Now that the shackles of patents that have crippled development in the pinball industry are all expiring (some have and many others are coming up to 20 years when they can not be renewed) - - - - - time to move forward IMO.

Great point Mike, that will really open things up for many new entrants to used tried and true part designs, although innovative things such as bearing flippers you propose are a good thing too.

If you get the urge, you might like to start a thread with a list of expired and about to expire patents, be an asset to those looking at future projects.