Abstract: A bowling ball is disclosed with a core having low density roll blocks or end caps which lowers the differential radius of gyration and lowers the maximum radius of gyration of the ball in order to create a different ball path from the foul line to the pins. When the bowling ball core of the present invention is used within a bowling ball it results in a bowling ball that rolls earlier on the lane for a smooth, curving ball path and less angle change in the backend of the lane.

Abstract: An apparatus including a bowling lane, pins positioned on one end of the bowling lane, a bowling ball adapted to be launched down the bowling lane toward the bowling balls, and a spin detector for determining a spin rate of the bowling ball as the bowling ball travels down the bowling lane. An angle detector detects the angle of the spin axis of the bowling ball. The apparatus also measures and displays information relating to ball velocity, ball position, coefficient of friction, launch angle, and entry angle.

Abstract: A bowling lane is provided comprising an underbed having a top surface, a fiberglass reinforced polymeric panel firmly attached to this top surface and a printed film simulating a wood lane surface bonded to the top surface of the panel. The fiberglass panel can be attached to existing lane surfaces, can be conditioned with an oil in a manner similar to a wood lane surface, and has the rolling characteristics, sound, flatness, stain resistance, impact resistance, abrasion resistance and coefficient of friction substantially equivalent to or superior to that of a wood lane surface.

Abstract: A bowling ball return mechanism having a unitary frame structure which is mounted above a lifting track which curves upwards from the end of an underlane bowling ball return track up to the ball storage tray at the approach of the bowling alley. The unitary structure maintains the complete unit including a rotating tire with a compressable surface for positive engagement of an incoming bowling ball for movement up the lifting track, a rotating lifting belt which runs over the tire at one end and a crown pulley at the other for frictionally engaging the ball and moving it up the remaining length of the lifting track, an electric motor with a corresponding drive train for rotating the tire and the lifting belt, and a means for tensioning the lifting belt during its rotation. The unitary frame structure is pivotably mounted over the lifting track such that, upon engagement of the bowling ball by the tire, the structure will move away from its rest position and absorb the momentum of the moving ball.