Magnetic ball lock for a pinball game

摘要

An optical sensor includes a light emitter (22) and a light detector (24) operatively disposed near the bottom of the well (18) so that it can detect the presence or absence of a ball. A second ball sensor (26) is located adjacent the ball lock in operative relation to the ball path. This second sensor can consist of an optical switch and embedded in the playing field to detect the ball as it approaches the ball lock. The electromagnet (20) consists of a wire coil that surrounds the ball well at it entrance. The coil is connected to the game control system to permit it to be selectively energised and attract the ferromagnetic pinball.