Abstract: A bowling system comprises a pinspotter system including at least a sweep assembly and a braking system coupled thereto which provides a brake for the sweep assembly. The system further includes a plurality of sensors which sense parameters associated with the pinspotter system and the braking system. A centralized control system centralizes operational processes of the pinspotter system by receiving at least one input based on the sensed parameters from at least one of plurality of sensors and, in response to the at least one the input, produces at least one output signal to control operations of the pinspotter system.

Abstract: A pin setter applied to a bowling game machine in which a player rolling a ball toward a plurality of pins arranged in a standing manner on a lane thereby to knock down the plurality of pins. The pin setter that arranges the pins at predetermined positions includes a pin lifter that lifts the pin in a standing state up to the lane, a pin guide that keeps the pin lifted on the lane from falling down, and an evacuation mechanism that evacuates the pin guide from the lane.

Abstract: An easily installed frictional bowling pin spot and a method of installing frictional pin spots on the pin deck of a bowling lane are disclosed. The preferred frictional pin spot is preferably a thin, circular polyurethane piece having a high coefficient of friction and packed with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The pin spot increases the friction between a bowling pin and the pin deck thereby decreasing the likelihood of bowling pins hit by a ball or other pin sliding out of position instead of being knocked over.

Abstract: A pinspotter controller system, and a method therefore, is disclosed which provides improved functional characteristics over old pinspotter control systems. The heart of the pinspotter control system is an all solid state pinspotter controller chassis which can be coupled to a pinspotter for controlling the operation of the pinspotter. The all solid state pinspotter controller provides circuitry for executing a short strike cycle; for cutting power to a back end motor to conserve energy; and for coupling to a remote control console. The solid state pinspotter controller retains status and position data for the pinspotter during power interruptions. The combination also replaces the current AMF 8270 chassis, contains a buffering mechanism to prevent false operation, and contains a new communication module. The new combination disclosed here has improved backend control through the use of a microprocessor, reduced wiring, positive management and control, and improved braking when operating at 230 Volts AC.

Abstract: The present invention is an all solid state chassis for controlling a bowling pin pinspotter. The solid state chassis is designed to replace current electromechanical chassis such as the AMF 8270 chassis, while providing new and unique capability in diagnostics and communication. The solid state chassis is designed to reduce the energy consumption of the pinspotter. The solid state chassis is also designed to detect and provide self protection against faults and overloads. The solid state chassis also allows for remote communication with the pinspotter via a hardwired communication link or by electromagnetic means.