Pinball multi-path play feature with magnetic ball diversion
US5518236A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 24, 1995 |
| Grant date | May 21, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 24, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63F7/3075
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
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. A switch, internal or external, is used to activate the electromagnet. Either one or both of the exit pathways is disposed at an angle relative to the entrance pathway.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.