The Aussie Pinball Arcade
Aussie Pinball Forums => Archived Threads => Homepin => Topic started by: Homepin on July 08, 2013, 09:59:07 AM
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OK- TAG is on the go! (pun intended). I invite ANY and ALL ideas from people no matter how small they may seem. We will throw all ideas and concepts up. Please keep this thread for new POSITIVE suggestions only.
There is nothing fixed at all at this stage and any and all pictures you see at this stage are purely artist conceptions and WILL certainly change.
Keeping in mind that we don't want to end up with this:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/thehomer.png)
A few things that we have thrown up as a VERY rough guideline are (in no particular order):
(1) Standard width, full size cabinet
(2) Backbox animation? Possibly Mr Tracy at his desk talking?
(3) DMD NOT LCD
(4) Embedded controller NOT PC based
(5) Drop targets (qty and type up for discussion)
(6) PF magnet/s
(7) Stereo sound with subwoofer (mainly for upwards compatibility with future machines)
(8) Excellent PF toys such as TB2, Mole, sliding pool and falling palm trees, FAB1 (Rolls Royce) and Lady Penelope ???>>>>
(9) Machined aluminium flipper mechanisms with roller bearings
Any CONSTRUCTIVE ideas or suggestions most welcome........
While we are talking about FAB1 - my wife bought new plates for her car (no, it isn't a Rolls Royce):
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/fab111.jpg)
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A small playfield window. Like MB, tiny LCD. TB4 in the water.
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TB2 the main toy position similar to the shuttle in Space Shuttle drops the pod for ball locks. When up position allows a loop.
Five ball multiball of course! 5 4 3 2 1 — Multiball, thunderbirds are go!!
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Great theme for a pinball - especially with the ago of mostcollectors nowadays (no offence to the younger ones)
Linking modes to key episodes is a great idea, like Family Guy does, with the DMD animations. So much potential for toys, don't need to suggest any.
Something needs to come up from under the playfield, like the launching of the thunderbirds. Bit difficult to get the pool in there I assume? <.>
Would love a small TV with scenes playing for the modes or continuously. I have one as a mod for my TZ and it's great. Doesn't need to be a crystal ball...........
If there is an underplayfield, ease of access would be good. ACDC is a bit of a pain to get to, congo is easier.
yes to magnets, in line drop targets ? powerball?
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- an island in top left of right corner - see photo
- possibly dmd on opposing corner to link in the vehicle being launched
NOT too many puppets, not a fan of the puppets but the vehicles in the show were cool and the pin potential is good and am interested
- 3 different translites available see photo for ideas
a-puppets for the show fans
b-island and vehicles for the non fans that like the sci-fi stuff
c-a combo showing just the faces and vehicles
also here is a link for thunderbirds 3D models that could be used to create some toys (with a mix of thunderbird cars - just ignore those)
http://www.google.com.au/search?q=thunderbird+3d+models&client=safari&rls=en&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=7hHaUdgNyqGTBbWegegC&ved=0CFQQsAQ&biw=2174&bih=1250
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maybe with the island if a particular vehicle is being launched a ramp can be accessed ???? for a mission start
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[whois.enetica.com.au]
Registrant Details:
Homepin
P.O. Box 822
Kuranda, QLD 4881
AU
Domain Name: THUNDERBIRDSPINBALL.NET
[whois.enetica.com.au]
Registrant Details:
Homepin
P.O. Box 822
Kuranda, QLD 4881
AU
Domain Name: THUNDERBIRDSPINBALL.COM
Domain Name thunderbirdspinball.net.au
Registrar ID Enetica
Registrar Name Enetica
Status ok
Registrant KALINOWSKI MICHAEL B
Registrant ID ABN 12916147436
Domain Name thunderbirdspinball.com.au
Registrar ID Enetica
Registrar Name Enetica
Status ok
Registrant KALINOWSKI MICHAEL B
Registrant ID ABN 12916147436
All point to Homepin.com
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Circuit boards that components can easily be replaced, none of this surface mount stuff.
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I hear you and agree BUT in this day and age that's the way electronics has gone. I will be ensuring that things that are likely to need replacing at some point will be easy to do however such as driver transistors.
I will also be isolating all outputs with optocouplers so in the event of a catastrophic failure, all upstream components should be OK.
I have a few other ideas as well that will make the electronics as servicable and as robust as possible.
Circuit boards that components can easily be replaced, none of this surface mount stuff.
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I'd steer clear somewhat of the characters - puppets are, of course, a little creepy!! IMO, focus should be on *the* Thunderbirds - the real characters of the show are their snazy air/road/sea/space craft. Maybe incorporate something of the marionettes in some artwork, but the playfield toys should be focused on the craft (and maybe Tracey Island).
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I'd steer clear somewhat of the characters - puppets are, of course, a little creepy!! IMO, focus should be on *the* Thunderbirds - the real characters of the show are their snazy air/road/sea/space craft. Maybe incorporate something of the marionettes in some artwork, but the playfield toys should be focused on the craft (and maybe Tracey Island).
+1
totally agree
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One or some of the modes should incorporate some sort of countdown as many of the episodes did with people trapped or something about to explode. Hitting a certain target or sequence of targets could maybe extend your time to complete the mode or extend the length or number of multiballs. E.G Hit a target to ask for backup from another Thunderbird i.e. launch another ball or something along those lines.
I tend to agree with concentrating on the vehicles and equipment over the puppets.
A video mode is always good as well.
I can hear the countdown as well releasing some captive balls from around the playfield. 5 - ball gets loaded 4 - another ball gets loaded somewhere else 3 - another one is loaded 2 - another one released or loaded 1 - same again. TBs are GO and all hell breaks loose with 5 balls launched from all over the place. Something like the spinning magnet disc on Twister may also work.
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I'd steer clear somewhat of the characters - puppets are, of course, a little creepy!! IMO, focus should be on *the* Thunderbirds - the real characters of the show are their snazy air/road/sea/space craft. Maybe incorporate something of the marionettes in some artwork, but the playfield toys should be focused on the craft (and maybe Tracey Island).
+1
totally agree
Have to disagree here.. puppets are creepy.. clowns are creepy.. spiders are creepy... its all personal weirdness and you guys must have some...LOL.
Obviously a TB pinball has to have missions which incorporate Thunderbirds 1...2..3..4 ( theres a whole stack of levels already!).
But.... the MAIN component of any TB episode was that Jeff Tracey gave you your mission.. its he who built the island and its he who instructs his 5 sons... TB aint TB without Jeff.
It cant be done with justice unless Jeff tells you your mission
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A bank of 10 drop targets , a drop a target for each TB and a target for each pilot .
Outer lanes return gates .
All TB pictured on back glass.
Some type of back glass automation .
Video Mode .
Moving swimming pool that would roll out the 5 TB balls.
Audio Jack.
Volume control.
Modular replaceable interactive toys , ie 4 bolts removes a interactive toy fast and easy .
3D plastics ( as mentioned before )
Recessed strip lighting of LED's integrated in to the base of the cabinets that will not want interferer with trolleys etc etc.
Simple but effective rule set .
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Simple but effective rule set
Have to agree here.. pinball "deep" sets are becoming like chewing through War & Peace.. its is actually nice to get to the end of a game and be rewarded without losing a day or two in the process.
As always though.. its one of those things that's achievable once in a blue moon and "almost" on many occasions.
Once components are chosen the balance of those to make a game effective is a fine line... the ever " so close but no cigar" is a difficult balance to make.. not many machines actually have it and multiple toys don't make a classic players game, in fact, few well chosen aspects properly placed make a tough but very rewarding game.
One of my favourites - WMS APOLLO.. not too much there, but classic design and just elusive enough to tempt you for more plays
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tJeff Tracey gave you your mission.. its he who built the island and its he who instructs his 5 sons... TB aint TB without Jeff.
It cant be done with justice unless Jeff tells you your mission
He can do that from the DMD! *%*
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tJeff Tracey gave you your mission.. its he who built the island and its he who instructs his 5 sons... TB aint TB without Jeff.
It cant be done with justice unless Jeff tells you your mission
He can do that from the DMD! *%*
great idea
maybe the dmd surround can represent the office and the dmd represents the mission stats coming in to Jeff
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Five ball multiball of course! 5 4 3 2 1 — Multiball, thunderbirds are go!!
The first thing I thought of was that the multiball intro should have the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 countdown. Probably a no brainer, but I thought I'd mention it anyway :)
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A wake up Jeff mode....oh sorry wrong jeff.
:D
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Mike - Can excerpts from the series such as voices and animations be used in the game ?
Each Thunderbird would have their own mode. Each character would have their own picture (as in the control room wall mounted pictures), and as the player progresses through the modes, that character would interact with the player. This feature could be similar to Dr Who's "doctor's" lights on the speaker panel. The player is effectively Jeff Tracy.
All the different machines are denoted by Drop targets on 2 or 3 banks on the playfield. This is important for the game modes.
As the player starts the game, one of the character's "eyes" lights up to start a mode. As Jeff Tracy, the player responds to that mode. The modes are random.
As an example, the game mode is "Pit of Peril" (as per the episode). The call comes in to Jeff Tracy, and then Gordon's eyes in the picture light up.
To achieve this level, you have to hit the drop target for the machines required (driller from memory), and then a outhole for Thunderbird 2's cargo hold is ball capture "1". You then have to hit a an in line drop target sequence (the feature for T2) - the first activates the loading of the machine for T2's cargo hold, the second loads the the cargo, the third drops T2 on the cargo. Then the mode starts with an animation of Brains telling you what to do to save the sidewinder. If Brains was required in the episode, you have to hit his corresponding drop or spot target so he get's a ride with Gordon (depending on the episode). Since a captured ball is in T2's cargo hold, you have two balls to complete the mission - which will be something different (I'll think of that a bit later..)
the idea of locking a ball in T2's cargo can be a feature for other machines - even T4.
As each mission is completed as per the episodes, a playfield light much like the mansion in TAF records the player's progress.
The rules will be the deciding factor with this game. Toys are a "given", but I think the rules should be consistent with the episodes..
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Love the T2 lock/load the ball Idea.
Simon
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So mike how is the development going any updates?
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Will this be a PC based system?
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Will this be a PC based system?
Was just about to ask the same thing Gav? And can we get some bombs in the power supply aswell? %.%
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Will this be a PC based system?
Was just about to ask the same thing Gav? And can we get some bombs in the power supply aswell? %.%
Yes to both because I would be a complete idiot to use a similar embedded sytem that Stern has successfully used for years - PC all the way for me, I have seen the light - hallelujah!!!
I have also moved production from China because they have banned child labour there - off to Nth Korea I go........bloody Chinese, next you know they will be battling the USA at war games.....oops....too late...
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-07-13/us-vice-admiral-expects-china-to-soon-be-part-of-war-games/4818598
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Did you know that Mr Tracey had a mid life crisis and realised he was actually gay. Now this being the case, how about some pretty colour changing LEDs and rainbow coloured targets and to top it off, make the flipper bats look like sparkly ladies shoes. If you hurry, you might be able to do it before anyone else, well you probably have a few years up your sleeve at least. That would all suit a pinball machine very well don't you think.
And yes, I too think that a PC based system would be the shiz. That way we could keep on updating the PC every 6 months when it becomes obsolete or simply breaks down.
I know this is the wrong thread but if Jack himself knows what is being said at the moment and is happy with his guy saying it then he has lost a lot of support I would imagine.
Looking forward to seeing you show them how it should be done Mike.
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Maybe a lower playfield for the little yellow Thunderbird to swim around in. (Cant think of it's number)
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Will this be a PC based system?
Was just about to ask the same thing Gav? And can we get some bombs in the power supply aswell? %.%
Yes to both because I would be a complete idiot to use a similar embedded sytem that Stern has successfully used for years - PC all the way for me, I have seen the light - hallelujah!!!
I have also moved production from China because they have banned child labour there - off to Nth Korea I go........bloody Chinese, next you know they will be battling the USA at war games.....oops....too late...
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-07-13/us-vice-admiral-expects-china-to-soon-be-part-of-war-games/4818598
The money Mike, don't forget the money for your second and third titles.
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Will this be a PC based system?
Was just about to ask the same thing Gav? And can we get some bombs in the power supply aswell? %.%
Yes to both because I would be a complete idiot to use a similar embedded sytem that Stern has successfully used for years - PC all the way for me, I have seen the light - hallelujah!!!
I have also moved production from China because they have banned child labour there - off to Nth Korea I go........bloody Chinese, next you know they will be battling the USA at war games.....oops....too late...
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-07-13/us-vice-admiral-expects-china-to-soon-be-part-of-war-games/4818598
The money Mike, don't forget the money for your second and third titles.
Don't you use everyone else's money just to set things up and then find out it isn't going to work, then start asking for money for a 2nd machine to fund the stuff ups on the first machine.
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Did you know that Mr Tracey had a mid life crisis and realised he was actually gay. Now this being the case, how about some pretty colour changing LEDs and rainbow coloured targets and to top it off, make the flipper bats look like sparkly ladies shoes. If you hurry, you might be able to do it before anyone else, well you probably have a few years up your sleeve at least. That would all suit a pinball machine very well don't you think.
And yes, I too think that a PC based system would be the shiz. That way we could keep on updating the PC every 6 months when it becomes obsolete or simply breaks down.
I know this is the wrong thread but if Jack himself knows what is being said at the moment and is happy with his guy saying it then he has lost a lot of support I would imagine.
Looking forward to seeing you show them how it should be done Mike.
$#$ @@* :lol
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My two cents.
The Thunderbird 2, ball lock is a given I think. :)
It would be cool to see modes start with getting a ramp shot or two or hit a Jeff Tracey target/toy.
You could have missions/modes that require one or more of the vehicles to participate in the mission/mode.
To activate the vehicle you could have different shots.
Thunderbird 1 could be a ramp shot or a vari-target.
Thunderbird 2 could be two stationary targets or hit the TB2 toy twice.
Thunderbird 3 could be inline targets.
Thunderbird 4 could be a line of drop targets.
Thunderbird 5 could be pop bumper hits.
A wizard mode could incorporate all the Thunderbirds with a video mode somewhere thrown in.
To complete the end of the wizard mode maybe?
Divertable ramps could save you dollars and space in the machine whilst introducing deeper game play.
RGB led lighting would be pretty cool. You could have something similar to Space Station with the condition green and red etc.
Mike, are you getting some professional advice from any pinball designers?
The reason I ask is that I just recently read about Ben Hecks issue with the Lost pinball he was making.
It turned out they made a great looking pin that played terribly but after getting some pro. advice he now has a much better understanding of pinball physics.
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I was thinking of this the other day - much the same as the ceramic ball in TZ..
This is right "out there" - but how good would it be if the BALL became interactive with the player ? What about a different colored ball for each Thunderbird ?
So you would have a green ball for Thunderbird 2
A yellow ball for Thunderbird 4
You achieve the "mission" where you need T2 and T4 - an underwater episode - Once the mission starts, you get a 2 ball multiball - one ball GREEN and one ball YELLOW. With these 2 balls, you need to save the day ! Whether that be a set of in-line targets, or drop targets..
Another idea - Why can't Thunderbird 4 be under a mini playfield, since it is always underwater ? Much like Streetfighter II and the car ?
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needs a mechanical insert in the back box
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Are you liking any of the ideas that have been thrown at you so far Mike?
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Something that was mentioned elsewhere that i think has a lot of potential is wi-fi. The ability to possibly play head to head games would be awesome i reckon. There could be types of games where you have to follow the other players shots, or what would be awesome would be if you complete a certain sequence or mission, then the opponents game has depowered flippers for 10 seconds, or disable one flipper or something like that....
Also, been playing a bit of Jurassic Park lately, and the 'Smart Missile' feature is very good. For those that are unaware, its a button on the front you can press basically to collect any lit item, so if EB or jackpot is lit, you can collect it. But the fun is in working out whether you take it now, or keep it for later as you may be able to progress to a super jackpot or the wizard mode. Just adds a bit more thought to the overall game strategy, plus if a newbie is playing, they can get multiball a bit easier.
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like where Rob is going,
I have often thought about the game safe cracker where it spits out a token, maybe as a unique thing is - once you achieve 4-5 missions and you get to the stage of a wizard mode a plastic token is spat out to the player / owner. The game still continues until you lose the game, but at a later stage that night , next day etc you get a one off chance of starting a new game at the completed 4-5 mission status but placing the token into a special dedicated slot and hit the start button and you get a game that starts at the advanced point to hopefully achieve more goals with more (3-5 ball game start) balls giving players a opportunity to see the depth of the game and make them want to strive for getting more missions finished.....
Maybe the gadegt could hold just 5 tokens so you can achieve them and extract them through playing and have a night of trying to achieve further goals = adds game variety but might need the score to start at zero so people are not achieving unfair high scores..???
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I don't really care what is on it as long as it doesn't suck.
#@#
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A bank of five drop targets with the five sons pictures, behind each target is a standup target with the pilots picture as per the tv show.
Five inline drop targets for starting the countdown to thunderbirds are go.
Brains needs to be included somewhere.
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Not sure if this has been mentioned already but more information on the Thunderbirds pinball, payment options and pricing are now up on the Homepin site:
http://www.homepin.com/abouttag.html (http://www.homepin.com/abouttag.html)
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I would want more runs on the board from a first time pinball manufacturer before shelling out any coin for something sight unseen without any playfield, art pics or videos etc. We don't even know what is on the game yet.
It might be a good idea to wait until this game is produced and works before dropping any money on one.
^^^
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I am in on this
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Hi guys. Thanks for the comments, I have been a bit busy today getting the launch underway so I'm a little late here to answer some of your questions.
First the freight. I am well experienced in shipping from China. I have 'suggested' that freight 'might' be about $400 in 2015. This will naturally be subject to what is going on then BUT I have calculated $400 being the all up cost delivered to your door. I will handle all shipping documents and arrangements including customs clearing, buyers won't have to do a thing except sign the delivery docket. The precise cost can not be known until 2015 but it will be at cost price and is very likely to be a lot less than the 'suggested' $400. Any savings will be passed back to customers.
Naturally I have structured the sell price to suit Thunderbirds - $5432.10 (Thunderbirds are GO!) - get it?
If you add GST = $5975.31 and the delivery cost ($400) makes a total of $6375.31 with a FREE topper for those who pay upfront (thanks to those of you that have already).
The 'pay-off' price of $5950 equates to $5950 + GST and $400 shipping/delivery = $6945.00 (no topper)
GST and shipping payments are not due until the machine is ready to ship.
For those who prefer to wait and buy from a retailer when they are completed in 2015 the RRP is $7490 + GST = $8239 although you may be able to negotiate a better deal with your preferred retailer??
Why is there such a price difference? Those who place their trust in me and pay in early are buying direct and so there is no retailers margin. That is the main reason for the difference. After prepayments close on the 1st June 2014 I will not be selling direct from the factory - the business will shift to sales through retailers only.
On to the comments about kits. My liability insurance does not permit me to sell kits. If you would like a kit you would need to EMAIL me (not PM) and I might be able to suggest how this could happen.
For the record, my last 20' container from China to Brisbane in Feb this year cost $1400 plus landing & clearing costs and plus GST on the goods. You could add about 10% in todays money due to our falling dollar.
I opened the website for sales at about 9.30 this morning and I must say I have been overwhelmed with the positive response and the purchases made. Thank you all for having the faith in my ability to deliver. I said the website would be updated on the 18th and I stuck to it. I also want to have a prototype at next years Pinfest and I intend to do my very best to meet this timeframe. A condition of my licence is very strict in that I MUST meet a mid 2015 deadline because the licensor has a massive campaign for the 50th anniversary of Thunderbirds and this pinball is part of that.
Some have suggested I release more machine details and I would love to do this but the terms of my licence prohibit it at this early stage. Those who don't wish to place their trust in my track record can simply wait for a finished machine and pay retail at that time.
For those coming to Pinfest this weekend please introduce yourselves.
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Excellent news Mike. Once I can see a pic of the playfield etc I'll make my decision.
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Excellent news Mike. Once I can see a pic of the playfield etc I'll make my decision.
+1
I love the theme and I want to part with the $$$, I just want to see what the game is like first.
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Some updates and a peek inside the backbox.
As everyone keeps saying, nothing beats that mellow sound from a valve amplifier so we have
included a stereo valve amp to keep everyone happy here.
You can see how we have also cleverly used a small tape recorder for the momentary sounds
and a larger one with bigger reels for the background music....
The actual game code is stored on the disc at the bottom right and as it is played with an auto-changer
it will start up straight away, well, with delays SHORTER than if the machine was powered by a PC....... &&
This will require players to remember the adage from the video tape rental days...
"be kind - rewind" - it will be a simple matter to reload the disc for the next player.
The mechanical score reels will also add a sense of nostalgia and give owners something
to overhaul every second week.
More updates as they come to hand....
(http://www.homepin.com/test/joke.jpg)
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Geez, how much did you say these were gonna cost?
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I hope you intend to use custom made relays with odd coil voltages for all the solenoid and flashers?
I thought you would have used an Amiga 1000 mother board that required a kick start floppy disk first and then the actual game software on a second floppy disk every time you turned the machine on.
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Geez, how much did you say these were gonna cost?
I know what you mean....how can we do it for the price....simply amazing!
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(http://www.homepin.com/test/joke.jpg)
%.% %.% %.% %.% %.% %.% %.% %.% %.%
Nice one! ^^^
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(http://www.homepin.com/tag/TB4_UPF.jpg)
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That would be for under the main playfield?
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Some updates and a peek inside the backbox.
As everyone keeps saying, nothing beats that mellow sound from a valve amplifier so we have
included a stereo valve amp to keep everyone happy here.
You can see how we have also cleverly used a small tape recorder for the momentary sounds
and a larger one with bigger reels for the background music....
The actual game code is stored on the disc at the bottom right and as it is played with an auto-changer
it will start up straight away, well, with delays SHORTER than if the machine was powered by a PC....... &&
This will require players to remember the adage from the video tape rental days...
"be kind - rewind" - it will be a simple matter to reload the disc for the next player.
The mechanical score reels will also add a sense of nostalgia and give owners something
to overhaul every second week.
More updates as they come to hand....
(http://www.homepin.com/test/joke.jpg)
nice that you have a sense of humour,but this retired(nicely) braindead wireman for a defence contractor,would also like to see some progress,before shelling out my hard earned.$$$$$
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That would be for under the main playfield?
well done
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Think episode 23
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Think episode 23
Ahh, got it
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Can the play-field be as easy to remove (unplug) as a pinball 2000 one..
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My machines will be the easiest machines to service and fault find of any ever made.
Can the play-field be as easy to remove (unplug) as a pinball 2000 one..
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When will we see some photos. playfield,cabinet, toys etc?
Even a crypitc clue will do, something..anything.....tracy island mini playfield perhaps....anything.
Please!!!
Love the theme and would really love to buy...almost sight unseen but I need something tangible... throw me a friggen bone and give me a reason to give you the cash!
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When will we see some photos. playfield,cabinet, toys etc?
Even a crypitc clue will do, something..anything.....tracy island mini playfield perhaps....anything.
Please!!!
Love the theme and would really love to buy...almost sight unseen but I need something tangible... throw me a friggen bone and give me a reason to give you the cash!
Well - there is a bit of a small preview in the post above (TB4) and I should have a short video available within a couple of weeks. It it quite a juggle between actually making the machine and getting approval from the licence owner on various things and the complications this all brings BUT it is coming together very well. We have spent the last few months geting the electronics fine tuned rather than things like artwork.
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When will we see some photos. playfield,cabinet, toys etc?
Even a crypitc clue will do, something..anything.....tracy island mini playfield perhaps....anything.
Please!!!
Love the theme and would really love to buy...almost sight unseen but I need something tangible... throw me a friggen bone and give me a reason to give you the cash!
Well - there is a bit of a small preview in the post above (TB4) and I should have a short video available within a couple of weeks. It it quite a juggle between actually making the machine and getting approval from the licence owner on various things and the complications this all brings BUT it is coming together very well. We have spent the last few months geting the electronics fine tuned rather than things like artwork.
The TB 4 post was too cryptic for me( could be anything)
Thanks, I will be waiting for the video with keen anicipation.
I look forward to a reason to buy beyond an awesome theme.
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(http://www.homepin.com/tag/ss1.jpg)
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(http://www.homepin.com/tag/pbproto.jpg)
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I'm in, put my money where my mouth is as they say.
Keep the updates and news rolling in whenever possible.
@@*
FAB!
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When will we see some photos. playfield,cabinet, toys etc?
Even a crypitc clue will do, something..anything.....tracy island mini playfield perhaps....anything.
Please!!!
Love the theme and would really love to buy...almost sight unseen but I need something tangible... throw me a friggen bone and give me a reason to give you the cash!
Well - there is a bit of a small preview in the post above (TB4) and I should have a short video available within a couple of weeks. It it quite a juggle between actually making the machine and getting approval from the licence owner on various things and the complications this all brings BUT it is coming together very well. We have spent the last few months geting the electronics fine tuned rather than things like artwork.
Any news on the short video?
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I'm in China signing a lease on a factory and I haven't heard from my video man so I assume he hasn't finished or he is waiting on some direction from me??
I have had very bad email problems however so anything is possible.
I have managed a very good score - I have taken oven one entire floor of the Skyworth factory as they are moving to new premises next month. HUGE area but very hi-tech.
When will we see some photos. playfield,cabinet, toys etc?
Even a crypitc clue will do, something..anything.....tracy island mini playfield perhaps....anything.
Please!!!
Love the theme and would really love to buy...almost sight unseen but I need something tangible... throw me a friggen bone and give me a reason to give you the cash!
Well - there is a bit of a small preview in the post above (TB4) and I should have a short video available within a couple of weeks. It it quite a juggle between actually making the machine and getting approval from the licence owner on various things and the complications this all brings BUT it is coming together very well. We have spent the last few months geting the electronics fine tuned rather than things like artwork.
Any news on the short video?
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I have decided on a suitable factory space in the "High-Tech" zone of Shenzhen and it will become the new Homepin Pinball factory. This area is often called "Chinas Silicon Valley" due to the huge number of high tech factories in this area. I had to prove to the area officials that I would be manufacturing a world class, high tech product before they would allow me to lease space there.
I spent well over a week looking at dozens of places all over town. Most were either new or fully vacated and that meant a HUGE amount of time, effort and money would need to be spent bringing the space up to a usable standard. Even to paint the floor in one of these empty places would cost a fortune and take several weeks.
Then I lucked upon Skyworth. They are a massive company (30K employees) and last year were the worlds largest set top box manufacturer making over 10 million units (amongst many other products). The quality of this factory (one of about 10 they have) is world class there is no doubt. Turns out they have built a new mega-factory complex and will move a few of their smaller places into this new facility. I managed to secure the office level (1500 sq mts) and the 3rd floor of the accomodation complex which has 6 self contained dorms (housing 6 each) and 2 executive apartments for managers. It is a 5 minute walk from the factory building in the same secure compound. The executive apartments on the floor I leased were reserved for visiting Skyworth managers so the quality of fitout is exceptional.
Best part is that they will remove only the furniture from the office floor leaving the brilliant finish with flooring, curtains/blinds, ceiling and lighting behind. The floor is already divided up into very usable spaces with one area even being thier R&D department for LCD screens.
I get the keys to the facility today (10th Dec) and will move in and start setting up over Christmas. The excellent fitout means I will be able to have the Homepin R&D area up and running by mid January.
More info once we are in the building and making our changes.
Pictures here of the Homepin factory floor (to be) and the accomodation block - third floor is the one - Chinese count the ground floor as "floor one".
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/reception.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/office.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/hallway.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/boardroom.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/accom.jpg)
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congrats on the getting your factory space
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Very Nice work Mike !
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Looks amazing Mike looking forward to your updates
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Awesome stuff Mike.. look forward to having coffee in the board room
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Awesome stuff Mike.. look forward to having coffee in the board room
And I look forward to a scotch in the board room ;)
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Did you end up finding those two KISS pinballs in one of the rooms / dorms / offices / boardrooms / sheds / store rooms / showrooms / factory floors ?
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Did you end up finding those two KISS pinballs in one of the rooms / dorms / offices / boardrooms / sheds / store rooms / showrooms / factory floors ?
Only two? How many do you want - we are in China, anything is possible............. %.%
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Factory looks good, not that I would know what makes a good factory or not.
Any news on the game?
@@^
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Factory looks good, not that I would know what makes a good factory or not.
Any news on the game?
@@^
The only thing I am able to reveal at this point is that I have secured one of the smartest programmers on the planet - this guy blows all of the other pinball programmers away and I am not saying that lightly nor am I saying it to take away anything from the excellent guys out there - it's just that this guy is by far and away so far ahead of them all it is simply amazing!
More about it when I am able to......
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Nice work Mike, sounds like your got all bases covered, looking forward when more info is released ^^^
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Factory looks good, not that I would know what makes a good factory or not.
Any news on the game?
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I wrote a long answer for you but it was wiped by the site before I pushed "go"
Short story is I am building this business FROM SCRATCH and I don't have the staff or the luxury of a huge PR machine like Stern does.
If I were to show anything it would NOT have any artwork. It would have flippers, bumpers, ramps and kickers - big deal, just like practically every other pinball machine ever made.
I can't afford the time or money to be wasting on this "limited release" of features and constantly getting approval from the licensor. After all, what did that achieve with WOZ? The G.I. is STILL woeful and there are numerous other issues - for $11K - bloody ridiculous IMO - I need to get on and make it happen, not present a show & tell like some do.
If that doesn't suit some I'm afraid it's easy - you can't please everyone all the time.
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fair coment mike,lets just all get behind you in this endevour.We all want to see this machine come to fruition and realise what a mamouth task you have started to undertake,and hopefully acomplish.I look forward to owning one of your machines one day.damien
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Factory looks good, not that I would know what makes a good factory or not.
Any news on the game?
@@^
I wrote a long answer for you but it was wiped by the site before I pushed "go"
Short story is I am building this business FROM SCRATCH and I don't have the staff or the luxury of a huge PR machine like Stern does.
If I were to show anything it would NOT have any artwork. It would have flippers, bumpers, ramps and kickers - big deal, just like practically every other pinball machine ever made.
I can't afford the time or money to be wasting on this "limited release" of features and constantly getting approval from the licensor. After all, what did that achieve with WOZ? The G.I. is STILL woeful and there are numerous other issues - for $11K - bloody ridiculous IMO - I need to get on and make it happen, not present a show & tell like some do.
If that doesn't suit some I'm afraid it's easy - you can't please everyone all the time.
Fair enough.
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With all the space will you be doing everything at Home pin central or will circuit board and cabinet printing be done at other companies?
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With all the space will you be doing everything at Home pin central or will circuit board and cabinet printing be done at other companies?
We certainly have the space to do everything and that is the longer term plan. Initially however cabinets (woodwork) will be made by an outside CNC firm as will blank PCBs although one of the first things I am seting up is a PCB assembly line.
My reasoning here is that almost everyone has gone to surface mount using pick and place machines and it is next to impossible to have boards made using through hole parts these days. I feel it is better to have boards made using through hole for ease of repair. Some parts like the 100 pin micro will have to be S/M as they just are not made in any other pacage BUT everything else we can assemble in house.
This also allows me to expand the range of aftermarket boards I make and get the cost of them down. Also China id very central so it is a lot cheaper and faster to ship boards all over the world direclt from PRC.
I also intend to set up our own screen printing shop complete with laser cutters for things like plastics etc. I have had pinball plastics screen printed before with mixed results so better to do them ourselves.
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I don't think I will have the patience to last this out without some regular game updates.
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I don't think I will have the patience to last this out without some regular game updates.
I will certainly be giving updates on our progress and the progress of parts being made etc but I won't be in a position to present much actual gameplay or artwork if that's what you are looking for.
There is a reason why my price is $5432.10 - and not $11,000 - I am not paying several staff to do nothing but apply to the licensor every second week and then provide updates....think about that. I would rather spend that money on developing a better game and/or better mechanisms etc.
I have already said MANY times that I will NOT be re-inventing pinball.
Thunderbirds Pinball will be a standard body, DMD, single level game with ramps, subways, two flippers. It will run an embedded board set not unlike WPC era but with thousands of improvements. It will have Thunderbirds toys and sounds/music and hand drawn art that will be identical to "Classic Thunderbirds" (as that is my licence) NOT photoshopped. It will be a fun game to play with easily understood rules BUT with a deeper rule set for seasoned players to enjoy. People who love Thunderbirds are obviously very happy that I am building this machine. If Thunderbirds isn't particularly "your thing" I understand that - it's fine - there are plenty of other machines available - this machine isn't for everyone, not all machines are.
A bit of imagination might be required but really, not that much, it isn't that hard to predict what a Thunderbirds Pinball might include really, is it?
I really don't know what else you might be looking for and it wouldn't matter what I showed anyway as there would always be someone who didn't like it for all sorts of reasons of their own?
You can see and play it when it's finished and if you like it the RRP at that time will be $7490.00 (if there are any left then) - and that will still be many thousands cheaper than other offerings.
I don't have a problem that you want to see more, I just can't understand what exactly you want to see? I have already explained about the licencing - unless someone wants to come on board and work for free for two years to do nothing but apply for release notices and pay from their own pocket for photograhpic sessions and video work there is just no point taking this discussion further.
There are other titles that I have in the works and I won't be saying much about them either - I will also be highly unlikely to be offering discount deals up front for them as I have done with Thunderbirds. They are more likely to "just appear".
I hope the above clarifies some of your points.
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I don't think I will have the patience to last this out without some regular game updates.
I will certainly be giving updates on our progress and the progress of parts being made etc but I won't be in a position to present much actual gameplay or artwork if that's what you are looking for.
There is a reason why my price is $5432.10 - and not $11,000 - I am not paying several staff to do nothing but apply to the licensor every second week and then provide updates....think about that. I would rather spend that money on developing a better game and/or better mechanisms etc.
I have already said MANY times that I will NOT be re-inventing pinball.
Thunderbirds Pinball will be a standard body, DMD, single level game with ramps, subways, two flippers. It will run an embedded board set not unlike WPC era but with thousands of improvements. It will have Thunderbirds toys and sounds/music and hand drawn art that will be identical to "Classic Thunderbirds" (as that is my licence) NOT photoshopped. It will be a fun game to play with easily understood rules BUT with a deeper rule set for seasoned players to enjoy. People who love Thunderbirds are obviously very happy that I am building this machine. If Thunderbirds isn't particularly "your thing" I understand that - it's fine - there are plenty of other machines available - this machine isn't for everyone, not all machines are.
A bit of imagination might be required but really, not that much, it isn't that hard to predict what a Thunderbirds Pinball might include really, is it?
I really don't know what else you might be looking for and it wouldn't matter what I showed anyway as there would always be someone who didn't like it for all sorts of reasons of their own?
You can see and play it when it's finished and if you like it the RRP at that time will be $7490.00 (if there are any left then) - and that will still be many thousands cheaper than other offerings.
I don't have a problem that you want to see more, I just can't understand what exactly you want to see? I have already explained about the licencing - unless someone wants to come on board and work for free for two years to do nothing but apply for release notices and pay from their own pocket for photograhpic sessions and video work there is just no point taking this discussion further.
There are other titles that I have in the works and I won't be saying much about them either - I will also be highly unlikely to be offering discount deals up front for them as I have done with Thunderbirds. They are more likely to "just appear".
I hope the above clarifies some of your points.
It's just a question of high anticipation and wanting to see what the finished product is like from my end, nothing more...nothing less. It just helps me to have something tangible to look at and digest.
I could imagine quite a few different ways to incorporate the toys, rules, flow, audio etc into the game but they would only be my ideas and not what might end up on the actual game.
I love the theme.
I am not looking for the re-invention of pinball, far from it.
I want the game and your company to be awesome and be a big hit with players.
^^^
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the machine is still 18 months away
I would rather Mike keep hidden from us as much as he can until the last 6 months or so
peaking too soon will be an anticlimax
I am glad he is 'not reinventing' pinball
when talking about WOZ, does anyone mention the spinning house, melting witch?
nope, just the really well built cabinet and blinding LED lighting effects
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Sneak peeks are the norm these days.. STERN do it and JJP also took this approach on board.
IMO all it does it give a load of people on RGP a reason to start speculating on whether they like it or not.. it should be like this... I don't like the colour.. lets hope XXX overcomes this and I can ignore it...looks great - cant wait to play it.etc etc etc.
Its all bollox.. you just do not know how a game plays until you play it... all this "I can speculate and dictate how a game will be by looking at the subtle placings of the playfield parts" is just someone sounding off and attempting to sound like an authority.. complete crap.
Its refreshing to not have a game pulled apart by critics years before its released.. there is always more negative than positive posted about anything ( apart from ACDC which is the game no one is allowed to speak ill of).
My understanding of the machine is that its theme is a cracker and it will be true honest pinball..Thatll do for me.
Do I have the funds right now? - nope so I haven't bought one.. am I praying it doesn't sell out?.. Damn right!
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My understanding of the machine is that its theme is a cracker and it will be true honest pinball..Thatll do for me.
As much as I love the theme, I can't just rely on that and hope that it will be good.
I have seen and played too many pins with off the hook themes that were supposed to be the best game ever etc and they turned out to be boat anchors.
As a buyer who has placed a deposit, what is wrong with wanting more info before dipping into the pockets some more?
Surely nothing?
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My understanding of the machine is that its theme is a cracker and it will be true honest pinball..Thatll do for me.
As much as I love the theme, I can't just rely on that and hope that it will be good.
I have seen and played too many pins with off the hook themes that were supposed to be the best game ever etc and they turned out to be boat anchors.
As a buyer who has placed a deposit, what is wrong with wanting more info before dipping into the pockets some more?
Surely nothing?
Nothing wrong at all except you want me to run up bills to no advantage. I set the price with a VERY tight budget in mind. I am already squeezed an extra 15% because of the shift in the AUD since I put this machine up for sale so already those who have paid have a further 15% discount.
I strongly suggest you ask my accounts for a refund straight away because it seems I will be unable to satisfy your requests. Heck, I won't even see a finished playfield myself for at least a year yet! How can I possibly show anyone else a playfield or specific gameplay?
Also, as pointed out in a post above, the second I release anything (and this has already happened) the armchair experts come out with all manner of reasons why it's too, big, small, wide, tall, green and every other imaginable reason, usually conjecture and BS but it is simply unnecessary speculation and isn't constructive.
I have to start from absolute scratch and most appreciate that. It isn't a matter of designing the machine and making it - I also have to design every part in the machine.
Stern didn't have to do this and neither did JJP.
I do have a professional video being tweaked at the moment and I will release it soon BUT I doubt it will answer any of your questions about gameplay as it is a very generic - "look, a new pinball" video, not really showing our work to date.
I don't think you have the slightest clue just how much work and expense this excercise entails. I have already spent over $220,000 of my own money on this venture because I know it will succeed. I also made NO SECRET that the machine will be released mid 2015 and not before. It is a condition of my licence that it be ready for sale in 2015.
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But what color will the siderails and lockdown bar be?
Chrome?
Black?
Stainless steel?
Thunderbird 2 green?
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But what color will the siderails and lockdown bar be?
Chrome?
Black?
Stainless steel?
Thunderbird 2 green?
Hahaha - what's a lockdown bar and a siderail - are they some sort of moustache?
Seriously, I had looked at black but I think standard brushed stainless is the way to go.
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Maybe you should do an LE in Lady P Pink
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I like your way of thinking.... Lady Penelope shocking pink pinball machine. Can honestly say that I would want one for sure ^^^ ^^^
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My understanding of the machine is that its theme is a cracker and it will be true honest pinball..Thatll do for me.
As much as I love the theme, I can't just rely on that and hope that it will be good.
I have seen and played too many pins with off the hook themes that were supposed to be the best game ever etc and they turned out to be boat anchors.
As a buyer who has placed a deposit, what is wrong with wanting more info before dipping into the pockets some more?
Surely nothing?
Nothing wrong at all except you want me to run up bills to no advantage. I set the price with a VERY tight budget in mind. I am already squeezed an extra 15% because of the shift in the AUD since I put this machine up for sale so already those who have paid have a further 15% discount.
I strongly suggest you ask my accounts for a refund straight away because it seems I will be unable to satisfy your requests. Heck, I won't even see a finished playfield myself for at least a year yet! How can I possibly show anyone else a playfield or specific gameplay?
Also, as pointed out in a post above, the second I release anything (and this has already happened) the armchair experts come out with all manner of reasons why it's too, big, small, wide, tall, green and every other imaginable reason, usually conjecture and BS but it is simply unnecessary speculation and isn't constructive.
I have to start from absolute scratch and most appreciate that. It isn't a matter of designing the machine and making it - I also have to design every part in the machine.
Stern didn't have to do this and neither did JJP.
I do have a professional video being tweaked at the moment and I will release it soon BUT I doubt it will answer any of your questions about gameplay as it is a very generic - "look, a new pinball" video, not really showing our work to date.
I don't think you have the slightest clue just how much work and expense this excercise entails. I have already spent over $220,000 of my own money on this venture because I know it will succeed. I also made NO SECRET that the machine will be released mid 2015 and not before. It is a condition of my licence that it be ready for sale in 2015.
Run up bills?
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My understanding of the machine is that its theme is a cracker and it will be true honest pinball..Thatll do for me.
As much as I love the theme, I can't just rely on that and hope that it will be good.
I have seen and played too many pins with off the hook themes that were supposed to be the best game ever etc and they turned out to be boat anchors.
As a buyer who has placed a deposit, what is wrong with wanting more info before dipping into the pockets some more?
Surely nothing?
Nothing wrong at all except you want me to run up bills to no advantage. I set the price with a VERY tight budget in mind. I am already squeezed an extra 15% because of the shift in the AUD since I put this machine up for sale so already those who have paid have a further 15% discount.
I strongly suggest you ask my accounts for a refund straight away because it seems I will be unable to satisfy your requests. Heck, I won't even see a finished playfield myself for at least a year yet! How can I possibly show anyone else a playfield or specific gameplay?
Also, as pointed out in a post above, the second I release anything (and this has already happened) the armchair experts come out with all manner of reasons why it's too, big, small, wide, tall, green and every other imaginable reason, usually conjecture and BS but it is simply unnecessary speculation and isn't constructive.
I have to start from absolute scratch and most appreciate that. It isn't a matter of designing the machine and making it - I also have to design every part in the machine.
Stern didn't have to do this and neither did JJP.
I do have a professional video being tweaked at the moment and I will release it soon BUT I doubt it will answer any of your questions about gameplay as it is a very generic - "look, a new pinball" video, not really showing our work to date.
I don't think you have the slightest clue just how much work and expense this excercise entails. I have already spent over $220,000 of my own money on this venture because I know it will succeed. I also made NO SECRET that the machine will be released mid 2015 and not before. It is a condition of my licence that it be ready for sale in 2015.
I don't care how much it costs to make, why would that concern me?
I don't think you have the slightest clue what a customer is and what customer service is.
Refund is the way to go, minus the $100 fee of course...... ::)
If anyone wants a my spot let me know.
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Personally I prefer Mikes attitude compared to JerseyJacks
Mike is sraght an to the point, we knew going in that there was not going to be much information before the games release
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"I don't care how much it costs to make, why would that concern me?
I don't think you have the slightest clue what a customer is and what customer service is."
You can't be serious can you? What it costs to make and all of the associated costs are passed directly to the customer. If I can keep costs in check by not wasting resources then the end price is cheaper. I'm sorry but it seems you have a very poor grasp of commercial reality.
Ask those that buy my boards what they think of my customer service - I haven't had any complaints at all in five years so I must be doing something right. In fact the response I get universally is one of the highest praise on all fronts including customer service.
I made no secret about the $100 fee - it actually costs me MORE than that to cancel a sale and refund for reasons I won't bore you with here. I offer to transfer it for free (although that still costs me money to do).
How about you organise a theme, start a factory and I will buy a machine from you - then see just how simple it all is and make sure you spoon feed me all the way - oh, and don't charge me too much either!!!
As I said earlier it isn't possible to please everybody and I am not going to try.
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Very happy to be out, thanks for the refund.
All the best, hope the game does well etc etc etc.
And yes your customer service is pretty shite!
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And yes your customer service is pretty shite!
I really would like to know how you can think that?
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And yes your customer service is pretty shite!
I really would like to know how you can think that?
You didn't release sneak peeks of stuff you cant release sneak peeks of is what im thinking
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And yes your customer service is pretty shite!
I really would like to know how you can think that?
Based on my experiences I find it a bit hard to believe as well. I've always had great dealings with Mike ^^^
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My dealings with Mike have always been great too.
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+1 mike's service is always top notch.
However I think it is a shame your've lost a customer. CC is a hard man to please but would be good if you can get him back on board - or at least part ways amicably
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+1 mike's service is always top notch.
However I think it is a shame your've lost a customer. CC is a hard man to please but would be good if you can get him back on board - or at least part ways amicably
I suspect that he is bothered that I won't be updating progress of the game as much as he might like rather than has a problem with my customer service as such?
The simple fact is I am very constrained by exactly what I am able to release without approval. Approval takes time (and money) to obtain and I simply will not budget an extra $20,000 into the cost of building this machine merely to show some updates - that is a waste and exactly why "other" pinball machines cost $11,000 and mine will be $7,500
I run a very tight ship and I cannot abide waste such as this.
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Just caught up on this thread, Gees what a read. I believe Mike is brave and should be very proud taking on such a huge project. Having run my own business, I understand the planning, financial risks and hard work behind following your dream!
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I have the top two floors of this building, half of the ground floor of the building in front with the blue roof, the entire third floor of apartments in another building around the corner and five more apartments just to the left of the blue roofed building. They are all within a few minutes walk of one another and all in the same complex.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/HomepinFactory_.jpg)
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love the logo on top ()
That wouldn't have been cheap to get made up
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looks great Mike
is the sign photoshopped && or real - could zoom in enough to tell.
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It looks like its photo shopped on my phone
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(http://www.homepin.com/tag/TAG_Christmas.jpg)
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So, I've been having a think about this... so excuse my brain dump while I clog up this thread with ideas that have probably been suggested/designed anyway.
First, the obvious:
* Palm trees that flop down when activating some mode
* Thunderbird 2 ball lock (obvious)
* Starting multiball could involve hitting five in-line drop targets (like the Master of Puppets drop targets on Metallica), with each one having the Thunderbirds numbers 5-1 and each time you hit one, it says the number and has the horn/trumpet sound (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LN0ChjMYK2g).
* I think a shaker motor, even as an additional extra, would be a very clever option... especially for launch sequences!
* Headphone jack (not a biggie for me, but I think it'd be appreciated for a lot of folk
* Dimmable DMD? Perhaps even some kind of VGA output for testing/diagnosis?
* Not sure how software updates would work (if at all) but the easier the better for the home user. USB, I guess?
* Lots of Lady Penelope/Parker humour (obviously!).
Things that may not be so obvious/feasible:
* Playfield having a photo/drawing that lights up for each mission, just like the IR control centre:
(http://i.imgur.com/EkwOpmfm.jpg)
* I was thinking of some kind of vertical habitrail that goes up, *outside* the backbox (via magnets, kinda like the supercharger in The Getaway/HS2 I guess) to represent the launch sequence and possibly the start of multiball. Think it would be cool to see something that goes outside the playfield, but might not be technically possible. This could perhaps even just be a trick with the backbox, where there's only a single ball self-contained, but there's a trick where a ball hides in the playfield and it only looks like it goes into this habitrail. (I just realised this could be done almost like the catapult launcher in Medieval Madness, but with an outside ball. I guess it would have enough velocity to make it up something vertically?)
* Ball lock that involves some kind of rotating panel like in the launch sequence in this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1faTFQ-5LQ).
* Somewhere on the playfield (maybe a toy) with a reference to Lady Penelope's car and the gun behind the grille.
I'd also love to know who the designer is, but I understand if that's still under wraps for the time being. I suspect I have an idea (if it's an experienced/well-known designer) but I'm not putting any bets on it. Do you know when you'll be able to tell us who it is?
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Loved the recent update.....videos on the website.
::)
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Some great ideas mike I'd love to see the ball leave the Playfield
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Some great ideas mike I'd love to see the ball leave the Playfield
I'd like to see the playfield?
()
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I still haven't got season 1 of Thunderbirds to experience the tv show to see what all the fuss is about, but I'd definitely want the pinball machine if it had Aussie band TISM's song Thunderbirds Are Coming Out......5,4,3,2,1! Love it!
Cheers!
Adam.
P.s maybe a TISM pinball machine needs to happen. So many hilarious songs for the various modes.
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I still haven't got season 1 of Thunderbirds to experience the tv show to see what all the fuss is about, but I'd definitely want the pinball machine if it had Aussie band TISM's song Thunderbirds Are Coming Out......5,4,3,2,1! Love it!
Cheers!
Adam.
P.s maybe a TISM pinball machine needs to happen. So many hilarious songs for the various modes.
I saw Tism once....once.
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http://www.grumpycats.com/memes/i-had-fun-once-it-was-awful/#.UtKZhPYazCQ
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http://www.grumpycats.com/memes/i-had-fun-once-it-was-awful/#.UtKZhPYazCQ
They were just not good live for mine, all pose and no substance...worked better on the radio or the stereo when ya where off chops and didn't care...live was pretty crap.
I wish I could get the drug that killed river phoenix though, it sounds good.
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I read this thread today from start to stop n enjoyed every bit of it, except the cowcorner insults n comments.
Daz, I don't mean to be mean or upset u mate, but why do u meaningly insult people n say so many things so many times to question peoples abilities or credibility.
Its like you were just waiting to shite all over this thread like you do to A lot of others.
People who buy this game are buying it because they believe in Mike personally.
I have spoken to Mike before n a dead set straight out gentleman n a fair dinkum aussie as u are going to get.
He doesn't have a ego, doesn't insult people ever, and he is sober n has no mental illness.
If you don't believe in something or someone, then just stay off the thread. It really just ruins it for others n since this is a commercial venture by a friend to many on this forum n to many pinheads in Australia, your cynical posts will hurt rather than help someone who is trusted.
Back on topic, I think Mike is doing a fantastic job n I would certainly trust him to deliver or die trying. You just cant keep asking him what time he goes to the toilet each day n every single other minor thing when he is BUSY BUSY BUSY building a pinball machine for mass production (500 machines).
Rather than root up Mikes thread, send me a PM if u disagree with me.
Mike has stayed very professional.
I am not sure I would have had his patience.
I dare u for just one lousy month, not to be bitter, insultive or plain out negative......just one lousy month.....lets see how we go hey.
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Please remember I am starting a factory FROM SCRATCH! That means every single thing right down to refurbishing the toilet block and putting loo rolls on the holders right through to buying, installing and using new stamping, cutting, folding etc machinery and designing and making EVERY SINGLE PART!!!!! This whole project is a hell of a lot more extensive than simply designing a new pinball machine and assembling it using "off the shelf" parts.
Things are moving along at a brisk pace - the 4 x production line benches were delivered and installed today. They have excellent overhead lighting, power points along the underside of the top shelf (with circuit breakers and RCD installed on each bench) and anti static matting for the work surface. The top shelf allows for small bins of parts to be supplied to the exact work area where they are needed.
This will be the main assembly line for smaller assemblies such as flipper etc (10 metres long):
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/10m_Line.jpg)
This is a shorter 5 meter line for checking PCB assemblies and to bench test mechanical assemblies:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/5m_line.jpg)
This is the "R&D" room (more tables to be assembled, probably tommorow):
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/RandD_Room.jpg)
This will be the 5 meter PCB component assembly line - between the end of the line and the blue shelving will be the flow solder machine that I hope will be delivered before Chinese New Year so I can commission it while all the staff are off having a great time:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/WaveSolderLine.jpg)
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Just mind numbing thinking about how much work and planning you have done and still have to do. Keep up the great work mike.
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(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilandsleeveproto.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilformerproto.jpg)
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Holy crap.. didn't think for one moment you would be making your own sleeves as well. Im with Daniel here.. must be a nightmare trying to list all the parts big and small that you need to get this to completion.. I cant even remember all the parts required to fix a damn machine let alone build one..
Fantastic stuff Mike.. all power to you !
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Wow, this is turning into an awesome project. It's g
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Posting on an iPhone. Take 2.
Wow, this is turning into an awesome project. It's going to be a hard slog in the beginning, but I can see the potential for the future....and no paying license fees for parts? Thunderbirds seems to be a popular theme (even if the majority of Americans don't get it) and I can see it translating well to pinball. All going well, this will hopefully mean more machines in the future and parts at the ready.
Cheers!
Adam.
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(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilstop1.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilstop.jpg)
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(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilstop1.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilstop.jpg)
interesting bracket, assuming some of the new punched and pressed parts, maybe for the flipper ass. etc.
not to be picky but noticed some edges and holes have chamfers / fillets and others don't and the brace in the centre - does your guy that is designing have punch / press experience? Tricky business press work, shrink and and shear points etc. I would be inclined to round out the brace in the corner and have 2 thinner ones with a slight taper and not so vertical. Also design with all sharp edges and have the completed brackets chucked in a large rumbler to remove all sharp edges. Just trying to help as some press re-work can be an undesired cost.
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Thanks for the comments. All drawings I show are preliminary only and the finished items will differ greatly. We will be doing all of the stamping "in-house" on our own machines and will not be farming the work out. Any changes or tweaks will be able to be done on the fly in the Homepin factory to perfect each part.
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These are all "run of the mill" parts but still have to be drawn, moulds and dies made and the parts produced for this and future pinball projects.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/pbbody.jpg)
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I have bought this refurbished Wave Soldering Machine and a three meter motorised assembly line (not shown in the pic) on the proviso it will fit in my service elevator - it will be "touch and go" and might have to be pulled apart to get it to the 5th floor?
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/WaveSolderMachine1.jpg)
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I spent the entire morning organising a modest first aid kit including signage in English and Chinese - sometimes the smallest things take the most effort and time!!!!!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/FirstAid.jpg)
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I now have a component lead cutting machine and a lead forming machine. Still waiting on the cutting machine for resistors but that should be here in a couple of weeks.
That will complete the PCB assembly line equipment. The first pic is the lead cutter and the second two pics show the lead bending/forming machine and auto sorter. All of this equipment together with the auto assembly bench and the Wave solder machine will give me one of the most up to date PCB fabrication facilities available anywhere.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/leadcutter.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/leadbender1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/leadbender2.jpg)
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Well done Mike.
Thunderbirds are Go ! ^^^
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Another new machine - a vacuum former. This is being overhauled for me and should be delivered in a couple of weeks along with a playfield "bed of nails" hydraulic press for pressing the location points into the underside of playfields.
I hope to be able to use this to make some playfield toys and possibly some ramps although I am chasing a 3D wire forming machine to make ramps at the moment.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/Vacuum_Machine.jpg)
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Each of these updates reminds me what a massive undertaking this really is. Kudos to you Mike for this project!! ^^^
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There is a machine to do wire ramps? Bloody hell how did you know where to start
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I spent some time today sorting out a few issues with my foil stamping machine. It's all good now - just a small air leak in the regulator that needs a couple of "O" rings to fix and a drive belt for the foil feeder.
PS - looks like I am having issues upoading a link to YouTube again - probably the "Great Firewall of China"?
ckGbg&feature=share
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Wire ramps rather than plastic?
Awesome
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I have spent the last couple of days fitting out a basic workshop. It's amazing what you miss!! I have had to get and make everything from scratch...bench, welding trolley and stand - everything and I still only have a pretty basic setup so far.
At least now I am able to drill holes and weld things up so we can move forward. Chinese New Year is coming to an end so I can get back onto sourcing parts and machinery soon.
At least I have some of the Chinese staff looking out for waste (see the last pic of the note on the gas bottle - it's Chinglish but gets the message across).
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/workshop1.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/workshop2.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/workshop3.jpg)(http://www.homepin.com/pics/workshop4.jpg)
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Excuse my ignorance mike. What a foil stamping machine do?
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Excuse my ignorance mike. What a foil stamping machine do?
It enables you to "hot stamp" things like logos etc onto pretty well any material and the print is quite robust and usually resistant to rubbing off.
Older bumper caps are "hot foil stamped".
Here you go:
http://youtu.be/l5NQwzM38zo
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I posted this on another forum so I thought I may as well share it here as well. I hope other pinball manufacturers follow and include this.
The 12 volt 3 amp supply will be 100% isolated from the rest of the machine (it will be rectified but not regulated) making it perfect for add-on mods and under cab LED strips etc WITHOUT placing any strain on the machines power supply or risking damage of any kind to the electronics.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/PowerTX_Preliminary_.jpg)
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That's a great idea.
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Cool thanks for the link on hot stamping might have to get you to make me something one day
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Really impressed with the updates. Sounds like you called up "International Rescue" to borrow their machinery. Well done !
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Just caught up on this thread, really interesting to see this come together. Thanks for taking the time to post the updates, keep them coming!
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I am really impressed with this neat bit of gear I bought yesterday. I wanted a stepdown transformer so I would be able to test finished machines on 110V for overseas markets. I found this machine which not only does the 220V > 110V but is mechanically regulated.
There is a preset inside to trim the exact output voltage and the motor/gearbox/wiper moves as required to maintain exactly 110V output even if the input voltage swings around a bit. It works perfectly.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/110v3.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/110v2.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/110v1.jpg)
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That is pretty cool.. never seen an automatic one before, only "operator" controlled
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This is the LCR meter I found. It very accurately measures inductance (amongst other things).
We will use it to check every coil wound to ensure they fall within specifications.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/LCR_Meter.jpg)
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I have a use for that also!
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I have firmed up a deal with a PCB factory - they will fit the micro and a few other key parts to the blank PCBs and then we will populate the rest of the parts and solder them in-house on our new PCB assembly line. Some parts are simply not made in through hole any more so we have no choice in this but are determined to use through hole where possible to keep the boards as repairable as possible.
This video shows one of two new machines this place has purchased. They are state of the art, 12 head machines and can (running at max speed) pick and place up to 136,000 parts per minute. The head grabs the part, spins it to the correct orientation for the board, places it on the previously silk screened solder paste then stops - looks to make sure it is centered on the pads (tweaks the position if required) then pushes it into place - all at 136K parts per minute!!!!
The thing sounds like a machine gun when you see it running. Our boards will probably be assembled on one of the 16 other two head machines in the factory that run a lot slower.
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...... up to 136,000 parts per minute.
Unbelievable!
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...... up to 136,000 parts per minute.
Unbelievable!
Yes it is - the video shows it running at about 80K parts per minute. The head engineer (Chinese guy) told me (in perfect British English) that they hadn't run it at full speed yet as they were too frightened - his exact words - "can you imagine the mess it would make if something went wrong at full speed".
YES, I can...............I told him.......
It is a Panasonic brand machine, made in Japan.
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Holy crap that a serious piece of equipment
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Mike, have you got any idea at this stage as to what style of gameplay/era style playfield you are going to go with.
Will u make the machine like a SS model, or a earlier really fun but straight forward game like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or Gilligans Island (which if any members have played will know that these games are shot/collect shots orientated, straight forward n relatively simple designs but they work really really well and are just heaps of fun without having to go overboard) which deliver great flow but lots of fun.
Gilligans is a classic example, collect various things to achieve great results, Ninja Turtles is similar in that it has several straight forward shots and is simple pinball but makes you shoot for what u have to get. Old fashioned fun pinball based on good shots. Not a game where the ball just flies around anywhere and everywhere n u just rack up points as u hit anything n everything without trying)......
so since the thread was called, have your say/ideas etc, I thought I would ask if you have a game or gamestyle in mind to base Thunderbirds on.
Play Gilligans and TMNTurtles if u haven't, cause it would be worthwhile homework before u design your table/playfield.
Any info would be good.
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I will have a preliminary PF layout available very shortly. Some of the whitewood can be seen in operation in the video on my website.
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Thank you for the updates in assembling your factory
seeing the progress is (almost) as good as updates for the pinball machine
:)
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checked out the video, a couple of teasers and the 2nd part of the brochure may hint to a few features - looking good
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Hey Mr Swinks and Mike for that matter, I've just committed to this project and looking forward to the end result. Mr Swinks, I'm happy things are turning for you and I can see a small smile appearing on your face. You deserve it.
Good things come to those who work for it.
checked out the video, a couple of teasers and the 2nd part of the brochure may hint to a few features - looking good
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Well done Mike for your passion to make this come to fruition at last....and done properly too ;-)
Buggar the ignorant insulters & haters in this thread !*! !*! !*!
On another note, i'm surprised you're going to great lengths to manufacture every part? was it not an option to buy into Stern/Gottlieb/Williams and use their stock and/or have it made under their approval?
I heard (long ago) that williams (& gottlieb) would offer cheap options to re-manufacture their range of parts, as they no longer do it themselves (being focussed on pokies etc that dont use those parts).
food for thought.
I assume you intend doing far more than "just pinball" in your factory??
MM
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Wire ramps rather than plastic?
Awesome
Bit late on this thread, but my eyes lit up as well when I read this. Good lord!
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The Vacuum forming machine has been refurbished and delivered today! The job they did on it is amazing - apart from sandblasting and repainting it they have replaced every relay, switch, cable, air valve, gauge and air line. Now to get it wired in....
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/vacmachine1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/vacmachine3.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/vacmachine2.jpg)
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Looks new,
Looking forward to pics of it working,
Red
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Now im jealous.. such a cool thing to have
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Now im jealous.. such a cool thing to have
Now your jealous? ^&^. Damn your a hard bastard to please Gav
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Now im jealous.. such a cool thing to have
Now your jealous? ^&^. Damn your a hard bastard to please Gav
LOL- im thinking of stuff id love to have in my shop... then again, I need a bigger shop first!!! %.% %.% %.% %.%
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Yes mike really is living the dream. One question for Mike how old was the machine before the refurb? I'm guessing 25years &&
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Yes mike really is living the dream. One question for Mike how old was the machine before the refurb? I'm guessing 25years &&
Suprisingly I was told "about 10" but who really knows???
I didn't get pics on the inside of the machine but they are also perfect - the vacuum pump and tank and all the control valves. They also completely rebuilt the heater elements and wires with all new stuff and all new insulation.
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Here's my vacuum former:
(http://i1128.photobucket.com/albums/m483/antswanmail/DSCN1864.jpg)
OK, you win !!!.
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Aaah yes.. the carry a hot floppy sheet over vacuum former.. the kind im used to. Mike has himself a Rolls Royce version that only a handful of companies here have.
Heres another question for you Mike.. whats the working space size?
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Aaah yes.. the carry a hot floppy sheet over vacuum former.. the kind im used to. Mike has himself a Rolls Royce version that only a handful of companies here have.
Heres another question for you Mike.. whats the working space size?
Sadly it's only 550 x 600 working area - but that's a start
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Sadly it's only 550 x 600 working area - but that's a start
Should be enough for some ramps and playfield toys, maybe even a topper.
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Sadly it's only 550 x 600 working area - but that's a start
Should be enough for some ramps and playfield toys, maybe even a topper.
TAG topper is in fact it's first job.... :D
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Finally some parts for the pinball project are starting to arrive. I have looked at many different leg levelers over the past few weeks and I'm pretty happy with these. These have a solid plastic foot with a rubber insert and swivel on the end of the rod to ensure they are always flat on the floor and won't slip on the floor or scratch it either.
It is amazing how many small and seemingly mundane parts like this all have to be sourced or made - the list seems endless.......
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/pinballfeet.jpg)
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I have looked at many different leg levelers over the past few weeks and I'm pretty happy with these...It is amazing how many small and seemingly mundane parts like this all have to be sourced or made
Great that you are putting so much effort into the details, they look to be a quality part.
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Bring on the TBAG!
:D
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Bring on the TBAG!
:D
ha ha ha ha &&
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"Thunderbirds" is a single, trademarked name and IS NOT abbreviated to "TB".
Therefore :Thunderbirds are GO!" is "TAG".
Cow Corner - can you please keep your comments on my project to yourself as they are not appreciated. I am working very hard to achieve a working pinball factory at huge personal and financial cost to myself and my family. If you should chose to do the same I wish you the best and I cannot for one second fathom why the "haters", of which you are one, have a problem with what I am doing.
I won't delete your comment because I feel it's important all can see what you are saying.
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I feel bad for laughing now! Guess i shouldn't have. I am not a hater. A laugher only.
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Nice work with the levelers. All other pinball manufacturers have little regard for home collector's timber floors. These little things show you have put a lot of thought in this project. Good on you ^^^
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Managed to buy a very nice sliding table bench saw today with a dual bag sawdust extractor. The table was being used while I was there and it will be perfect for cutting the ply for pinball cabinets as well as the Hankin tables. The furniture factory wants to keep it until next Friday as they are finishing a big job and then they have a new machine that is more suitable to the new type of work they do coming to replace this one.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/sawtable.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/dustcollector.jpg)
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Love the way the guy is not using the slide guide in the pic...LOL
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Love the way the guy is not using the slide guide in the pic...LOL
Weirdly he was actually about to flip that board vertically and cut a groove for "T-moulding" type trim using the cutting blade. I've never seen that done before and we won't be doing it either - we will have a dedicated router table to cut the T-moulding slots.
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@.@
Me so sorry mr boss man!!!
Bring it on, whatever it is!
I have the right to express whatever I want about whatever I want and by the way I am not a hater. I love the theme but not your secret squirrel approach on the actual game.
Lots of water under bridge grasshopper....but still no boat.
Lets see it....cmon!!!
Throw the me and my family and my $$ and my pinball company around all you like but the bottom line is you have made that decision and have put yourself in the marketplace,now you are out there and accountable for your product...or in your case your soon to be product.
The public can and will say whatever it likes.
*%*
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I would have thought you would go cnc for cabinet manufacture rather than slide guide table as nearly all the slots, holes etc can be achieved with the various router bits and repeated accurately.
Also I did hear that you will be making repro hankin cocktail tables but nothing advertised here (AP) unless I missed it, could you start a thread on that to clarify for those interested, would it be a 60 in 1 or something similar, lcd or crt etc.
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Yes, but the rest of the public want to hear about Mike assembling his factory, without having to sift though your PWA's
@.@
Me so sorry mr boss man!!!
Bring it on, whatever it is!
I have the right to express whatever I want about whatever I want and by the way I am not a hater. I love the theme but not your secret squirrel approach on the actual game.
Lots of water under bridge grasshopper....but still no boat.
Lets see it....cmon!!!
Throw the me and my family and my $$ and my pinball company around all you like but the bottom line is you have made that decision and have put yourself in the marketplace,now you are out there and accountable for your product...or in your case your soon to be product.
The public can and will say whatever it likes.
*%*
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Love the way the guy is not using the slide guide in the pic...LOL
Weirdly he was actually about to flip that board vertically and cut a groove for "T-moulding" type trim using the cutting blade. I've never seen that done before and we won't be doing it either - we will have a dedicated router table to cut the T-moulding slots.
Aaah - OK.. flips onto edge and slides the work through... have done it myself on occasion and it never feels "safe"
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I love seeing Mike's updates.
When was the last time ANYONE saw a project of this scale actually succeed ? There's not many manufacturer's willing to show the public the logistics of putting together a factory. Plus, Mike and his family are excited about this project. They are DOING something about our hobby, rather than sitting in the loungeroom complaining about people willing to put EVERYTHING on line. It is easy to talk about doing this, but to actually do something is a credible and major achievement. I don't think people appreciate the gravity of this - this is a pinball manufacturer showing the pinball community the inner sanctum of his business ! Mike is taking us along for the ride and SHARING his experiences. When was the last time ANYONE did that ?
If ANYONE is going to succeed - it is Mike.
I'm not concerned about snippets of Thunderbirds at this stage. I know it is happening, and that's all I need to know. At the moment, I'm safe with the knowledge that we will soon have an Australian Pinball Manufacturer. That has not happened since the late 70's !
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I love seeing Mike's updates.
When was the last time ANYONE saw a project of this scale actually succeed ? There's not many manufacturer's willing to show the public the logistics of putting together a factory. Plus, Mike and his family are excited about this project. They are DOING something about our hobby, rather than sitting in the loungeroom complaining about people willing to put EVERYTHING on line. It is easy to talk about doing this, but to actually do something is a credible and major achievement. I don't think people appreciate the gravity of this - this is a pinball manufacturer showing the pinball community the inner sanctum of his business ! Mike is taking us along for the ride and SHARING his experiences. When was the last time ANYONE did that ?
If ANYONE is going to succeed - it is Mike.
I'm not concerned about snippets of Thunderbirds at this stage. I know it is happening, and that's all I need to know. At the moment, I'm safe with the knowledge that we will soon have an Australian Pinball Manufacturer. That has not happened since the late 70's !
Well said mate.. couldn't agree more
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I love seeing Mike's updates.
When was the last time ANYONE saw a project of this scale actually succeed ? There's not many manufacturer's willing to show the public the logistics of putting together a factory. Plus, Mike and his family are excited about this project. They are DOING something about our hobby, rather than sitting in the loungeroom complaining about people willing to put EVERYTHING on line. It is easy to talk about doing this, but to actually do something is a credible and major achievement. I don't think people appreciate the gravity of this - this is a pinball manufacturer showing the pinball community the inner sanctum of his business ! Mike is taking us along for the ride and SHARING his experiences. When was the last time ANYONE did that ?
If ANYONE is going to succeed - it is Mike.
I'm not concerned about snippets of Thunderbirds at this stage. I know it is happening, and that's all I need to know. At the moment, I'm safe with the knowledge that we will soon have an Australian Pinball Manufacturer. That has not happened since the late 70's !
Well said mate.. couldn't agree more
+2, please keep the updates coming Mike!
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I love seeing Mike's updates.
When was the last time ANYONE saw a project of this scale actually succeed ? There's not many manufacturer's willing to show the public the logistics of putting together a factory. Plus, Mike and his family are excited about this project. They are DOING something about our hobby, rather than sitting in the loungeroom complaining about people willing to put EVERYTHING on line. It is easy to talk about doing this, but to actually do something is a credible and major achievement. I don't think people appreciate the gravity of this - this is a pinball manufacturer showing the pinball community the inner sanctum of his business ! Mike is taking us along for the ride and SHARING his experiences. When was the last time ANYONE did that ?
If ANYONE is going to succeed - it is Mike.
I'm not concerned about snippets of Thunderbirds at this stage. I know it is happening, and that's all I need to know. At the moment, I'm safe with the knowledge that we will soon have an Australian Pinball Manufacturer. That has not happened since the late 70's !
Well said mate.. couldn't agree more
+2, please keep the updates coming Mike!
+3, and just adding that not one of us have put a cent to this venture which just shows Mike's real passion and generosity.
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I would have thought you would go cnc for cabinet manufacture rather than slide guide table as nearly all the slots, holes etc can be achieved with the various router bits and repeated accurately.
Also I did hear that you will be making repro hankin cocktail tables but nothing advertised here (AP) unless I missed it, could you start a thread on that to clarify for those interested, would it be a 60 in 1 or something similar, lcd or crt etc.
I am buying machinery that is versitile enough to be used for many purposes. Labour here is VERY cheap - I don't need an expensive machine when I can employ 2 people to do the job - this also creates local employment and the "buzz" around the village where my factory is high about the "two Australians giving jobs to locals" - we are well respected here already and I only found that out yesterday by accident. We are also using "Mom & Dad" small businesses to make engineered parts to help the little guy where we can.
In Australia you NEED a CNC type machine to cut down on the labor costs as staff are about $6000 a month (minimum) - I can have 15 workers here for the price of ONE in Australia - sorry, but that's a fact that I have no control over and the main reason I have my factory here.
One engineering place we use has their disabled son working there who has some motor problem but he is a genius when it comes to operating the family machines and I give them as much work as I can. In Australia they would be sitting back and asking Centrelink to cough as they are "so hardly done by" - there IS a Government scheme in China that would net the family about 50% of the going wage plus medical and other help (contrary to what some reports say) but this family has chosen to help make their son a valuable part of society, and he is, and I will help them along any way I can.
[break]
I have negotiated the rights to reproduce Hankin cocktail cabinets with A.Hankin & Co of Newcastle
These will be a licenced product and built to a very high standard with ply cabinets.
I didn't mention it on this forum as it isn't a pinball and I thought the interest in this project wouldn't be that high on AP? Updates will be on my facebook page (facebook.com/HomepinPinball)
I will have finished tables ready to ship in about 8 weeks and have orders for 2 containers already. I'm not interested in competing with the others on price as mine will be:
(A) electrically safe and certified as such
(B) licenced product (do you want the Omega knockoff watch or a real one?)
(C) plywood cabinets
(D) so many other improvements over the 'cheapo' ones I can't list them all
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I have negotiated the rights to reproduce Hankin cocktail cabinets with A.Hankin & Co of Newcastle
These will be a licenced product and built to a very high standard with ply cabinets.
I didn't mention it on this forum as it isn't a pinball and I thought the interest in this project wouldn't be that high on AP? Updates will be on my facebook page (facebook.com/HomepinPinball)
I will have finished tables ready to ship in about 8 weeks and have orders for 2 containers already. I'm not interested in competing with the others on price as mine will be:
(A) electrically safe and certified as such
(B) licenced product (do you want the Omega knockoff watch or a real one?)
(C) plywood cabinets
(D) so many other improvements over the 'cheapo' ones I can't list them all
I suspect a lot of us (including me) would be keen on one of these, and I have a mate asking about one this week too - keep us posted!
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valid point Mike, and though labour is cheap, accuracy is important as sure you understand that a playfield needs to clear the cabinet and variances could be a nightmare later on, as good CNC in China would be very cheap. Not creating waves just thought it was an odd step in modern pinball production and just hope the 15 workers are switched on and maintain their accuracy.
As for the hankin tables, never assume as sure quite a few of us would be interested.
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The saw table I have is very accurate so I don't see that as an issue, Playfields will be laser cut so there is no accuracy issue with them at all as long as our files are correct #@#.
Whilst a CNC machine for this job would certainly be ideal and probably better than what I have it just isn't in the budget - remember I have to buy EVERYTHING and the costs are seriously soaring - even at China prices - to outfit an entire factory is massive - just paying the wages and rent each month is more than anyone probably thinks, again, even at China prices.
I can always upgrade later once we are up and running.
There is no income at this point - not a cent, so it is ALL outgoing.....
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The saw table I have is very accurate so I don't see that as an issue, Playfields will be laser cut so there is no accuracy issue with them at all as long as our files are correct #@#.
saws are accurate to a 1mm (teeth wearing / flex) but you could gain accumulated error and start to have issues - sure you will work it out.
curious how you will perform recessing for inserts, thread locks etc as a laser can't do that, but lasers are a awesome piece of gear and I made cnc routers & laser profile machines for 8 years so I am biased to using them as they can both do beautiful and fast accurate work.
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I'm not copying traditional methods - I'm borrowing from them but we are doing our own thing....
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I'm not copying traditional methods - I'm borrowing from them but we are doing our own thing....
no worries, just watch what ply you use (and the amount of knots in the ply) and the glue that binds the layers together as some won't laser cut nice and all edges will then become blackened.
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Is Mike just a front man?
http://www.omg-facts.com/Interesting/Companies-in-China-hire-white-foreigners/60726
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What I personally like about what Mike is doing is that he has decades and decades of engineering experience.
This translates to a smart product that ticks all the boxes. Literally, from the ground up. Example, Mike has chosen the best leg levellers that I have seen. Why hasn't anyone else in the pinball industry used those before ? Self levelling with the ball joint design and rubber feet. Very smart...and YES, it takes an engineer and that experience that Mike has, to do it right the first time. Everyone who moves a machine, always worries about their $10,000 wood floor, or expensive tiled floor. Mikes smart thinking, just on the leg levellers alone, are an indication, that things are being thought out with an engineers brain from the get go.
When the time is right, I might buy 40 sets of those feet Mike (160 pieces) cause I hate the traditional leg levellers that everyone else uses.
I like the fact that you are also doing a Hankin style table. Smart move and the profits from that can fuel the pinball furnace of cashflow.
Advertise the hell out of that product on here Mike, cause a lot of people would buy your product for sure.
I also like the Thunderbirds tie-in with your engineering background, it goesw hand in hand with your personality Mike.
I like the KISS (keep it simple) approach u are taking. I love reading your updates, and don't worry about the knockers, there is probably only 1 or 2 in the whole world, with 99.99999 percent of people fully behind you.
You know Stern and JJP will be buying your product. I bet the first thing they say (off the record) is why didn't we think of that (various engineering designs u have come up with) and then they will say dam, if only we could build our stuff outside of the USA without the locals (USA) going bannanas.
Who cares if its made in China. As long as the product is great (which I know it will be), and Asia is in our backyard anyway. U cant build stuff in Australia, it costs apx $50,000 a year minimum these days to hire just one person (hence most Aussie companies who still build stuff use contractors etc).
I reckon the Japaneese will go crazy for your Thunderbirds Pinball. I am told, Thunderbirds in Japan has a huge following.
Well done Mike, everything is looking great. ^^^
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^^^
What I personally like about what Mike is doing is that he has decades and decades of engineering experience.
This translates to a smart product that ticks all the boxes. Literally, from the ground up. Example, Mike has chosen the best leg levellers that I have seen. Why hasn't anyone else in the pinball industry used those before ? Self levelling with the ball joint design and rubber feet. Very smart...and YES, it takes an engineer and that experience that Mike has, to do it right the first time. Everyone who moves a machine, always worries about their $10,000 wood floor, or expensive tiled floor. Mikes smart thinking, just on the leg levellers alone, are an indication, that things are being thought out with an engineers brain from the get go.
When the time is right, I might buy 40 sets of those feet Mike (160 pieces) cause I hate the traditional leg levellers that everyone else uses.
I like the fact that you are also doing a Hankin style table. Smart move and the profits from that can fuel the pinball furnace of cashflow.
Advertise the hell out of that product on here Mike, cause a lot of people would buy your product for sure.
I also like the Thunderbirds tie-in with your engineering background, it goesw hand in hand with your personality Mike.
I like the KISS (keep it simple) approach u are taking. I love reading your updates, and don't worry about the knockers, there is probably only 1 or 2 in the whole world, with 99.99999 percent of people fully behind you.
You know Stern and JJP will be buying your product. I bet the first thing they say (off the record) is why didn't we think of that (various engineering designs u have come up with) and then they will say dam, if only we could build our stuff outside of the USA without the locals (USA) going bannanas.
Who cares if its made in China. As long as the product is great (which I know it will be), and Asia is in our backyard anyway. U cant build stuff in Australia, it costs apx $50,000 a year minimum these days to hire just one person (hence most Aussie companies who still build stuff use contractors etc).
I reckon the Japaneese will go crazy for your Thunderbirds Pinball. I am told, Thunderbirds in Japan has a huge following.
Well done Mike, everything is looking great. ^^^
+1 ^^^
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The PCB assembly line equipment is coming together at last. A few tables and some shelving and we are ready to go. Still waiting on the $4300 worth of RoHS solder to be delivered.
Some of the Homepin staff can be seen in this video cleaning up the motorised assembly bench and the two guys (also staff) are wiring it into the building (3 phase).
I'm having trouble linking so if the Youtube video doesn't appear above can someone please add the link:
&feature=youtu.be
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Where does he get those wonderful toys. Looking good mike can't wait to see them in action
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Where does he get those wonderful toys. Looking good mike can't wait to see them in action
China........ $#$
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Well it's about 1.45 in the morning here now as I type this (and looking at that pic I now see I haven't changed the date @.@) and about an hour or so ago we urgently needed 4 threaded mounts machined up from aluminium - we rang the friendly local guy we use a fair bit and he got out of bed for us and made them on the spot:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/latework1.jpg)
Here are the finished parts
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/latework2.jpg)
Back to the factory and glued into place
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/latework3.jpg)
Perfect fit!!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/latework4.jpg)
Nice workplace attire..........
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/latework.jpg)
Sunny is the factory manager and works all hours like me. Where else in the world could you make this happen???
How much were they? A total of $12 for the four and he supplied the material!
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Awesome, these will be built in no time!
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I love the pajamas !
Just sew on the Homepin logo on the front pocket !
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Lmao the parts were just 4 bushes internally threaded. i wouldnt wake up for that. ^&(
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OK - here is a Thunderbirds Pinball part.....a motor/gearbox
that runs at 2 RPM - any guesses at what it is for?????
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/motor1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/motor2.jpg)
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It retracts the pool so T1 can rise up and launch Virgil multiball !
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Im with Pete.. 2rpm must be either the pool retracting or palm trees folding over... too slow to be much else
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Pool retraction or the large door drop down for Thunderbird 2 with a lever for the trees to drop %.%
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Like GI. But called Tracey Island, simple game but hell fun.
Puppets are nightmarish to me!
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It's going to be a fascinating year for pinball, so many different manufacturers from all over the world all with their own ideas about what a pinball machine should look like. We have manufacturers from the US, England, Spain, Holland and of course Australia/China (have I missed any?) all using completely different platforms. Has the field ever been so diverse?
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Kind of went off track Dec 10th 2013. Maybe there needs to be a separate topic on Chinese factories, workers and pay entitlements.
PM sent to Mike to see if he wants it cleaned up / split ^^^
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Kind of went off track Dec 10th 2013. Maybe there needs to be a separate topic on Chinese factories, workers and pay entitlements.
PM sent to Mike to see if he wants it cleaned up / split ^^^
Might be good to have two as his new factory will no doubt have many more titles down the track. Whichever way, I like reading about Mike's progress and admire his dedicated achievement to date.
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I've had a discussion via PM with Mike, and we decided that to keep this thread "on topic" with the Thunderbird's Development and the Homepin Factory.
If anyone wishes to discuss China, or Mike's experiences working in China, go here - http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?topic=12056.0 (http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?topic=12056.0)
^^^
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We will have a vacuum mould made next week and run off some test pieces.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/SHOWANDTELL1.jpg)
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Now it's getting exciting $#$
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Bags not have to hand paint them.
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Bags not have to hand paint them.
Yes, they will be airbrushed by hand. The entire pinball will be hand made.
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Mike, what won't you be making for this game?
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Mike, what won't you be making for this game?
Maybe the balls?
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Mike, what won't you be making for this game?
Maybe the balls?
There is a joke there, but it would get me banned
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Mike, what won't you be making for this game?
The cardboard box.
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Mike, what won't you be making for this game?
profit :lol :lol :lol
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Mike, what won't you be making for this game?
profit :lol :lol :lol
:lol
But it's not about the money it's only about pinball....
::)
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Some things just never change on here.
politeness and respect are just 2 things I teach my 4 year old son every day. He gets it. Why cant grown men aged between 18 and around their sixties, it just makes this forum look so damn unprofessional by people overseas and around Australia when they drop in and read some of the antagonistic crap written by the 1 percent.
So keyboard commando u want to put your fingers down your throat. You can tell the people who have never been punched in the face in real life, there the ones who are constantly rude n disrespectful on here, and never insulted someone in the real world face to face, in fear of a busted head. Hence the determination - keyboard commando - someone to piss weak to disrespect people in the real world, so they hide behind a avatar and a keyboard and upset people for thousands of kilometres away. Pathetic.
Will any thread on here ever stay on track and stay professional which represents the real members who have respect n politeness in their vocab, learnt at the age of 4 years of age. ?
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Keep going Mike, the vast majority of real/serious pinball people are behind you 100 percent and very proud of everything u are doing.
Add as much interesting stuff about China and your work methods, cause I for one am very interested in everything your team is doing.
Its all about pinball, its not about the haters.
Go Thunderbirds ! ^^^
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A busy start to the week with the table saw being delivered last night at 9pm (only in China!!!). The first test batch of pinball assembly trolleys are looking OK (we will use the table saw to cut the ply for the edges of them). The saw is in a room on its own to try and minimise the sawdust so a fish and chip shop plastic curtain is going up to try and help.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/tablesaw1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/4trolleys.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/aircurtain1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/aircurtain2.jpg)
Every part must be drawn up and (ideally) a prototype piece made to ensure things work the way we intend them to.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/camproto.jpg)
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looks like a topper with something moving &&
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was asking about airfares to China yesterday.......might have to come n say hello Mike....
I need a new wife ... find me a pair of pretty sisters apx 30 yrs of age who can cook n play pinball. wedding at the factory.lol
everything is looking great. another few months and the place will be buzzing along nicely.
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was asking about airfares to China yesterday.......might have to come n say hello Mike....
I need a new wife ... find me a pair of pretty sisters apx 30 yrs of age who can cook n play pinball. wedding at the factory.lol
everything is looking great. another few months and the place will be buzzing along nicely.
Yes, a few months from now and it will be a hive of activity here.
Trust me, you DO NOT want a Chinese wife........
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(re the chineese wife) , OK, that sounds like a PM with all the not so juicy reasons.lol
I wonder sometimes if Aussie women these days even know how to spell the word respect....they certainly know how to spell the word spoilt rotten.lol
Build me a robot Mike. lol
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(re the chineese wife) , OK, that sounds like a PM with all the not so juicy reasons.lol
I wonder sometimes if Aussie women these days even know how to spell the word respect....they certainly know how to spell the word spoilt rotten.lol
Bwaahhh
My son's partner is Chinese, her mother would best described as a Force of Nature !*!
if you are wanting a women who is submissive, I would not look to China :lol
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Now who was it that said everything made in China is crap???
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/cam_rod_end.jpg)
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Clearly Mike, the hooflicky has the wrong wotsit in the doodad, right next to the backwards sumbitch.
Have you tried the Chinese price reduction technique - find fault on something you did not specify, refuse the order, then offer to find a friend who might help out the supplier's problem by taking the "rubbish" piece at a silly price?
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(re the chineese wife) , OK, that sounds like a PM with all the not so juicy reasons.lol
I wonder sometimes if Aussie women these days even know how to spell the word respect....they certainly know how to spell the word spoilt rotten.lol
Bwaahhh
My son's partner is Chinese, her mother would best described as a Force of Nature !*!
if you are wanting a women who is submissive, I would not look to China :lol
nope, don't want a submissive wife, the opposite.lol, but not too aggressive.
I like Chineese, I have had hundreds of Chineese customers over the years. Some chineese gals are super hot.
Just a pretty wife who doesn't take everything for granted who loves u for u, and not the money.lol
Mike will build ne a robot wife.lol
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u get wat u pay for. Bosch started making everything in China 3 years ago.
When it was made in Germany, it was aprox 1 per cent fail rate on detectors and low end stuff and u would see a inspected sticker every fifty pieces.
now, you see inspected stickers on everything, and I mean everything, and the fail rate is zero realistically. If something isn't working, its usually the tech in Australia who installed it incorrectly.
The chineese want to keep contracts, hence the extra effort. 99 percent of stuff is made extremely well these days.
(if the products design is strong, the end result will be the same n so on.)
Go the Chineese. Thunderbirds are Go ! (p.s - nice machining Mike, wish I knew what it does).
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was asking about airfares to China yesterday.......might have to come n say hello Mike....
I need a new wife ... find me a pair of pretty sisters apx 30 yrs of age who can cook n play pinball. wedding at the factory.lol
everything is looking great. another few months and the place will be buzzing along nicely.
check out these lovelys.but don't give em money.lol
https://www.gagamatch.com/
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I wonder what ratio of men to women u will have in the factory Mike. (hint hint we want to see sooo many pretty girls) wearing Homepin hightop T - Shirts....
Nothing nicer than a pretty girl straddling a pinball machine, blowtorch in one hand and a angle grinder in the other. *)*
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Interactive TAG toppers!!!
(http://i488.photobucket.com/albums/rr243/retropin/93thunderbirds_zpsc0b4cc88.jpg)
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This is a VERY early drawing of our flipper mech. It has evolved a lot from this earlier effort. Note there is no "left & right" assembly as the body can be used for either. Also note the use of roller bearings for the flipper shaft instead of the usual nylon bush.
Homepin builds quality while others just talk about it!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/flipper_mech_first.jpg)
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Impressive Mike !
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Engineering the pin to a new level ()
Looks great Mike ^^^
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I have had a few messages asking where we intend to screen print the playfied, plastics and other parts. There is a level to the ground floor part of the Homepin factory that I have earmarked for this work as well as air brushing. It is able to be sealed off from the outside pretty well but I have yet to organise the air conditioning and other work.
I haven't started on this section of the factory yet but here are some pictures of the empty rooms %.% It's pretty hard to get a picture that shows the space in context.
From the ground level you can see the windows above - this entire strip comprises three rooms - two reasonable sized ones and a pretty large one. It might be a little tight but we will have to make do initially. You can see the stairs to the right of the woodworking shop.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/allrooms1.jpg)
Then a pic looking down the hallway showing the three rooms and the stairwell
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/allrooms.jpg)
Then the three rooms:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/room1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/room2.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/room3.jpg)
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The drawing for the mounting bracket for the motorised topper "T5". I will have it laser cut from stainless steel.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/topperbracket.jpg)
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The drawing for the mounting bracket for the motorised topper "T5". I will have it laser cut from stainless steel.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/topperbracket.jpg)
There's a mistake in the lowermost descriptor with 4 characters, I think the third character should be ... #@#
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There's a mistake in the lowermost des c ri p t or with 4 characters, I think the third character should be ... #@#
Yes, the main issue using Chinese designers - programs and outsourcing factories. Believe me I have to contend with it every day! These are our internal documents however and the manuals and service information will all be in English written by either myself or another "English native speaker".
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There's a mistake in the lowermost de******or with 4 characters, I think the third character should be ... #@#
4[mm] dia. through hole?
Not sure of the difference between this and the "complete through hole" in the upper left (完全贯穿)?
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wat we need to do, is organise a AP roadtrip (via a 747 jumbo) and get half a dozen to a dozen aussies to come n stay for a week, help set up the factory and have some fun checking out china.
I wonder how much airfares are from Brisy to China and back. Accomodation, on your floor Mike. Just feed me, and find a hot looking girl or two.lol
mate, proud to see your photos, that's a great size space. Thunderbirds are go.
Going to check out the entire TAG DVD set tomorrow from JB-Hi Fi. Selling a boxset on special I was told. Will report back.
I was wondering Mike, do u have the shows on dvd or computer. I reckon watching those shows again will be fun and excellent for ideas and it connects u better to a pin when u watch where the concept came from.
I wonder when Gary Stern decides to finish up, and they sell Stern in one or ten years, will financial pressure push them to go to China to compete...... anyway, glad u are well n truly getting stuck into it. Exciting times ahead. ^^^
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Last time I looked China Southern Airlines Brisbane to Guangzhou return was only $850 in the low season. Guangzhou is about 3 hours by coach or 1.15 by fast train from Shenzhen.
Far easier to get to Hong Kong as it is VERY close to Shenzhen from HK.
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I seem to remember getting a good ferry from HK to Shenzhen, and the Customs queue at ferry exit(?) was almost non existent.
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This is a VERY early drawing of our flipper mech. It has evolved a lot from this earlier effort. Note there is no "left & right" assembly as the body can be used for either. Also note the use of roller bearings for the flipper shaft instead of the usual nylon bush.
Homepin builds quality while others just talk about it!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/flipper_mech_first.jpg)
WOW... $$( that will be one SERIOUS flipper mech! No worries of those bearings ever wearing out!!
Looks sweet as!! AWESOME stuff Mike ^^^ ^^^
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$850 return airfares is cheap.
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These drawings have not been shown anywhere else!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/testf2.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/testf1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/test4.jpg)
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A completely different design, but they remind me of how bullet proof the system 1 and 80 Gottlieb flipper mechanisms are, which is a good thing!
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A pic of some work coming out of the machine that will laser cut the proto parts for the TAG topper.
This is a sheet of 1/2" steel plate and it cut these parts out in about five minutes - just amazing!
My job was up next so I stayed around and watched.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/lasercut.jpg)
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That's going to be a huge topper Mike lol
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This looks like a fantastic effort so far! Even as a new pinball fan I feel like this will be a really fun pin to play. Thanks for all your great work Mike.
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Was speaking to my father tonight and we always talk pinball and the next machine we're cleaning up. My dad's gripe with pinball machines: "You get an old pinball machine and the bottom is all scraped. There's splinters of wood everywhere. Why didn't they put metal/some kind of protection on the base of the cabinet or at least the edges for when machines were being transported?"
I agreed and said that cabinet protectors on the base of the cabinet would be a good idea for operators or home users transporting their machines and sliding them in and out of vehicles. I then said "I'll suggest this to Homepin for his Thunderbirds machine and see what he says!"
Mike, why didn't they put cabinet protectors on the base of machines and is this a viable option/idea for future Homepin machines?
Cheers!
Adam.
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Hello Adam,
I agree entirely. We will have slide rails (probably pine or similar) under the edge of each side that the machine will slide on when dragging it into and out of trailers and utes. Imagine a piece of 2 x 1 inside the egde running the full lenth of the machine. These pieces could be easily replaced should it become damaged without affecting the cabinet artwork.
I could never work out why no other manufacturer doesn't include this as most arcade cabines do???
Thanks for the input.
Cheers
\
Was speaking to my father tonight and we always talk pinball and the next machine we're cleaning up. My dad's gripe with pinball machines: "You get an old pinball machine and the bottom is all scraped. There's splinters of wood everywhere. Why didn't they put metal/some kind of protection on the base of the cabinet or at least the edges for when machines were being transported?"
I agreed and said that cabinet protectors on the base of the cabinet would be a good idea for operators or home users transporting their machines and sliding them in and out of vehicles. I then said "I'll suggest this to Homepin for his Thunderbirds machine and see what he says!"
Mike, why didn't they put cabinet protectors on the base of machines and is this a viable option/idea for future Homepin machines?
Cheers!
Adam.
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There has been an amazing hive of activity in the Homepin factory over the past few weeks. We were interupted for a few days by massive storms that flooded the small village near us and I allocated several staff to go into town and help the locals with the clean up efforts for a few days.
The bad weather also delayed delivery of a couple of new pieces of machinery and the installation of air conditioning in our new expanded R&D room to accomodate the three new engineering staff. This should be completed this week and I want them all to be in the new room by the end of the week.
I have received two sample motors built to my specifications by an electric motor factory for the TAG shaker motor. I will also be selling these as an after market add-on with a universal driver board so they should suit must electronic pinballs and will be practically a drop in replacement for most late model Stern machines. I don't have a final sell price yet but we are aiming for AROUND $170~190 including post.
The motor is of the absolute highest quality with replaceable brushes (motor life is 5000 hours so I doubt they will ever be needed) and a roller bearing each end of the shaft instead of the usual bushes. These motors cop a real hiding driving offset weights and the strain on the bushes is VERY high - that's why I specified roller bearings.
I contantly amaze myself with just how stupid I can be - my draughtsman drew up the five metal brackets for the motor mount to my "hand scratched" drawings and emailed them off to the laser cutting factory to have a sample set cut in 1mm stainless steel. This morning I realised I hadn't allowed enough room for the weights by about 3mm - so back to the drawing board and throw away the sample set that hasn't even been picked up yet!!! AAARRRGGHHHHH...............
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/new_motor_mounting.jpg)
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Shaker motor for under $200 delivered ill be grabbing one for sure.
3mm doesn't sound like much but it's enought to completely stuff you up
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This label will be screen printed onto the top of the shaker assembly. I didn't like the idea of a sticker that might fall off over time so we will screen in yellow and black.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/warning_label.jpg)
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This label will be screen printed onto the top of the shaker assembly. I didn't like the idea of a sticker that might fall off over time so we will screen in yellow and black.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/warning_label.jpg)
ouch...lucky that's not a flipper button finger
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ouch...lucky that's not a flipper button finger
Gets the message across don't you think........
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Gets the message across don't you think........
yeah, if you mess around with this part Homepin is coming to your house to cut off two of your fingers with a big friggen knife... *)*
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I have a similar sign on my ride on mower.
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Should read.. WARNING - never f*ck around with a cockney
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I've never seen fingers referred to as "end covers" before #@#
All your fingers MUST be intact to operate this machinery.
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Some more "common parts" coming along nicely. There are four separate metal parts in this assembly - any guesses?:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/LB1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/LB2.jpg)
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There are four separate metal parts in this assembly - any guesses?:
Part of the lock down assy?
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Some more "common parts" coming along nicely. There are four separate metal parts in this assembly - any guesses?:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/LB1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/LB2.jpg)
Lock down
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You are both correct - well done BUT no free machine for either of you....... <.>
Some of the first test prints for the warning labels on the shaker assembly.
I should have a couple of samples ready for final testing soon then we will crank up a small run of 100 units.
This pic shows two different top covers we are experimenting with so we can pick the one that works the best.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/test_warning_prints.jpg)
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Our test setup for the shaker motor - boy, does it WORK!!!!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/shaker_side1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/shaker_side2.jpg)
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At anytime throughout the Thunderbirds project have you ever considered a warning sticker anything like this?
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At anytime throughout the Thunderbirds project have you ever considered a warning sticker anything like this?
:lol
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Mundane I know but EVERY part no matter how trivial has to be drawn up, samples made and tested then the drawing is tweaked and further samples made in order to end up with a finished machine.....
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/Lock_Bar_Handle.jpg)
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A prototype shaker assembly waiting for the blank driver PCB to arrive from the PCB house to make some final tweaks and then ready for field testing. Note these are very early metal parts, all the new ones have rounded corners on all pieces.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/sproto.jpg)
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They look solid as a rock Mike so much work involved
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I have two sets made up and just about ready to send off for field testing. They should be in the post by Monday and (if there are no major issues) I should have finished units available a week or so after reports come back to me.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/shakerkit.jpg)
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Nice now for the fun part the testing. If these are goo to go would they work in sterns?
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Nice now for the fun part the testing. If these are goo to go would they work in sterns?
By a complete fluke *.* the four mounting screws are spaced EXACTLY to fit a Stern shaker footprint in the cabinet and one of the inputs on the driver board takes an input from the standard Stern wiring harness (yet to be tested in the field and confirmed as working as intended).
Notice the input "S_IN"
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/S_IN.jpg)
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Nice now for the fun part the testing. If these are goo to go would they work in sterns?
By a complete fluke *.* the four mounting screws are spaced EXACTLY to fit a Stern shaker footprint in the cabinet and one of the inputs on the driver board takes an input from the standard Stern wiring harness (yet to be tested in the field and confirmed as working as intended).
Notice the input "S_IN"
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/S_IN.jpg)
Truly a stroke of amazing luck!!!!
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Another shaker motor update.
:lol
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Is your shaker motor a real machine shaker like Earthshakers?
Or a bee fart like Sterns?
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Another shaker motor update.
:lol
Yes, because the shaker is part of the Homepin pinball project - this is a far larger undertaking than a single machine (Thunderbirds) and the shaker assembly will be a staple of ALL machines we release.
Just as when the drop targets assembly is ready for a bench workout I will put updates on it along with all the other bits and pieces that make up a pinball machine NOT just a single machine..
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Is your shaker motor a real machine shaker like Earthshakers?
Or a bee fart like Sterns?
@@*
Good question...
Have 2 bee farts and a Roadshow here, and i want more like Roadshow!
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Is your shaker motor a real machine shaker like Earthshakers?
Or a bee fart like Sterns?
Will know more after field testing
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Is your shaker motor a real machine shaker like Earthshakers?
Or a bee fart like Sterns?
Will know more after field testing
I have a Roadshow that I'm almost finished if you need another field tester ^^^
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Strap it to the side of your washing machine... if it moves across the floor its the ducks nuts of shakers
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As I have constantly mentioned I am concentrating on all of the "boring" bits that make up a pinball machine - EVERY machine not just TAG. Some of these parts are finally starting to filter through from our original drawings to actual finished parts. These parts will also be available for sale to those who want them - things like the shaker assembly and these metal cabinet protectors. These will be fitted as standard, from the factory on all Homepin pinballs.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/CabProtector.jpg)
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But will it come with coin mechs ?
(Sorry, bad Pinside joke)
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No probs Mike,
once the shaker & cabinet protectors are available on your site will put a order through ^^^
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But will it come with coin mechs ?
(Sorry, bad Pinside joke)
Actually YES it will include an electronic (programmable) coin mech.
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2015 not far now!!
$.$
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2015 not far now!!
$.$
Yes, the pressure is on now Mike
11 months to go
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I also want to have a prototype at next years Pinfest
Is this still realistic Mike?
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I also want to have a prototype at next years Pinfest
Is this still realistic Mike?
Pinfest this weekend, I wonder if there will be any Thunderbirds news?
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Bring on the TBAG!
:lol
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Yes, because the shaker is part of the Homepin pinball project - this is a far larger undertaking than a single machine (Thunderbirds) and the shaker assembly will be a staple of ALL machines we release.
any clues on future machines Mike ?
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Yes, because the shaker is part of the Homepin pinball project - this is a far larger undertaking than a single machine (Thunderbirds) and the shaker assembly will be a staple of ALL machines we release.
any clues on future machines Mike ?
Some licenced - some not and also (at the moment) 2 and maybe 3 that Homepin will manufacture for other companies.
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Yes, because the shaker is part of the Homepin pinball project - this is a far larger undertaking than a single machine (Thunderbirds) and the shaker assembly will be a staple of ALL machines we release.
any clues on future machines Mike ?
Some licenced - some not and also (at the moment) 2 and maybe 3 that Homepin will manufacture for other companies.
Take that G Stern :p
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That's cool! Kicking goals big time.
Are you taking suggestions?
How about dr who?
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I'm looking forward to seeing Mikes first game :-) then once that's out I'll be looking forward to the next title :).
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Yes, because the shaker is part of the Homepin pinball project - this is a far larger undertaking than a single machine (Thunderbirds) and the shaker assembly will be a staple of ALL machines we release.
any clues on future machines Mike ?
Some licenced - some not and also (at the moment) 2 and maybe 3 that Homepin will manufacture for other companies.
That's huge news. Once the word gets out there that TAG is a high quality machine, I'm sure that smaller companies will look toward having Homepin manufacture their game. Not only would it be cost effective, but it means designers can have more "gadgets" on their designs. If they need a VUK, they don't need to design from scratch - just use the patented Homepin assemblies.
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homepin could give stern a huge run for the $$$,+1 mike,keep up the good work.we aussies are all behind you
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Yes, because the shaker is part of the Homepin pinball project - this is a far larger undertaking than a single machine (Thunderbirds) and the shaker assembly will be a staple of ALL machines we release.
any clues on future machines Mike ?
Some licenced - some not and also (at the moment) 2 and maybe 3 that Homepin will manufacture for other companies.
i will put my money on scooby doo,thoughts please?
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From what I've seen of mike (home pins) work nothing but quality
Can't wait to see some of miles hard work roll off the production line
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From what I've seen of mike (home pins) work nothing but quality
Can't wait to see some of miles hard work roll off the production line
we are all patiently waiting,dan.but i cant put money up yet,in blind faith.pics may sway me %$%
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thunderbirds are go !@#
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desperately trying to force your hand mike,in revealing something.but wtf i'm in %100.
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its only money$$$$,enjoyment lasts much longer than $$$$
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its only money$$$$,enjoyment lasts much longer than $$$$
So can we assume you have bitten the bullet and pre ordered, Damien ?
I seriously think you won't be disappointed. It will be worth the wait.
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The main reason for the lack of updates is the frustrating blocking by China of emails and websites/FTP etc and it makes it exceptionally time consuming for me to post pictures etc. Only about 30% of my emails make it and I have to spend hours checking and resending them - a real pain!
How is TAG progressing?.........
A) going to plan
Mostly
B) a bit behind schedule
on some parts
C) a bit ahead of schedule
on some parts
D) excited - this will be great
so far so good
E) wish I never started it
you can guarantee that - more from a logistical point. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY can understand the silly little things that crop up on a day to day basis.....sometimes the smallest things cause the biggest issues. Mostly staff, accomodation for staff, delivery of things (parts etc) and dumb, time consuming things like taking days to organise the smallest thing, difficult landlords etc
Here is a pic from a very early cabinet being cut as one of our first "mules" (remember all the following pics are MONTHS old):
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/testcabinet.jpg)
The die that will stamp the brass tags for coils being "tweaked" (yes, the pics show copper strip but the final parts are made from tin plated brass) - the initial order is for 20K pieces of these and we are doing an initial run of 5000 standard 23-800 coils (the coil former and sleeves will be delivered this week):
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilterminaldie1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coilterminaldie2.jpg)
As I have said many times previously I will not be releasing any game specific artwork nor any layouts or gameplay info at this stage.
Please remember I am building a long term pinball machine factory NOT just a single machine (TAG).
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are you making all the nuts,bolts,washers etc aswell?
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are you making all the nuts,bolts,washers etc aswell?
It would not surprise me
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are you making all the nuts,bolts,washers etc aswell?
Hahaha - some of them, yes!
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I am extremely proud of you and all your efforts Mike.
Perhaps if everything works out, some of these boutique companies may approach you to build their games as well and it could work out for both parties. Anything is possible if it means extra profit for all concerned.
I would hate to think how much $$$ u have put into this new business.
I am sure its a HUGE amount.
No matter what you sell I will be there to add it to my pinball collection.
Hope you and your family Mike are well.
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Wow, the pros and cons of using China as a base for manufacturing. It is a long and hard climb up the mountain before you reap the rewards. Mike, it is a monumental challenge and you are putting in reality what some can only dream about. You are a credit to the modern day pinball industry and to Aussie guts and perserverence.
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None of us know how hard it must be to open up a manufacturing company and produce high quality pinball machines. ALL the boutique manufacturers face similar challenges, but they are not on this scale. It takes YEARS for the major companies to have their systems in place (Stern) and other start ups (JJP) have seriously missed the boat.
I KNOW Homepin will manufacturer a high quality produce to market. The first machine was always going to take time. It is a learning curve that might not be perfect for 2 or 3 titles, but one thing we all know - This is just not one game - this will be a manufacturing company. It is also an Australian effort. In the entire history of pinball, we have only had HANKIN. This is HUGE.
Keep working Mike. The rewards are waiting. Patience is a virtue. "Pinball" and "patience" are two words that are mutually exclusive.
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Yes! I'm not only eagerly awaiting the first Homepin game, but the titles that will follow it.
Can't wait to see the first pictures of Thunderbirds now.
Cheers!
Adam.
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(http://www.homepin.com/pics/coil.jpg)
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Well bugger me! coil sleeves too? coil spring washers? coil stops? I am loving your commitment financially and personally. ^^^
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Nice looking coil there!
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Mike posted this on Facebook
I guess the vid of the game cannot be too far away !*!
[ Invalid YouTube link ]
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Woolworths is using the Thunderbirds theme on their ads
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Am looking forward to seeing the machine or some Playfield details when the time is right.
Massive undertaking.
Wondering what sort of titles Mike has in mind for future games as well.
Thunderbirds has way cool spaceships in its shows.
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Am looking forward to seeing the machine or some Playfield details when the time is right.
Sales of Thunderbirds will be a good indicator of the status of the Pinball revival in Australia. Though it is clear now that Pinball is taking off in the USA, my feel is that it is still on a cusp in Aus. A machine from an Australian owned company should do well here - I'm hoping Australian sales approach that of ACDC. Like most industries it is important to show success in your own home market, before overseas markets open up. Strong 'home' sales with low cost Chinese production under Australian management and ownership, i.e. low cost with sacrificing quality, should open the door to strong overseas sales.
The big questions may become:
- How many people will continue paying a $1 to $2k premium more for a USA made machine?
- Will Stern need to move out of the location pinball market that they currently hold nearly 100% market share?
Of all the new pinball manufactures in the USA/UK/Europe, I'd imagine Homepin is the one that Stern would be most concerned about. (Don't get me wrong, I like Stern).
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I heard a thunderbirds countdown on ABCGoldcoast radio!
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Hey Mike!
When it becomes time to release Thunderbirds, will you be trickling them out state by state a like you did with the Hankin cocktails or will you ship a container to each distributor (at the same time) and come out blasting?
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Hey Mike!
When it becomes time to release Thunderbirds, will you be trickling them out state by state a like you did with the Hankin cocktails or will you ship a container to each distributor (at the same time) and come out blasting?
People who pre-ordered will receive their machines before any others are sold no matter where they are in the world.
I haven't firmed up any distributor deal in Australia yet but selling the tables has taught me a LOT!
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I wouldn't call building hundreds of cocktail tables and shipping them at the very first second they could be shipped trickling.
To my knowledge, Mike ships batches the very second he can. It's not profitable or efficient to have machines sitting around collecting dust just so u can ship out a huge number in one hit. Mike is extremely professional and experienced at both exporting and importing with his Katana Trading company.
You build the most you can, as fast as you can whilst focusing on quality and only stack product until u reach the number to fill a container and away you go. You certainly don't hold back stock just so u can ship larger numbers at a later date to make things look like u are blasting them out....
As Aussies we should all be supporting Mike.
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I was not knocking Mike
There is a date on which he can release Thunderbirds
I am hoping he has already built a few prototypes and is working on the code ( it took JJP more than a year for WoZ)
For all we know , he is building them now and storing them in the Homepin megafactory
There was no deadline for his cocktail units
It made sense to ship them as he did so he could get the nuances of shipping under control
Now that the cocktails have paved the way, Mike can be more efficient shipping the pinball machines
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It's a 2015 release isn't it? Should start seeing some pictures soon :)
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I was not knocking Mike
There is a date on which he can release Thunderbirds
I am hoping he has already built a few prototypes and is working on the code ( it took JJP more than a year for WoZ)
For all we know , he is building them now and storing them in the Homepin megafactory
There was no deadline for his cocktail units
It made sense to ship them as he did so he could get the nuances of shipping under control
Now that the cocktails have paved the way, Mike can be more efficient shipping the pinball machines
I am just wondering how Mike has run his Katana Trading company and worked with shipping containers and importing and exporting for all these years without your consultation.
Stick to baking PBP please. ^^^
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It would almost be worth being banned from this site bt telling you what i think of you, smartarse
I was not knocking Mike
There is a date on which he can release Thunderbirds
I am hoping he has already built a few prototypes and is working on the code ( it took JJP more than a year for WoZ)
For all we know , he is building them now and storing them in the Homepin megafactory
There was no deadline for his cocktail units
It made sense to ship them as he did so he could get the nuances of shipping under control
Now that the cocktails have paved the way, Mike can be more efficient shipping the pinball machines
I am just wondering how Mike has run his Katana Trading company and worked with shipping containers and importing and exporting for all these years without your consultation.
Stick to baking PBP please. ^^^
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I am not going to cry or shake if you tell me Pete.
Your welcome to send me a PM. At 45 years of age it's not like I am going to ask anyone to ban you cause your tell me your personal feelings.
You think I am a smartass.
Reread your various posts to Mike about TAG and you might see what I see.
You ask questions to disguise cheap shots and condescending posts.
If you give it out, prepare to be called on it by your forum peers.
If someone calls me on something, I will take it on the chin.
Mikes too busy to waste his time, I wasn't too busy.
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The thread NEEDS to go back to being only about the TAG Pinball and it needs to stay POSITIVE out of respect for Mikes investment of both time and money. Let's focus on the Pinball Machine and leave Mikes business model to Mike to run.
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And NOE Mr magnificent takes the high road
The thread NEEDS to go back to being only about the TAG Pinball and it needs to stay POSITIVE out of respect for Mikes investment of both time and money. Let's focus on the Pinball Machine and leave Mikes business model to Mike to run.
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Yes, I did take the high road out of respect for Mike.
If you don't have respect for yourself and you still want to carry on like a prissy princess with your nose out of joint, send me a PM, have a cry so u feel better and get over it, and have some respect for the thread and Mike and stop deficating on Mikes TAG thread.
Do you honestly think I will back down to the likes of you. Grow up.
Go bake some children's cookies and then eat them cause you sound like you don't have a Snickers chocolate.
I don't think I am better than any other human being and I certainly don't think I am magnificent, but thankyou for your appraisal. I almost feel like getting you to bake me a engagement cake since you seem to need a cuddle.
Have u finished. Can we go back to the TAG subject yet ?
Just send me a PM and I will happily listen to your inner feelings. %$%
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Hey, I am a paid in full buyer of a Homepin Thunderbirds pinball machine, are you?
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Yes, I did take the high road out of respect for Mike.
If you don't have respect for yourself and you still want to carry on like a prissy princess with your nose out of joint, send me a PM, have a cry so u feel better and get over it, and have some respect for the thread and Mike and stop deficating on Mikes TAG thread.
Do you honestly think I will back down to the likes of you. Grow up.
Go bake some children's cookies and then eat them cause you sound like you don't have a Snickers chocolate.
I don't think I am better than any other human being and I certainly don't think I am magnificent, but thankyou for your appraisal. I almost feel like getting you to bake me a engagement cake since you seem to need a cuddle.
Have u finished. Can we go back to the TAG subject yet ?
Just send me a PM and I will happily listen to your inner feelings. %$%
Pete asked a question, Mike answered, What's the problem?
Personal attacks are not cool.
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Crashramp, I am dropping this
I don't want to put Nino in a no-win situation
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Good call.
I'm looking forward to seeing the first homepin machine hit the floors. I'm sure it's going to do well.
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This is Assembly Control calling all Zero X units. Assembly Phase One - go!
Patience is a virtue. A start up is the most difficult phase.
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Yes. I will be an owner of Mikes title.
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Hi Mike,
Are you going to any of the following shows, seems like they are in your neck of the woods:
http://chinaamusement.com/index_en.html
http://10times.com/animation-gamesamusement-fair
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Hi Mike,
Are you going to any of the following shows, seems like they are in your neck of the woods:
http://chinaamusement.com/index_en.html
http://10times.com/animation-gamesamusement-fair
I will be attending the CIAE next Saturday as a LOOKER not a vendor.
http://www.chinaexhibition.com/trade_events/6682-CIAE_2015_-_The_11th_China_%28Guangzhou%29_International_Game_and_Amusement_Exhibition.html
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I will be attending the CIAE next Saturday as a LOOKER not a vendor.
Great, would love to hear a quick show report if you have time.
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I will be attending the CIAE next Saturday as a LOOKER not a vendor.
Great, would love to hear a quick show report if you have time.
No problem - I attended last year as well - it was mostly redemption stuff, no pinballs. Worth a look though as it's only about 90 minutes drive away from the factory.
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This was the final prototype power input box before we were satisfied and made a production run. The finished units are cleaned up and screen printed. It may seem like a trivial part but the design is such that ALL mains is inside this box so that there is no mains voltage anywhere in the machine. The service socket is a universal type that will take any plug including an Australian standard 3 pin plug and is switched separately. Both the mains and neutral are switched. Naturally the mains on/off switch is under the front right, exactly where it should be!!! #@#
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/sbinside1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/sboutside1.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/sboutside2.jpg)
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Looks well made and designed.
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I like how you have the varistor etc on screws.
Much easier to change if it blows.
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Exciting to see the technical sides of the project. I guess the power supply is designed and engineered once, and will be generic for all future titles. Not as glamorous as a playfield or cabinet shot, but I like to see the guts of the machine - and this looks like a good start !
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Hi Mike,
Power box looks great.
I' m wondering how the rest of the project is going and the order in which you are tackling things. You seem to have some of the components at a very advanced stage, you already have a production run of the coils and power box for example. Are you building all the generic items which you will use in all your subsequent titles first before you work on the game-specific parts?
How about the design of the Thunderbirds machine? Do you have a flipping whitewood yet?
Just curious, answer as you see fit. Regards, SV.
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Hi Mike,
Power box looks great.
I' m wondering how the rest of the project is going and the order in which you are tackling things. You seem to have some of the components at a very advanced stage, you already have a production run of the coils and power box for example. Are you building all the generic items which you will use in all your subsequent titles first before you work on the game-specific parts?
How about the design of the Thunderbirds machine? Do you have a flipping whitewood yet?
Just curious, answer as you see fit. Regards, SV.
My main job (apart from actually running the factory and all of the things that this involves) is to design the MECHANICS of Homepin pinballs NOT only Thunderbirds. The parts will, as far as possible, be generic across the range of pinball machines we build with specific mechanisms for individual titles naturally. I am designing the mechanisms and cabinet parts with my small team of engineers and we are concentrating on this part of the project.
We have several iterations of flipping whitewoods for TAG and the actual FINAL design is not yet set in stone but is awfully close.
I am not closely involved in the actual game design, layout, artwork or programming of this or our other games in the works currently. Yes, I oversea the work but I am not directly involved in this part of the job. Others far more talented than I are doing this work (and none of them are Chinese for the record). This work is being done by many different and highly talented people, in four different countries, who are intimately involved with pinball although not necessarily terribly well known to most of the public.
The reveal date is getting closer day by day and I can now actually see the light at the end of the tunnel and it isn't the train coming towards me....... %.%
One of the biggest challenges has been building the machine and all components to meet RoHS standards, this is a very complex and VERY expensive nightmare.
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You probably get asked this a lot but when do you think you'll be able to show us stuff like a white wood etc?
We're all very excited and interested to see what your team has come up with.
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You probably get asked this a lot but when do you think you'll be able to show us stuff like a white wood etc?
We're all very excited and interested to see what your team has come up with.
I will never be showing a whitewood nor any part of any machines we build other than component parts. The machines will be seen when they are finished and ready to ship.
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Great, thanks for the quick and detailed response.
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damn it, had no idea this was all happening, is there still the thousand dollar deposit option ?
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damn it, had no idea this was all happening, is there still the thousand dollar deposit option ?
Sorry, all pre-order deals are finished. Finished units will be available soon.
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damn it, had no idea this was all happening, is there still the thousand dollar deposit option ?
Sorry, all pre-order deals are finished. Finished units will be available soon.
The success of a Chinese manufactured pinball machine under close Western management will be the biggest news in pinball since Williams closed down in 1999.
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I am looking forward to see what Thunderbirds looks and plays like.
I never thought I would buy a machine without knowing anything about it except the name and theme.
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New Thunderbirds show premieres tomorrow night:
http://www.tvtonight.com.au/2015/03/airdate-thunderbirds-are-go.html
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The first episode was very disappointing, I hope the show improves over time but this rehash is nowhere near as exciting and fun as the original.
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Hey Mike, I got the email regarding the TAG licencing agreement
Not needed
You have been doing public instilations of stuff for years, you know that approvals need to be obtained .
I know that you know your stuff
Just get on with building the game!!!!!!
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(http://www.homepin.com/pics/pbassembly.jpg)
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Similar to the old DE way from the look of it? Always preferred that as makes it a lot easier to service.
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On the first day, Mike built a power supply. On the second day Mike built a bumper mechanism... The seventh day is coming folks!
This is first part of the playfield that has been unvealied. You heard this from me first: I'd say that we now know that there is at least one bumper in Thunderbirds!
Um, maybe back to square one. Thunderbirds may have no bumpers - this mechanism may be for future games (like Playboy?). Damn - back to the guessing game. :tumble:
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Similar to the old DE way from the look of it? Always preferred that as makes it a lot easier to service.
We have also incorporated a bracket and automotive quality 10 pin socket on the side of the plastic frame (not shown in this pic) and ALL wiring goes through this plug.
4 screws and one plug and the entire mech is in your hand!
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Similar to the old DE way from the look of it? Always preferred that as makes it a lot easier to service.
We have also incorporated a bracket and automotive quality 10 pin socket on the side of the plastic frame (not shown in this pic) and ALL wiring goes through this plug.
4 screws and one plug and the entire mech is in your hand!
Nice!
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We have also incorporated a bracket and automotive quality 10 pin socket on the side of the plastic frame (not shown in this pic) and ALL wiring goes through this plug.
4 screws and one plug and the entire mech is in your hand!
Back to being serious for me...
Why 10 pins? Two for the coil, two for the switch, two for the bumper light. A common ground would reduce the count, but how would you get more than 6? Daisy chaining perhaps?
Regardless of the number of connectors, its nice to see the use of easy removable plugs. I presume the 'automotive quality' is to ensure the regular shock and vibration doesn't pop the connector open?
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Automotive connectors are made with "latches" to prevent then coming apart unless intended. They have strong mounting points/flanges and they are also more robust all round and made to carry 10A or more.
2 x coil
2 x switch
1 x lamp common
1 x lamp GI (down)
1 x PB lamp
1 x flash (high power)
2 x spare as this was the best one that suited this application
We have also incorporated a bracket and automotive quality 10 pin socket on the side of the plastic frame (not shown in this pic) and ALL wiring goes through this plug.
4 screws and one plug and the entire mech is in your hand!
Back to being serious for me...
Why 10 pins? Two for the coil, two for the switch, two for the bumper light. A common ground would reduce the count, but how would you get more than 6? Daisy chaining perhaps?
Regardless of the number of connectors, its nice to see the use of easy removable plugs. I presume the 'automotive quality' is to ensure the regular shock and vibration doesn't pop the connector open?
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Pop bumper repairs on a bench at a comfortable height without un soldering it ^^^ #*#.
My body thanks you!!
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Aye.. unsoldering the lamp socket..GONE!
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The unsoldering was fine...it was the freaking re soldering and trying to staple the poxy leads back down that drove me nuts!
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The unsoldering was fine...it was the freaking re soldering and trying to staple the poxy leads back down that drove me nuts!
people always say how difficult/frustrating it is to do pop bumpers, but have to agree, the pissy part was always the resolder and staple part @@^
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True... how many bumper skirts have I melted with a soldering iron reattaching the bulb feeds?
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True... how many bumper skirts have I melted with a soldering iron reattaching the bulb feeds?
dunno how good you are at soldering, but me, hmmmmm. So many times I'm concentrating so hard, that the smell of plastic, wire insulation catches my attention coz the shaft of my iron is leaning on stuff while every appendage I have is trying to hold the pop bumper light wires in place %.%
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Some more springs were delivered today and they fit perfectly.
Note that this is our test mechanism and the metal parts have not been plated.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/usespring.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/moresprings.jpg)
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We are pretty happy with the mechanisms we have designed up. All pretty basic and simple and NOTHING here that "re-invents" the wheel. Just good, solid, SIMPLE engineering that we trust will be reliable and easy to maintain.
There have been lots of mods since these pictures were taken and also please note that these are engineering samples so none of the metal parts are plated.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/mech1_.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/mech2_.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/mech3_.jpg)
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Hi Mike, are those metal targets? Excuse my ignorance, but if so, have such targets been used before on any past pinballs? Also if metal, they obviously wouldn't break like plastic ones but what about deforming/bending?
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Hi Mike, are those metal targets? Excuse my ignorance, but if so, have such targets been used before on any past pinballs? Also if metal, they obviously wouldn't break like plastic ones but what about deforming/bending?
They are CNC milled aluminium and (so far) our tests have failed to break or bend any. We have subjected them to quite a lot of testing and also several different types of finish.
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Yes, a REAL, mechanical knocker!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/knocker_mech1.jpg)
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Great work Mike! ...... I'm happy it will come with a knocker. It's one of the reasons I don't like Stern's.
All real pinballs comes with a knocker.
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Great work Mike! ...... I'm happy it will come with a knocker. It's one of the reasons I don't like Stern's.
All real pinballs comes with a knocker.
I like knockers but I don't think it would be a deal breaker in not buying a Stern. I think I'd grab a metallica in a heart beat, knocker or no knocker. But yes great work Mike in including one ^^^
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Injection moulding is a tricky business. The picture of the blue part is an early test moulding of our Pop Bumper frame and it clearly shows "wrinkling" or an uneven surface finish on the exact place it should be flat. This inside area is where the metal parts mount and ideally needs to be dead flat.
We inspected several parts from other manufacturers and found them to be much the same with the uneven surface finish causing some assembly problems.
The second test part (not in the final colour we will use) shows a part made with a plastic batch that has an additive that prevents this shrinkage in the finished part - MUCH better! It gives the part a pearl or slightly fiberglass look.
The assemblies fit together EXACTLY the same every time.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/pbframe1.jpg) (http://www.homepin.com/pics/pbframe2.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/pbframe3.jpg)
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Mike just posted this link on his facebook page.
http://www.licensing.biz/news/read/thunderbirds-are-go-gathers-momentum-in-new-zealand-and-australia/042577
Funny thing is, look at the resemblance between the guy who wrote the article and the main Thunderbirds character, creepy!
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Mike just posted this link on his facebook page.
http://www.licensing.biz/news/read/thunderbirds-are-go-gathers-momentum-in-new-zealand-and-australia/042577
Funny thing is, look at the resemblance between the guy who wrote the article and the main Thunderbirds character, creepy!
LOL - I didn't notice that but you are right.
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Very impressive so far Mike good looking forward to the finished product
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Found these mike and thought you might like it
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/11/403f0880b66faff6ca71b3105ec62986.jpg)(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/11/ebcabb3fe20ae8899de6696253f7389d.jpg)(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/11/7b3d940f70d4d9a78261bacd791574b1.jpg)
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That's awesome! *%*
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great find Dan looks awesome. @@*
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A ute grafted onto a Caprice. First time I saw that. Great find. That would make a luxurious family workhorse.
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Looks like one of the SA Variety bash cars. ^^^
Great charity that does a car run through various parts of SA and far Western NSW raising money for sick/disadvantaged kids.
Been on a couple of them over the years as a crew member for another entrant.
TB2 won the best presented vehicle award for 2015.
Good pics dds. ^^^
Some more pics of the build here (scroll down to May/June entries):
https://www.facebook.com/bashcar2Thunderbirds
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(http://www.homepin.com/pics/HomepinLockdownBar.jpg)
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Wow! So shiny.
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Looks good mike are they standard or wide body?
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These days $10,500 for an LE and you still get powder coated armour and legs. FINALLY someone is going back to shiny chrome!! Nothing looks better than Chrome armour, especially when its as shiny as that.
@@*
Bonus also regarding repairability. If it's scratch and banged up, its easier to polish up and restore. Though powder coating is very resilient, you can't polish out a scratch!
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So long as it is not plastic crome like you find on cars these days.
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Two look standard widebody and one looks like a larger widebody &&
They look great !
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It's a trick of the camera.
Homepin lockdown bars are not as wide as standard WMS style ones so they appear to be longer than they are.
These are polished stainless steel and are standard width bars.
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Yep Mike I polish my stainless like that. Way better than chrome if you do it right.
Hopefully you might consider making widebody ones one day also when you have the time.
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So, I'm guessing the game was not revealed at Pinfest last weekend?
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So, I'm guessing the game was not revealed at Pinfest last weekend?
Must be getting close isn't it due out this year?
I can't wait to see this game I think it will be a real cracker.
I'm picturing in my minds eye a modern game with an old school feel with beautiful hand done artwork. For some reason and I'm probably way off the mark but I'm thinking along the lines of a Capcom Breakshot feel but obviously an entirely different theme.
Exciting times.....bring it on.
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...I'm picturing in my minds eye a modern game with an old school feel with beautiful hand done artwork. For some reason and I'm probably way off the mark but I'm thinking along the lines of a Capcom Breakshot feel but obviously an entirely different theme.
Exciting times.....bring it on.
The picture being shown slowly is that this will be an old school 'quality built' modern game. There is an irony that build quality and finishing touches in a pin (and cost control) can only be achieved if 'Made In China'. Built in China is about 'bang for buck' - buy cheap, get cheap, spend more, get much more.
I thought polished stainless steel armour was a thing of the past - I hope those kind of atractive things increase the coin box earning.
...so much to find out.
(Correction to my earlier comment. I incorrectly mentioned polishing 'chrome' armour, yet pins have only ever had 'stainless steel armour'. I was thinking stainless steel. It's the Legs have been chrome.)
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Must be getting close isn't it due out this year?
Mid 2015 originally but that info has now been removed.
(Correction to my earlier comment. I incorrectly mentioned polishing 'chrome' armour, yet pins have only ever had 'stainless steel armour'. I was thinking stainless steel. It's the Legs have been chrome.)
I thought legs were nickel plated from factory?
Chrome has a more "wet shine" look than standard SS polish. Good for a showpiece machine in home use but not all that practical for a commercial environment particularly the lockdown bar which theoretically will have heavy contact onsite.
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Must be getting close isn't it due out this year?
Mid 2015 originally but that info has now been removed.
It was due out this year with the release of the remake of the show.
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Must be getting close isn't it due out this year?
Mid 2015 originally but that info has now been removed.
(Correction to my earlier comment. I incorrectly mentioned polishing 'chrome' armour, yet pins have only ever had 'stainless steel armour'. I was thinking stainless steel. It's the Legs have been chrome.)
I thought legs were nickel plated from factory?
Chrome has a more "wet shine" look than standard SS polish. Good for a showpiece machine in home use but not all that practical for a commercial environment particularly the lockdown bar which theoretically will have heavy contact onsite.
Double correction it seems. Yes, nickel plate sounds right for the legs, rather than chrome plate. Same process - they are both a thin layer of nickel or something electrically added to the metal legs. Nickel is reflective but has more of a dull 'matte' finish, while chrome has a 'full gloss' mirror finish.
both plates are not as resistive to damage and repairable as the stainless steel armour. That is probably why legs transitioned to 'black', while armour was still stainless steel.
(I think I got that all correct!)
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Any new details on this pinball as yet? Really sick of the arcade updates ( dime a dozen these days ) it is HOMEPIN isn't it
looking forward to an aussie twist on pinball.
I understand recent tragedies have put things back a bit, but this hasn't stopped arcade updates !@#
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Any new details on this pinball as yet? Really sick of the arcade updates ( dime a dozen these days ) it is HOMEPIN isn't it
looking forward to an aussie twist on pinball.
I understand recent tragedies have put things back a bit, but this hasn't stopped arcade updates !@#
You could very easily find out first hand for yourself:
www.homepin.com/intern.html
Please show me where arcade updates are a "dime a dozen"?
I can assure you that without the arcade side of Homepin things would be progressing FAR slower as it enables us to employ people, rent premises and deal with a myriad of suppliers who (otherwise) would be much less interested in dealing with us.
I certainly have learned first hand why Stern says NOTHING on public sites!!!
FYI: I don't have a great deal to do with the arcade side of things other than some QC and the shipping paperwork. The posts on Facebook (primarily) are made for the hundreds who ARE following development in ALL areas of amusement industry and have actually attracted serious interest from new PINBALL distributors.
If you think all of the groundwork that surrounds this project is easy think again. Just the paperwork running the factory and staff is a massive job. Add to that sourcing the appropriate materials (EG CARB wood for the USA - A0 grade for Europe) - the legalities of practically EVERY part in this machine EG: "does this meet certain RoHS requirements" - "does the translite printing use eco-friendly ink". Electrical tests and modifications because one country does something slightly different to every other country.
I'm not going to bother explaining how long these approvals take and COST!
Homepin is building a LONG TERM AMUSEMENT MACHINE BUSINESS. We are not here for the short haul or the "quick buck" like a few others seem to be. This takes a lot of time, effort and money.
After Karen's passing I sat back and sought advice - the entire structure of Homepin was rebuilt from the ground up and we are now larger and stronger moving forward. If it was left up to me ONLY, I would have closed the doors and walked away!!!
If you are "sick of the arcade updates" - simple, don't read them.
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Are you sure that the audio does not interfere with the mating habits of the orange bellied parrot?
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Lets just wait and see what it's like when it eventually comes out....whenever that is.
(((
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Are you sure that the audio does not interfere with the mating habits of the orange bellied parrot?
LOL
It isn't *quite* that bad but here is one example:
In order to satisfy requirements into one market Homepin must provide a full audit trail of the item in question (one part mind you) right from raw materials through to the tools used to assemble the part. I kid you not. So far, this document is running over 60 pages and has taken several months to prepare with more than one hour per day, by one staff member, devoted to it. Pure madness! If we can PROVE everything in the document (and that is a feat in itself) we will be home and free on the other 200 parts.
There is a LOT more to satisfying all of the legal and statutory requirements than anyone would ever believe. (certainly a lot more than I ever envisaged).
Stern has it easy as they (same as the aviation industry) simply call up the "Grandfather clause" and are basically able to get away with anything.
New players (such as Homepin) have to abide by every single new law, rule and suggestion.
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On a more serious note; how many countries are you exporting to?
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Keep up the good work Mike.
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Avoided the question with a rant and you interpreted my question as an attack again *.*
Couldn't you post on here what you put on website please? I will not rebut your writings as it has no value to my question or this thread.
I agree keep up the work.
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One of the first things that hit me when I went "full time" was that pinheads are the most impatient species on our planet.
Imagine dropping off your car at the mechanic and being told it will take 2 days to fix. As the customer, do you go home and immediately call the mechanic to see how you car is going and can it be fixed today as you need to go shopping ?
Has ANYONE been ripped off ? Predator, WOZ, Magic Girl .. Whats the hold up on TBL ?
I heard a story the other week from an industry heavyweight that Thunderbirds was "never going to be made". After laughing I thought about the comments and put them into perspective. I suppose if you have never built a game from scratch, or had the "dream" to build one and failed abysmally, then you would hope that anyone that makes it past first base fails.. I think some industry people are so quiet they need to make stuff up and fire up the natives !
I suppose the positive is that once Thunderbirds is finished, then the focus will be on another manufacturer / developer !@#
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Nino, it is the same with all retail
Customers are demanding
I have to deal with it daily; why don't Imake this? Why have iI sold out? Why have i not sold out? I ddon'tlike yyour prices
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Nino, it is the same with all retail
Customers are demanding
I have to deal with it daily; why don't Imake this? Why have iI sold out? Why have i not sold out? I ddon'tlike yyour prices
To a degree they are all the same. Pinheads are either super impatient, or extremely patient. The two extremes are the norm. Managing expectations is the hardest issue to deal with day to day. That's why I don't post "daily" updates on resto threads. One person is happy, and the other 20 want to know why their game isn't being updated. I know exactly how Mike feels. Sometimes it is better just to pull the cover off the game when it is 100% done.
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I agree with Pete and Nino but guess for those with money in TAG they would like a update as apparently it had to be released in 2015 (thought I read that somewhere a while back).
Looking forward to seeing it though lots of gadgets that could be incorporated.
How are you looking for a release (even just in pictures) in 2015 Mike?
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I agree with Pete and Nino but guess for those with money in TAG they would like a update as apparently it had to be release in 2015.
Looking forward to seeing it.
How are you looking for a release (even just in pictures) in 2015 Mike?
As a TAG buyer, I am not worried
It is only just over two years, and Mike has had to set up an entre factory an suplmy line
JJP took 3 1/2 years to produce WOZ
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I agree with Pete and Nino but guess for those with money in TAG they would like a update as apparently it had to be released in 2015 (thought I read that somewhere a while back).
Looking forward to seeing it though lots of gadgets that could be incorporated.
How are you looking for a release (even just in pictures) in 2015 Mike?
It is currently my intention to release cab art shortly but this is entirely in the hands of ITV.
Many don't realise that IP owners place some pretty strict caveats on releasing "a portion of a product" as they do not see how it can benefit them.
In any case - if I release cab art, so what? The barrage of questions will then be: "OK, let' see the playfield/backglass/east side widget (insert 200 things here)".
Please tell me how that helps me continue and complete this project? It doesn't!!! Not one bit.
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[/quote]
It is currently my intention to release cab art shortly but this is entirely in the hands of ITV.
[/quote]
At least I finally got a pinball related response, thank you.
Not interested in yours or any one else's manufacturing problems, thats all I needed. Some sort of progress going forward with the project was really good to hear. It was appearing to be going stagnant.
Arcade machines are very where i.e.; not interesting to me or many others as a lot of people are doing them.
You TBAG machine is !
Wasn't that hard was it? SHEEEEESH!
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It is currently my intention to release cab art shortly but this is entirely in the hands of ITV.
[/quote]
At least I finally got a pinball related response, thank you.
Not interested in yours or any one else's manufacturing problems, thats all I needed. Some sort of progress going forward with the project was really good to hear. It was appearing to be going stagnant.
Arcade machines are very where i.e.; not interesting to me or many others as a lot of people are doing them.
You TBAG machine is !
Wasn't that hard was it? SHEEEEESH!
[/quote]
The problem is that "some" will take this as gospel and start demanding a timeline to view.
In any case - you only want to look from a gossip point of view, there is NOTHING to be gained by showing anything from my perspective and certainly from ITV's perspective other than I have to pay ITV MONEY so that a few can pick whatever I show to pieces!!
Not a good deal for me at all.
I am moving forward with development steadily and surely so that we have a very solid base at the end of this NOT just a single title.
There are many other titles in the works or on the whiteboard and they will come to fruition quickly once we have overcome all of the initial hurdles.
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As long as TB2 feature prominently, I don't care
:)
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It is currently my intention to release cab art shortly but this is entirely in the hands of ITV.
At least I finally got a pinball related response, thank you.
Not interested in yours or any one else's manufacturing problems, thats all I needed. Some sort of progress going forward with the project was really good to hear. It was appearing to be going stagnant.
Arcade machines are very where i.e.; not interesting to me or many others as a lot of people are doing them.
You TBAG machine is !
Wasn't that hard was it? SHEEEEESH!
[/quote]
The problem is that "some" will take this as gospel and start demanding a timeline to view.
In any case - you only want to look from a gossip point of view, there is NOTHING to be gained by showing anything from my perspective and certainly from ITV's perspective other than I have to pay ITV MONEY so that a few can pick whatever I show to pieces!!
Not a good deal for me at all.
I am moving forward with development steadily and surely so that we have a very solid base at the end of this NOT just a single title.
There are many other titles in the works or on the whiteboard and they will come to fruition quickly once we have overcome all of the initial hurdles.
[/quote]
Hello Mike,
Out of interest do you plan to offer sales incentives to TAG buyers for titles to follow. Your plan of having many other titles in the pipeline sounds very exciting.
Cheers. Joe
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"Hello Mike,
Out of interest do you plan to offer sales incentives to TAG buyers for titles to follow. Your plan of having many other titles in the pipeline sounds very exciting.
Cheers. Joe"
***************************************************************
Thanks for your question.
With the restructure of Homepin we have brought on board sales people and an organizational person among many other changes.
The idea of "credits" towards the purchase of additional Homepin products has been put on the whiteboard - exactly how it might be implemented has not yet been finalised.
But yes, it is certainly something we have in the pipeline.
Once we have ploughed through all of the initial setup phase it might surprise some just how fast we will be able to produce new titles.
....and just to reply to a comment by another poster who "doesn't care about the problems setting up the factory" - that is the ENTIRE issue and the ENTIRE holdup my friend, no matter if you are interested in it or not - (if you take out about 6 weeks after Karen's passing).
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I think the majority are just excited about the project - I know I am - and that makes it difficult to wait.
I, for one, have greatly enjoyed the Facebook updates of the development of the arcade machines even though I am not interested in arcades. It has been very interesting to see the progress. It is also good to know that there is diversity in the business and that the factory is pumping out product. This bodes well for the long-term viability of the company and that means more pinball.
While I am impatient, I actually like that very little has been shown very little of the Thunderbirds machine, this means that the machine will have a greater impact on release. I would however, be very interested to hear how the project is going: has the whitewood been finalised? How is the development of the hardware system progressing? Has the approval process of the art been difficult? Will production take place in the same facility as the arcade machines? How will they test the design before production? Will they be taking pre-production units to shows? It would be great if we could have some discussion of these types of questions if possible.
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I just want to see it and play it, if I like it and the price is right I will buy it without hesitation.
()
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I have very little interest in arcade, but have been seeing the updates and production of those as a real positive as part of the overall Homepin expansion into manufacturing. Guess the glass is usually half full for me.
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No interest in arcade either, but if he can build a solid arcade machine, he can build a solid pinball cabinet
Win
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The arcade (lowboys) and the Hankin tables are well engineered with built in safety standards adhered to. They are no comparison with the cheap junk out there - and I've seen tables and lowboys for 30 years. I think the manufacturing "bugs" that may have been an issue for the pinballs have been ironed out with the arcade games.
I'm looking forward to TAG AND the other titles that sound like they will be released in quick succession.
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Just goes to show the complexity of making a pinball machine vs an arcade machine. Both feats of engineering in themselves. It's good that Mike regularly speaks to our AA and AP communities at all. Good stuff Mike ^^^
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I think the majority are just excited about the project - I know I am - and that makes it difficult to wait.
If I wasn't a fully paid buyer I wouldn't care one way or another when the pinball get's made etc.
Having paid for the game in full changes things somewhat though.
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Well done Mike.
I know the struggle of working 16 plus hr days 7 days a week and always having massive amounts to do with not enough time in the day.
Quality products take time and schedules are guidelines only.
Any pinhead who truly supports you will happily wait for a great product.
Hope things are better for you personally if such a thing can happen in such a short time and I am sure I speak for the majority when I say we are dam proud of you mate and what you have achieved so far.
Regards, Brett ^^^
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Time to get the blue pencil out.
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Time to get the blue pencil out.
Comments like that are not helpful and are uncalled for. If ANY pre-purchaser has an issue with ANYTHING they can take it up with me directly, not on a forum and NOT stirred up by third parties.
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Time to get the blue pencil out.
Because baiting Mike is ssoooo productive
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Time to get the blue pencil out.
Because baiting Mike is ssoooo productive
You do know there is an ignore button, right?
For what it is worth, it wasn't baiting or stirring Homepin despite your knee jerk reaction.
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Time to get the blue pencil out.
Because baiting Mike is ssoooo productive
You do know there is an ignore button, right?
For what it is worth, it wasn't baiting or stirring Homepin despite your knee jerk reaction.
that I had to look up the term 'blue pencil' (and I still don't get it) suggests othewise
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Time to get the blue pencil out.
Because baiting Mike is ssoooo productive
You do know there is an ignore button, right?
For what it is worth, it wasn't baiting or stirring Homepin despite your knee jerk reaction.
that I had to look up the term 'blue pencil' (and I still don't get it) suggests othewise
Suggest all you want. It doesn't make it so.
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OK - here are some pics from Facebook and a few extras as well.
Some preliminary Cabinet pics:
Stainless steel side rails:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/SideRailsFINAL.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/CabinetMetalwork.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/CabinetMetalwork2.jpg)
This very early drawing doesn't show the "splay" of the legs.
That was an effort all on its own getting the correct splay in both directions.
Many Many hours of testing and work were required on this simple point alone!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/earlycab.jpg)
EVERY single part must be drawn up, checked, DOUBLE checked then made either in-house or sent out to a suitable place. Here is a simple example of the hinge retaining bolt for the backbox hinge bolt:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/Backbox_Hinge_Bolt.jpg)
...and the finished bolts in stock
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/HingeBolts.jpg)
Same thing with the glass slide rail plastics (in this case we had the die made and then some samples run before confirming the final production run of parts):
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/008.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/glass_rail_samples.jpg)
These have now been made and are in stock along with many many many other parts.
Multiply this effort by EVERY SINGLE PART in the machine and you start to get an idea of why we have been on this project solidly for two years now.
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hats off to you Mike - lookin good and like the idea of the side rails wrapping around the front and SS ^^^
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Anyone for target plastics?
A new part all starts with a drawing by our engineering department, usually after they are given some "chook scratchings":
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/tdrawing.jpg)
Then the Homepin mechanical engineers mill up a mould - we use aluminium rather than steel as we are only going to be making tens of thousands of parts not millions which would require a steel mould:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/millmould.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/targetsdie.jpg)
Before even drawing up any parts I like to have things in stock such as the rivets we will be using - there is nothing worse that making new dies and parts only to find the rivet size you planned on using is not available or difficult to find:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/targetrivet.jpg)
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/bagrivets.jpg)
Time to get some plastic. For these parts we are using POM. It is tough and durable and won't shrink or crack over time. It's almost like nylon but actually more durable than nylon. Hang the expense, I have chosen a high quality Taiwanese brand over some of the local "unknown" ones:
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/TaiwanesePOM.jpg)
Time to melt some plastic!
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/injectionmachine.jpg)
.....looky here, some finished parts. Now off to the plastic shop to buy some colour and we can make the final parts in the colours we want ready to rivet onto the metal switch arm.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/firstbatch.jpg)
All of this process is done right here, in the Homepin factory, by Homepin staff using all our own machinery!
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Awesome insight Mike. Keep the info coming.
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Loving the updates, Mike. Hopefully these will silence the doubters..
Lime green really suits you well. I got my hot pink ensemble Sid gave me @@^
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Mate you really are making everything arn't you keep up the great work
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We pulled out an injection die we made a while back to put the finishing touches on it before we do a major run of the part.
Any guesses as to what the part is?
First correct guess wins..............well, nothing actually apart from the kudos of being the first correct guess...:lol
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/guess.jpg)
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Pop Bumper Spoons !
Looking good, Mike *%*
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pop bumper spoon sensor brackets
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bummer nino beat by 20-30 seconds
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Retro Salt and Pepper shakers
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Retro Salt and Pepper shakers
Like the ones you put in your picinic basket
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Interesting - so effectively there is a machine for almost every part of the game. So 3-4 pop bumpers per game, several titles - this press might be hammered for quite some time !
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Just out of interest Mike, what machinery do you have in house?
Trev
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Just out of interest Mike, what machinery do you have in house?
Trev
The list is longer than I can remember but basically everything except a metal injection machine (for die cast parts) and we don't (currently) do any metal stamping in-house but will work towards this in about a year.
I didn't intend to do plastic moulding either but the sheer number of small plastic parts meant the cost of dies and making these bits in small numbers (the Chinese treat any production run under 10K pcs as not worth bothering with) got out of hand cost wise.
Also the big advantage of doing it ourselves is that we can quickly make another small batch of a part should we need to or we can make minor changes to a part within a day or so. We certainly couldn't rely on doing this if we were having the work done outside.
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It will be interesting to see what you are producing in 5 years time
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It will be interesting to see what you are producing in 5 years time
Sterns?
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Moving into the final phase of things at long last!!!
Bought a new bag of clear Polycarbonate today and also some colour for it.
I decided again to go with the best quality, this time genuine "Lexan" brand.
(http://www.homepin.com/pics/lexan1.jpg)
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It will be interesting to see what you are producing in 5 years time
TAG @@*
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All pre-order TAG customers will be getting an update with some exclusive information before Christmas.
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It will be interesting to see what you are producing in 5 years time
TAG @@*
:lol
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Moving into the final phase of things at long last!!!
This caught my eye! Keep up the good work Mike and loving the updates.
Don't let the knockers get to you. There is a lot of respect out there for your project and aspirations.
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All pre-order TAG customers will be getting an update with some exclusive information before Christmas.
Did anyone get the update?
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Yes, quite interested to see what is in the "update"......
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Guess the great firewall of china is not having a break over Xmas
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Guess the great firewall of china is not having a break over Xmas
LOL....
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All pre-order TAG customers will be getting an update with some exclusive information before Christmas.
Did anyone get the update?
No update so far but I'm sure it will be all over this thread once it is done.
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did anyone receive an update?
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Has anyone pre ordered the game, or thinking of purchasing ?
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Guess the great firewall of china is not having a break over Xmas
I don't think that is the problem.....
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TAG buyers should have received an email today *%*
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I got the email yesterday
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I got the email yesterday
Anything worth sharing?
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I got the email yesterday
Anything worth sharing?
If you have read Mikes posts here and on Facebook, there is nothing new
It is more a year in review
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I didn't get an email.
So much for the exclusive info.
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Guess one should check their spam folder before opening mouth as that's where it was &^&
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opps to me as well
I first read the e-mail on my mobile phone
missed the bit about some teaser artwork
cool
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Haven't been able to find any updates on TAG for a while has anyone heard anything?
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Mike is currently displaying his wares at an amusement machine expo
Booth J223
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^None of which appear to be TAG related. Or at least it certainly isn't advertised as such in their expo promo flyer.
http://www.chinaamusement.com/en/news/2016/0222/238.html
Moot anyway since the expo is of 3 days duration and he hasn't logged in to AP since last year.
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pretty sure he has abandoned AP and just resides at AA now
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Haven't been able to find any updates on TAG for a while has anyone heard anything?
Thats because there isnt any updates
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U can always send Mile a PM.
I know he has some large contract orders to fill and is steaming ahead putting his time into results & not banter.
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Haven't been able to find any updates on TAG for a while has anyone heard anything?
Thats because there isnt any updates
Thank you for the accurate "update".
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Haven't been able to find any updates on TAG for a while has anyone heard anything?
I caught up with Mike the other day. While i didn't find any secret info out about TAG (unfortunately), from what he told me, i am very confident things are going well. Mike is keen and passionate and focussing on making it happen. I got no info about timeframes
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Anyone got any feedback on the lowboys?
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noticed on the ad that pinsanity posted that now has a multi player arcade, might be a case of too many projects.
also given the recent pin ball issue you gotta hope that warranty issues are solved quickly and painlessly for the future TAG pinballs.
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Thunderbirds are go?...
https://www.facebook.com/HomepinPinball/photos/a.270829272993089.63482.266892120053471/1089637514445590/?type=3&theater (https://www.facebook.com/HomepinPinball/photos/a.270829272993089.63482.266892120053471/1089637514445590/?type=3&theater)
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apparently a empty cabinet (hopefully a playfield) to go on secret show in a back room, no cameras at pinfest....
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apparently a empty cabinet (hopefully a playfield) to go on secret show in a back room, no cameras at pinfest....
..Then why bother?
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apparently a empty cabinet (hopefully a playfield) to go on secret show in a back room, no cameras at pinfest....
..Then why bother?
Because it has been three years
Paid up buyers would like to see more than just generic assemblies
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Really no cameras and away from the general public seen by select few?
Secret society!
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here is his public release of the cabinet art a few weeks ago on a Getaway
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Really no cameras and away from the general public seen by select few?
Secret society!
:P
Yep, pity I cannot go
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Really no cameras and away from the general public seen by select few?
Secret society!
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apparently a empty cabinet (hopefully a playfield) to go on secret show in a back room, no cameras at pinfest....
..Then why bother?
Because it has been three years
Paid up buyers would like to see more than just generic assemblies
Still confused by this... Pete, you're saying that paid up buyers want to see more but in order to do this they have to travel to Newcastle and enter a private room?
It would be funny if it all wasn't taken so seriously
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apparently a empty cabinet (hopefully a playfield) to go on secret show in a back room, no cameras at pinfest....
..Then why bother?
Because it has been three years
Paid up buyers would like to see more than just generic assemblies
Still confused by this... Pete, you're saying that paid up buyers want to see more but in order to do this they have to travel to Newcastle and enter a private room?
It would be funny if it all wasn't taken so seriously
Not my rules
But we know how Mike operates, no point trying to change hi mind
Bt
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No cameras and a private room must mean a free lap dance for the pre orders.
Ewwwwwww
You have been warned!
#@#
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No cameras and a private room must mean a free lap dance for the pre orders.
Ewwwwwww
You have been warned!
#@#
I don't know, that is what Bumper Action did with thecWoZ prototype. Worked well for them
;)
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No cameras and a private room must mean a free lap dance for the pre orders.
Ewwwwwww
You have been warned!
#@#
I don't know, that is what Bumper Action did with thecWoZ prototype. Worked well for them
;)
Yeah they are going from strength to strength these days............ :lol
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here is his public release of the cabinet art a few weeks ago on a Getaway
So what does everyone think of the cabinet artwork??
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here is his public release of the cabinet art a few weeks ago on a Getaway
So what does everyone think of the cabinet artwork??
I hope it goes through a lot of revisions as looks very basic and does not match the proposed backbox side art with the glow panels.
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here is his public release of the cabinet art a few weeks ago on a Getaway
So what does everyone think of the cabinet artwork??
It has all the right elements, but they are placed badly
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here is his public release of the cabinet art a few weeks ago on a Getaway
So what does everyone think of the cabinet artwork??
It has all the right elements, but they are placed badly
I would agree with that, but in addition the art needs to be more professional looking (especially the ocean, as it looks terrible) and instead of the lighting bolt glow panels on the back box, if they incorporated the TAG rocket to shoot up to space, maybe a moon and homepin logo on the moon or something and have the stars, rocket exhaust and moon / logo flash and glow it would look better to link the cabinet and backbox art together better.
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Cabinet art is a shocker-no other way to politely describe it
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Cabinet art is a shocker-no other way to politely describe it
It seems strange that the title of the game is Thunderbirds are Go" but the artwork only has "Thunderbirds"
I'm calling BS on the art release, it's just too amateurish to be the real deal
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Cabinet art is a shocker-no other way to politely describe it
It seems strange that the title of the game is Thunderbirds are Go" but the artwork only has "Thunderbirds"
I'm calling BS on the art release, it's just too amateurish to be the real deal
I think you may be right it could be BS for whatever reason i'm not sure.
I hope it is BS because the thing I was looking forward to seeing the most on this title was the artwork. I had visions of hand drawn old school grandeur. In my mind I was picturing something along the lines of Breakshot artwork.
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Cabinet art is a shocker-no other way to politely describe it
It seems strange that the title of the game is Thunderbirds are Go" but the artwork only has "Thunderbirds"
I'm calling BS on the art release, it's just too amateurish to be the real deal
+
Coconut Island was more professional!!!
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Is that where my lawn mower ended up. I'm told my wife is going to allow me to use scissors next week. $#$
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Cabinet art is a shocker-no other way to politely describe it
It seems strange that the title of the game is Thunderbirds are Go" but the artwork only has "Thunderbirds"
I'm calling BS on the art release, it's just too amateurish to be the real deal
+
Coconut Island was more professional!!!
Looks better in the flesh ^^^
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Went to Australia's Pinfest today with an open mind, and honestly not much to tell from that that is on Facebook or on this thread.
- common pinball parts are copies of Bally / WMS / Stern mechs but with little tweaks and improvements which is nice to see and granted would take alot of work to create all the dies etc.
- noticed the flipper mechs are now like the 90's Bally / WMS and not like his first concept
- the pop bumper is similar to old Stern with a few tweaks but comes with a pcb which is nice the pop bumper body that is closest to the skirt is a clear so gives it a cool nice glow.
- he had a few various plastic molded parts from pop bumper caps and switch spoons etc as well as clear flipper buttons (able to be lit) - which are different to regular buttons and felt weird as almost leading to a deeper almost v shape - if similar to the ones on Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy
NOTE: (though I could be wrong) to those wanting replacement parts for other games that China is Metric so all mechs, bolts etc are metric so there could be the possibility of things not perfectly fitting.
- cabinet art was that of previous release so not wowed by it, but the backbox el panel is nice and effective as it wasn't a dark room and stood out, nice work there.
- the cabinet looks very similar to a Bally / WMS but the backbox seems to have a move additional little 15-25mm peak for half of the top front edge - sure it will link with a topper - just hope there is enough clearance to not smash the glass when folded down for transport.
- I like the cabinet rails as they have a wrap around the front edge
- backglass / translite - was the word thunderbirds, with I think on memory 5 characters and then the top half of the trans is the island scene in which behind it when the pool opens a rocket is on a mech that rotates around and must be backlit and casts a rocket shadow onto the trans. Sure this will be improved but get the idea.
- speaker panel had 2 large and 2 small speakers and then a colour rgb dmd type screen but they said the resolution will be much better in the future but current was nice. No art on the plain timber panel but apparently coming...
- the coin door was a half size door sitting to the rhs and get that it doesn't have to be a full door but you do get use to a look, sure they will balance it as looks odd to one side.
- as for the playfield - it was a very very bare bare whitewood
- had a pop bumper cluster
- had a mech to the top lhs with a screw drive with a paper / cardboard picture of a pool and it opens and that is when the translite hidden shadow image activates - will be effective once fully completed.
- rhs side upper corner is a ramp - not sure if it lifts up but leading up to the ramp is 3-4 triangle inserts and 3 palms on one side and 2 palms on the other side and these fold down 30-45 degrees from the vertical probably on a launch mode - is effective.
all photos from forums and facebook - no cameras allowed but in one way good to see some progress.
I do have concerns with Chinese quality, as in made to spec as just from Sids stories sounds like they have lots of dramas and revisions and probably a full time job monitoring this in the future. Other concern is the steel quality as Chinese are well know for blending steels so stainless is not full stainless as the lockdown bar appeared to have some minor rust imperfections / colouring.
As for deadline - finished when it is finished ??????
hope that helps those curious
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Even though there doesn't seem to be a lot to tell thanks for the nicely detailed update swinks ^^^
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Thanks for the update and insights. Would have loved to head down but too much pinball travelling lately!
Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk
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hmm! wonder why it was so secretive with really what appears to be not that much to show.
QA will always be an issue with anything made overseas, we have roof panels for a children's hospital here in Perth with bloody asbestos in them and guess what, they were made in China ^&^ for example.
Wonder if anything has happened to the ball issue as well? don't really want to ask as the response is not nice.
How many attended the talk Swinksy mate and what was the general response?
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I am not sure nothing that could not have been shown or already seen - I think a presence had to be seen otherwise the remaining people might lose faith.
As for a talk, there was none just the cabinet and table of bit jammed in a little side room and people went to have a look and listen to either Mike's or Sid's speech on why there were delays, etc, I didn't listen to Mike only Sid and wouldn't say he was the most classy salesmen.
only enough room for 3 people in front of one of them at a time
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Jady
I agree with what you wrote and it was good to see Micks progress
I sounds like its been a tough road for him but its good to see he still has his sence of humour