Patent Publication Number: US-2009239607-A1

Title: Gaming Machine Executing A Bonus Game And Control Method Thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims benefit of priority based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/038,509 filed on Mar. 21, 2008. The contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a gaming machine executing a bonus game and a control method thereof. 
     2. Discussion of the Background 
     Conventionally, there exists a slot machine that executes a free game as a bonus game when a prescribed condition (e.g. specific symbols are rearranged in a slot machine game) is established during a game. The free game is a game that can be played without consuming game media. For example, Australian Patent Publication No. 1972901 discloses a slot machine on which a free game is played as a side game when a prescribed condition (i.e. symbols are arranged in a specific pattern) is established in a basic game. 
     In the slot machine game as described above, the free game may often be the biggest chance for a player to obtain a large payout, and for a manufacturer of the gaming machine, in the case where a large amount of payout are going to be offered, it is ideal to make the player aware of the payout by the effect of a plurality of free games so as to raise an expectation of the player. 
     However, since a conventional slot machine decides a payout to be offered in a free game at random every time the free game is played, a total payout amount over a plurality of free games is greatly varied. Hence, even if effects suggesting a large amount of payout are performed over the plurality of free games, there is a possibility that an amount of the actually offered total payout becomes significantly smaller than an amount of an expected payout, and thus contents of the effects turn out to be false. This may cause a problem that the player has distrust in the game, the gaming machine, and further a manufacturer of the gaming machine. 
     The present invention was made in view of the foregoing problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing an appropriate effect reflecting a total payout amount in a bonus game, and a method for controlling the gaming machine. 
     The contents of Australian Patent Publication No. 1972901 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A first embodiment of the present invention provides a gaming machine having the following configuration. 
     Namely, the gaming machine includes a display capable of arranging symbols. Further, the gaming machine includes a memory that stores a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing the symbols rearranged during a bonus game in which a unit game including rearrangement and display of the symbols to the display is played over a plurality of times or showing combination patterns of those symbols, each of the rearrangement pattern data being corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game, and a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data for use in executing an effect, each of the effect pattern data being corresponded to the total payout amount in the bonus game. Moreover, the gaming machine includes a controller programmed to execute processing of (a) executing a normal game in which the symbols are rearranged and displayed to the display, (b) deciding whether or not to execute the bonus game, (c) determining a total payout amount in the bonus game, (d) selecting one rearrangement pattern data out of rearrangement pattern data corresponded to the total payout amount determined in the processing (c), among the plurality of kinds of the rearrangement pattern data stored in the memory, (e) selecting one effect pattern data out of effect pattern data corresponded to the total payout amount determined in the processing (c), among the plurality of kinds of the effect pattern data stored in the memory, and (f) executing rearrangement of the symbols displayed to the display based on the rearrangement pattern data selected in the processing (d), while executing an effect based on the effect pattern data selected in the processing (e), in each of the unit games constituting the bonus game when it is decided in the processing (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     According to the above gaming machine, a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing symbols rearranged during a bonus game in which unit games are played over a plurality of times or showing combination patterns of those symbols, and a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data for use in executing an effect are previously stored in a memory (e.g. ROM), each of the rearrangement pattern data and the effect pattern data being corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game. Also, the total payout amount in the bonus game is determined, and the rearrangement pattern data and the effect pattern data corresponding to the determined total payout amount are selected. In the bonus game, symbols are rearranged based on the selected rearrangement pattern data, while an effect based on the selected effect pattern data is executed. 
     Namely, on the above gaming machine, the bonus game is played after a total payout amount in the bonus game has been determined, and further, an effect is executed based on effect pattern data corresponding to the determined total payout amount. Therefore, when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively large value, an effect suggesting a large amount of payout can be executed, whereas when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively small value, an effect that excessively provokes an expectation of the player can be avoided. Accordingly, since an effect in accordance with the total payout amount to be offered can be executed, it becomes possible to avoid a condition where a payout expected from the effect is significantly different from the actual total payout amount, and therefore it becomes possible to prevent the player from being mistrustful of the game. 
     Moreover, by determining the total payout amount prior to execution of the bonus game, an effect in accordance with the total payout amount can be executed as a series of effects over a plurality of unit games, it is possible to gradually raise the expectation of the player for results of the bonus game as each of the unit games is played. It is thus possible to further increase amusement of the bonus game. 
     Furthermore, since symbols are rearranged in each unit game constituting the bonus game based on rearrangement pattern data selected in accordance with the determined total payout amount, there is no need for determining a rearrangement pattern in each unit game by means of a random number or the like, thereby enabling reduction in load for the processing. 
     Preferably, the above-mentioned gaming machine further has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the processing (c) is processing of determining a total payout amount in the bonus game when it is decided in the processing (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     According to the above gaming machine, since the total payout amount in the bonus game is not previously determined but determined when the bonus game is determined to be executed, it is possible to make the bonus game more various, e.g. a process until decision of execution of the bonus game is reflected on the total payout amount. 
     A second embodiment of the present invention provides a gaming machine having a following configuration. 
     Namely, the gaming machine includes a display capable of arranging and displaying symbols. Further, the gaming machine includes a memory that stores a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing the symbols rearranged during a bonus game in which a unit game including rearrangement and display of the symbols to the display is played over a plurality of times or showing combination patterns of those symbols, each of the rearrangement pattern data being corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game, and a plurality of kinds of effect image data for use in executing an effect, each of the effect image data being corresponded to the total payout amount in the bonus game. Moreover, the gaming machine includes a controller programmed to execute processing of (a) executing a normal game in which the symbols are rearranged and displayed to the display, (b) deciding whether or not to execute the bonus game, (c) determining a total payout amount in the bonus game, (d) selecting one rearrangement pattern data out of rearrangement pattern data corresponded to the total payout amount determined in the processing (c), among the plurality of kinds of the rearrangement pattern data stored in the memory, (e) selecting one effect image data out of effect image data corresponded to the total payout amount determined in the processing (c), among the plurality of kinds of the effect image data stored in the memory, and (f) executing rearrangement of the symbols displayed to the display based on the rearrangement pattern data selected in the processing (d), while displaying the effect image based on the effect image data selected in the processing (e) to the display, in each of the unit games constituting the bonus game when it is decided in the processing (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     According to the above gaming machine, a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing symbols rearranged during a bonus game in which unit games are played over a plurality of times or showing combination patterns of those symbols, and a plurality of kinds of effect image data for use in executing an effect are previously stored in a memory (e.g. ROM), each of the rearrangement pattern data and the effect image data being corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game. Also, the total payout amount in the bonus game is determined, and the rearrangement pattern data and the effect image data corresponding to the determined total payout amount are selected. In the bonus game, symbols are rearranged based on the selected rearrangement pattern data, while an effect of displaying the effect image based on the selected effect image data is executed. 
     Namely, on the above gaming machine, the bonus game is played after a total payout amount in the bonus game has been determined, and further, an effect is executed based on effect image data corresponding to the determined total payout amount. Therefore, when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively large value, an effect suggesting a large amount of payout can be executed, whereas when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively small value, an effect that excessively provokes an expectation of the player can be avoided. Accordingly, since an effect in accordance with the total payout amount to be offered can be executed, it becomes possible to avoid a condition where a payout expected from the effect is significantly different from the actual total payout amount, and therefore it becomes possible to prevent the player from being mistrustful of the game. 
     Moreover, by determining the total payout amount prior to execution of the bonus game, an effect in accordance with the total payout amount can be executed as a series of effects over a plurality of unit games, it is possible to gradually raise the expectation of the player for results of the bonus game as each of the unit games is played. It is thus possible to further increase amusement of the bonus game. 
     Further, since an effect by means of an image is executed in the bonus game, it becomes easier for the player to visually determine whether or not a large payout can be obtained. 
     Furthermore, since symbols are rearranged in each unit game constituting the bonus game based on rearrangement pattern data selected in accordance with the determined total payout amount, there is no need for determining a rearrangement pattern in each unit game by means of a random number or the like, thereby enabling reduction in load for the processing. 
     Preferably, the above-mentioned gaming machine further has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the processing (c) is processing of determining a total payout amount in the bonus game when it is decided in the processing (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     According to the above gaming machine, since the total payout amount in the bonus game is not previously determined but determined when the bonus game is decided to be executed, it is possible to make the bonus game more various, e.g. a process until decision of execution of the bonus game is reflected on the total payout amount. 
     A third embodiment of the present invention provides a method for controlling a gaming machine having the following configuration. 
     Namely, the above method for controlling the gaming machine includes the steps of (a) executing a normal game in which symbols are rearranged and displayed to a display; (b) determining whether or not to execute a bonus game in which a unit game including rearrangement and display of the symbols to the display is played over a plurality of times; (c) determining a total payout amount in the bonus game; (d) selecting one rearrangement pattern data out of rearrangement pattern data corresponding to the total payout amount determined in the step (c), among a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing the symbols rearranged during the bonus game or showing combination patterns of those symbols stored in a memory, the symbols and the combination patterns of those symbols being corresponded to the total payout amount in the bonus game; (e) selecting one effect pattern data out of effect pattern data corresponding to the total payout amount determined in the step (c) among a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data for use in executing an effect stored in the memory corresponded to the total payout amount in the bonus game; and (f) executing rearrangement of the symbols on the display based on the rearrangement pattern data selected in the step (d), while executing an effect based on the effect pattern data selected in the step (e), in each of the unit games constituting the bonus game when it is decided in the step (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     According to the above method for controlling a gaming machine, a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing symbols rearranged during a bonus game in which unit games are played over a plurality of times or showing combination patterns of those symbols, and a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data for use in executing an effect are previously stored in a memory (e.g. ROM), each of the rearrangement pattern data and the effect pattern data being corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game. Also, the total payout amount in the bonus game is determined, and the rearrangement pattern data and the effect pattern data corresponding to the determined total payout amount are selected. In the bonus game, symbols are rearranged based on the selected rearrangement pattern data, while an effect based on the selected effect pattern data is executed. 
     Namely, the bonus game is played after a total payout amount in the bonus game has been determined, and further, an effect is executed based on effect pattern data corresponding to the determined total payout amount. Therefore, when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively large value, an effect suggesting a large amount of payout can be executed, whereas when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively small value, an effect that excessively provokes an expectation of the player can be avoided. Accordingly, since an effect in accordance with the total payout amount to be offered can be executed, it becomes possible to avoid a condition where a payout expected from the effect is significantly different from the actual total payout amount, and therefore it becomes possible to prevent the player from being mistrustful of the game. 
     Moreover, by determining the total payout amount prior to execution of the bonus game, an effect in accordance with the total payout amount can be executed as a series of effects over a plurality of unit games, it is possible to gradually raise the expectation of the player for results of the bonus game as each of the unit games is played. It is thus possible to further increase amusement of the bonus game. 
     Furthermore, since symbols are rearranged in each unit game constituting the bonus game based on rearrangement pattern data selected in accordance with the determined total payout amount, there is no need for determining a rearrangement pattern in each unit game by means of a random number or the like, thereby enabling reduction in load for the step. 
     Preferably, the above method for controlling a gaming machine further has the following configuration. 
     Namely, the step (c) is step of determining a total payout amount in the bonus game when it is decided in the step (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     According to the above method for controlling a gaming machine, since the total payout amount in the bonus game is not previously determined but determined when the bonus game is decided to be executed, it is possible to make the bonus game more various such as, for example, a process until decision of execution of the bonus game may be reflected on the total payout amount. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game execution processing. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing appearance of a slot machine according to the present embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a pattern diagram showing columns of symbols to be displayed on respective display blocks. 
         FIG. 4  is a table showing the corresponding relations among a total payout amount, number of free games and rearrangement pattern data in a bonus game. 
         FIG. 5  is a view showing an example of the rearrangement pattern data. 
         FIG. 6  is a table showing the corresponding relations among a total payout amount, number of free games and effect pattern data in a bonus game. 
         FIG. 7  is a view showing an example of images displayed to a lower-side image display panel. 
         FIG. 8  is a view showing an example of images displayed to the lower-side image display panel. 
         FIG. 9  is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a slot machine shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing a procedure for activation processing performed by a motherboard and a gaming board. 
         FIG. 11  is a flowchart showing a procedure for peripheral device initialization processing. 
         FIG. 12  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of activation processing executed by a central controller. 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of symbol determination processing. 
         FIG. 14  is a view showing the relation among a plurality of kinds of prizes, establishment probability of each prize, and number of payouts. 
         FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of bonus game processing. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     An embodiment of the present invention is described based on drawings. 
       FIG. 1  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of game execution processing. 
     In the game execution processing, first, a main CPU  41  (see  FIG. 9 ) in a slot machine  10  (see  FIG. 2 ) according to the present embodiment performs activation processing (step S 10 ) by a motherboard  40  and a gaming board  50  (see  FIG. 9 ). The activation processing is detailed later using  FIGS. 10 to 12 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not coins have been betted (step S 11 ). In this processing, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not an input signal outputted from a 1-BET switch  26 S (see  FIG. 9 ) has been received when a 1-BET button  26  (see  FIG. 2 ) is operated, or whether or not an input signal outputted from a maximum BET switch  27 S (see  FIG. 9 ) has been received when a maximum BET button  27  (see  FIG. 2 ) is operated. When determining that coins have not been betted, the main CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 11 . 
     On the other hand, when determining in step S 11  that coins have been betted, the main CPU  41  performs processing of subtraction from the number of credits stored in the RAM  43  (see  FIG. 9 ) in accordance with the number of betted coins (step S 12 ). It is to be noted that, when the number of betted coins is larger than the number of credits stored in the RAM  43 , the main CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 11  without performing the processing of subtraction from the number of credits stored in the RAM  43 . Moreover, when the number of betted coins exceeds an upper limit value bettable in one game (50 in the present embodiment), the main CPU  41  advances the processing to step S 13  without performing the processing of subtraction from the number of credits stored in the RAM  43 . 
     Next, in step S 13 , the main CPU  41  determines whether or not a spin button  23  (see  FIG. 2 ) has been turned on. In this processing, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not the main CPU  41  has received an input signal that is outputted from a start button  23 S (see  FIG. 9 ) when the spin button  23  is pressed down. 
     When determining that the spin button  23  has not been turned on, the main CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 11 . It is to be noted that, when the spin button  23  is not turned on (e.g. when a command indicating end of the game is inputted without turning-on of the spin button  23 ), the main CPU  41  cancels the subtraction result in step S 12 . 
     On the other hand, when determining in step S 13  that the spin button  23  has been turned on, the main CPU  41  shifts the processing to step S 14 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  performs symbol determination processing (step S 14 ). In this symbol determination processing, the main CPU  41  executes a symbol determination program stored in the RAM  43 , to decide a code No. at stopping of symbols. Thereby, a combination of symbols to be rearranged is determined. This processing is detailed later using  FIGS. 13 and 14 . It should be noted that the case was described in the present embodiment where a combination of symbols to be rearranged are determined, thereby one prize out of a plurality of kinds of prizes is decided. However, in the present invention, it may be possible, for example, that one prize selected out of a plurality of prizes may be decided first, followed by determination of a combination of symbols to be rearranged. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  performs scroll-display control processing (step S 15 ). This processing is processing of stopping scroll-display of each display block  28  (see  FIG. 2 ) such that a combination of symbols corresponding to the prize decided in step S 14  is rearranged on a winning line L (see  FIG. 2 ) after scroll-display of symbols has been started. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not a bonus game trigger has been established, namely whether or not five “APPLE” symbols are rearranged on the winning line L (step S 16 ). 
     When determining that the bonus game trigger has been established, the main CPU  41  determines the number T of free games in the bonus game by means of a random number (step S 17 ). The range of the value T is from 2 to 25. The free game is a game in which the player can play the game without newly inserting game media. The free game according to the present embodiment corresponds to the unit game in the present invention. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines a total payout amount in the bonus game, namely T times of free games, out of 0 to 100 coins by means of a random number (step S 18 ). 
     Next, with reference to a data table stored in the RAM  43 , the main CPU  41  selects rearrangement pattern data of symbols in the bonus game based on the number T of free games and the total payout amount in the bonus game (step S 19 ). The rearrangement pattern data is data showing combination patterns of symbols to be rearranged in each free game during the bonus game, which is stored in plurality of kinds corresponded to the total payout amounts and the numbers of free games in the bonus game. The rearrangement pattern data is detailed later using  FIG. 5 . Further, the corresponding relation among the rearrangement pattern data, the total payout amount and the number of free games in the bonus game is detailed later using  FIG. 4 . 
     Next, with reference to a data table stored in the RAM  43 , the main CPU  41  selects effect pattern data for use in executing an effect in the bonus game based on the number T of free games and the total payout amount in the bonus game (step S 20 ). The effect pattern data is data showing a pattern of an effect using an image or sound during the bonus game. Similarly to the rearrangement pattern data, a plurality of kinds of the effect pattern data corresponded to the total payout amounts and the numbers of free games in the bonus game are also stored in the RAM  43  The corresponding relation among the effect pattern data, the total payout amount and the number of free games in the bonus game is detailed later using  FIG. 6 . 
     Next, the main CPU  41  reads a program for performing a bonus game from the RAM  43 , to execute bonus game processing (step S 21 ). In the bonus game processing, symbols are rearranged based on the rearrangement pattern data selected in step S 19 , and an effect is made based on the effect pattern data selected in step S 20  over the T times of free games. The bonus game processing is detailed later using  FIG. 15 . 
     When determining in step S 16  that the bonus game trigger has not been established, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not a prize has been established (step S 22 ). When determining that a prize has been established, the main CPU  41  pays out coins in accordance with the number of inserted game media and the prizes (step S 23 ). 
     In the case of reserving coins, the main CPU  41  performs processing of addition to the number of credits stored in the RAM  43 . On the other hand, in the case of paying out coins, the main CPU  41  transmits a control signal to a hopper  66  (see  FIG. 9 ) to pay out a prescribed number of coins. 
     When executing the processing of step S 21  or S 23 , or determining that any prize has not been established in step S 22  (determining that the game is a loss), the main CPU  41  completes the present subroutine. 
     It is to be noted that the game played during execution of the processing of steps S 11  to S 16 , S 22  and S 23  corresponds to the normal game in the present invention. 
     Next, the configuration of the slot machine  10  according to the present embodiment is described. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing an outer appearance of the slot machine according to the present embodiment. 
     In the slot machine  10 , coins, bills, or electronic valuable information corresponding to those may be used as game media. However, in the present invention, the game media are not particularly restricted, and examples thereof may include medals, tokens, electronic money, and tickets. It is to be noted that the above ticket is not particularly limited, and examples thereof may include a ticket with a barcode as described later. 
     The slot machine  10  includes a cabinet  11 , a top box  12  installed on the upper side of the cabinet  11 , and a main door  13  provided at the front of the cabinet  11 . 
     The main door  13  is provided with a lower-side image display panel  16  as a display. The lower-side image display panel  16  is provided with a transparent liquid crystal panel, and displays a variety of information on a game, effect images and the like. The lower-side image display panel  16  installed in the slot machine  10  is configured by a transparent crystal liquid panel, and displays fifteen display blocks  28  of five columns and three rows. One symbol is displayed to each of the display blocks  28 . Namely, three symbols are displayed on each symbol column. Further, on the lower-side image display panel  16 , one winning line L is formed horizontally across the five display blocks  28  displayed on the central row. The winning line L defines a combination of symbols. When a combination of symbols rearranged on the winning line L is a prescribed combination, a payout is offered in accordance with the combination and the number of inserted game media (number of BETs). 
     Further, a number-of-credits display portion  31  and a number-of-payouts display portion  32  are set on the lower-side image display panel  16 . In the number-of-credits display portion  31 , the number of credits at the moment is displayed by an image. In the number-of-payouts display portion  32 , the number of coins to be paid out is displayed by an image. 
     Moreover, although not shown, a touch panel  69  is provided at the front of the lower-side image display panel  16 . The player can operate the touch panel  69  to input a variety of commands. 
     At a lower part of the lower-side image display panel  16 , there are provided a control panel  20  including a plurality of buttons  23  to  27  with which the player input commands in accordance of the game progress, a coin receiving slot  21  from which coins are accepted into the cabinet  11 , and a bill validator  22 . 
     The control panel  20  is provided with the spin button  23 , a change button  24 , a CASHOUT button  25 , the 1-BET button  26 , and the maximum BET button  27 . The spin button  23  is used for inputting a command to start scroll of symbols. The change button  24  is used in making a request for money exchange to an attendant of gaming facilities. The CASHOUT button  25  is used for inputting a command to pay out credited coins to the coin tray  18 . 
     The 1-BET button  26  is used for inputting a command to bet one coin in a game out of credited coins. The maximum BET button  27  is used for inputting a command to bet the maximum number of coins bettable in one game (50 coins in the present embodiment). 
     The bill validator  22  discriminates whether a bill is true or not, and also accepts a true bill into the cabinet  11 . It is to be noted that the bill validator  22  may be configured so as to read a ticket  39  with a barcode described below. Buried glass  34  on which a character of the slot machine  10  or the like is drawn is provided on the lower front of the main door  13 , namely under the control panel  20 . 
     The upper-side image display panel  33  is provided at the front of the top box  12 . The upper-side image display panel  33  is provided with a liquid crystal panel to which, for example, an image representing introduction of contents of a game and explanation of a rule of the game. 
     Further, the top box  12  is provided with a speaker  29 . At a lower side of the upper image display panel  33 , there are provided a ticket printer  35 , a card reader  36 , a data display  37 , and a key pad  38 . The ticket printer  35  prints a barcode on a ticket as coded data of the number of credits, a date, an identification number of the slot machine  10 , etc., and outputs the ticket as the ticket  39  with a barcode. The player can make another slot machine read the ticket  39  with a barcode to play a game on the slot machine, or exchange the ticket  39  with a barcode with a bill or the like at a prescribed place (e.g. cashier in a casino) of the gaming facilities. 
     The card reader  36  reads data from a smart card and writes data into the smart card. The smart card is a card owned by the player, and for example stores data for identifying the player and data on a history of games played by the player. The smart card may store data corresponding to coins, bills or credits. Further, a magnetic stripe card may be employed in place of the smart card. The data display  37  is configured by a fluorescent display and the like, and displays, for example, data read by the card reader  36  and data inputted by the player through the key pad  38 . The key pad  38  is used for inputting a command and data on ticket issuance and the like. 
       FIG. 3  is a pattern diagram showing columns of symbols to be displayed on each of display blocks. 
     As described above, the fifteen display blocks  28  of five columns and three rows are displayed on the lower-side image display panel  16 , and one symbol is displayed on each of the display blocks  28 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , on the five symbol columns of the display blocks  28 , columns of a total  22  symbols consisting of code numbers “00” to “21” are scrolled. Each of the symbol columns is made up of a combination of symbols of “JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “CHERRY”, “ORANGE”, and “APPLE”. 
     When five of symbols “JACKPOT 7”, “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “CHERRY”, and “ORANGE” are rearranged on the winning line L, a previously set payout is offered (see  FIG. 14 ). 
     The symbol of “APPLE” is a bonus game trigger (symbol for shifting to a bonus game). When five “APPLE” symbols are rearranged on the winning line L, the game can be shifted to the bonus game. In the present embodiment, the bonus game consists of free games (game where a player can play a prescribed number of games without betting game media). 
     When the spin button  23  is pressed down after the 1-BET button  26  or the maximum BET button  27  is pressed, symbols displayed on the display blocks  28  are scroll-displayed downward. After the lapse of prescribed time, symbols are rearranged. Further, a variety of prizes are previously set based on the combinations of symbols (see  FIG. 14 ), and when a combination of symbols corresponding to a prize stop on the winning line L, a payout in accordance with the prize is added to the credits owned by the player. Further, when the bonus game trigger is established, the bonus game is generated. 
     It should be noted that, although the case was described in the present embodiment where symbols displayed on the display blocks  28  are automatically rearranged after the lapse of prescribed time from the screen-display of the symbols. However, in the present invention, a condition for stopping symbols is not particularly limited. For example, the slot machine  10  may be provided with a stop button, and symbols may be rearranged when the stop button is pressed down. 
     Further, although the case where a prize is determined based on a combination of symbols rearranged on the winning line L is described in the present embodiment, a prize may be decided based on the kind or the number of symbols rearranged on the display in the present invention. 
     Next, the rearrangement pattern data and the effect pattern data are described. 
       FIG. 4  is a table showing the corresponding relations among the total payout amount, the number of free games and the rearrangement pattern data in the bonus game. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data are corresponded to the total payout amounts (0 to 100) and the numbers of free games (2 to 25) in the bonus game. For example, as rearrangement pattern data that correspond to the case of the total payout amount being ten coins and the number of free games being three, different kinds of data,  10 - 3 -A,  10 - 3 -B, . . . , are prepared. 
     When the bonus game trigger is established and the number of free games and the total payout amount are determined in the gaming execution processing, one rearrangement pattern data is selected out of a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data ( 10 - 3 -A,  10 - 3 -B, etc.) corresponding to the determined number of free games and the determined total payout amount. 
       FIG. 5  is a view showing an example of the rearrangement pattern data. 
     The rearrangement pattern data ( 30 - 5 -A) exemplified in  FIG. 5  is one of rearrangement pattern data used in the bonus game in which the total payout amount is 30 coins and the number of free games is five. Namely, this rearrangement pattern data shows a rearrangement pattern of symbols in which a total number of coins to be paid out during five times of free games will be 30. Specifically, rearrangement of symbols is controlled such that a winning combination of “BLUE 7” is established in a first free game, a winning combination of “BELL” is established in a second free game, a winning combination of “PLUM” is established in a third free game, a fourth free game is lost, and a winning combination of “PLUM” is established in a fifth free game. As described later using  FIG. 14 , since ten coins are offered for “BLUE 7”, eight coins are offered for “BELL”, and four coins are offered for “PLUM”, a total of 30 coins are offered in the foregoing five free games. 
       FIG. 6  is a table showing the corresponding relations among a total payout amount, number of free games and effect pattern data in a bonus game. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data are corresponded to the total payout amounts (0 to 100) and the numbers of free games (2 to 25) in the bonus game. For example, as effect pattern data that correspond to the case of the total payout amount being ten coins and the number of free games being three, different kinds of data,  10 - 3 - a,    10 - 3 - b,  . . . , are prepared. 
     When the bonus game trigger is established and the number of free games and the total payout amount are determined in the gaming execution processing, one effect pattern data is selected out of a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data ( 10 - 3 - a,    10 - 3 - b,  etc.) corresponding to the determined number of free games and the determined total payout amount. 
     Next, images displayed to the lower-side image display panel  16  in the slot machine  10  are described.  FIGS. 7 and 8  are views each showing an example of images displayed to the lower-side image display panel during a bonus game in which the total payout amount has been determined to be a relatively large value. 
       FIG. 7  shows an example of images displayed in early turns of a plurality of free games in the bonus game. An image  101  prompting expectation of the player is displayed on the lower side of the lower-side image display panel  16 . 
     As the game turns go on, an image as shown in  FIG. 8  is displayed. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , an image  102  suggesting a high possibility of the player acquiring a large payout is displayed on the lower side of the lower-side image display panel  16 , and an image  103  showing coins as the payout are displayed on the right side of the lower-side image display panel  16 . 
     As thus described, in the present embodiment, in accordance with the total payout amount of the bonus game, effects to raise the expectation of the player are gradually executed as the free games proceed. 
       FIG. 9  is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     A gaming board  50  is provided with a CPU (central processing unit)  51 , a ROM  55 , a boot ROM  52 , a card slot  53 S corresponding to a memory card  53 , and an IC socket  54 S corresponding to a GAL (generic array logic)  54 , which are mutually connected through an internal bus. 
     The memory card  53  is configured by a nonvolatile memory such as CompactFlash (registered trade mark), and stores a game program. The game program includes a symbol determination program. The symbol determination program is a program for determining symbols (code No. corresponding to symbols) to be rearranged on the display blocks  28 . 
     Further, the card slot  53 S is configured so as to be capable of inserting and pulling out the memory card  53 , and connected to the motherboard  40  through an IDE bus. Therefore, the kind and contents of a game played on the slot machine  10  can be changed by pulling out the memory card  53  from the card slot  53 S, writing another game program into the memory card  53 , and inserting the memory card  53  into the card slot  53 S. The game program includes a program relating to game progress. Further, the game program includes image data and sound data to be outputted during the game. 
     The CPU  51 , the ROM  55  and the boot ROM  52  which are mutually connected through the internal bus are connected to the motherboard  40  through a PCI bus. The PCI bus transmits a signal between the motherboard  40  and the gaming board  50 , and supplies power from the motherboard  40  to the gaming board  50 . 
     The motherboard  40  is configured using a commercially available general-purpose motherboard (print wiring board mounted with fundamental components of a personal computer), and includes a main CPU  41 , a ROM (read only memory)  42 , and a RAM (random access memory)  43 . The motherboard  40  corresponds to the controller in the present invention. 
     The ROM  42  is configured by a memory device such as a flash memory, and stores a program such as a BIOS (basic input/output system) to be executed by the main CPU  41  and permanent data. When the BIOS is executed by the main CPU  41 , processing of initializing prescribed peripheral devices is performed concurrently with start of processing of downloading the game program stored in the memory card  53  through the gaming board  50 . It should be noted that in the present invention, contents of the ROM  42  may be rewritable or not rewritable. 
     The RAM  43  stores data and a program to be used in actuation of the main CPU  41 . Further, the RAM  43  is capable of storing a game program. 
     Further, the RAM  43  stores the number of credits, rearrangement pattern data, effect pattern data, and the like. The RAM  43  corresponds to the memory in the present invention. 
     Moreover, the motherboard  40  is connected with a later-described main body PCB (printed circuit board)  60  and a door PCB  80  through respective USBs. Further, the motherboard  40  is connected with a power source unit  45 . 
     The main body PCB  60  and the door PCB  80  are connected with an instrument and a device that generate an input signal to be inputted into the main CPU  41  and with an instrument and a device, operations of which are controlled by a control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 . The main CPU  41  executes the game program stored in the RAM  43  based on the input signal inputted into the main CPU  41  to perform prescribed computational processing and store the result into the RAM  43 , or to transmit a control signal to each instrument and device as processing of controlling each instrument and device. 
     The main body PCB  60  is connected with a lamp  30 , the hopper  66 , a coin detecting portion  67 , a graphic board  68 , the speaker  29 , the touch panel  69 , the bill validator  22 , the ticket printer  35 , the card reader  36 , a key switch  38 S and the data display  37 . The lamp  30  is lit up in a prescribed pattern based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 . 
     The hopper  66  is installed inside the cabinet  11 , and pays out a prescribed number of coins from the coin payout exit  19  to the coin tray  18  based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 . The coin detecting portion  67  is provided inside the coin payout exit  19 , and outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  in the case of detecting payout of the prescribed number of coins from the coin payout exit  19 . 
     The graphic board  68  controls display of images on the upper-side image display panel  33  and the lower-side image display panel  16  based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 . On each of the display blocks  28  of the lower-side image display panel  16 , a background color decided by selection of a random number and a symbol scrolled or stopped is displayed. The number of credits stored in the RAM  43  is displayed to the number-of-credits display portion  31  of the lower-side image display panel  16 . Further, the number of paid-out coins is displayed in the number-of-payouts display portion  31  of the lower-side image display panel  16 . 
     The graphic board  68  includes a VDP (video display processor) for generating image data based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 , a video RAM for temporarily storing image data generated by the VDP, and the like. It is to be noted that the image data used in generation of image data by the VDP is included in the game program read from the memory card  53  and stored into the RAM  43 . 
     The bill validator  22  discriminates whether a bill is true or not, and accepts a true bill into the cabinet  11 . Upon acceptance of the true bill, the bill validator  22  outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  based on an amount of the bill. The main CPU  41  stores the number of credits in accordance with the bill amount transmitted by the input signal into the RAM  43 . 
     The ticket printer  35  prints on a ticket a barcode formed by encoding data such as the number of credits stored in the RAM  43 , a date, and an identification number of the slot machine  10  based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 , and outputs the ticket as the ticket  39  with a barcode. 
     The card reader  36  reads data from the smart card and transmits the read data to the main CPU  41 , or writes data into the smart card based on the control signal from the main CPU  41 . The key switch  38 S is provided on the key pad  38 , and when the key pad  38  is operated by the player, a prescribed input signal is outputted to the main CPU  41 . The data display  37  displays data read by the card reader  36  and data inputted by the player through the keypad  38 , in accordance with the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 . 
     The door PCB  80  is connected with a control panel  20 , a reverter  21 S, a coin counter  21 C, and a cold cathode tube  81 . The control panel  20  is provided with a start switch  23 S corresponding to the spin button  23 , a change switch  24 S corresponding to the change button  24 , a CASHOUT switch  25 S corresponding to the CASHOUT button  25 , the 1-BET switch  26 S corresponding to the 1-BET button  26 , and the maximum BET switch  27 S corresponding to the maximum BET button  27 . The respective switches  23 S to  27 S output input signals to the main CPU  41  when the corresponding buttons  23  to  27  are operated by the player. 
     The coin counter  21 C is provided inside the coin receiving slot  21 , and discriminate whether coins inserted into the coin receiving slot  21  by the player are true or not. Coins other than a true coin are discharged from the coin payout exit  19 . Further, the coin counter  21 C outputs an input signal to the main CPU  41  when a true coin is detected. 
     The reverter  21 S operates based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 , and distributes a coin recognized by the coin counter  21 C as the true coin into a cash box (not shown) installed inside the slot machine  10  or to the hopper  66 . Namely, when the hopper  66  is filled with coins, the true coin is distributed to the cash box by the reverter  21 S. On the other hand, when the hopper  66  is not filled with coins, the true coin is distributed to the hopper  66 . The cold cathode tube  81  functions as a backlight installed on the rear face side of the lower-side image display panel  16  and the upper-side image display panel  33 , and lit up based on the control signal outputted from the main CPU  41 . 
     Next, processing performed on the slot machine  10  are described. 
     Since the game execution processing has already been described using  FIG. 1 , the description thereof is omitted here. 
       FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing a procedure for the activation processing. 
     This activation processing is processing performed by the motherboard  40  and the gaming board  50 . It is to be noted that the memory card  53  is inserted in the card slot  53 S in the gaming board  50 , and the GAL  54  is installed in the IC socket  54 S. 
     First, when the power switch is turned on (power is turned on) in the power source unit  45 , the motherboard  40  and the gaming board  50  are activated (steps S 1 - 1 , S 2 - 1 ). When the motherboard  40  and the gaming board  50  are activated, separate processing are respectively performed in parallel. Namely, in the gaming board  50 , the CPU  51  reads an auxiliary authentication program stored in the boot ROM  52 , and in accordance with the read auxiliary authentication program, the CPU  51  performs auxiliary authentication to check and verify that the authentication program was not previously falsified before being taken into the motherboard  40  (Step S 2 - 2 ). Meanwhile, in the motherboard  40 , the main CPU  41  executes the BIOS stored in the ROM  42 , and develops compressed data incorporated in the BIOS to the RAM  43  (step S 1 - 2 ). The CPU  41  then executes the BIOS developed to the RAM  43 , and diagnoses and initializes a variety of peripheral devices (step S 1 - 3 ). The processing of step S 1 - 3  will be detailed later using  FIG. 11 . 
     Since the main CPU  41  is connected with the ROM  55  of the gaming board  50  through the PCI bus, the main CPU  41  reads the authentication program stored in the ROM  55 , and also performs processing of storing the read authentication program into the RAM  43  (step S 1 - 4 ). At this time, the main CPU  41  obtains a checksum by ADDSUM system (standard checking function) in accordance with the function of the standard BIOS of the BIOS, and makes the RAM  43  store the authentication program while performing processing of checking whether or not the storage is performed without an error. 
     Next, after checking what is connected with an IDE bus, the main CPU  41  makes access to the memory card  53  inserted in the card slot  53 S through the IDE bus, and reads a game program and a game system program from the memory card  53 . In this case, the main CPU  41  reads data constituting the game program and the game system program in every four bytes. Subsequently, the main CPU  41  performs authentication to check and verify that the read authentication program was not previously falsified in accordance with the authentication stored in the RAM  43  (step S 1 - 5 ). When the authentication processing is normally completed, the main CPU  41  makes the RAM  43  write and store the game program and the game system program, which were the objects to be authenticated (which have been authenticated) (step S 1 - 6 ). Next, the main CPU  41  makes access to the GAL  54  connected to the IC socket  54 S through the PCI bus, reads data for payout rate setting from the GAL  54 , and makes the RAM  43  write and store the data (step S 1 - 7 ). The main CPU  41  then reads country identification information stored in the ROM  55  in the gaming board  50  through the PCI bus, and further makes the RAM  43  store the read country identification data (step S 1 - 8 ). 
     After performing the foregoing processing, the main CPU  41  sequentially reads and executes the game program and the game system program to advance the game. 
       FIG. 11  is a flowchart showing a procedure for peripheral device initialization processing. 
     First, the main CPU  41  diagnoses and initializes the display (step S 3 - 1 ). In this processing, the main CPU  41  transmits a request signal to the graphic board  68 , and determines whether or not the main CPU  41  has received a prescribed response signal, while clearing a prescribed storage region, and the like. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  diagnoses and initializes a variety of input devices (step S 3 - 2 ). In this processing, the main CPU  41  transmits a request signal to the input devices such as the start switch  23 S, the change switch  24 S, the CASHOUT switch  25 S, the 1-BET switch  26 S, the maximum BET switch  27 S, and the touch panel  69 , and determines whether or not the main CPU  41  has received a prescribed response signal. 
     Next, the main CPU  41  diagnoses and initializes the other peripheral devices connected to the main CPU  41  (step S 3 - 3 ). Thereafter, the main CPU  41  completes the present subroutine. 
     In the present embodiment, the case of the slot machine  10  being a standalone type was described. However, in the present invention, a plurality of slot machines may be connected to a central controller through a network so that the plurality of slot machines may be controlled by the central controller. 
       FIG. 12  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of activation processing executed by the central controller. 
     First, when a power switch is turned on (power is turned on) in a power source unit, a motherboard is activated (step S 4 - 1 ). 
     In the motherboard, a CPU executes a BIOS stored in a ROM, and develops compressed data incorporated in the BIOS to a RAM (step S 4 - 2 ). The CPU then executes the BIOS developed to the RAM, and diagnoses and initializes a variety of peripheral devices such as a display (step S 4 - 3 ). 
     Next, the CPU executes initialization processing on each slot machine. In this processing, the CPU establishes network connection of the central controller with each slot machine, while diagnosing whether or not the network is functioning properly. 
     After performing the foregoing processing, the CPU reads and executes the game control program to control the progress of a game executed by the plurality of slot machines. 
       FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the symbol determination processing that is called and executed in step S 14  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 1 . This processing is performed when the main CPU  41  executes the symbol determination program stored in the RAM  43 . 
     First, the main CPU  41  executes a program for random number generation included in the symbol determination program to select a random number value corresponding to each of the symbol columns out of the range of numeric values of 0 to 255 (step S 501 ). In the present embodiment, the case of generating random numbers on the program (the case of using so-called software random numbers) is described. However, in the present invention, a random number generator may be previously provided, and random numbers may be extracted from the random number generator (so-called hardware random numbers may be used). 
     Next, based on selected five random number values, the main CPU  41  decides code No. of each symbol column (see  FIG. 3 ) (step S 502 ). The code No. of each symbol column corresponds to the code No. of a symbol to be rearranged on the winning line L. The main CPU  41  determines a prize by determining the code No. of each symbol column. For example, when the main CPU  41  determines the code No. of the symbols to be “00”, “00”, “00”, “00”, and “00”, it means that the main CPU  41  determines the prize to be “JACKPOT 7”. 
     Here, prizes in the present embodiment are described. 
       FIG. 14  is a diagram showing the relation of a plurality of kinds of prizes, and establishment probabilities and the numbers of payouts for each of the prizes. 
     When five symbols of “APPLE” are rearranged on the winning line L and the bonus game trigger is won, the bonus game is generated. 
     Further, when five symbols of “JACKPOT 7” are rearranged on the winning line L, 30 coins are paid out. Similarly, when five symbols of “BLUE 7”, “BELL”, “STRAWBERRY”, “PLUM”, “CHERRY”, or “ORANGE” are rearranged on the winning line L, payouts are made in amounts corresponding to prizes for the respective combinations. 
       FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the bonus game processing that is called and executed in step S 21  of the subroutine shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     First, the main CPU  41  controls scroll of symbols in the display blocks  28  based on the rearrangement pattern data selected in step S 19  of  FIG. 1  (step S 60 ). Specifically, the main CPU  41  scroll-displays and stops symbols in the display blocks  28  such that a prize set with regard to each free game by the selected rearrangement pattern data is established. 
     Subsequently, the main CPU  41  executes an effect based on the effect pattern data selected in step S 20  of  FIG. 1  (step S 61 ). Specifically, based on the determined total payout amount, the main CPU  41  outputs images and sound, thereby executing effects to gradually enhance the expectation of the player as the turns of the free games go on (see  FIGS. 7 and 8 ). 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not the prize has been established (step S 62 ). When determining that the prize has been established, the main CPU  41  pays out coins in accordance with the prize (step S 63 ). 
     When determining in step S 62  that any prize has not been established (determining that the game is a loss) or executing the processing of step S 63 , the main CPU  41  executes processing of subtracting 1 from the value of the number T of free games (step S 64 ). 
     Next, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not the number T of free games is 0 (step S 65 ). Namely, the main CPU  41  determines whether or not the free games have been played for the number of times determined in step S 17  of  FIG. 1 . 
     When determining that the value T is not 0, the main CPU  41  returns the processing to step S 60 . When determining that the value T is 0, the main CPU  41  completes the present subroutine. 
     As thus described, the slot machine  10  according to the present embodiment has the lower-side image display panel  16  (display) capable of rearranging symbols. Further, the slot machine  10  includes the RAM  43  (memory) that stores a plurality of kinds of rearrangement pattern data showing the symbols rearranged during a bonus game in which free games, in which the symbols are rearranged and displayed to the lower side display panel  16 , are played over a plurality of times or showing combination patterns of those symbols, each of the rearrangement pattern data being corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game, and a plurality of kinds of effect pattern data for use in executing an effect, each of the effect pattern data being corresponded to the total payout amount in the bonus game. Moreover, the gaming machine includes the motherboard  40  (controller) programmed to execute processing of (a) executing a normal game in which the symbols are rearranged and displayed to the lower-side image display panel  16 , (b) deciding whether or not to execute the bonus game, (c) determining a total payout amount in the bonus game, (d) selecting one rearrangement pattern data out of rearrangement pattern data corresponded to the total payout amount determined in the processing (c), among the plurality of kinds of the rearrangement pattern data stored in the RAM  43 , (e) selecting one effect pattern data out of effect pattern data corresponded to the total payout amount determined in the processing (c), among the plurality of kinds of the effect pattern data stored in the RAM  43 , and (f) executing rearrangement of the symbols displayed to the lower-side display panel  16  based on the rearrangement pattern data selected in the processing (d), while executing an effect based on the effect pattern data selected in the processing (e), in each of the free games constituting the bonus game when it is decided in the processing (b) that the bonus game will be executed. 
     Namely, on the above slot machine  10 , the bonus game is played after a total payout amount in the bonus game has been determined, and further, an effect is executed based on effect pattern data corresponding to the determined total payout amount. Therefore, when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively large value, an effect suggesting a large amount of payout can be executed, whereas when the total payout amount is determined to be a relatively small value, an effect that excessively provokes an expectation of the player can be avoided. Accordingly, since an effect in accordance with the total payout amount to be offered can be executed, it becomes possible to avoid a condition where a payout expected from the effect is significantly different from the actual total payout amount, and therefore it becomes possible to prevent the player from being mistrustful of the game. 
     Moreover, by determining the total payout amount prior to execution of the bonus game, an effect in accordance with the total payout amount can be executed as a series of effects over a plurality of free games, it is possible to gradually raise the expectation of the player for results of the bonus game as each of the free games is played. It is thus possible to further increase amusement of the bonus game. 
     Furthermore, since symbols are rearranged in each free game constituting the bonus game based on rearrangement pattern data selected in accordance with the determined total payout amount, there is no need for determining a rearrangement pattern in each free game by means of a random number or the like, thereby enabling reduction in load for the step. 
     In the present embodiment, the case was described where rearrangement pattern data and effect pattern data are corresponded to a total payout amount in the bonus game and the number of free games constituting the bonus game. However, in the present invention, the number of unit games constituting the bonus game may be fixed, and the rearrangement pattern data and the effect pattern data may be corresponded only to the total payout amount of the bonus game. 
     Further, in the case of determining the total payout amount in the bonus game after the bonus game has been decided to be executed in the normal game as in the present embodiment, the total payout amount in the bonus game may be determined based on a result of the normal game executed until the bonus game has been decided to be executed. For example, when a large number of the normal game have been played before the bonus game is decided to be executed, the total payout amount in the bonus game may be determined to be a relatively large value. 
     Moreover, in the present embodiment, the case was described where the total payout amount in the bonus game is determined after the bonus game has been decided to be executed in the normal game. However, in the present invention, the timing for determining the total payout amount in the bonus game is not particularly limited so long as the timing is before the execution of the bonus game. For example, the timing may be determined when game media are betted in the normal game. 
     Furthermore, although the case was described in the present embodiment where the slot machine  10  is a video slot machine, the gaming machine in the present invention may be a mechanical slot machine provided with reels. 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments thereof, these embodiments merely illustrate specific examples, not restricting the present invention. The specific structures of respective means and the like can be designed and changed as required. Furthermore, there have been merely described most preferable effects of the present invention, as the effects of the present invention, in the embodiments of the present invention. The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. 
     Further, in the aforementioned detailed description, characteristic portions have been mainly described, for ease of understanding the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the aforementioned detailed description, but can be also applied to other embodiments over a wider range of applications. Further, the terms and phrases used in the present specification have been used for clearly describing the present invention, not for limiting the interpretation of the present invention. Further, those skilled in the art will easily conceive other structures, systems, methods and the like which are included in the concept of the present invention, from the concept of the present invention described in the present specification. Accordingly, the description of the claims is intended to include equivalent structures that fall within the technical scope of the invention. Further, the abstract aims at enabling engineers and the like who belong to the present technical field but are not familiar with the patent office and public institutions, the patent, law terms and technical terms to immediately understand the technical content and the essence of the present application through brief studies. Accordingly, the abstract is not intended to restrict the scope of the invention which should be evaluated from the description of the claims. It is desirable that literatures and the like which have been already disclosed are sufficiently studied and understood, in order to sufficiently understand the objects of the present invention and the specific effects of the present invention. 
     In the aforementioned detailed description, there has been described processing to be executed by computers. The aforementioned description and expressions have been described for the sake of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the present invention most effectively. In the present specification, each step for deriving a single result should be understood to be self-consistent processing. Further, each step includes transmission, reception, recording and the like of electric or magnetic signals. Although, in the processing at each step, such signals have been expressed as bits, values, symbols, characters, terms, numerical characters and the like, it should be noticed that they have been merely used for convenience of description. Further, although the processing at each step was described using expressions common to human behaviors in some cases, the processes described in the present specification are to be executed by various types of devices, in principle. Further, other structures required for conducting each step will be apparent from the aforementioned description.