Abstract: A variable position flipper mechanism is disclosed for use with pinball or rolling ball games. The flippers, actuated by solenoid mechanisms, are spaced a selectable distance apart thereby to permit adjustment in the skill level of the game. Spacing of the flipper mechanisms is accomplished by rotating a cam plate which is ratcheted into various positions by a pair of solenoid operators and appropriate linkages. Rotation of the cam plate in a first direction spaces the flippers at their maximum distance, while rotation in the opposite direction moves the flippers to successively closer positions. Optical detection means can be associated with the cam plate to provide position information to a controller associated with the pinall machine.

Abstract: A drop target for a pinball game has a target member movable between raised and lowered positions and general intermediate positions. A solenoid mechanism is employed to reset the display target to its raised position. Optional detectors permit tracking of the position of the target so that appropriate scoring procedures can be implemented.

Abstract: A play feature for a pinball machine is described comprising a plurality of drop targets that are preferably located in-line along a confined lane of a pinball playfield, each of the drop targets extending through an opening in the playfield and being movable between an up and a down position. The play feature further comprises means for releasably maintaining each of the drop targets in the up position until struck by a ball propelled up the lane, resetting means for simultaneously raising the drop targets from the down position to the up position, and driving means for driving the resetting means in response to an electric signal being applied thereto.

Abstract: An alternate target configuration is disclosed for a pinball game apparatus or the like, where two adjacent targets are mounted within a frame on the underside of the apparatus playfield, each adapted to move through a playfield opening between an exposed position above the playfield and a hidden position below the playfield. A linkage including an elongated member medially pivoted to the frame in the fashion of a seesaw is connected at its opposite ends to the respective targets, preferably when one target is exposed and the other target is hidden. The linkage is effective to shift both targets simultaneously from one alternate target position to another alternate target position where the other target is exposed and the one target is hidden. A spring toggles the seesaw linkage resiliently to the extreme limit of travel in each alternate target position.