A pinball machine

Abstract

This utility model relates to a pinball machine, belonging to the technical field of amusement equipment. It includes a machine base with an operating unit, a pin column area, and a drop channel located below the pin column area. Each drop channel has a corresponding winning display unit. The machine also includes a circuit board and a probability calculation module. The operating unit is electrically connected to the circuit board, the probability calculation module is electrically connected to the circuit board, and the winning display unit is electrically connected to the circuit board. This utility model discloses a pinball machine that solves the problem of the relatively limited probability of winning in current pinball machines.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of amusement equipment technology, and in particular to a pinball machine. Background Technology

[0002] Pinball machines originated in Japan and are a type of arcade game that combines entertainment and gambling elements, with a history of nearly a century. Their core gameplay is based on physical collision and probability mechanisms: players insert tokens, and a mechanical device launches metal pinballs that bounce randomly on a vertical game board filled with pins, tracks, and springs, potentially landing in bonus slots of varying values ​​or triggering special mechanisms.

[0003] Despite the rich history and broad appeal of pinball machines, the mainstream models currently on the market still face the core problem of highly homogenized winning gameplay. Most pinball machines rely on random bounce paths to determine the winning result, and players can only make minor adjustments by changing the launch force or choosing different "tracks." However, due to the inherent pin layout, the winning probability is relatively fixed, lacking appeal to players. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology, this utility model proposes a pinball machine that can solve the problem of the relatively simple probability of winning in current pinball machines.

[0005] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] This utility model provides a pinball machine, including a machine base, an operating unit, a pin column area, and drop channels located below the pin column area. Each drop channel is equipped with a corresponding winning display unit. The machine also includes a circuit board and a probability calculation module. The operating unit is electrically connected to the circuit board, the probability calculation module is electrically connected to the circuit board, and the winning display units are electrically connected to the circuit board. The probability calculation module of this technical solution is used to calculate the winning probability of a pinball entering each drop channel.

[0007] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that each drop channel is also provided with a corresponding sensing unit for sensing the passing marbles; the sensing unit and the circuit board are electrically connected.

[0008] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the sensing unit is a pressure sensing unit.

[0009] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the winning display unit is a combination of several light components of different colors.

[0010] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the lamps are arranged sequentially along the direction of the falling channel.

[0011] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the winning display unit is located between the needle column area and the falling channel.

[0012] A preferred embodiment of this invention is that the machine also includes a gashapon machine, and the control terminal of the gashapon machine is connected to the circuit board.

[0013] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the machine also includes several prize compartments for placing prizes. Each prize compartment is equipped with a door and an electronic lock. The door of the prize compartment is opened and closed by the electronic lock, and the control terminal of the electronic lock is connected to the circuit board.

[0014] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the prize compartment is made of transparent material.

[0015] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that a number of universal pulleys are provided under the machine base.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0017] This invention proposes a pinball machine that adds a probability calculation module and a winning display unit. The operation unit serves as the human-computer interaction interface, receiving the player's start command and triggering the real-time calculation process of the probability calculation module to dynamically adjust the winning probability of each drop channel. This technical solution retains the core fun of the physical launching of pinball machines while reconstructing the depth and diversity of the winning gameplay with randomness—players are no longer passively dominated by fixed probabilities. Moreover, adjusting the probability values ​​is more convenient and simpler than the traditional method of adjusting the entire pin layout. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a pinball machine according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a top view of a pinball machine according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of part A in the image;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical connection of a pinball machine according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0023] In the picture:

[0024] 1-Operating unit; 2-Needle column area; 3-Drop channel; 4-Lights; 5-Circuit board; 6-Probability calculation module; 7-Sensing unit; 8-Gashapon machine; 9-Prize compartment; 10-Universal caster. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0026] Example 1

[0027] like Figure 1-4As shown, this embodiment provides a pinball machine, including a machine base with an operation unit 1, a pin column area 2, and a drop channel 3 located below the pin column area 2. Each drop channel 3 is equipped with a corresponding prize display unit. It also includes a circuit board 5 and a probability calculation module 6. The probability calculation module is used to calculate the prize-winning situation when a pinball enters each drop channel. The operation unit 1 is electrically connected to the circuit board 5, the probability calculation module 6 is electrically connected to the circuit board 5, and the prize display unit is electrically connected to the circuit board 5. The remaining structures (such as the coin insertion unit, pinball launching device, prize dispensing slot, etc.) are similar to conventional pinball machines and will not be described in detail. Addressing the problem of insufficient fun caused by the rigid probability mechanism in current pinball machine prize-winning gameplay, the technical solution of this embodiment creatively reconstructs the prize-winning experience framework of traditional pinball machines through the innovative integration of dynamic probability control and real-time feedback mechanisms. Its core lies in a closed-loop system centered on a circuit board, integrating an operation unit, a probability calculation module, and a prize display unit for each drop channel. The operation unit serves as the human-computer interaction interface, receiving the player's start command and triggering the real-time calculation process of the probability calculation module. This module breaks through the traditional fixed probability mode of the drop channels, dynamically adjusting the winning probability of each drop channel based on the built-in calculation methods of the probability calculation module (such as simple probability randomness and weight allocation models, dynamic balancing strategies, or special event triggering conditions preset by the store according to its needs). For example, it can increase the winning rate of low-traffic channels during specific periods to balance regional popularity, or generate personalized probability distributions based on players' historical data to ensure a higher winning rate before each pinball launch. The results all become independent random events; at the same time, the winning display unit provides real-time feedback on the winning status of each channel before the marbles are launched through visualization methods such as light color, pattern flashing or digital countdown, which not only provides players with a basis for strategic choices (such as prioritizing the highlighted "high-prize channel"), but also maintains the tension of the game through the unpredictability of probability; the circuit board, as the hardware carrier, not only undertakes signal transmission and logic control functions, but also supports stores to flexibly configure the parameters of the probability calculation module according to their business needs (such as attracting customers, clearing inventory or themed events) through modular design, such as increasing the trigger frequency of the grand prize channel during holidays, or preventing excessive player loss through a "probability guarantee" mechanism during off-peak periods. This technological architecture, through the dual innovation of "dynamic probability + transparent information," retains the core fun of the physical launching of pinball machines while reconstructing the depth and diversity of winning gameplay with randomness. Players are no longer passively governed by fixed probabilities but must weigh risks and rewards in real-time probability changes, forming a decision-making loop of "observing probability prompts - adjusting launching strategies - accepting random results." Ultimately, it achieves a dynamic balance between player experience and commercial benefits, injecting new vitality into traditional pinball machines that combines technological depth and commercial value. Moreover, adjusting probability values ​​is more convenient and simpler than traditionally adjusting the entire pin layout.

[0028] Preferably, each drop channel 3 is also equipped with a corresponding sensing unit 7 for sensing the passing marbles; the sensing unit 7 is electrically connected to the circuit board 5. Specifically, the sensing unit 7 is a pressure-type sensing unit. Traditional pinball machines rely on mechanical switches or photoelectric sensors to identify the marble path, which has drawbacks such as low sensitivity and susceptibility to dust interference. The pressure sensor triggers a signal by detecting the minute deformation of the marble as it rolls, and can accurately record the marble's position and speed data. The pressure signal is uncopyable, effectively preventing cheating methods such as magnetic attraction and marble replacement. At the same time, the pressure data recorded by the circuit board can trace the complete physical process of a single game, providing technical evidence for dispute resolution.

[0029] Preferably, the prize display unit is a combination of several lights of different colors. In this embodiment, three different colored lights are used to represent the grand prize, the medium prize, and the small prize. Specifically, the grand prize corresponds to a red light, the medium prize to a green light, and the small prize to a blue light. When the probability calculation module calculates the winning situation of different drop channels, the corresponding prize display unit of that drop channel lights up with different lights to indicate the prize, significantly enhancing the visual appeal of small and medium-sized pinball machines. Furthermore, by allowing the probabilities of the three lights in the same drop channel to be independent, it is possible to trigger the grand prize, medium prize, and small prize simultaneously in a single pinball launch, further enhancing the game's fun.

[0030] Preferably, the winning display unit is located between the pin column area 2 and the drop channel 3. The lighting fixture is installed using the vertical gap between the pin column area and the channel, avoiding an increase in the machine's size, making it particularly suitable for miniaturized models. Embedding the winning display unit into the core area of ​​the pinball's movement allows players to simultaneously learn about the winning outcome while observing the physical process of the pinball hitting the pin column, forming a dual information input of "physical process + numerical probability." This reduces the frequency of eye movement compared to traditional layouts. This area is a key node in the pinball's movement, where players' attention is most focused, maximizing information transmission efficiency and enhancing the game's fun.

[0031] Preferably, the lights 4 are arranged sequentially along the drop channel 3. In this embodiment, the lights corresponding to the grand prize, medium prize, and small prize are arranged sequentially from top to bottom along the drop channel. This design not only makes the overall structure more compact, but also helps players quickly identify the winning status of the drop channel. Players' eyes can naturally follow the color of the marbles and the lights, enhancing the fun of the game.

[0032] Preferably, the machine also includes a gashapon machine 8, whose control terminal is connected to the circuit board 5. Existing pinball machines and gashapon machines are mostly independent devices, lacking synergy in gameplay. This integrated design upgrades the experience through the following technical logic: the number of times the gashapon machine is activated can be determined based on the winning situation in the drop channel, forming a complete experience chain of "probability game - physical reward". For example, when a pinball triggers a special event, the gashapon machine automatically increases the gashapon reward.

[0033] Specifically, the machine also includes several prize compartments 9 for placing prizes. Each prize compartment 9 has a door and an electronic lock. The electronic lock controls the opening and closing of the door, and its control terminal is connected to the circuit board 5. Preferably, the prize compartment 9 is made of transparent material. The integrated design of this solution achieves an enhanced user experience through the following technical logic: the prize for the grand prize can be determined based on the winning situation in the drop channel. The transparent compartment keeps the prize always visible, and combined with dynamic lighting (such as enhanced lighting in the prize area when a prize is won), it can stimulate players' "availability perception" and increase their willingness to continue playing.

[0034] Preferably, the machine is equipped with several omnidirectional casters 10. Traditional pinball machines are bulky and heavy, resulting in difficulties in transportation and poor site adaptability. The caster design of this solution supports 360° rotation and locking functions, which greatly improves the efficiency compared to traditional manual handling, and is especially suitable for short-term rental scenarios such as shopping mall atriums and themed pop-up events.

[0035] This utility model has been described through preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes or equivalent substitutions can be made to these features and embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. This utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein; other embodiments falling within the scope of the claims of this application are all within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A pinball machine, characterized in that: The machine includes an operating unit (1), a needle column area (2), and a drop channel (3) located below the needle column area (2). Each drop channel (3) is equipped with a corresponding winning display unit. It also includes a circuit board (5) and a probability calculation module (6), the operation unit (1) and the circuit board (5) are electrically connected, the probability calculation module (6) and the circuit board (5) are electrically connected, and the winning display unit and the circuit board (5) are electrically connected.

2. The pinball machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the drop channels (3) is also provided with a corresponding sensing unit (7) for sensing the passing marbles; the sensing unit (7) and the circuit board (5) are electrically connected.

3. The pinball machine according to claim 2, characterized in that: The sensing unit (7) is a pressure sensing unit.

4. The pinball machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The winning display unit is a combination of several different colored lights (4).

5. The pinball machine according to claim 4, characterized in that: The lamps (4) are arranged sequentially along the direction of the drop channel (3).

6. The pinball machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The winning display unit is located between the needle column area (2) and the falling channel (3).

7. The pinball machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The machine also includes a gashapon machine (8); The control terminal of the gashapon machine (8) is connected to the circuit board (5).

8. The pinball machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The machine also includes several prize compartments (9) for placing prizes; The prize compartment (9) is equipped with a door and an electronic lock. The prize compartment (9) uses the electronic lock to open and close the door. The control terminal of the electronic lock is connected to the circuit board (5).

9. The pinball machine according to claim 8, characterized in that: The prize compartment (9) is made of transparent material.

10. The pinball machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: Several omnidirectional casters (10) are installed below the machine platform.

Images