Abstract: A ball and target game includes a spherical element and an elongate target element carrying a plurality of discrete target areas, which areas are juxtaposed longitudinally on the target element. The spherical element and the target element carry complementary hook and loop components or magnetic components that enable the spherical element to releasably attach to the target element within a selected target area when the spherical element is projected at and strikes the target element within that target area.

Abstract: Goals for games are provided. A crosspiece for a game goal is provided that can be used for both rugby and football. A first gripper is provided on a first end of the crosspiece for retaining a flexible pole on the first end of the crosspiece. The first gripper has a first opening having an entry side and an exit side, and the first opening is tapered between the entry side and the exit side. A second gripper is provided on a second end of the crosspiece for retaining a flexible pole on the second end of the crosspiece. The second gripper has a first opening having an entry side and an exit side, and the first opening is tapered between the entry side and the exit side. A center gripper is provided in the center of the crosspiece for retaining a flexible pole on the center of the crosspiece. The center gripper has a hole having an entry side and the hole extends to a bottom wall. The hole is tapered between the entry side and the bottom wall.

Abstract: A ball locking device includes a plurality of posts arranged to retract into or extendabove apertures in the game playfield. In the extended position, the posts form a cage which confines a game ball therein. The posts are arranged, for example, in a circular pattern and spaced from one another at a distance less than the diameter of the game ball. A solenoid, in conjunction with sensing devices, controls the movement of the posts to capture the ball in play or to release the captured ball at an appropriate time during game play. The locking device is hidden from the players view when in its retracted position.

Abstract: A game which comprises a plurality of play devices and a panel for prohibiting access of a player to the plurality of play devices. The panel includes at least two optically distinct portions. A first optically distinct portion is substantially transparent for viewing at least one of the play devices and a second optically distinct portion is partially transparent for viewing at least another of the plurality of the play devices and partially reflective for reflecting a virtual image to be viewed by the player. The second optically distinct portion having a higher reflectivity than the first optically distinct portion.

Abstract: A pinball machine having a vertically displaceable ramp play feature. The ramp moves between an upper position in which it does not interfere with gameplay, and a lower position in which the lower edge of the ramp rests on the playfield. When the ramp is in the lower position, balls can be directed up the ramp towards a suitable target, such as a raised playfield.

Abstract: A serpentine ramp is rotatable about a horizontal axis between its center and its upper end to lift a pinball from a lower play surface to an upper play surface. A ball is directed from the lower surface into a ball receiving portion in the lower end of the ramp. This closes an optical switch causing the ramp to rotate between a receiving position and a discharge position. A ball disposed in the receiving portion rolls on the ramp to its upper end and then onto the upper surface. A second optical switch is closed by the return of the ramp to the receiving position which terminates the operation of the device.

Abstract: A drop target for a pinball game includes a movable target element operably connected to a target driver. The target driver is controllably movable in response to energizing pulses from a game controller. A releasable latching mechanism moves in cooperation with the target driver and, when attached to the target element, communicates movement from the target driver to the target element so as to move the latter between a raised and lowered position. The target driver in one embodiment comprises a single solenoid including a coil and a plunger concentric with the coil. The plunger and target element move to a raised position in response to the game controller applying an initial energizing pulse to the coil. Thereafter, the game controller maintains the target in its raised position by applying a variable pattern of energizing pulses to the coil.

Abstract: A play feature for a pinball game features a multimode target with a variable trajectory ball ramp. The multimode target features a pair of distinct targets mounted upon the playfield of the pinball game in a rotating fashion. The multimode target may be rotated between positions whereby each of the distinct targets is exclusively accessible by the game ball thus providing the pinball game with more than one mode of play. A variable trajectory ball ramp is positioned upon the playfield and is curved and banked towards the multimode target. A pinball properly negotiating the ramp may strike the multimode target so as to increase the player's score. The multimode target may oscillate and the distinct targets may feature a number of sub-targets as well as oscillating barriers.

Abstract: A ramp with an integral ball deflector is positioned upon the playfield of a pinball game with its entrance approximately level with the playfield. A ball deflector having the shape of a triangle is mounted upon the bottom of the ramp with its widest portion near to the ramp entrance. The hypotenuse of the ball deflector defines a ball deflection surface. When a game ball rolls down the ramp, such as during roll back it is directed away from one of the side walls of the ramp by the ball deflection surface so that it later avoids an undesirable location on the playfield. A bifurcated entrance plate is connected between the ramp entrance and the playfield so that the ball deflector has a minimal effect upon a game ball entering the ramp.

Abstract: Portable target game apparatus positionable on a pool table or other support includes an inclined board having target holes for receiving balls rolled onto the board. Straight side walls and a straight back wall are attached to the board and extend upwardly from the board. Connector walls are diagonally disposed relative to the back and side walls and interconnect the back and side walls. Resilient material is connected with the back wall, the side walls and the connector walls to redirect movement of balls on the ball support surface.

Abstract: A wrecking ball play feature for a pinball game includes a crane disposed upon the playfield of the pinball game. A wrecking ball is suspended from the crane by a cable so that it may be impacted by a game ball rolling upon the playfield. After being struck by the game ball, the wrecking ball swings in a pendulum-like fashion so as to strike targets near the crane, thus increasing the player's score. Alternatively, the wrecking ball may block a passage, the access of which by the game ball increases the player's score. The wrecking ball may be raised or lowered so that the pinball game features two or more modes of play. In one embodiment, the wrecking ball is raised and lowered by pivoting the crane arm about a pivot connection with the crane tower by way of a solenoid connected between the crane arm and the playfield. In another embodiment, the wrecking ball is raised by retracting the cable into the crane arm by way of tilting a crank to which the cable is connected.

Abstract: An interactive play feature for a pinball game includes a shooting position on an inclined playfield and a target spaced apart from the shooting position. A shooting mechanism is responsive to input from a player for propelling a game ball from the shooting position toward the target. The game ball normally follows a path of travel from the shooting position to the target when propelled by the shooting mechanism. A blocking member is movable to a blocking position in response to the game ball reaching a desired position, wherein the blocking member obstructs the path of travel of the game ball to prevent the game ball from reaching the target.

Abstract: A game structure for use on a horizontal or substantially horizontal surface, the structure comprising a shaft one or more loop members, the shaft including two support members extending from each end of the shaft for supporting the shaft in a horizontal or substantially horizontal position above the surface; and each loop member occupying a respective plane and being rotatably connected or connectable to the shaft at the loop periphery so that when the loop member is disposed below the shaft and in contact with or in close proximity to said surface, the loop member may rotate about a vertical or substantially vertical axis which extends through the respective plane. Game structure including different combinations of additional components, and games playable on a horizontal or substantially horizontal surface comprised of game structure of this invention in combination with other game components to permit ball rolling games, ring toss games, games which require a suspended net, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: Conventional pinball machines have various mechanisms, some of which are under the control of the user, to enable the ball in play to be moved around the playing surface. An extra mechanism which can be incorporated is a rotated striking member, e.g. of oval shape. When a ball strikes this, it is driven away in a direction which is usually not radial relative the rotational axis of the member but which tends to be more tangential.

Abstract: A target and associated impact sensing mechanism is provided including a target head above the pinball playing surface which is movable from a first position above the playing surface to a second position above the playing surface upon receiving a sufficient impact force from the pinball. A switch actuator depends from the head and extends below the playing surface in the interior of the pinball machine. A switch has an open state and a closed state with the switch actuator changing the switch from its open state to its closed state as an incident of the movement of the target head from the first position to the second position. A housing mount is provided below the playing surface containing the switch to protect the switch from the environment and to support the target head above the playing surface with the actuator in position to change the switch from its open to its closed state.

Abstract: A competitive table top type game having a "fenced-in" playing surface with opposed player ends. Each player controls one or more strikers and uses it to cause a play piece such as a ball to hit the opponent's target. When a player's target is hit, a liquid discharge is directed at that player for added play value and enjoyment. For simplicity and economy of construction, that player actuates a mechanical stop to stop the discharge and reset the target. In one form, the actuation of the stop also advances the opponent's's score. Alternatively, any simple score indicating arrangement may be used.

Abstract: The jet bumper of the invention consists of a body mounted to the playfield. A solenoid actuator and rebound ring are mounted on the body. An eddy current sensor is disposed about the body to detect the approach of a ball. Upon detection of the ball, the eddy current sensor energizes the solenoid actuator to retract the rebound ring and propel the ball.

Abstract: A play feature for a pinball game permits the storage of a number of game balls and release of the balls at high speed and in quick succession back onto the playfield for multiple ball play. A rotor element having a plurality of vertical vanes is disposed within a circular housing having a conical lip. The base and vanes of the rotor, together with the conical lip, define receptacles for receiving game balls. When a predetermined rotor speed is reached, the balls travel upwards on the conical lip and outward against an outer wall of the housing. The stored balls are conveyed successively to a discharge channel where they return to the play field at high speed.

Abstract: A signaling device for an amusement game including a playfield having a plurality of triggering devices disposed thereon electrically linked to a microprocessor. A plurality of light sources are mounted behind the playfield which are capable of being activated either singularly or in combination by the microprocessor to produce a predetermined color of light. An optical receptor is disposed on the playfield and is optically connected to the plurality of light sources through an optical lead whereby the optical receptor will become illuminated in the color generated by the plurality of light sources. The color generated by the light sources and, therefore, the color in which the optical receptor will illuminate may be changed to either signal a successful activation of a specified triggering device or signal which triggering device should next be activated.

Abstract: The play feature of the invention comprises a planar surface which is rotatable above the playfield of a pinball game between a ball receiving and a ball discharge position. An electromagnet is attached to the planar surface. A ball detector, such as an eddy current sensor, is mounted to the playfield adjacent the housing to detect the approach of a pinball to the electromagnet. The magnet can be energized to suspend a ball from the planar surface which is then rotated to a ball discharge position where the magnet is deenergized to discharge the ball.

Abstract: A new Universal Sports Net System for providing a sports net that facilitates improvement of the user's game by allowing the user to practice various sports in the convenience of their garage in all weather conditions and providing convenient storage thereof. The inventive device includes a netting structure, a padded floor structure attached to the netting structure reducing bouncing balls, and a garage door securing means that holds the present invention to a garage door during use and for storage.

Abstract: A wand for a pinball game which carries a pinball from one position to another by electromagnetism. The pinball rolls along the bottom surface of the wand as the wand is rotated to move the pinball from one position to another. A platform is provided to orient the pinball with respect to the wand whereby side-to-side movement of the pinball is minimized.

Abstract: An air cushion table game includes a barrier for deflecting a puck during the play of the game when the barrier is in the down position and for capturing the puck by permitting said puck to pass under the barrier when the barrier is up at the end of the game. A plurality of targets are located at the goal end of the game. The player attempts to accumulate as large a score as possible by striking the targets at the goal end of the game with a puck driven by a striker. A coin or token operated mechanism initiates the play of the game. According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the game has four illuminated target areas each of which includes an LED/photosensor for sensing whether or not the illuminated area is hit by a puck. Alternatively, the game may comprise three targets each of which is randomly illuminated by a pair of red and green lights.

Abstract: The lighted stand-up target of the invention comprises a housing attached to the playfield and a target switch pivotably mounted to the housing. An array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are positioned on a printed circuit board mounted within the housing. The target switch is actuated each time that it is struck by a pinball. In response thereto, the LEDs are lit indicating the number of times that the impact target has been struck.

Abstract: A play feature for use in conjunction with a pinball game having an inclined playfield over which a ball may roll is provided. The play feature includes a ball directing member defining an entrance pathway, a first exit pathway, and a second exit pathway. The entrance pathway is provided to direct the ball along a first predetermined line, the first exit pathway is provided to direct the ball along a second predetermined line, and the second exit pathway provided to direct the ball along a third predetermined line. At least one electromagnet is operatively associated with the ball directing member for causing the ball, upon activation thereof, to alter its course of travel along the first predetermined line to a course of travel along the second predetermined line. Optionally, a second electromagnet may be used for causing the ball, upon activation thereof, to alter its course of travel along the first predetermined line to a course of travel along the third predetermined line.

Abstract: A ramp element is provided on the top of a drop target member so that when the target is activated and moved to its lower position, the ramp is accessible by the game ball and may travel thereover to reach elevated game features. A series of ramp elements may be provided in a row so that when all targets have been lowered, there is provided a ramp of increased size providing increased access to the elevated game feature.

Abstract: A carousel of rotating arms provides a circular excursion, raising and lowering the arms at fixed locations in the excursion. A target is carried by each arm. A coin chute drops coins at a location where the target passes. The player skill is to roll a coin down a coin chute so that it drops off the end thereof at the instant when a target is positioned to catch it. If desired, the targets may be shaped to require different skill levels by the person who rolls the coin. A microprocessor controls the game machine and pays off according to a programmed schedule. The operational parameters of the game machine may be changed by software adjustments.

Abstract: A pinball momentum transfer device or Newton ball device utilizes an impact bail anchored to the playfield. The impact ball, in cooperation with guide elements on the playfield, defines a ball travel area for captive balls to which momentum can be transferred from a game ball via the impact ball so as to project one of the captive balls towards a target element contained within the ball travel area.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving the scoring skills of a player practicing a sport, such as hockey, ringette, broomball, soccer and lacrosse, involving propelling a playing piece into a goal tended by a goalkeeper is disclosed. A target support is sized to approximate the goal and at least two targets positioned thereon are representative of areas which are typically unprotected by a goalkeeper in a common goal guarding position. A sensor detects a player in a predetermined area proximate the target support and generates a signal to a processor which executes a program to indicate at least one of the targets as a current target for which the player should aim. The current target indicator is activated for a predetermined period of time, for example dependent on the skill of the player, or until the playing piece successfully strikes the current target. The processor preferably accumulates statistics useful in gaging the skill progression of the practicing player.

Abstract: A ball diverter located in a ramp or other ball path is moveable between first and second positions and is used to selectively divert a pinball between two paths. The player uses buttons located on the game cabinet to control the position of the diverter and the path travelled by the ball. The mechanism for moving the diverter includes two solenoid coils which are arranged such that the diverter can be held in either the first or second position indefinitely without either solenoid being continuously actuated.

Abstract: A pinball machine is provided and includes an inclined playfield for supporting a rolling ball. The inclined playfield has associated therewith at least one flipper, an exit lane, and a drain hole. A door mechanism having a retractable door is positioned adjacent to the exit lane and a holding area is positioned behind the door for allowing a ball to be stored therein whereby the ball is prevented from continuing down the exit lane and into the drain hole. A kicker mechanism is also associated with the holding area for launching the ball from the holding area back through the exit lane and into the play area of the playfield. A first switch is positioned upon the playfield and is operable through contact with the ball for causing the door to move from a first position wherein the ball is prevented from accessing the holding area to a second position wherein the ball is allowed to access the holding area.

Abstract: A target game for outdoor use wherein a ball is tossed or rolled toward a target with the target comprising a plurality of cups which are buried in the ground. Additionally, a backer board and rails are provided to accurately guide the ball in its path.

Abstract: A ball diverter mechanism for use in directing a ball in a pinball game having an entry path and first and second exit paths. The ball diverter mechanism comprises a solenoid having a plunger movable between a first position wherein the plunger is extended and a second position wherein the plunger is retracted, a first ball contacting surface linked to the plunger, and a second ball contacting surface also linked to the plunger. When the plunger is in the first position, the ball will engage the first ball contacting surface and travel under the second ball contacting surface to cause the ball to be diverted from the entry path to the first exit path. When the plunger is in the second position, the ball will engage the second ball contacting surface and travel over the first ball contacting surface to cause the ball to be diverted from the entry path into the second exit path.

Abstract: An improved Skelly game is provided which consists of a game board having a court with a plurality of numbered bases randomly placed thereon and a plurality of pucks with each puck used by each player. The first player to propel their respective puck through each of the numbered bases in sequential order and then propel the puck through each of the numbered bases in a reverse sequential order wins the game.

Abstract: A wand for a pinball game which carries a pinball from one position to another by electromagnetism. The pinball rolls along the bottom surface of the wand as the wand is rotated to move the pinball from one position to another.

Abstract: A target for a pinball game utilizing a pinball rolling on a game surface is provided. The target includes a single pallet having disposed thereon a first display and a second display. A mask is disposed in overlapping relation with the single pallet. A pinball activatable switch is used for generating a detection signal. A solenoid is used for changing the overlapping relation between the mask and the single pallet in response to the detection signal between a first relationship wherein only the first display is visible and a second relationship wherein only the second display is visible.

Abstract: A pinball game for creating an optical illusion in which a real pinball normally enters a saucer cup held on a stage during a first operating state, During a second operating state, the stage screens are closed and the pinball enters a lift mechanism held behind the stage. A false pinball is displayed in the saucer cup and is raised by the lift mechanism to create the illusion that the real pinball is floating in defiance of gravity. After the false pinball and the real pinball are in the loft area above the stage, the real pinball is guided to a ramp which returns the real pinball to the playfield.

Abstract: The play feature for a game of the present invention comprises a multiple kicker ramp including a plurality of spaced-apart longitudinal dividers which define parallel ball lanes and a plurality of perpendicular paths between the ball lanes. Balls enter the ramp from the playfield. A ball sensor is provided in each of the perpendicular paths, each sensor associated with a different point value. A multiple kicker element, which is activated by a player controlled switch, is provided in one of the ball lanes to direct a ball to the other ball lane over one of the perpendicular paths to activate its ball sensor. This causes the point value of the activated sensor to be added to the player's score.

Abstract: The play feature of the invention comprises a ball well and electromagnetic coil. A ball sensor is located near the well entrance to signal when a ball is detected. The electromagnet, disposed at the well entrance, attracts the ball from the playfield into the well where it is retained. To eject the ball, the magnet is reenergized and the ball is ejected form the well onto the playfield.

Abstract: A game apparatus, the game apparatus including a housing, the housing enclosing a playing chamber therewithin, at least one pair of substantially opposing impeller devices sharing a common longitudinal axis, each impeller being capable of impelling a projectile into the playing chamber.

Abstract: The play feature of the invention consists of an inclined ramp mounted for tilting motion along a single axis. A reversible electric motor, controlled by the flipper buttons, can pivot the ramp in either direction about the axis. The player, by manipulating the flipper buttons, controls the tilting of the ramp thereby to control the path of travel taken by the ball as it rolls down the ramp. The ramp is provided with a plurality of bumpers, roll over switches and out holes that allow the player to score points if the player traverses the ramp in the manner directed by the game program.

Abstract: A rolling ball amusement device such as a pinball game comprises a frame carrying a playfield, and a ball-actuated switch carried with the playfield. The switch comprises a switch body which is movably and typically pivotably connected with a variable-position actuator wire to operate the switch in a manner which is dependent upon the position of the wire. A slot is defined in the playfield, with the actuator wire defining an arc section which is free of angled corners projecting upwardly through the slot. A rolling ball can depress the arc section to actuate the switch with essentially no "hang-up", whether or not the rolling ball approaches the actuator wire from a longitudinal or a lateral direction. Also, a spring urges the actuator wire upwardly out of the depressed position so that the actuator wire only occupies its depressed position when pressed into it by a rolling ball.

Abstract: In a pinball machine, a ball spinner comprising a cup adapted for rotation relative to a playing field, the cup having a curved inner surface which terminates in a peripheral flange, and a centrally disposed hub extending downwardly along the axis of rotation, the hub having a compression spring disposed thereof for maintaining the cup in a non-rotating, unweighted position, the cup being operably associated with a drive motor for rotation thereof, and being adapted to engage a switch upon sensing the weight of the pinball therein, the switch enabling the drive motor and remaining in a closed position until the pinball is ejected from the cup during rotation.

Abstract: A pinball machine which comprises a housing, a playfield, a motor assembly and a movable assembly is provided. The motor assembly is electronically adapted to respond to the actuation of the targets and is movably connected to the movable assembly. Mechanisms are provided to move the movable assembly from a first position to a second position. The moving mechanisms are operable to return the movable assembly to the first position in response to the actuation of one or more of the targets. In the illustrative embodiment the movable assembly resembles a woman tied to a log on a lumber mill saw table. The first position is the beginning of the saw table and the second position is near a saw blade. The player of the game is prompted to hit specific targets which will save the woman by returning the log to the first position away from the saw blade.

Abstract: The ball diverter of the invention consists of a pivoting cage located above an elevated track. The cage, when in its lowered position, will intercept a ball rolling on the track. The cage can then be pivoted to remove the ball from the track and deposit it on a surface disposed beneath the track. When the cage is in the raised position, the ball is allowed to traverse the track uninterrupted.

Abstract: The ramp consists of a wire rail formed as a helix. The rail extends between a first elevation where the ball enters the ramp to a second, lower elevation where the ball exits the ramp. A straight rail extends through the center of the helical rail for the length thereof. The helical rail is dimensioned such that the distance between it and straight rail is less than the diameter of the ball. As a result, the ball will contact both the straight rail and helical rail simultaneously as it rolls down the helical rail by the force of gravity.

Abstract: A planetary ball storage device for a pinball game according to the present invention consists of a horizontally disposed rotating wheel having a plurality of pinball receiving pockets arrayed on the periphery of the wheel. The game player, using the flippers, can direct a ball into an empty pocket when a pocket is in a ball receiving position after a predetermined game objective has been met. Balls are returned to the playfield by the utilization of a magnetic lifter arm controlled by the game microprocessor. The wheel is rotated by an electric motor and its position is detected by an optical switch assembly. A second optical switch assembly generates a signal to energize the magnetic lifter arm.

Abstract: The play feature for a pinball game of the present invention comprises a roulette scoring device mounted above the playfield which includes a horizontally rotating wheel having a plurality of apertures arrayed around its periphery. A different point value indicated to the player is associated with each of the apertures. Pinballs can enter the roulette scoring device not only from the shooter lane, but also from a ramp disposed on the playfield. An optical switch or microswitch included in the ramp adjacent a holding device and a microswitch in the shooter lane generate signals sent to the game microprocessor to cause the wheel to rotate. An optical switch mounted on the playfield senses the return of the ball to the playfield and signals the game microprocessor to stop the rotation of the wheel and to add the appropriate point value to the player's score.

Abstract: The play feature of the invention includes an electromagnet mounted below the playfield on a reversible screw. The screw is rotated to propel the magnet along its length relative to the playfield. A pinball disposed on the playfield is attracted by the magnet such that the ball will be dragged across the playfield as the magnet is propelled by the screw. Optical switches are used to provide feedback to the game's microprocessor indicative of the status of the play feature. In the preferred embodiment, the game player attempts to strike the ball as it is dragged across the playfield to put the ball in play and create multiple ball play.

Abstract: A new pinball game includes a playing surface with a plurality of targets disposed on the playing surface. A player actuated flipper is used to propel a ball toward the targets thereby accumulating points in a first fashion. The pinball game also includes a track which has a first position wherein the ball rolls on the track and a second position wherein the ball is dropped off of the track. A mechanism is provided for positioning the ball on the track. At least one target associated with the track is located below the track. A sensor is connected to the target to detect engagement of the ball with the track associated target. The player actuates a button which causes movement of the track from the first position to the second position thereby dropping the ball off of the track. A memory is provided to store the point value of each track associated target each time such target is hit. The player uses the actuation button to try to drop the ball on or over the target.