Abstract: A system and method for graphically and statistically analyzing and predicting the motion of a bowling ball. In one embodiment, the system includes an automatic precision ball thrower, a computer aided tracking system (“C.A.T.S.”), and a computing device. Certain static properties of the bowling ball are recorded as independent variables. The automatic precision ball thrower is used to throw the bowling ball down the lane a number of times and the C.A.T.S. records various dynamic characteristics of its path. This data is received by the computing device which uses it to calculate a plurality of dependent variables associated with the path of the bowling ball. The computing device relates the independent variables to the dependent variables using multivariable regression analysis, yielding a set of equations which can be used to predict the dependent variables (or dynamic characteristics) of a second bowling ball given a set of independent variables (or static characteristics of the second bowling ball).

Abstract: A bowling lane system for enhancing the entertainment when bowling. The bowling lane system includes a lane member having a pair of gutter portions extending a length of the lane member whereby the gutter portion are positioned on opposing sides of the lane member. The top surface of the lane member is designed for supporting a bowling ball and pins. The lane member has a deflection assembly. The ball deflection assembly is designed for deflecting the bowling ball towards the pins when the bowling ball is rolled along a top surface of the lane member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an obstacle on a bowling lane for keeping the bowling hall on a single bowling lane. The obstacle comprises at least one obstacle element which is arranged to be movable and is located next to the edge of a single bowling lane, in the longitudinal direction of the same, means for moving the obstacle element and means for guiding the movement of the obstacle element. The means for moving the obstacle element comprise a channel (5) underneath the obstacle element that can expanded with a gaseous or liquid substance.

Abstract: The ball lift device includes an improved track structure for stabilizing a bowling ball along a path of travel or guide path as it is lifted within the device. The device includes a means for lifting the ball by use of a pair of rotating V wheels and a drive means which rotates the V wheels through a drive belt which is driven by a motor. The V wheels are housed within a frame which has an entrance point for receiving the bowling ball to be lifted, and an exit point which ejects the bowling ball at a specified height. A guide support or single track structure defines the path of travel in which the ball is lifted through the device. The guide support includes a guide support bracket and a wear strip mounted over the bracket. A pair of side wear strips extend along the path of travel and are positioned so as to laterally stabilize the bowling ball as it is lifted along the guide support.

Abstract: In construction of a bumper system for bowling including a movable bumper bar adapted for demarcating a lane and a gutter, the bumper bar is selectively and automatically set to operative and stand-by positions by a hydraulic cylinder which is activated on receipt of a drive signal. The drive signal is generated either by players' manual operation on an activation switch at a scoring panel or by a properly programmed control switch circuit. Any conventional, manual bumper system can be automatized by minimal reformation.

Abstract: A bowling alley bumper system and method selectively guards against a bowling ball rolling into a gutter. A bungee cord extends along each side edge of a bowling alley lane and in a first position below the lane surface receives bowling balls rolling within a gutter and against the lane edge for protecting the edge of the lane from damage. A lifting mechanism raises the bungee cord to a position above the lane surface for receiving bowling balls rolling on the surface toward the gutter and redirecting the bowling balls towards the center of the lane and away from the gutter. The bungee cord is lifted to its second position by a plurality of elongated rods positioned to move alongside the lane below the gutter surface. A connecting rod raises and lowers the elongated rods through a lever action thereby positioning the bungee cord at its first stored position or its elevated position for guarding the gutter.

Abstract: A bumper bowling game includes an elongated bowling lane and a pair of gutters alongside of the lane. The game also includes a foul line and pin deck at opposite ends of the lane and a plurality of pins on the pin deck. A pair of bumpers temporarily block the gutters to prevent a bowling ball from falling into the gutters. The gutters also redirect a bowling ball which strikes them toward the pins. The game also includes a bowling ball which includes a plurality of finger holes and an eccentric weight for causing the ball to follow an erratic path. The weight may be a fixed weight, free moving within a hollow core, or pendulum-like.