Arcade goal counter

A mechanical goal counter for analog games—no electronics, no power, and no software.

Starting point

The idea originated at an Airliner air hockey table. The existing scoring system fit neither functionally nor aesthetically.

From this specific situation, a custom goal counter was developed: simple, mechanical, and easy to read. The focus was not on an additional effect, but on a solution that works reliably and blends unobtrusively into the game.

Result

The result is a modular, sliding numeric counter for analog arcade games and game setups.

The score is displayed purely mechanically via a free-running number slider. The design is intended to be mounted with screws and remain robust during play.

The goal counter consists of six printed individual parts that are assembled into a stable unit.

Background

In the original application, a cantilevered rail was implemented. Therefore, the more heavily loaded components—especially the rail, rail holder, and number slider—were printed in PETG.

Other components were made in PLA. Depending on the application, a full implementation in PLA is also possible.

Notable insights

The number slider runs freely in the main rail and is guided solely mechanically.

The tolerances are deliberately chosen so that the slider doesn’t slip unintentionally yet still moves smoothly. Especially for an analog game object, this balance is more important than it first appears.

Several test 3D prints were necessary to find the right balance between 'too tight' and 'too loose'.