Abstract: A string bowling pin as described herein incorporates one or more improvements that extend the time between maintenance and repair events that might otherwise be required at the place where the string leads from the top of the pin. A free-floating bushing improves the longevity of the string and pin connection. In another example, a radiused opening at the top of the pin improves the longevity of the string and pin connection. Also, both the improved bushing and radiused opening at the top of the pin, either alone or together, make the pin less likely to tangle with other strings and pins during use.

Abstract: A ball lift assembly includes: a housing having an entrance and an exit; a motor which drives a ball lift system; an electronic control unit (ECU); and a plurality of sensors providing signals to the electronic control unit, including: a first sensor which detects a ball entering the lift system through the entrance; and a second sensor which detects the ball exiting the lift system through the exit. The first sensor provides a first signal to the ECU when the first sensor detects the ball entering the lift system through the entrance. The second sensor provides a second signal to the ECU when the second sensor detects the ball exiting the lift system through the exit. The ECU will turn on the motor to drive the ball lift system upon receiving the first signal, and turn off the motor of the ball lift system soon after receiving the second signal, while making sure the ball actually exits the unit.

Abstract: A ball lift assembly includes: a housing having an entrance and an exit; a motor which drives a ball lift system; an electronic control unit (ECU); and a plurality of sensors providing signals to the electronic control unit, including: a first sensor which detects a ball entering the lift system through the entrance; and a second sensor which detects the ball exiting the lift system through the exit. The first sensor provides a first signal to the ECU when the first sensor detects the ball entering the lift system through the entrance. The second sensor provides a second signal to the ECU when the second sensor detects the ball exiting the lift system through the exit. The ECU will turn on the motor to drive the ball lift system upon receiving the first signal, and turn off the motor of the ball lift system soon after receiving the second signal, while making sure the ball actually exits the unit.