How to make AC lights flash

[arch_psyduck]

I am in the process of building a simple pinball machine for my wife's birthday. The mechanical parts are well underway, however, I am stuck on how to add flashing lights when certain targets are hit. I have a basic knowledge of circuits, but no experience with computerized or microchip circuits and am hoping to find a simple solution.

I am currently tinkering with a microswitch with a 2" arm with a 12V AC current. The switch allows me to open or close a circuit when the switch is pressed, but will only cause a single very brief flash when hit with a pinball. I want the lights to flash for several seconds after the switch is pressed.

Is there some component that I can use to produce several seconds of flashing lights upon the push of a button that doesn't involve me having to build some sort of timing circuit?

I appreciate the help!

 

[jackorocko]

Is there some component that I can use to produce several seconds of flashing lights upon the push of a button that doesn't involve me having to build some sort of timing circuit?

I don't know of any single IC, but a flip-flop and 4060 would handle the job. Depending on the current needed for the lights a transistor might be applicable on the output of the 4060

 

[GreenGiant]

You could quite easily take an arduino and tie sensors
When the sensors are tripped you can have it switch a relay the controls the lights a few times

THis may cost a little more than you would really like to spend, but it is an option