Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a position controller and a movable feature on the pinball machine. The position controller comprises a servomotor connected in operative relation to a shaft. The movable features connect to the shaft and are movable between several positions by the shaft. Circuitry is provided to produce a signal to command movement of the feature to one of the positions in a manner responsive to an event taking place in the pinball machine. Electronic circuitry causes the servomotor to move the shaft to a specific position in response to the signal, without the need for mechanical switches. Specifically, a plate-like, movable obscurer for the flippers is disclosed as the movable feature, although other types of movable features are discussed.

Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a frame which carries a playfield, a chute and a driver for launching balls onto the playfield through the chute. A spent ball-receiving aperture in the playfield communicates with a sloped trough positioned under the playfield. The trough is of a length to hold a plurality of balls, preferably more than three balls. An upper end of the trough communicates with the aperture, while the lower end of the trough is positioned adjacent to and below the chute and the ball driver for launching. A solenoid or the like is positioned to vertically elevate the ball occupying the trough lower end, typically by striking it to cause the ball to fly to a new position in the chute for launching. Sensors are present to determine the number of balls in the trough. A microprocessor and other electronic means are present for actuating the solenoid or the like for vertically elevating the ball to the chute for launching.

Abstract: A pinball game in which an electromagnet is positioned on or below the playfield. A computer-controlled circuit is connected to the electromagnet and is operable to detect and control the pinball in response to changes in the magnetic field of the electromagnet.

Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a position controller and a movable feature on the pinball machine. The position controller comprises a servomotor connected in operative relation to a shaft. The movable features connect to the shaft and are movable between several positions by the shaft. Circuitry is provided to produce a signal to command movement of the feature to one of the positions in a manner responsive to an event taking place in the pinball machine. Electronic circuitry causes the servomotor to move the shaft to a specific position in response to the signal, without the need for mechanical switches. Specifically, a plate-like, movable obscurer for the flippers is disclosed as the movable feature, although other types of movable features are discussed.

Abstract: A pinball machine comprises a playfield, a shooter for propelling balls on the playfield, and a figure having at least one movable limb. The limb is movable between a first position where the limb is capable of receiving and holding a ball, and a second position where the ball is propelled from the limb onto the playfield. A motor/solenoid and shaft are provided for moving the limb between the first and second positions to propel the ball from the limb, and then to retract the limb back to the first position. A ball delivery trough is positioned to deliver balls to the limb in the first position.

Abstract: A rotating pinball bridge and drop is provided which comprises a rotatable cylinder with a hole sufficiently sized to allow a pinball to pass through. The cylinder is rotated by a drive member so that a ball may either pass through or be dropped from the ramp.