the spinning reel 6 at a spin speed set by the player.

Thereafter, an execution command signal of the rotation speed control program 82 fetched from the ROM 38 by the CPU 39 is transmitted to the I / O port 40,
(Step 304). That is, I /
When the (+) virtual switch 73 of the rotation speed adjustment unit is selectively input by the O port 40, the rotation speed of the rotating reel 6 is increased, and the (-) virtual switch 74 of the rotation speed adjustment unit 72 is selectively input. In such a case, control is performed to reduce the rotation speed of the rotating reel 6.

Subsequently, it is determined again whether or not there is a contact in the coordinate area of the rotation speed adjusting unit 72 (step 30).
5). Here, if it is determined that the virtual switch of the rotation speed adjusting unit 72 has been contacted, the process returns to step 301 and the same control is repeated.

If it is determined that there is no contact in the coordinate area of the rotation speed adjusting unit 72, it is determined whether or not the game is continued (step 306). Here, if it is determined that the game is continuing, the process returns to step 300 and the above-described control is repeated.

When it is determined that the game is not continued, the game is terminated and the present control is terminated.

As described above, according to the operating device 31 of the present embodiment, since the player himself can freely adjust the speed of the rotating reel 6, it is possible to make the game interesting, and the game can be played for a long time. It can be performed continuously.

Further, since the rotation speed can be freely changed, a player who has little experience in playing a game,
A game can be played in accordance with each game ability of a player who has a lot of experience in the game.

The operating device 31 according to the present embodiment is
May be provided with a function of changing the number of medals paid out when a prize is won according to the rotation speed when the rotation speed is changed. For example, when a game is performed by setting the rotation speed of the spinning reel 6 to be low and a symbol drawn on the spinning reel 6 has a predetermined combination and wins, a smaller number of medals than in the case of winning at a normal spinning speed. Controls such as discharge are conceivable. Of course, on the contrary, if the spinning speed of the spinning reel 6 is set high and a prize is won,
Control for discharging a larger number of medals than at the time of winning at a normal rotation speed can be considered. By these things, it becomes possible to give a great interest to the game.
When changing the rotation speed of the spinning reel 6, it is possible to change the rotation speed before starting the game (that is, the rotation speed cannot be changed during the game), and the rotation speed is set to 80 rotations per minute. It can be changed within the range not exceeding.

Further, what can be said in common with the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments is that a touch panel 33 is used as the operation device 31 to provide a device. By providing only one touch panel 33, a plurality of selection item (control item) switches can be provided. In addition, a new selection (control) item switch can be added even after the game machine is manufactured.

The gaming machine 1 of the present invention has been described separately from the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the fourth embodiment. , A plurality of selection items are displayed in a list on the touch panel 33 (that is, the menu screen 83), and from that screen, the screens of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments are displayed. May be developed.

Further, by using the touch panel 33 for the operation device 31, it is possible to easily display an image according to the content of the selected item. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, in the case of an item such as adjusting the volume, in the case of an item such as displaying an image 84 such as a loudspeaker or a musical note indicating the volume at a glance, or adjusting the brightness of the image Is
Displaying an image 85 of a light bulb (lamp), the sun, or the like that indicates the brightness at a glance, and the like.

Further, the touch panel 33 is provided on the operation device 31.
, The image displayed on the liquid crystal display 32 of the touch panel 33 (including the selection item switch)
Can be freely changed in position and size.
Thereby, the operability of the operation device 31 according to the present invention is remarkably improved.

Further, the touch panel 33 is provided on the operation device 31.
By using, it is possible to perform an operation relating to the game and the gaming machine 1 without an operational feeling. That is, the player can perform operations related to the game and the gaming machine 1 by slightly touching the operation device 31 with his / her finger, so that hand fatigue can be reduced. Therefore, the player can continue the game without increasing fatigue.

Further, by using the touch panel 33 for the operation device 31, it is possible to sufficiently exert a visual and auditory effect, and the player can continue the game without getting bored with the game.

Although the description has been made using the liquid crystal display as the touch panel 33 in the present description, the same effect as the liquid crystal display can be obtained with the EL display.

[0128]

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine provided with an operating device capable of adjusting the operating state of the gaming machine by an easy operation.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine having an operation device that allows the player to freely set the operating state of the gaming machine.

[0130]

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gaming machine of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a main part of the touch panel according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of electric control in the gaming machine of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing operation steps of the operation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing operation steps of the operation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing operation steps of an operation device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing operation steps of the operation device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing operation steps of an operation device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operation steps of an operation device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing operation steps of an operation device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of an operation device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of an operation device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Gaming machine 2 Frame 3 Back panel 4 Shelf 5 Front panel 6 Reel 7 Reel unit 8 Hopper unit 9 Control device 10 Symbol display window 11 Medal slot 12 Medal tray 13 Illuminated goods 14 Start switch (start lever) 15 Stop Switch 16 Reel Tape 17 Reel Motor 18 Reel Frame 19 Medal Storage Tank 20 Medal Ejector 21 Medal Payout Table 22 Transparent Window 23 Resin Plate 24 Payout Number Display Window 25 Medal Storage Number Display Counter 26 BET Switch 27 MAX BET Switch 28 Medal Return Switch 29 sound output device 30 ashtray 31 operating device 32 liquid crystal display 33 touch panel 34 protective film 35 film sensor 36 spacer 37 bus 38 ROM 39 CPU 40 I / O port 41 RAM 42 display drive circuit 43 touch panel matrix circuit 44 game control program 45 display screen control program 46 sound output control program 47 medal number management program 48 game control table 49 rotation speed table 50 screen table 51 sound table 52 stored medal number table 53 sound volume Adjustment unit 54 Image brightness adjustment unit 55 Volume (+) virtual switch 56 Volume (−) virtual switch 57 Brightness (+) virtual switch 58 Brightness (−) virtual switch 59 Volume table 60 Image brightness table 61 Sound type selection unit 62 Image type Selector 63 (male) virtual switch 64 (female) virtual switch 65 (domestic) virtual switch 66 (outside car) virtual switch 67 (F1) virtual switch 68 sound type table 69 image type table 70 game start table Table 71 Game stop table 72 Rotation speed adjustment unit 73 Rotation speed (+) virtual switch 74 Rotation speed (-) virtual switch 75 Timer 76 Volume adjustment program 77 Image brightness control program 78 Sound type selection program 79 Image type selection program 80 Start control Program 81 Stop control program 82 Rotation speed control program 83 Menu screen

Claims (24)

[Claims] 1. A gaming machine having a gaming board, wherein the gaming machine is provided with operating means for controlling an operation state of the gaming machine, and the operating means detects a position touched by an object and detects A gaming machine characterized by being formed by a touch panel that performs control corresponding to a position. 2. An operation device comprising: a position detection sensor provided with a plurality of electrodes and detecting a position touched by an arbitrary object; and a position detection sensor connected to each of the plurality of electrodes and detected by the position detection sensor. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming machine is a touch panel including: a control unit that changes an operation state of the gaming machine based on a command signal corresponding to a position. 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation means is provided on a front side of the gaming machine. 4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said operating means is provided on said gaming board. 5. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein said operating means controls operation states of a plurality of types of devices of said gaming machine.
4. The gaming machine according to any one of 4. 6. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said operating means controls a game. 7. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein said operation means has an operation area of a predetermined space. 8. The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein said operation means is divided into at least two operation areas. 9. The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein a position of the operation area changes. 10. The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein the size of the operation area changes. 11. The gaming machine according to claim 7, wherein the number of the operation areas changes. 12. The operation area is provided corresponding to the number of control items for controlling the operation state of the gaming machine, and the contents of the control items can be freely changed. A gaming machine according to any one of 7 to 11. 13. The game machine according to claim 1, further comprising a sound output device for emitting a sound, wherein said operating means controls said sound output device. The gaming machine described. 14. The gaming machine according to claim 13, wherein said operation means includes a sound volume adjusting means for adjusting a volume of a sound emitted from said sound output device during a game. 15. The gaming machine according to claim 13, wherein the operation means includes a sound type selection means for selecting a type of sound emitted from the sound output device during a game. 16. A display device on which an image is displayed is provided on the gaming board of the gaming machine, and the operation means performs control for changing an image of the display device. 13. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 12. 17. The gaming machine according to claim 16, wherein said operation means includes image brightness adjusting means for controlling brightness of an image projected by said display device. 18. The gaming machine according to claim 16, wherein said operation means includes image type selection means for selecting a type of said image projected on said display device. 19. The gaming machine according to claim 13, wherein said display device is a liquid crystal display or an electroluminescence display. 20. The gaming machine further comprises a rotatable body which is rotatable with a plurality of symbols displayed at positions visible to a player, and wherein the operating means controls a rotation speed of the rotatable body. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein: 21. The rotation speed control of the rotator changes according to the progress of a game.
A gaming machine according to claim 1. 22. The gaming machine further comprises a profit giving means for giving a profit in return for a predetermined combination of symbols attached to the rotating body, wherein the profit giving means has a rotating speed of the rotating body. 22. The gaming machine according to claim 20, wherein when the rotation speed is high, more benefits are provided than when the rotation speed of the rotating body is low. 23. The gaming machine according to claim 20, wherein said operation means includes a rotation start means for performing control for starting rotation of said rotating body. 24. The gaming machine according to claim 20, wherein said operation means includes a rotation stopping means for performing control for stopping rotation of said rotating body.