Legacy pinball machine WIFI retrofit device

Abstract

A circuit board including a first connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a processor, wherein program instructions are executed on the processor in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow. The circuit board further includes a second connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a main circuit board, and circuitry electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector. The circuitry is configured to pass, via a first mode of operation, signals from the processor to the circuit board, and selectively provide, via a second mode of operation, data from the circuit board to the processor.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 63 / 780,368, filed on Mar. 30, 2025 and entitled LEGACY PINBALL MACHINE WIFI RETORFIT DEVICE, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic gaming systems and retrofit interface devices, and more particularly to systems, methods, and electronic devices for interfacing with legacy entertainment machines to enable data access, remote connectivity, and enhanced operational functionality.BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional legacy entertainment machines, such as pinball and arcade systems, typically lack network connectivity and advanced data-tracking capabilities, relying primarily on local score storage and limited player identification. As a result, these machines generally cannot support remote monitoring, online score sharing, or enhanced digital functionality without costly modification or replacement of existing hardware.SUMMARY

[0004] Various implementations disclosed herein include devices, systems, and methods for retrofitting legacy entertainment machines with an interface device configured to intercept, read, and selectively modify processor bus communications to enable remote connectivity, enhanced data access, and expanded operational functionality. The device may be installed within existing hardware sockets, such as a processor or memory socket, allowing integration without substantial modification to the original system while preserving normal machine operation.

[0005] In one embodiment, the invention is a circuit board including a first connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a processor, wherein program instructions are executed on the processor in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow. The circuit board further includes a second connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a main circuit board, and circuitry electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector. The circuitry is configured to pass, via a first mode of operation, signals from the processor to the circuit board, and selectively provide, via a second mode of operation, data from the circuit board to the processor.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] So that the present disclosure can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, a more detailed description may be had by reference to aspects of some illustrative implementations, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a game machine in which an electronic system disclosed herein may be used.

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates an example electronic system architecture including a circuit board, a socket-mounted processor, and an associated memory device.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates an example interface device positioned between a processor and a circuit board connection structure.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates an example data communication arrangement associated with processor write operations in which an interface device monitors signals and selectively stores operational data.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates an example data access configuration in which an interface device selectively isolates data from a memory component and provides substitute data to a processor.

[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates another example installation arrangement in which an interface device is positioned between a processor and a corresponding connection structure on a circuit board.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram representing an example operational configuration of an interface device configured to be electrically interposed between a processor and a circuit board.

[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates an example block diagram of a hardware interposer module communicatively coupled between a main microprocessor chip and a processor socket.

[0015] In accordance with common practice the various features illustrated in the drawings may not be drawn to scale. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given system, method or device. Finally, reference numerals may be used to denote like features throughout the specification and figures.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Numerous details are described in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example implementations shown in the drawings. However, the drawings merely show some example aspects of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other effective aspects and / or variants do not include all of the specific details described herein. Moreover, well-known systems, methods, components, devices and circuits have not been described in exhaustive detail so as not to obscure more pertinent aspects of the example implementations described herein.

[0017] The present disclosure may relate to systems and devices for retrofitting legacy electronic game machines with enhanced data access, storage, and communication functionality while preserving original hardware operation. In particular, the disclosure may relate to a hardware interposer device configured to electrically interface between a processor and a main circuit board of a legacy game machine, enabling observation, storage, transmission, and selective manipulation of operational data such as scores, gameplay state information, and diagnostic signals without modifying program instructions executed by the processor.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine, operating within a physical environment and used by a player 120. The game machine 110 may include a cabinet 104 supporting a playfield 106 containing mechanical and electronic gameplay elements, and a display assembly 108 configured to present score information, game status, or visual effects to the player 120. In some implementations, the machine may further include internal electronic assemblies including a processor, memory devices, input / output circuitry, and control electronics mounted on one or more internal circuit boards.

[0019] In some implementations, a retrofit interface device (not visible in FIG. 1) may be installed within the game machine 110, for example between a processor and a main circuit board, to enable monitoring of processor bus signals, interception of memory access operations, and selective provision of substitute data while preserving predetermined processor timing and control flow. Such installation may occur within an existing integrated circuit socket or other electrical interconnection point without requiring modification of original system wiring, firmware, or mechanical structure.

[0020] In certain implementations, the retrofit interface device may provide wireless or network communication capability, schematically represented in FIG. 1 by wireless communication indicator 130, enabling operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, machine diagnostics, or configuration information to be transmitted to external computing devices, cloud services, or remote monitoring systems. This capability may allow centralized score tracking, remote diagnostics, tournament coordination across multiple machines, or enhanced player engagement features.

[0021] In certain implementations, the retrofit interface device may provide wireless or network communication capability, schematically represented in FIG. 1 by wireless communication indicator 130. Such communication capability may include, by way of non-limiting example, wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, Zigbee, near-field communication (NFC), cellular communication protocols including 4G or 5G, or other radio-frequency communication techniques, as well as wired or networked communication interfaces including Ethernet, serial communication links, USB-based networking, or other data communication infrastructures. Through these wireless or network communication capabilities, operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, machine diagnostics, configuration parameters, usage analytics, or other machine-generated information may be transmitted to external computing devices, cloud services, centralized management systems, or remote monitoring platforms. This functionality may facilitate centralized score tracking, remote diagnostics and maintenance, tournament coordination across multiple machines, software or configuration updates, and enhanced player engagement or operator management features.

[0022] In some implementations, the retrofit interface device may further enable expanded operational functionality including persistent score storage beyond the limits of native machine memory, automated player identification capture, remote configuration of machine parameters, diagnostic monitoring of hardware components, and controlled modification of runtime memory values to influence gameplay states without altering stored program instructions.

[0023] The example illustrated in FIG. 1 is provided for explanatory purposes only. The disclosed techniques may be applied to various types of legacy entertainment machines, including pinball machines, arcade video games, redemption games, and other electronic gaming systems, and may operate in a wide range of physical environments while preserving the original gameplay characteristics and operational timing of the legacy equipment.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view illustrating a physical arrangement of electronic components on an existing legacy game machine control board, such as a pinball machine control board. The figure depicts a circuit board 210 supporting one or more socket-mounted integrated circuits including a microprocessor chip 230 and a memory device 240, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component. This configuration represents a typical legacy electronic architecture in which major functional components are mounted on a main circuit board and interconnected through processor bus signals.

[0025] The circuit board 210 may comprise a printed circuit board supporting electrical traces, power distribution layers, and interconnection structures configured to electrically couple electronic components mounted thereon. The circuit board 210 may further include additional electronic elements such as input / output controllers, voltage regulators, timing circuitry, and peripheral interface components used to control gameplay functions, scoring operations, display outputs, and system diagnostics in the electronic game machine.

[0026] The chip socket 220 may be mounted on the circuit board 210 and configured to removably receive the main microprocessor chip 230 to provide selective communication therewith. The chip socket 220 may provide electrical connections between pins of the microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the circuit board 210 while allowing the microprocessor chip 230 to be installed, replaced, or serviced without soldering. In legacy game machines, such sockets 220 are commonly used to facilitate maintenance, upgrades, or troubleshooting of processor components.

[0027] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay control, scoring logic, input processing, and system management functions. The microprocessor chip 230 may communicate with memory devices and peripheral components through address, data, and control bus signals carried by conductive traces on the circuit board 210. These bus communications may occur in accordance with predetermined operational timing requirements dictated by the processor architecture and system design.

[0028] The memory device 240 may comprise random access memory, static memory, or another memory component configured to store operational data associated with gameplay state, scoring information, configuration parameters, or temporary computational results. The memory device 240 may be electrically coupled to the microprocessor chip 230 through bus connections on the circuit board 210, enabling read and write operations during execution of program instructions. In certain legacy systems, such memory devices may include battery-backed memory to preserve data when system power is removed.

[0029] In some implementations, interaction between the circuitry described herein and the memory device 240 may occur in a non-intrusive manner in which program instructions stored in program memory remain unmodified, and the circuitry instead observes bus activity or selectively supplements operational data without altering executable code. Such arrangements may preserve original firmware behavior while enabling auxiliary functions such as monitoring, diagnostics, data logging, or compatibility enhancement. In other implementations, however, the circuitry may be configured to influence execution associated with program memory under controlled conditions, for example by temporarily presenting substitute data values during selected memory access cycles, redirecting addressable resources, or conditionally supplying supplemental instruction data without permanently rewriting stored program code. These alternative embodiments may be selectively enabled depending on system configuration or design objectives so that both strictly non-code-altering operation and controlled execution-influencing operation may be supported without departing from the disclosed architecture.

[0030] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2 therefore represents a conventional legacy hardware configuration in which the microprocessor chip 230, memory device 240, and supporting circuitry are mounted directly on the circuit board 210. In various implementations of the present disclosure, an additional interface device may be inserted between the microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220, or otherwise electrically interposed within the processor bus pathway, to enable monitoring, interception, storage, or selective modification of operational data while maintaining compatibility with the original hardware architecture and operational timing of the legacy electronic game machine 110.

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates an example physical arrangement of electronic components associated with installation of a retrofit interface device within a legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine control system. The figure depicts a main circuit board 210 supporting electronic components of the game machine, together with a printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 positioned between a main microprocessor chip 230 and an existing chip socket 220. A memory device 350, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component, is also shown mounted on the main circuit board 210. This configuration demonstrates how the hardware interposer device may be electrically interposed between the main microprocessor chip 230 and the main circuit board 210 while preserving the original hardware architecture.

[0032] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may include interchangeable adapter or connector configurations to accommodate different processor families, package types, or socket standards encountered in legacy electronic systems / game machines 110. For example, adapter structures may support dual in-line package (DIP), pin grid array (PGA), quad flat package (QFP), or other processor form factors through corresponding socket interfaces, pin-mapping arrangements, or connector translation circuitry. Such configurations may allow the interposer module 320 to be deployed across multiple hardware platforms while maintaining electrical compatibility, signal integrity, and timing characteristics consistent with the original processor-to-board interface.

[0033] As used herein, the printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 may also be referred to as a hardware interposer device, retrofit interface module, interface circuit board, electronic adapter board, intermediary circuit board, processor interface board, inline interface module, bus interposer device, retrofit electronics module, auxiliary interface board, signal interface apparatus, or interface hardware assembly. These terms may be used interchangeably to describe an electronic interface structure configured to be electrically interposed between a processor and a main circuit board 210 to enable monitoring, interception, emulation, storage, or selective modification of processor-related signals while preserving compatibility with legacy system timing, architecture, and operational functionality.

[0034] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may support non-volatile memory (NVRAM) emulation and restoration functions to preserve operational data associated with legacy electronic systems 110. For example, the module may capture data written to a memory region corresponding to battery-backed or non-volatile storage and maintain a persistent copy in alternative storage circuitry. Upon system startup, reset, or power restoration, the stored data may be selectively restored or presented to the processor to replicate expected NVRAM contents. Such arrangements may facilitate continued system operation, data preservation, or maintenance support while reducing reliance on aging or failure-prone physical NVRAM components.

[0035] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may be configured to maintain deterministic timing parity with processor bus operations while performing monitoring, pass-through communication, or selective signal intervention. Deterministic timing parity, as used herein, may refer to preserving expected signal timing relationships, propagation delays, and cycle alignment defined by the processor architecture so that insertion of the interposer module does not introduce unintended latency, timing skew, or bus-cycle disruption. Such timing-preserving operation may be achieved, for example, through matched signal routing, buffering strategies, controlled impedance design, synchronous sampling techniques, or other circuit design approaches that allow the interposer module to observe or influence signals without degrading legacy system synchronization, memory access integrity, or operational stability.

[0036] The main circuit board 210 may comprise a printed circuit board including conductive traces, interconnection layers, voltage regulation components, and interface circuitry supporting operation of the electronic game machine. The board may host processing components, memory devices, input / output circuitry, and game control electronics responsible for gameplay management, scoring operations, display control, and peripheral communications. The circuit board 210 may further include connectors, sockets, and expansion interfaces used for maintenance, upgrades, or diagnostic access.

[0037] The PCB hardware interposer module 320 may be configured as a retrofit interface module that electrically interposes between the main microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220. In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may include corresponding connectors or pin interfaces allowing the microprocessor chip 230 to be mounted onto the module while the module itself is inserted into the original chip socket 220. This stacked arrangement may allow The PCB hardware interposer module 320 to observe, intercept, store, or selectively modify processor bus signals without requiring modification of the existing circuit board 210 or removal of original system components.

[0038] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay control, scoring logic, input handling, display management, and system diagnostics. During operation, the microprocessor chip 230 may communicate with memory devices, input / output controllers, and other system components through address, data, and control bus signals routed through the chip socket 220 and circuit board 210. By positioning the hardware interposer module 320 between the microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220, the hardware interposer module 320 may transparently monitor these communications while preserving predetermined timing characteristics of the main microprocessor chip 230.

[0039] The chip socket 220 may provide removable electrical coupling between the microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the circuit board 210. Such sockets 220 are commonly present in legacy electronic game machines 110 to facilitate servicing or replacement of processor components. The retrofit interface hardware interposer module 320 may be configured to utilize the infrastructure of the socket 220 to enable non-invasive installation, avoiding soldering, wire modification, or alteration of original circuitry.

[0040] The memory device 350 may comprise random access memory, battery-backed memory, or another memory component configured to store operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, configuration parameters, diagnostic information, or temporary computational data. The memory device 350 may communicate with the microprocessor chip 230 through processor bus connections on the circuit board 210. In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may monitor or emulate selected memory operations, store additional data locally, transmit operational data externally, or selectively modify memory values to influence gameplay behavior without modifying program instructions stored in read-only memory.

[0041] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 3 therefore demonstrates an example non-invasive installation architecture in which the hardware interposer module 320 is interposed between an existing microprocessor chip 230 and its chip socket 220 on the main circuit board 210. This configuration may enable enhanced data access, persistent storage, remote connectivity, diagnostics, or gameplay augmentation while maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware timing requirements and preserving normal operation of the electronic game machine.

[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates an example signal-flow arrangement associated with a write operation in a legacy electronic game machine 110 in which processor-generated bus signals are communicated from a main microprocessor chip 230 mounted to a hardware interposer module 320 positioned between the chip socket 220 on the main circuit board 210 and the microprocessor chip 230. In this example, signal path 460 schematically represents one or more processor-generated bus signals communicated from the main microprocessor chip 230 through the interposer module 320 to devices or memory installed on the interposer board. In various implementations, the bus signals represented by signal path 460 may include address signals, data signals, and control signals such as read / write strobes, chip-select signals, clock signals, and other timing or qualification signals used to define a memory write cycle. The hardware interposer module 320 may use such signals to identify a write operation, determine an addressed memory location, and capture the associated data value being written. The chip socket 220 may provide a removable electrical interface for the microprocessor chip 230 and may facilitate insertion of the hardware interposer module 320 without permanent modification of the original circuit board or processor package

[0043] Signal path 470 schematically represents propagation of at least a portion of the processor-generated bus signals from the main microprocessor chip 230 toward circuitry on the main circuit board 210, including the memory device 350 and / or other input / output circuitry. In a pass-through arrangement, the hardware interposer module 320 may allow the bus signals associated with the write cycle to continue to the main circuit board 210 such that the memory device 350 receives the write operation substantially as it would in the absence of the hardware interposer module 320, thereby preserving predetermined processor timing and control flow.

[0044] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may implement a branching operation during the write cycle such that the same write transaction is both (i) delivered to the memory device 350 via signal path 470 and (ii) copied or stored locally by the hardware interposer module 320. For example, upon detecting a write control signal and corresponding address / data values, the hardware interposer module 320 may store the written data in an onboard memory or buffer, maintain a shadow copy of selected memory locations, or log write activity for subsequent analysis, diagnostics, score tracking, or external transmission.

[0045] In certain implementations, the branching behavior may be selective. For example, based on decoded address ranges, chip-select qualification, or other control conditions, the hardware interposer module 320 may copy write operations for a subset of memory locations associated with game state or scoring while passing other write operations through without local storage. This selective branching may reduce processing overhead and ensure that write-cycle timing remains compatible with the legacy bus operation of the main microprocessor chip 230.

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates an example physical arrangement of electronic components associated with a read-operation interception configuration in a legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine control system. The figure depicts a main circuit board 210 supporting electronic components of the game machine, together with a printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 positioned between the main microprocessor chip 230 and the existing chip socket 220. A memory device 350, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component, is also mounted on the main circuit board 210. Bus signal paths 560 and 570 are schematically illustrated to represent processor bus communications, while a bus-control function 580 indicates a selective blocking or isolation condition implemented by the hardware interposer module 320 during certain read operations.

[0047] The blocking location indicated by the bus-control function 580 schematically represents a signal isolation or bus-control function implemented by circuitry within the hardware interposer module 320. During certain processor read operations, the interposer module may selectively isolate, inhibit, or override data originating from the memory device 350 or other main-board components, thereby preventing that data from reaching the processor. The module may instead supply substitute data from local storage, buffered memory, or emulated memory circuitry. Such substitution may enable persistent storage, enhanced score tracking, diagnostics, remote connectivity, gameplay augmentation, or other functionality while preserving processor timing compatibility and maintaining normal system operation.

[0048] The main circuit board 210 may comprise a multilayer printed circuit board including conductive traces, power regulation circuitry, signal routing layers, and interface components supporting gameplay control, scoring operations, input / output management, and display functions of the electronic game machine. The board may host processors, memory devices, interface controllers, and peripheral circuitry interconnected through address, data, and control buses.

[0049] The hardware interposer module 320 may be configured as an interface circuit board electrically interposed between the microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220. The module 320 may include mating connectors or pin interfaces allowing the microprocessor chip 230 to mount onto the module 320 while the module 320 itself is inserted into the original chip socket 220. This arrangement enables monitoring, capturing, emulating, or selectively substituting bus data while preserving the original electrical and timing characteristics expected by the legacy hardware. Such operation may allow enhancement of data management, diagnostics, connectivity, or gameplay functionality without modifying existing processor instructions or circuit board wiring.

[0050] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay logic, scoring control, input handling, display management, and system diagnostics. During a memory read operation, the processor may issue address, data, and control signals that propagate through the chip socket 220 toward memory devices or peripheral circuitry on the main circuit board 210. Bus signal path 560 schematically represents bus data provided from the hardware interposer module 320 toward the microprocessor chip 230, for example when locally stored or emulated data is supplied by the module.

[0051] The chip socket 220 may provide removable electrical coupling between the microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the main circuit board 210. Such sockets 220 are commonly present in legacy electronic game machines 110 to facilitate servicing, replacement, or upgrading of processor components. The hardware interposer module 320 may utilize this socket infrastructure to achieve non-invasive installation without soldering, wiring modifications, or alteration of existing circuitry.

[0052] The memory device 350 may comprise random access memory, battery-backed memory, or another storage component configured to store operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, configuration parameters, diagnostic information, or transient computational data. Under normal operation, data from the memory device 350 would propagate toward the main microprocessor chip 230 through the socket interface, represented schematically by bus signal path 570.

[0053] The bus-control function 580 schematically indicates a selective signal blocking or bus isolation condition implemented by circuitry within the hardware interposer module 320. During certain processor read operations, the interposer module 320 may electrically decouple or inhibit data originating from the memory device 350 or other main-board components, thereby preventing that data from reaching the processor. The module 320 may instead supply substitute data from local storage, buffered memory, or emulated memory circuitry. Such substitution may enable persistent storage, enhanced score tracking, diagnostics, remote connectivity, gameplay augmentation, or other functionality while preserving processor timing compatibility and maintaining normal system operation.

[0054] Accordingly, the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 5 demonstrates an example read-operation interception architecture in which the hardware interposer module 320 selectively replaces data that would otherwise originate from devices on the main circuit board 210 with locally generated or stored data. This approach enables enhanced functionality in legacy electronic game machines 110 while maintaining compatibility with existing hardware architecture, processor timing constraints, and original program execution behavior.

[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates another example physical arrangement of electronic components associated with installation of a retrofit interface module within a legacy electronic game machine, such as a pinball machine control system. In this example, a main circuit board 210 supports electronic components of the game machine, including processing, memory, and interface circuitry. A printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 is shown positioned between a main microprocessor chip 230 and a corresponding chip socket 220 mounted on the main circuit board 210. A memory device 350, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component, is also shown on the main circuit board 210. This configuration illustrates how the interposer module may be physically interposed between an existing processor and its socket while preserving the original hardware architecture.

[0056] In another implementation, the hardware interposer module 320 may include a user-interface (UI) and wireless telemetry capability configured to provide remote visibility into system operation and facilitate maintenance or diagnostics. For example, the module may incorporate a wireless communication interface such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or another radio-frequency link to transmit operational data, processor bus activity summaries, performance metrics, or diagnostic information to an external computing device. A local or remote UI, which may include a web-based dashboard, mobile application interface, or service terminal display, may allow configuration of operational parameters, retrieval of stored data, firmware updates, or monitoring of system status without requiring physical access to the legacy game machine hardware.

[0057] The main circuit board 210 may comprise a multilayer printed circuit board including conductive traces, interconnection vias, voltage regulation components, clock distribution circuitry, input / output interfaces, and control electronics supporting operation of the electronic game machine. The circuit board 210 may host gameplay logic circuitry, scoring control electronics, display drivers, input interface components, and diagnostic circuitry. In legacy systems such as pinball machines, the main circuit board 210 may include replaceable chip sockets and modular connectors that facilitate maintenance, servicing, or hardware upgrades.

[0058] The hardware interposer module 320 may be configured as a retrofit interface board adapted to be inserted into an existing chip socket 220 while receiving the main microprocessor chip 230 on an upper connector surface. This stacked arrangement may permit electrical interception of processor bus signals without soldering modifications to the original main circuit board 210. The hardware interposer module 320 may include buffering circuitry, programmable logic, memory elements, signal conditioning components, or bus-control circuitry configured to observe, emulate, store, or selectively modify processor communications while maintaining compatibility with original processor timing requirements.

[0059] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay management, scoring operations, input / output coordination, diagnostic routines, and other system functions. During operation, the main microprocessor chip 230 communicates with memory device 350 and other system components via address, data, and control signals transmitted through the chip socket 220 and conductive traces on the main circuit board 210. Placement of the hardware interposer module 320 between the main microprocessor chip 230 and chip socket 220 may allow monitoring or selective modification of such communications without altering the processor program instructions.

[0060] The chip socket 220 may provide removable electrical coupling between the main microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the main circuit board 210. Such sockets 220 are commonly present in legacy electronic game machines to facilitate servicing or replacement of processor components. The hardware interposer module 320 may utilize this socket 220 infrastructure to enable non-invasive installation while preserving the original hardware configuration and serviceability of the system.

[0061] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may further include a user-interface (UI) and wireless telemetry subsystem configured to provide remote monitoring, configuration, and diagnostic access to the legacy electronic game machine. For example, the module may incorporate wireless communication circuitry such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or other radio-frequency interfaces capable of transmitting operational status information, processor bus activity summaries, performance metrics, or diagnostic data to an external computing device. A corresponding UI, which may be implemented as a web-based dashboard, mobile application, or service interface, may allow authorized users to review system conditions, adjust configuration parameters, retrieve stored operational data, or perform maintenance-related functions without requiring direct physical access to the main circuit board 210 or processor assembly.

[0062] The memory device 350 may comprise random access memory, battery-backed memory, nonvolatile memory, or another storage component configured to store operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, configuration parameters, diagnostic data, or temporary computational values. In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may monitor memory access operations, emulate selected memory locations, store additional data locally, or selectively substitute data supplied to the main microprocessor chip 230, thereby enabling enhanced functionality while maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware timing and operational characteristics.

[0063] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 6 therefore demonstrates an example retrofit architecture in which the hardware interposer module 320 is physically and electrically interposed between an existing main microprocessor chip 230 and its corresponding chip socket 220 on the main circuit board 210. This configuration may enable enhanced data access, persistent storage, diagnostics, connectivity features, gameplay augmentation, or other functional enhancements while preserving the original processor control flow, timing characteristics, and overall operation of the electronic game machine.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram 700 illustrating an example operational configuration of a retrofit interface device configured to be electrically interposed between a processor and a main circuit board of an electronic game machine. The illustrated flow diagram represents operational modes of circuitry disposed on a circuit board that includes a first connector configured to be communicatively coupled to the processor and a second connector configured to be communicatively coupled to the main circuit board. The operations shown in the diagram reflect hardware-level signal handling rather than sequential software instructions and may occur concurrently, cyclically, or conditionally during processor bus activity. The configuration may be implemented in legacy electronic game machines, including pinball control systems, arcade platforms, and other processor-controlled entertainment devices.

[0065] The circuit board may be distinct from the main circuit board of the electronic game machine and may be installed at one of multiple alternative insertion points, including a processor socket, memory socket, ROM socket, or an inter-board connector, while remaining operatively interposed between the processor and memory accessed via a processor bus. Circuitry electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector may be configured to receive, pass through, monitor, decode, and selectively respond to address, data, and control signals generated by the processor. In operation, the processor may execute program instructions in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow defined by the original system architecture.

[0066] At block 710, the circuitry may operate in a first mode of operation in which processor-generated signals are passed through between the processor and the main circuit board. Such signals may include address lines, data lines, control strobes, clock signals, and chip-select signals associated with processor bus communications. In this mode, the circuitry maintains compatibility with legacy timing constraints and permits normal processor access to memory and peripheral devices without alteration to the predetermined operational timing or control flow.

[0067] At block 720, the circuitry selectively provides data to the processor during a second mode of operation in response to at least a subset of processor-generated signals. In this mode, the circuitry may intercept read or write operations, determine whether a memory access falls within selected address ranges using programmable decoding logic, and supply substitute or emulated data values to the processor in place of data supplied from memory on the main circuit board. The circuitry may further monitor processor write operations, store corresponding data values in memory on the circuit board, modify stored data prior to a subsequent read operation, control which device drives a data bus during a read cycle, or emulate random access memory for a subset of memory access operations. In some implementations, a hardware-implemented programmable input / output state machine coordinated with a direct memory access controller may perform such interception and selective data substitution with deterministic timing and without software intervention, including within legacy bus timing margins.

[0068] At block 730, the processor executes program instructions in accordance with the predetermined operational timing and control flow of the electronic game machine based on data received during processor bus transactions. While the circuitry selectively provides or substitutes data in the second mode of operation, the processor may continue executing original program instructions without modification. In some implementations, a microcontroller disposed on the circuit board may manage stored game data asynchronously relative to real-time processor bus timing and may provide access to such data through a user interface external to the game machine, including via a wireless communication interface, thereby enabling enhanced data management functionality while preserving compatibility with legacy hardware architecture.

[0069] In some embodiments, the circuitry may emulate random access memory for selected address ranges by supplying substitute data values corresponding to addressed memory locations. Address decoding logic may determine when the device should provide locally stored data versus permitting memory devices on the main circuit board to respond. Bus arbitration circuitry may control which device drives the processor data bus during read operations.

[0070] In further implementations, programmable hardware logic such as a programmable input / output (PIO) state machine coordinated with a direct memory access (DMA) controller may intercept address, data, and control signals with deterministic timing characteristics. Such configurations may maintain compatibility with legacy processor bus frequencies, including approximately 1-3 MHz timing environments commonly present in older electronic game machines.

[0071] Additional embodiments may include installation flexibility allowing the circuit board to be positioned at various insertion points within an electronic game machine, including processor sockets, memory sockets, ROM sockets, or inter-board interfaces. Adapter connectors may enable compatibility across different processor families or pin configurations, facilitating retrofit installation without modification of the original hardware.

[0072] The circuitry may further include a microcontroller configured to manage stored game data asynchronously relative to processor bus timing. The microcontroller may provide external access to stored data through wired or wireless interfaces, enabling diagnostics, data logging, remote monitoring, or gameplay analytics without disrupting real-time processor operation.

[0073] Accordingly, FIG. 7 illustrates an example operational architecture in which a hardware interposer device may selectively pass through processor signals or supply substitute data while preserving original processor timing and control flow. This architecture may enable enhanced functionality, persistent data management, diagnostics, and compatibility with legacy electronic game machine hardware without requiring modification of the processor program instructions or the main circuit board.

[0074] It will be appreciated that the implementations described above are cited by way of example, and that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope includes both combinations and sub combinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not disclosed in the prior art.

[0075] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of electronic circuitry and signal interconnections associated with a hardware interposer module configured for installation within a legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine control system. In this example, a main microprocessor chip 810 is communicatively coupled to the interposer board processing unit 860, which in turn is connected to a processor socket 820 mounted on the main circuit board 210 of the game machine 110. The block diagram discloses a representative method of routing various signals to facilitate the operational modes described herein.

[0076] A first bidirectional buffer 830 may be disposed in a signal path between the main microprocessor chip 810 and the main circuit board 210 via the processor socket 820. The first bidirectional buffer 830 is configured to support normal read and write cycles initiated by the main microprocessor chip 810, thereby permitting standard access to random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), input / output (I / O) devices, and other addressable resources on the main circuit board as required for operation of the game machine. During such normal operation, signals generated by the main microprocessor chip 810 pass through the first bidirectional buffer 830 and are conveyed to the main circuit board 210 without modification.

[0077] The interposer board processing unit 860 includes a processing unit communicatively coupled to an address bus of the main microprocessor chip 810. The connection between the address bus and the interposer board processing unit 860 is configured as a read-only monitoring interface, such that the interposer board processing unit 860 may observe the address associated with each bus operation without asserting signals onto the address bus. An address decode logic 850 disposed on the interposer board processing unit 860 is configured to identify operations targeting a predetermined address space of interest on the main circuit board 210. When a write operation directed to the address space of interest is detected by the address decode logic 850, the interposer board processing unit 860 may capture the data associated with that operation and store, process, or relay the captured data to a memory storage 870 also disposed on the interposer board processing unit 860. This arrangement permits the interposer board processing unit 860 to maintain a local copy of any desired address space, which may typically correspond to RAM data storage and operational data regions used by the game machine.

[0078] When a read operation is initiated by the main microprocessor chip 810 targeting an address within the address space of interest, as determined by the address decode logic 850, the interposer board processing unit 860 may selectively disable the first bidirectional buffer 830 during an appropriate portion of the bus cycle and concurrently enable a second bidirectional buffer 840 to present data from the interposer board processing unit 860 onto a data bus 880 for receipt by the main microprocessor chip 810. This selective substitution is performed with timing consistent with the clock and read / write control signals generated by the main microprocessor chip 810, thereby maintaining compatibility with the predetermined operational timing and control flow of the processor. In this mode of operation, the interposer board processing unit 860 may utilize data stored in the memory storage 870 to replace data that would otherwise have been read from the main circuit board 210. The interposer board processing unit 860 is further configured to modify the contents of the memory storage device 870, thereby enabling alteration of machine operation in a controlled and selective manner.

[0079] Legacy gaming machine processing boards, including those found in classic pinball machines, commonly employ five-volt (5V) logic signaling levels. In some implementations, processing units, such as the interposer board processing unit 860, generally operate at 3.3 volts or lower logic levels. To ensure reliable data and signal transfer between these two voltage domains, level-shifting integrated circuits are employed to guarantee that minimum voltage transition levels are achieved and that no loss of data integrity or control signaling accuracy occurs, including proper discrimination between read and write operations. In addition, certain legacy machines may exhibit 5V power supply voltages with wider tolerances than those specified in this implementation, with supply voltages potentially falling as low as 4.5 volts. The level-shifting integrated circuits are selected to account for such variations in supply voltage when converting 5V signal levels.

[0080] In a representative implementation, the second bidirectional buffer 840 may comprise an integrated circuit of type such as SN74LVCC3245ADBRG4, which is selected for its voltage-level translation capabilities and bidirectional signal handling characteristics suitable for interfacing between the 5V logic domain of the legacy main circuit board and the lower-voltage logic domain of the interposer board processing unit 860. Other control and timing signals, such as read / write control signals and clock signals, may be converted using level-shifting integrated circuits such as the SN74LV1T34DBVRG4, which provides unidirectional voltage translation appropriate for single-signal conditioning between disparate logic voltage levels.

[0081] Numerous specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods apparatuses, or systems that would be known by one of ordinary skill have not been described in detail so as not to obscure claimed subject matter.

[0082] Unless specifically stated otherwise, it is appreciated that throughout this specification discussions utilizing the terms such as “processing,”“computing,”“calculating,”“determining,” and “identifying” or the like refer to actions or processes of a computing device, such as one or more computers or a similar electronic computing device or devices, that manipulate or transform data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within memories, registers, or other information storage devices, transmission devices, or display devices of the computing platform.

[0083] The system or systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. A computing device can include any suitable arrangement of components that provides a result conditioned on one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include multipurpose microprocessor-based computer systems accessing stored software that programs or configures the computing system from a general-purpose computing apparatus to a specialized computing apparatus implementing one or more implementations of the present subject matter. Any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combinations of languages may be used to implement the teachings contained herein in software to be used in programming or configuring a computing device.

[0084] Implementations of the methods disclosed herein may be performed in the operation of such computing devices. The order of the blocks presented in the examples above can be varied for example, blocks can be re-ordered, combined, and / or broken into sub-blocks. Certain blocks or processes can be performed in parallel.

[0085] The use of “adapted to” or “configured to” herein is meant as open and inclusive language that does not foreclose devices adapted to or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. Additionally, the use of “based on” is meant to be open and inclusive, in that a process, step, calculation, or other action “based on” one or more recited conditions or values may, in practice, be based on additional conditions or value beyond those recited. Headings, lists, and numbering included herein are for ease of explanation only and are not meant to be limiting.

[0086] It will also be understood that, although the terms “first,”“second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first node could be termed a second node, and, similarly, a second node could be termed a first node, which changing the meaning of the description, so long as all occurrences of the “first node” are renamed consistently and all occurrences of the “second node” are renamed consistently. The first node and the second node are both nodes, but they are not the same node.

[0087] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the implementations and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0088] As used herein, the term “if” may be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “in response to detecting,” that a stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined [that a stated condition precedent is true]” or “if [a stated condition precedent is true]” or “when [a stated condition precedent is true]” may be construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “upon detecting” or “in response to detecting” that the stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context.

[0089] The foregoing description and summary of the invention are to be understood as being in every respect illustrative and exemplary, but not restrictive, and the scope of the invention disclosed herein is not to be determined only from the detailed description of illustrative implementations but according to the full breadth permitted by patent laws. It is to be understood that the implementations shown and described herein are only illustrative of the principles of the present invention and that various modification may be implemented by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]Numerous details are described in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example implementations shown in the drawings. However, the drawings merely show some example aspects of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other effective aspects and / or variants do not include all of the specific details described herein. Moreover, well-known systems, methods, components, devices and circuits have not been described in exhaustive detail so as not to obscure more pertinent aspects of the example implementations described herein.

[0017]The present disclosure may relate to systems and devices for retrofitting legacy electronic game machines with enhanced data access, storage, and communication functionality while preserving original hardware operation. In particular, the disclosure may relate to a hardware interposer device configured to electrically interface between a processor and a mai...

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 63 / 780,368, filed on Mar. 30, 2025 and entitled LEGACY PINBALL MACHINE WIFI RETORFIT DEVICE, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic gaming systems and retrofit interface devices, and more particularly to systems, methods, and electronic devices for interfacing with legacy entertainment machines to enable data access, remote connectivity, and enhanced operational functionality.BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional legacy entertainment machines, such as pinball and arcade systems, typically lack network connectivity and advanced data-tracking capabilities, relying primarily on local score storage and limited player identification. As a result, these machines generally cannot support remote monitoring, online score sharing, or enhanced digital functionality without costly modification or replacement of existing hardware.SUMMARY

[0004] Various implementations disclosed herein include devices, systems, and methods for retrofitting legacy entertainment machines with an interface device configured to intercept, read, and selectively modify processor bus communications to enable remote connectivity, enhanced data access, and expanded operational functionality. The device may be installed within existing hardware sockets, such as a processor or memory socket, allowing integration without substantial modification to the original system while preserving normal machine operation.

[0005] In one embodiment, the invention is a circuit board including a first connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a processor, wherein program instructions are executed on the processor in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow. The circuit board further includes a second connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a main circuit board, and circuitry electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector. The circuitry is configured to pass, via a first mode of operation, signals from the processor to the circuit board, and selectively provide, via a second mode of operation, data from the circuit board to the processor.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] So that the present disclosure can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, a more detailed description may be had by reference to aspects of some illustrative implementations, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a game machine in which an electronic system disclosed herein may be used.

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates an example electronic system architecture including a circuit board, a socket-mounted processor, and an associated memory device.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates an example interface device positioned between a processor and a circuit board connection structure.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates an example data communication arrangement associated with processor write operations in which an interface device monitors signals and selectively stores operational data.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates an example data access configuration in which an interface device selectively isolates data from a memory component and provides substitute data to a processor.

[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates another example installation arrangement in which an interface device is positioned between a processor and a corresponding connection structure on a circuit board.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram representing an example operational configuration of an interface device configured to be electrically interposed between a processor and a circuit board.

[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates an example block diagram of a hardware interposer module communicatively coupled between a main microprocessor chip and a processor socket.

[0015] In accordance with common practice the various features illustrated in the drawings may not be drawn to scale. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given system, method or device. Finally, reference numerals may be used to denote like features throughout the specification and figures.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Numerous details are described in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example implementations shown in the drawings. However, the drawings merely show some example aspects of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other effective aspects and / or variants do not include all of the specific details described herein. Moreover, well-known systems, methods, components, devices and circuits have not been described in exhaustive detail so as not to obscure more pertinent aspects of the example implementations described herein.

[0017] The present disclosure may relate to systems and devices for retrofitting legacy electronic game machines with enhanced data access, storage, and communication functionality while preserving original hardware operation. In particular, the disclosure may relate to a hardware interposer device configured to electrically interface between a processor and a main circuit board of a legacy game machine, enabling observation, storage, transmission, and selective manipulation of operational data such as scores, gameplay state information, and diagnostic signals without modifying program instructions executed by the processor.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine, operating within a physical environment and used by a player 120. The game machine 110 may include a cabinet 104 supporting a playfield 106 containing mechanical and electronic gameplay elements, and a display assembly 108 configured to present score information, game status, or visual effects to the player 120. In some implementations, the machine may further include internal electronic assemblies including a processor, memory devices, input / output circuitry, and control electronics mounted on one or more internal circuit boards.

[0019] In some implementations, a retrofit interface device (not visible in FIG. 1) may be installed within the game machine 110, for example between a processor and a main circuit board, to enable monitoring of processor bus signals, interception of memory access operations, and selective provision of substitute data while preserving predetermined processor timing and control flow. Such installation may occur within an existing integrated circuit socket or other electrical interconnection point without requiring modification of original system wiring, firmware, or mechanical structure.

[0020] In certain implementations, the retrofit interface device may provide wireless or network communication capability, schematically represented in FIG. 1 by wireless communication indicator 130, enabling operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, machine diagnostics, or configuration information to be transmitted to external computing devices, cloud services, or remote monitoring systems. This capability may allow centralized score tracking, remote diagnostics, tournament coordination across multiple machines, or enhanced player engagement features.

[0021] In certain implementations, the retrofit interface device may provide wireless or network communication capability, schematically represented in FIG. 1 by wireless communication indicator 130. Such communication capability may include, by way of non-limiting example, wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, Zigbee, near-field communication (NFC), cellular communication protocols including 4G or 5G, or other radio-frequency communication techniques, as well as wired or networked communication interfaces including Ethernet, serial communication links, USB-based networking, or other data communication infrastructures. Through these wireless or network communication capabilities, operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, machine diagnostics, configuration parameters, usage analytics, or other machine-generated information may be transmitted to external computing devices, cloud services, centralized management systems, or remote monitoring platforms. This functionality may facilitate centralized score tracking, remote diagnostics and maintenance, tournament coordination across multiple machines, software or configuration updates, and enhanced player engagement or operator management features.

[0022] In some implementations, the retrofit interface device may further enable expanded operational functionality including persistent score storage beyond the limits of native machine memory, automated player identification capture, remote configuration of machine parameters, diagnostic monitoring of hardware components, and controlled modification of runtime memory values to influence gameplay states without altering stored program instructions.

[0023] The example illustrated in FIG. 1 is provided for explanatory purposes only. The disclosed techniques may be applied to various types of legacy entertainment machines, including pinball machines, arcade video games, redemption games, and other electronic gaming systems, and may operate in a wide range of physical environments while preserving the original gameplay characteristics and operational timing of the legacy equipment.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view illustrating a physical arrangement of electronic components on an existing legacy game machine control board, such as a pinball machine control board. The figure depicts a circuit board 210 supporting one or more socket-mounted integrated circuits including a microprocessor chip 230 and a memory device 240, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component. This configuration represents a typical legacy electronic architecture in which major functional components are mounted on a main circuit board and interconnected through processor bus signals.

[0025] The circuit board 210 may comprise a printed circuit board supporting electrical traces, power distribution layers, and interconnection structures configured to electrically couple electronic components mounted thereon. The circuit board 210 may further include additional electronic elements such as input / output controllers, voltage regulators, timing circuitry, and peripheral interface components used to control gameplay functions, scoring operations, display outputs, and system diagnostics in the electronic game machine.

[0026] The chip socket 220 may be mounted on the circuit board 210 and configured to removably receive the main microprocessor chip 230 to provide selective communication therewith. The chip socket 220 may provide electrical connections between pins of the microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the circuit board 210 while allowing the microprocessor chip 230 to be installed, replaced, or serviced without soldering. In legacy game machines, such sockets 220 are commonly used to facilitate maintenance, upgrades, or troubleshooting of processor components.

[0027] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay control, scoring logic, input processing, and system management functions. The microprocessor chip 230 may communicate with memory devices and peripheral components through address, data, and control bus signals carried by conductive traces on the circuit board 210. These bus communications may occur in accordance with predetermined operational timing requirements dictated by the processor architecture and system design.

[0028] The memory device 240 may comprise random access memory, static memory, or another memory component configured to store operational data associated with gameplay state, scoring information, configuration parameters, or temporary computational results. The memory device 240 may be electrically coupled to the microprocessor chip 230 through bus connections on the circuit board 210, enabling read and write operations during execution of program instructions. In certain legacy systems, such memory devices may include battery-backed memory to preserve data when system power is removed.

[0029] In some implementations, interaction between the circuitry described herein and the memory device 240 may occur in a non-intrusive manner in which program instructions stored in program memory remain unmodified, and the circuitry instead observes bus activity or selectively supplements operational data without altering executable code. Such arrangements may preserve original firmware behavior while enabling auxiliary functions such as monitoring, diagnostics, data logging, or compatibility enhancement. In other implementations, however, the circuitry may be configured to influence execution associated with program memory under controlled conditions, for example by temporarily presenting substitute data values during selected memory access cycles, redirecting addressable resources, or conditionally supplying supplemental instruction data without permanently rewriting stored program code. These alternative embodiments may be selectively enabled depending on system configuration or design objectives so that both strictly non-code-altering operation and controlled execution-influencing operation may be supported without departing from the disclosed architecture.

[0030] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2 therefore represents a conventional legacy hardware configuration in which the microprocessor chip 230, memory device 240, and supporting circuitry are mounted directly on the circuit board 210. In various implementations of the present disclosure, an additional interface device may be inserted between the microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220, or otherwise electrically interposed within the processor bus pathway, to enable monitoring, interception, storage, or selective modification of operational data while maintaining compatibility with the original hardware architecture and operational timing of the legacy electronic game machine 110.

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates an example physical arrangement of electronic components associated with installation of a retrofit interface device within a legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine control system. The figure depicts a main circuit board 210 supporting electronic components of the game machine, together with a printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 positioned between a main microprocessor chip 230 and an existing chip socket 220. A memory device 350, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component, is also shown mounted on the main circuit board 210. This configuration demonstrates how the hardware interposer device may be electrically interposed between the main microprocessor chip 230 and the main circuit board 210 while preserving the original hardware architecture.

[0032] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may include interchangeable adapter or connector configurations to accommodate different processor families, package types, or socket standards encountered in legacy electronic systems / game machines 110. For example, adapter structures may support dual in-line package (DIP), pin grid array (PGA), quad flat package (QFP), or other processor form factors through corresponding socket interfaces, pin-mapping arrangements, or connector translation circuitry. Such configurations may allow the interposer module 320 to be deployed across multiple hardware platforms while maintaining electrical compatibility, signal integrity, and timing characteristics consistent with the original processor-to-board interface.

[0033] As used herein, the printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 may also be referred to as a hardware interposer device, retrofit interface module, interface circuit board, electronic adapter board, intermediary circuit board, processor interface board, inline interface module, bus interposer device, retrofit electronics module, auxiliary interface board, signal interface apparatus, or interface hardware assembly. These terms may be used interchangeably to describe an electronic interface structure configured to be electrically interposed between a processor and a main circuit board 210 to enable monitoring, interception, emulation, storage, or selective modification of processor-related signals while preserving compatibility with legacy system timing, architecture, and operational functionality.

[0034] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may support non-volatile memory (NVRAM) emulation and restoration functions to preserve operational data associated with legacy electronic systems 110. For example, the module may capture data written to a memory region corresponding to battery-backed or non-volatile storage and maintain a persistent copy in alternative storage circuitry. Upon system startup, reset, or power restoration, the stored data may be selectively restored or presented to the processor to replicate expected NVRAM contents. Such arrangements may facilitate continued system operation, data preservation, or maintenance support while reducing reliance on aging or failure-prone physical NVRAM components.

[0035] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may be configured to maintain deterministic timing parity with processor bus operations while performing monitoring, pass-through communication, or selective signal intervention. Deterministic timing parity, as used herein, may refer to preserving expected signal timing relationships, propagation delays, and cycle alignment defined by the processor architecture so that insertion of the interposer module does not introduce unintended latency, timing skew, or bus-cycle disruption. Such timing-preserving operation may be achieved, for example, through matched signal routing, buffering strategies, controlled impedance design, synchronous sampling techniques, or other circuit design approaches that allow the interposer module to observe or influence signals without degrading legacy system synchronization, memory access integrity, or operational stability.

[0036] The main circuit board 210 may comprise a printed circuit board including conductive traces, interconnection layers, voltage regulation components, and interface circuitry supporting operation of the electronic game machine. The board may host processing components, memory devices, input / output circuitry, and game control electronics responsible for gameplay management, scoring operations, display control, and peripheral communications. The circuit board 210 may further include connectors, sockets, and expansion interfaces used for maintenance, upgrades, or diagnostic access.

[0037] The PCB hardware interposer module 320 may be configured as a retrofit interface module that electrically interposes between the main microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220. In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may include corresponding connectors or pin interfaces allowing the microprocessor chip 230 to be mounted onto the module while the module itself is inserted into the original chip socket 220. This stacked arrangement may allow The PCB hardware interposer module 320 to observe, intercept, store, or selectively modify processor bus signals without requiring modification of the existing circuit board 210 or removal of original system components.

[0038] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay control, scoring logic, input handling, display management, and system diagnostics. During operation, the microprocessor chip 230 may communicate with memory devices, input / output controllers, and other system components through address, data, and control bus signals routed through the chip socket 220 and circuit board 210. By positioning the hardware interposer module 320 between the microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220, the hardware interposer module 320 may transparently monitor these communications while preserving predetermined timing characteristics of the main microprocessor chip 230.

[0039] The chip socket 220 may provide removable electrical coupling between the microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the circuit board 210. Such sockets 220 are commonly present in legacy electronic game machines 110 to facilitate servicing or replacement of processor components. The retrofit interface hardware interposer module 320 may be configured to utilize the infrastructure of the socket 220 to enable non-invasive installation, avoiding soldering, wire modification, or alteration of original circuitry.

[0040] The memory device 350 may comprise random access memory, battery-backed memory, or another memory component configured to store operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, configuration parameters, diagnostic information, or temporary computational data. The memory device 350 may communicate with the microprocessor chip 230 through processor bus connections on the circuit board 210. In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may monitor or emulate selected memory operations, store additional data locally, transmit operational data externally, or selectively modify memory values to influence gameplay behavior without modifying program instructions stored in read-only memory.

[0041] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 3 therefore demonstrates an example non-invasive installation architecture in which the hardware interposer module 320 is interposed between an existing microprocessor chip 230 and its chip socket 220 on the main circuit board 210. This configuration may enable enhanced data access, persistent storage, remote connectivity, diagnostics, or gameplay augmentation while maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware timing requirements and preserving normal operation of the electronic game machine.

[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates an example signal-flow arrangement associated with a write operation in a legacy electronic game machine 110 in which processor-generated bus signals are communicated from a main microprocessor chip 230 mounted to a hardware interposer module 320 positioned between the chip socket 220 on the main circuit board 210 and the microprocessor chip 230. In this example, signal path 460 schematically represents one or more processor-generated bus signals communicated from the main microprocessor chip 230 through the interposer module 320 to devices or memory installed on the interposer board. In various implementations, the bus signals represented by signal path 460 may include address signals, data signals, and control signals such as read / write strobes, chip-select signals, clock signals, and other timing or qualification signals used to define a memory write cycle. The hardware interposer module 320 may use such signals to identify a write operation, determine an addressed memory location, and capture the associated data value being written. The chip socket 220 may provide a removable electrical interface for the microprocessor chip 230 and may facilitate insertion of the hardware interposer module 320 without permanent modification of the original circuit board or processor package

[0043] Signal path 470 schematically represents propagation of at least a portion of the processor-generated bus signals from the main microprocessor chip 230 toward circuitry on the main circuit board 210, including the memory device 350 and / or other input / output circuitry. In a pass-through arrangement, the hardware interposer module 320 may allow the bus signals associated with the write cycle to continue to the main circuit board 210 such that the memory device 350 receives the write operation substantially as it would in the absence of the hardware interposer module 320, thereby preserving predetermined processor timing and control flow.

[0044] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may implement a branching operation during the write cycle such that the same write transaction is both (i) delivered to the memory device 350 via signal path 470 and (ii) copied or stored locally by the hardware interposer module 320. For example, upon detecting a write control signal and corresponding address / data values, the hardware interposer module 320 may store the written data in an onboard memory or buffer, maintain a shadow copy of selected memory locations, or log write activity for subsequent analysis, diagnostics, score tracking, or external transmission.

[0045] In certain implementations, the branching behavior may be selective. For example, based on decoded address ranges, chip-select qualification, or other control conditions, the hardware interposer module 320 may copy write operations for a subset of memory locations associated with game state or scoring while passing other write operations through without local storage. This selective branching may reduce processing overhead and ensure that write-cycle timing remains compatible with the legacy bus operation of the main microprocessor chip 230.

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates an example physical arrangement of electronic components associated with a read-operation interception configuration in a legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine control system. The figure depicts a main circuit board 210 supporting electronic components of the game machine, together with a printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 positioned between the main microprocessor chip 230 and the existing chip socket 220. A memory device 350, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component, is also mounted on the main circuit board 210. Bus signal paths 560 and 570 are schematically illustrated to represent processor bus communications, while a bus-control function 580 indicates a selective blocking or isolation condition implemented by the hardware interposer module 320 during certain read operations.

[0047] The blocking location indicated by the bus-control function 580 schematically represents a signal isolation or bus-control function implemented by circuitry within the hardware interposer module 320. During certain processor read operations, the interposer module may selectively isolate, inhibit, or override data originating from the memory device 350 or other main-board components, thereby preventing that data from reaching the processor. The module may instead supply substitute data from local storage, buffered memory, or emulated memory circuitry. Such substitution may enable persistent storage, enhanced score tracking, diagnostics, remote connectivity, gameplay augmentation, or other functionality while preserving processor timing compatibility and maintaining normal system operation.

[0048] The main circuit board 210 may comprise a multilayer printed circuit board including conductive traces, power regulation circuitry, signal routing layers, and interface components supporting gameplay control, scoring operations, input / output management, and display functions of the electronic game machine. The board may host processors, memory devices, interface controllers, and peripheral circuitry interconnected through address, data, and control buses.

[0049] The hardware interposer module 320 may be configured as an interface circuit board electrically interposed between the microprocessor chip 230 and the chip socket 220. The module 320 may include mating connectors or pin interfaces allowing the microprocessor chip 230 to mount onto the module 320 while the module 320 itself is inserted into the original chip socket 220. This arrangement enables monitoring, capturing, emulating, or selectively substituting bus data while preserving the original electrical and timing characteristics expected by the legacy hardware. Such operation may allow enhancement of data management, diagnostics, connectivity, or gameplay functionality without modifying existing processor instructions or circuit board wiring.

[0050] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay logic, scoring control, input handling, display management, and system diagnostics. During a memory read operation, the processor may issue address, data, and control signals that propagate through the chip socket 220 toward memory devices or peripheral circuitry on the main circuit board 210. Bus signal path 560 schematically represents bus data provided from the hardware interposer module 320 toward the microprocessor chip 230, for example when locally stored or emulated data is supplied by the module.

[0051] The chip socket 220 may provide removable electrical coupling between the microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the main circuit board 210. Such sockets 220 are commonly present in legacy electronic game machines 110 to facilitate servicing, replacement, or upgrading of processor components. The hardware interposer module 320 may utilize this socket infrastructure to achieve non-invasive installation without soldering, wiring modifications, or alteration of existing circuitry.

[0052] The memory device 350 may comprise random access memory, battery-backed memory, or another storage component configured to store operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, configuration parameters, diagnostic information, or transient computational data. Under normal operation, data from the memory device 350 would propagate toward the main microprocessor chip 230 through the socket interface, represented schematically by bus signal path 570.

[0053] The bus-control function 580 schematically indicates a selective signal blocking or bus isolation condition implemented by circuitry within the hardware interposer module 320. During certain processor read operations, the interposer module 320 may electrically decouple or inhibit data originating from the memory device 350 or other main-board components, thereby preventing that data from reaching the processor. The module 320 may instead supply substitute data from local storage, buffered memory, or emulated memory circuitry. Such substitution may enable persistent storage, enhanced score tracking, diagnostics, remote connectivity, gameplay augmentation, or other functionality while preserving processor timing compatibility and maintaining normal system operation.

[0054] Accordingly, the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 5 demonstrates an example read-operation interception architecture in which the hardware interposer module 320 selectively replaces data that would otherwise originate from devices on the main circuit board 210 with locally generated or stored data. This approach enables enhanced functionality in legacy electronic game machines 110 while maintaining compatibility with existing hardware architecture, processor timing constraints, and original program execution behavior.

[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates another example physical arrangement of electronic components associated with installation of a retrofit interface module within a legacy electronic game machine, such as a pinball machine control system. In this example, a main circuit board 210 supports electronic components of the game machine, including processing, memory, and interface circuitry. A printed circuit board (PCB) hardware interposer module 320 is shown positioned between a main microprocessor chip 230 and a corresponding chip socket 220 mounted on the main circuit board 210. A memory device 350, such as random access memory (RAM) or another memory component, is also shown on the main circuit board 210. This configuration illustrates how the interposer module may be physically interposed between an existing processor and its socket while preserving the original hardware architecture.

[0056] In another implementation, the hardware interposer module 320 may include a user-interface (UI) and wireless telemetry capability configured to provide remote visibility into system operation and facilitate maintenance or diagnostics. For example, the module may incorporate a wireless communication interface such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or another radio-frequency link to transmit operational data, processor bus activity summaries, performance metrics, or diagnostic information to an external computing device. A local or remote UI, which may include a web-based dashboard, mobile application interface, or service terminal display, may allow configuration of operational parameters, retrieval of stored data, firmware updates, or monitoring of system status without requiring physical access to the legacy game machine hardware.

[0057] The main circuit board 210 may comprise a multilayer printed circuit board including conductive traces, interconnection vias, voltage regulation components, clock distribution circuitry, input / output interfaces, and control electronics supporting operation of the electronic game machine. The circuit board 210 may host gameplay logic circuitry, scoring control electronics, display drivers, input interface components, and diagnostic circuitry. In legacy systems such as pinball machines, the main circuit board 210 may include replaceable chip sockets and modular connectors that facilitate maintenance, servicing, or hardware upgrades.

[0058] The hardware interposer module 320 may be configured as a retrofit interface board adapted to be inserted into an existing chip socket 220 while receiving the main microprocessor chip 230 on an upper connector surface. This stacked arrangement may permit electrical interception of processor bus signals without soldering modifications to the original main circuit board 210. The hardware interposer module 320 may include buffering circuitry, programmable logic, memory elements, signal conditioning components, or bus-control circuitry configured to observe, emulate, store, or selectively modify processor communications while maintaining compatibility with original processor timing requirements.

[0059] The main microprocessor chip 230 may execute program instructions associated with gameplay management, scoring operations, input / output coordination, diagnostic routines, and other system functions. During operation, the main microprocessor chip 230 communicates with memory device 350 and other system components via address, data, and control signals transmitted through the chip socket 220 and conductive traces on the main circuit board 210. Placement of the hardware interposer module 320 between the main microprocessor chip 230 and chip socket 220 may allow monitoring or selective modification of such communications without altering the processor program instructions.

[0060] The chip socket 220 may provide removable electrical coupling between the main microprocessor chip 230 and conductive traces on the main circuit board 210. Such sockets 220 are commonly present in legacy electronic game machines to facilitate servicing or replacement of processor components. The hardware interposer module 320 may utilize this socket 220 infrastructure to enable non-invasive installation while preserving the original hardware configuration and serviceability of the system.

[0061] In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may further include a user-interface (UI) and wireless telemetry subsystem configured to provide remote monitoring, configuration, and diagnostic access to the legacy electronic game machine. For example, the module may incorporate wireless communication circuitry such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, or other radio-frequency interfaces capable of transmitting operational status information, processor bus activity summaries, performance metrics, or diagnostic data to an external computing device. A corresponding UI, which may be implemented as a web-based dashboard, mobile application, or service interface, may allow authorized users to review system conditions, adjust configuration parameters, retrieve stored operational data, or perform maintenance-related functions without requiring direct physical access to the main circuit board 210 or processor assembly.

[0062] The memory device 350 may comprise random access memory, battery-backed memory, nonvolatile memory, or another storage component configured to store operational data such as game scores, player identifiers, configuration parameters, diagnostic data, or temporary computational values. In some implementations, the hardware interposer module 320 may monitor memory access operations, emulate selected memory locations, store additional data locally, or selectively substitute data supplied to the main microprocessor chip 230, thereby enabling enhanced functionality while maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware timing and operational characteristics.

[0063] The arrangement illustrated in FIG. 6 therefore demonstrates an example retrofit architecture in which the hardware interposer module 320 is physically and electrically interposed between an existing main microprocessor chip 230 and its corresponding chip socket 220 on the main circuit board 210. This configuration may enable enhanced data access, persistent storage, diagnostics, connectivity features, gameplay augmentation, or other functional enhancements while preserving the original processor control flow, timing characteristics, and overall operation of the electronic game machine.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram 700 illustrating an example operational configuration of a retrofit interface device configured to be electrically interposed between a processor and a main circuit board of an electronic game machine. The illustrated flow diagram represents operational modes of circuitry disposed on a circuit board that includes a first connector configured to be communicatively coupled to the processor and a second connector configured to be communicatively coupled to the main circuit board. The operations shown in the diagram reflect hardware-level signal handling rather than sequential software instructions and may occur concurrently, cyclically, or conditionally during processor bus activity. The configuration may be implemented in legacy electronic game machines, including pinball control systems, arcade platforms, and other processor-controlled entertainment devices.

[0065] The circuit board may be distinct from the main circuit board of the electronic game machine and may be installed at one of multiple alternative insertion points, including a processor socket, memory socket, ROM socket, or an inter-board connector, while remaining operatively interposed between the processor and memory accessed via a processor bus. Circuitry electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector may be configured to receive, pass through, monitor, decode, and selectively respond to address, data, and control signals generated by the processor. In operation, the processor may execute program instructions in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow defined by the original system architecture.

[0066] At block 710, the circuitry may operate in a first mode of operation in which processor-generated signals are passed through between the processor and the main circuit board. Such signals may include address lines, data lines, control strobes, clock signals, and chip-select signals associated with processor bus communications. In this mode, the circuitry maintains compatibility with legacy timing constraints and permits normal processor access to memory and peripheral devices without alteration to the predetermined operational timing or control flow.

[0067] At block 720, the circuitry selectively provides data to the processor during a second mode of operation in response to at least a subset of processor-generated signals. In this mode, the circuitry may intercept read or write operations, determine whether a memory access falls within selected address ranges using programmable decoding logic, and supply substitute or emulated data values to the processor in place of data supplied from memory on the main circuit board. The circuitry may further monitor processor write operations, store corresponding data values in memory on the circuit board, modify stored data prior to a subsequent read operation, control which device drives a data bus during a read cycle, or emulate random access memory for a subset of memory access operations. In some implementations, a hardware-implemented programmable input / output state machine coordinated with a direct memory access controller may perform such interception and selective data substitution with deterministic timing and without software intervention, including within legacy bus timing margins.

[0068] At block 730, the processor executes program instructions in accordance with the predetermined operational timing and control flow of the electronic game machine based on data received during processor bus transactions. While the circuitry selectively provides or substitutes data in the second mode of operation, the processor may continue executing original program instructions without modification. In some implementations, a microcontroller disposed on the circuit board may manage stored game data asynchronously relative to real-time processor bus timing and may provide access to such data through a user interface external to the game machine, including via a wireless communication interface, thereby enabling enhanced data management functionality while preserving compatibility with legacy hardware architecture.

[0069] In some embodiments, the circuitry may emulate random access memory for selected address ranges by supplying substitute data values corresponding to addressed memory locations. Address decoding logic may determine when the device should provide locally stored data versus permitting memory devices on the main circuit board to respond. Bus arbitration circuitry may control which device drives the processor data bus during read operations.

[0070] In further implementations, programmable hardware logic such as a programmable input / output (PIO) state machine coordinated with a direct memory access (DMA) controller may intercept address, data, and control signals with deterministic timing characteristics. Such configurations may maintain compatibility with legacy processor bus frequencies, including approximately 1-3 MHz timing environments commonly present in older electronic game machines.

[0071] Additional embodiments may include installation flexibility allowing the circuit board to be positioned at various insertion points within an electronic game machine, including processor sockets, memory sockets, ROM sockets, or inter-board interfaces. Adapter connectors may enable compatibility across different processor families or pin configurations, facilitating retrofit installation without modification of the original hardware.

[0072] The circuitry may further include a microcontroller configured to manage stored game data asynchronously relative to processor bus timing. The microcontroller may provide external access to stored data through wired or wireless interfaces, enabling diagnostics, data logging, remote monitoring, or gameplay analytics without disrupting real-time processor operation.

[0073] Accordingly, FIG. 7 illustrates an example operational architecture in which a hardware interposer device may selectively pass through processor signals or supply substitute data while preserving original processor timing and control flow. This architecture may enable enhanced functionality, persistent data management, diagnostics, and compatibility with legacy electronic game machine hardware without requiring modification of the processor program instructions or the main circuit board.

[0074] It will be appreciated that the implementations described above are cited by way of example, and that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope includes both combinations and sub combinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not disclosed in the prior art.

[0075] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of electronic circuitry and signal interconnections associated with a hardware interposer module configured for installation within a legacy electronic game machine 110, such as a pinball machine control system. In this example, a main microprocessor chip 810 is communicatively coupled to the interposer board processing unit 860, which in turn is connected to a processor socket 820 mounted on the main circuit board 210 of the game machine 110. The block diagram discloses a representative method of routing various signals to facilitate the operational modes described herein.

[0076] A first bidirectional buffer 830 may be disposed in a signal path between the main microprocessor chip 810 and the main circuit board 210 via the processor socket 820. The first bidirectional buffer 830 is configured to support normal read and write cycles initiated by the main microprocessor chip 810, thereby permitting standard access to random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), input / output (I / O) devices, and other addressable resources on the main circuit board as required for operation of the game machine. During such normal operation, signals generated by the main microprocessor chip 810 pass through the first bidirectional buffer 830 and are conveyed to the main circuit board 210 without modification.

[0077] The interposer board processing unit 860 includes a processing unit communicatively coupled to an address bus of the main microprocessor chip 810. The connection between the address bus and the interposer board processing unit 860 is configured as a read-only monitoring interface, such that the interposer board processing unit 860 may observe the address associated with each bus operation without asserting signals onto the address bus. An address decode logic 850 disposed on the interposer board processing unit 860 is configured to identify operations targeting a predetermined address space of interest on the main circuit board 210. When a write operation directed to the address space of interest is detected by the address decode logic 850, the interposer board processing unit 860 may capture the data associated with that operation and store, process, or relay the captured data to a memory storage 870 also disposed on the interposer board processing unit 860. This arrangement permits the interposer board processing unit 860 to maintain a local copy of any desired address space, which may typically correspond to RAM data storage and operational data regions used by the game machine.

[0078] When a read operation is initiated by the main microprocessor chip 810 targeting an address within the address space of interest, as determined by the address decode logic 850, the interposer board processing unit 860 may selectively disable the first bidirectional buffer 830 during an appropriate portion of the bus cycle and concurrently enable a second bidirectional buffer 840 to present data from the interposer board processing unit 860 onto a data bus 880 for receipt by the main microprocessor chip 810. This selective substitution is performed with timing consistent with the clock and read / write control signals generated by the main microprocessor chip 810, thereby maintaining compatibility with the predetermined operational timing and control flow of the processor. In this mode of operation, the interposer board processing unit 860 may utilize data stored in the memory storage 870 to replace data that would otherwise have been read from the main circuit board 210. The interposer board processing unit 860 is further configured to modify the contents of the memory storage device 870, thereby enabling alteration of machine operation in a controlled and selective manner.

[0079] Legacy gaming machine processing boards, including those found in classic pinball machines, commonly employ five-volt (5V) logic signaling levels. In some implementations, processing units, such as the interposer board processing unit 860, generally operate at 3.3 volts or lower logic levels. To ensure reliable data and signal transfer between these two voltage domains, level-shifting integrated circuits are employed to guarantee that minimum voltage transition levels are achieved and that no loss of data integrity or control signaling accuracy occurs, including proper discrimination between read and write operations. In addition, certain legacy machines may exhibit 5V power supply voltages with wider tolerances than those specified in this implementation, with supply voltages potentially falling as low as 4.5 volts. The level-shifting integrated circuits are selected to account for such variations in supply voltage when converting 5V signal levels.

[0080] In a representative implementation, the second bidirectional buffer 840 may comprise an integrated circuit of type such as SN74LVCC3245ADBRG4, which is selected for its voltage-level translation capabilities and bidirectional signal handling characteristics suitable for interfacing between the 5V logic domain of the legacy main circuit board and the lower-voltage logic domain of the interposer board processing unit 860. Other control and timing signals, such as read / write control signals and clock signals, may be converted using level-shifting integrated circuits such as the SN74LV1T34DBVRG4, which provides unidirectional voltage translation appropriate for single-signal conditioning between disparate logic voltage levels.

[0081] Numerous specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods apparatuses, or systems that would be known by one of ordinary skill have not been described in detail so as not to obscure claimed subject matter.

[0082] Unless specifically stated otherwise, it is appreciated that throughout this specification discussions utilizing the terms such as “processing,”“computing,”“calculating,”“determining,” and “identifying” or the like refer to actions or processes of a computing device, such as one or more computers or a similar electronic computing device or devices, that manipulate or transform data represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within memories, registers, or other information storage devices, transmission devices, or display devices of the computing platform.

[0083] The system or systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. A computing device can include any suitable arrangement of components that provides a result conditioned on one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include multipurpose microprocessor-based computer systems accessing stored software that programs or configures the computing system from a general-purpose computing apparatus to a specialized computing apparatus implementing one or more implementations of the present subject matter. Any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combinations of languages may be used to implement the teachings contained herein in software to be used in programming or configuring a computing device.

[0084] Implementations of the methods disclosed herein may be performed in the operation of such computing devices. The order of the blocks presented in the examples above can be varied for example, blocks can be re-ordered, combined, and / or broken into sub-blocks. Certain blocks or processes can be performed in parallel.

[0085] The use of “adapted to” or “configured to” herein is meant as open and inclusive language that does not foreclose devices adapted to or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. Additionally, the use of “based on” is meant to be open and inclusive, in that a process, step, calculation, or other action “based on” one or more recited conditions or values may, in practice, be based on additional conditions or value beyond those recited. Headings, lists, and numbering included herein are for ease of explanation only and are not meant to be limiting.

[0086] It will also be understood that, although the terms “first,”“second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first node could be termed a second node, and, similarly, a second node could be termed a first node, which changing the meaning of the description, so long as all occurrences of the “first node” are renamed consistently and all occurrences of the “second node” are renamed consistently. The first node and the second node are both nodes, but they are not the same node.

[0087] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the implementations and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0088] As used herein, the term “if” may be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “in response to detecting,” that a stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined [that a stated condition precedent is true]” or “if [a stated condition precedent is true]” or “when [a stated condition precedent is true]” may be construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “upon detecting” or “in response to detecting” that the stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context.

[0089] The foregoing description and summary of the invention are to be understood as being in every respect illustrative and exemplary, but not restrictive, and the scope of the invention disclosed herein is not to be determined only from the detailed description of illustrative implementations but according to the full breadth permitted by patent laws. It is to be understood that the implementations shown and described herein are only illustrative of the principles of the present invention and that various modification may be implemented by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0016]Numerous details are described in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example implementations shown in the drawings. However, the drawings merely show some example aspects of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other effective aspects and / or variants do not include all of the specific details described herein. Moreover, well-known systems, methods, components, devices and circuits have not been described in exhaustive detail so as not to obscure more pertinent aspects of the example implementations described herein.

[0017]The present disclosure may relate to systems and devices for retrofitting legacy electronic game machines with enhanced data access, storage, and communication functionality while preserving original hardware operation. In particular, the disclosure may relate to a hardware interposer device configured to electrically interface between a processor and a mai...

Claims

1. A device comprising:a circuit board including:a first connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a processor, wherein program instructions are executed on the processor in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow;a second connector configured to be communicatively coupled to a main circuit board; andcircuitry electrically connected between the first connector and the second connector, wherein the circuitry is configured to:pass, via a first mode of operation, signals from the processor to the circuit board; andselectively provide, via a second mode of operation, data from the circuit board to the processor.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to monitor memory write operations from the processor to a memory device and to selectively modify corresponding memory data prior to a subsequent read operation by the processor, thereby altering an operational state or behavior of the device without modifying program instructions executed by the processor.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to emulate random access memory of a game machine for a subset of memory access operations by supplying data values corresponding to addressed memory locations.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to monitor write operations generated by the processor and to store corresponding data values in a memory on the circuit board.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to control which device drives a data bus during a processor read operation by enabling either memory on the main circuit board or the circuitry to supply data to the processor.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry includes programmable address decoding logic configured to determine memory address ranges for which the circuitry selectively provides data to the processor.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a programmable input / output (PIO) state machine implemented in hardware and coordinated with a direct memory access (DMA) controller, the PIO state machine being configured to intercept address, data, and control signals and to selectively supply substitute data to the processor with deterministic timing and without software intervention, while maintaining bus timing compatibility with a game machine.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the circuitry is further configured to perform the interception and selective data substitution within legacy processor bus timing margins corresponding to a bus frequency of approximately 1-3 MHz, such that the processor executes the program instructions without alteration to the predetermined operational timing or control flow of the game machine.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuit board is configured for installation at one of multiple alternative insertion points within a game machine, including a processor socket, a memory socket, a read-only memory (ROM) socket, or an interconnection between circuit boards, while remaining operatively interposed between the processor and memory accessed via a processor bus.

10. The device of claim 1, further comprising an adapter or connector configuration selected to interface with different processor families or pin-compatible legacy processors, enabling the circuit board to retrofit multiple models of electronic game machines without modification to the processor or the main circuit board.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry includes a microcontroller of the circuit board configured to execute control logic for managing stored game data asynchronously with respect to real-time processor bus timing.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the microcontroller is configured to provide access to stored game data via a user interface external to a game machine.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the user interface includes a wireless communication interface configured to transmit game data to an external computing device.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the processor and the main circuit board are components of an electronic game machine, and the circuit board is configured to retrofit the electronic game machine with enhanced data management functionality.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuit board is distinct from a main circuit board of a game machine and is configured to be operatively interposed between a processor of the game machine and the main circuit board of the game machine.

16. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to receive, pass through, and selectively respond to address, data, and control signals generated by the processor.

17. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to, for at least a subset of memory access operations, determine to manipulate a memory read or write operation to memory on the main circuit board.

18. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to selectively provide data to the processor via a memory access interface.

19. The device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is further configured to selectively provide data to the processor in place of data supplied from memory on the main circuit board.

20. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is a pinball machine, the main circuit board is a pinball machine control board, and the processor is configured to execute program instructions for controlling operations of the pinball machine in accordance with the predetermined operational timing and control flow.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the signals passed from the processor to the pinball machine control board via the first mode of operation comprise game state signals for controlling at least one of playfield lighting, solenoid activation, score display, or sound generation of the pinball machine.

22. A method comprising:at a device including circuitry electrically connected between a first connector and a second connector, wherein the first connector is communicatively coupled to a processor and the second connector is operatively coupled to a main circuit board:passing through, by the circuitry, processor signals during a first mode of operation; andselectively providing, by the circuitry, in response to at least a subset of the processor signals and based thereon, data to the processor in a second mode of operation,wherein program instructions are executed by the processor in accordance with a predetermined operational timing and control flow based on selected data from the circuitry.

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