Abstract: Hall effect elements are placed in proximity to magnets in such a way that the position of the magnets relative to the Hall elements is a function of the position of a joystick controller. In this way, the position of the joystick can be "read" by a machine by reference to the Hall effect voltage.

Abstract: A pinball machine having a playfield on which at least one drop target is supported for selective actuation relative to the playfield. The drop target includes a post having a conical shaped flange at its upper end, the post being moveable between a position wherein the flange and a portion of the post are disposed above the playfield for impingement by a game ball, and being responsive to impact by the game ball for movement to a position wherein a planar surface on the upper flange is substantially flush with the playfield so as to enable the game ball to pass freely thereover. Movement of the drop target from its raised position to its lowered position upon impact by a game ball serves to propel the ball away from the target.

Abstract: A play feature for a pinball machine includes one or more movable bumper posts placed near entrances to passages through which a ball will exit from the play of the game. When the bumper post is not actuated the ball can pass freely through a passage entrance. Actuation of the bumper post moves the post parallel to the surface of the playfield to a position hindering ball access to the passage. Bumper post motion may be sufficiently rapid to impart a considerable component of momentum in the direction of motion of the bumper post to the ball when the post contacts the ball.