Abstract: When a bowler begins a roll and the result of the roll is detected by a scanner, the detection result is transmitted as data to a host computer via a bowler console assigned to each lane, and the scores of the bowlers are tallied. The scores of the bowlers are transmitted to a sub computer connected to or housed within the host computer, possible maximum scores are calculated by adding to the scores of the roll results the scores that would be attained by knocking down all pins with no misses in subsequent rolls, and the rolls needed to decide the rankings, point differences, and outcome are determined. The rolls needed to decide the calculated rankings, point differences, and outcome are displayed on a lane monitor, a ranking table monitor, a televised lane screen, a televised player, and a televised ranking table screen.

Abstract: A process and a system for managing a bowling center, which includes one or more bowling lanes along which a bowl is rolled, one or more pin setting up machines at one end of the lane and one or more bowlers' bays at the opposite end of the lane, one or more overhead monitors or videos above the lane, one or more consoles or keyboards located at the one or more lanes, respectively, and allowing a user to enter data, an electronic control system set up to manage the bowling center, and in particular, a score program which calculates the score of the games played at the bowling center and displays the score, in particular at the respective overhead monitor. A visual signal is emitted at the respective lane to indicate that the lane is open and waiting for users.

Abstract: A bowling aiming apparatus, configured to be used with a bowling lane, includes a frame and a target suspended from the frame. The frame includes two legs which lie parallel to one another within opposite troughs of the bowling lane and extend along a longitudinal direction of the troughs. The frame further includes two uprights, each coupled to a respective leg, such that the uprights are parallel to one another and perpendicular to the legs. The frame further includes a crossbar assembly coupled to the uprights and arranged perpendicularly to the uprights and perpendicularly to the legs. The crossbar assembly spans a width of the bowling lane. The target is suspended from the crossbar assembly, and is positioned on the crossbar assembly such that at least a portion of the target is arranged in a line of sight of a bowler using the bowling lane.

Abstract: A process and a system for managing a bowling center, which includes one or more bowling lanes along which a bowl is rolled, one or more pin setting up machines at one end of the lane and one or more bowlers' bays at the opposite end of the lane, one or more overhead monitors or videos above the lane, one or more consoles or keyboards located at the one or more lanes, respectively, and allowing a user to enter data, an electronic control system set up to manage the bowling center, and in particular, a score program which calculates the score of the games played at the bowling center and displays the score, in particular at the respective overhead monitor. A visual signal is emitted at the respective lane to indicate that the lane is open and waiting for users.

Abstract: In accordance with the exemplary embodiments of the invention there are at least a method, apparatus, and executable computer program to perform operations including detecting by an accessory speaker that a mobile device is in proximity to the accessory speaker. In response to the detecting, visually displaying a charging surface on a surface of the accessory speaker, and directing with indicator lights of the charging surface a placement of the mobile device to a specific location of the charging surface to charge the device.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a distributed bowling center system includes two or more computing devices associated with respective bowling center peripherals. The bowling center peripherals are any electronic or mechanical device in a bowling center capable of detecting a bowling event or receiving input. Example bowling center peripherals include a pinsetter, a monitor, a bumper, a keypad, or a touchscreen. The bowling center peripherals are configured to perform at least one bowler center function. The computing devices are configured to execute at least one process related to a bowler center function of the associated peripheral. Each computing device is located physically closer to the peripheral than the other computer device. The computing devices are in communication via a network. The computing devices are configured to access a process map defining the communication, which is responsive to the at least one bowler center function.

Abstract: A bowling ball elevating assembly for an automatic pinsetter includes an idler pulley assembly having an idler arm and a tension spring causing the idler arm to maintain tension on a ball wheel belt driving a ball elevating ring member. An adjustment arm and a tension arm are mounted to an idler pulley shaft enabling adjusting the amount of tension applied by the tension spring to the idler arm, and consequently the tensioning force applied by an idler pulley to the ball wheel belt, thereby permitting slippage of the ball wheel belt relative to the ball elevating ring member when bowling pins and a bowling ball become jammed in the pinsetter. An improved idler v-pulley wheel has a reduced frictional engagement with the ball wheel belt, and improved positioning of the ball lift drive belt pulley reduces stress on the ball wheel belt.

Abstract: A bowling game including at least two spaced apart bowling lanes, the bowling lanes each including two cameras, a screen and a scoreboard such that a first bowling lane includes a first camera and a third camera, a first screen and a first scoreboard; and a bowling lane includes a second camera and a fourth camera, and a second screen and a second scoreboard, wherein the game further includes at least one controller which controls the images from the cameras such that the first screen displays images from the second camera and the fourth camera and the second screen displays images from the first camera and third camera, and wherein the first camera captures images of the play at the first lane, the second camera captures images of play at the second lane, the third camera captures images of the first scoreboard and the fourth camera captures images of the second scoreboard; such that the first screen displays images of the play and scoreboard at the second lane and the second screen displays images of the pl

Abstract: In one implementation, a mobile device is integrated with a bowling center automatic scoring system. For example, a server receives a lane control command originating with the mobile device and determines or identifies a bowling lane that is associated with the mobile device. A response message or signal, which includes data indicative of the bowling lane and the lane control command to, is sent to the automatic scoring system. The automatic scoring system executes the lane control command.

Abstract: A bowling teaching device and method having a frame having legs sized to fit in the gutters on each side of a bowling alley lane. The frame has a cross member spanning over the lane from the legs, the cross member being spaced from the lane surface by a specified distance. At least one strip is removably mounted on the cross member, the strip hanging down toward the lane surface for a distance sufficient to permit a bowling ball to contact the strip. The device is placed at a location in the bowling alley lane so the at least one strip provides a target for the bowler to aim at during practice bowling.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a distributed bowling center system includes two or more computing devices associated with respective bowling center peripherals. The bowling center peripherals are any electronic or mechanical device in a bowling center capable of detecting a bowling event or receiving input. Example bowling center peripherals include a pinsetter, a monitor, a bumper, a keypad, or a touchscreen. The bowling center peripherals are configured to perform at least one bowler center function. The computing devices are configured to execute at least one process related to a bowler center function of the associated peripheral. Each computing device is located physically closer to the peripheral than the other computer device. The computing devices are in communication via a network. The computing devices are configured to access a process map defining the communication, which is responsive to the at least one bowler center function.

Abstract: A bowling lane with a mural image is disclosed. In one embodiment, a plurality of bowling lane panels are provided, wherein each bowling lane panel depicts a different portion of a mural image. The plurality of bowling lane panels are assembled and secured onto a surface such that the assembly of the plurality of bowling lane panels forms the mural image. In another embodiment, a bowling center is provided with at least two bowling lanes. Each bowling lane depicts a mural image, and the mural images on the various bowling lanes form a composite multi-lane mural image.

Abstract: An interactive bowling system using scoring systems and/or other computer infrastructures which interact with visual and/or audio effects within the bowling center. The system includes a management system having stored therein instructions to provide special effects associated with one or more events to one or more special effects components.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a distributed bowling center system includes two or more computing devices associated with respective bowling center peripherals. The bowling center peripherals are any electronic or mechanical device in a bowling center capable of detecting a bowling event or receiving input. Example bowling center peripherals include a pinsetter, a monitor, a bumper, a keypad, or a touchscreen. The bowling center peripherals are configured to perform at least one bowler center function. The computing devices are configured to execute at least one process related to a bowler center function of the associated peripheral. Each computing device is located physically closer to the peripheral than the other computer device. The computing devices are in communication via a network. The computing devices are configured to access a process map defining the communication, which is responsive to the at least one bowler center function.

Abstract: A bowling lane with a mural image is disclosed. In one embodiment, a plurality of bowling lane panels are provided, wherein each bowling lane panel depicts a different portion of a mural image. The plurality of bowling lane panels are assembled and secured onto a surface such that the assembly of the plurality of bowling lane panels forms the mural image. In another embodiment, a bowling center is provided with at least two bowling lanes. Each bowling lane depicts a mural image, and the mural images on the various bowling lanes form a composite multi-lane mural image.

Abstract: A bowling game including at least two spaced apart bowling lanes, the bowling lanes each including two cameras, a screen and a scoreboard such that a first bowling lane includes a first camera and a third camera, a first screen and a first scoreboard; and a bowling lane includes a second camera and a fourth camera, and a second screen and a second scoreboard, wherein the game further includes at least one controller which controls the images from the cameras such that the first screen displays images from the second camera and the fourth camera and the second screen displays images from the first camera and third camera, and wherein the first camera captures images of the play at the first lane, the second camera captures images of play at the second lane, the third camera captures images of the first scoreboard and the fourth camera captures images of the second scoreboard; such that the first screen displays images of the play and scoreboard at the second lane and the second screen displays images of the pl

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 method and system for playing a bowling game in combination with a poker-type card game is disclosed. The method and system comprising the steps of initiating a conventional bowling game, filling at least one bowling frame, dealing one or more hole cards to a player, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing one or more community cards, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing another set of one or more community cards, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing a final set of community cards, completing the bowling game by filling a final bowling frame, determining a final bowling score, determining if a poker hand formed from a combination of hole cards and community cards is a winning hand, providing a poker award if the poker hand is a winning hand, and combining the poker award with the final bowling score to create an enhanced bowling score.

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 computerized bowling system having an approach and an adjustable length bowling lane with a lane sensor arrangement in communication with a pin sensor area that collectively provide data on the release, spin and travel of the bowling ball down the lane is disclosed. The far end of the bowling lane includes a backstop area having a display as well as a ball return for returning the ball along a return gutter that runs adjacent the bowling lane. A processor communicates with the lane sensor arrangement and pin sensor area to collect and analyze data for providing corrective feedback to the user.

Abstract: The game will be called Bowl N Hold-em. It will combine the standard game of bowling, along with the poker game Texas Hold-em. The game will utilize the bowling center's computer scoring system, along with a standard deck of playing cards. This will be done by creating a computer program that will be compatible with a bowling center's existing computer software. The maximum number of players per pair of lanes, shall be ten. One standard deck of playing cards shall be used per pair of lanes.

Abstract: A method and system for playing a bowling game in combination with a poker-type card game is disclosed. The method and system comprising the steps of initiating a conventional bowling game, filling at least one bowling frame, dealing one or more hole cards to a player, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing one or more community cards, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing another set of one or more community cards, continuing the bowling game for one or more additional frames, dealing a final set of community cards, completing the bowling game by filling a final bowling frame, determining a final bowling score, determining if a poker hand formed from a combination of hole cards and community cards is a winning hand, providing a poker award if the poker hand is a winning hand, and combining the poker award with the final bowling score to create an enhanced bowling score.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a data management server (20) is provided with a management database (24) for individually managing personal information of each bowler, character information and past record information of each bowler, in association with a card ID of a card (K). A home management server (10) reads the card ID of a card (K) held by a bowler with a card reader/writer (15) of a front desk terminal device (12) and transmits the read data to the data management server (20), and, if a request for a match with another bowler is selected by the bowler, transmits the match request to the data management server (20). The data management server (20), on receiving the match request, determines, as a match opponent, another bowler of a similar level to the bowler who made the match request, based on the record information of each bowler managed in the management database (24).

Abstract: A wrist rotation controller for a bowler is attached to the arm and thumb of the bowler to restrict or enhance wrist rotation during release of a bowling ball. The controller includes an adjustable band adapted to extend around the arm of the bowler at a position just below the elbow. An elongated non-stretchable strap has an upper end portion for removable and adjustable attachment to the band and a lower end portion having a non-stretchable loop for extending around the thumb of the bowler. When properly positioned on the arm and thumb of the bowler, the controller restricts or enhances rotation of the wrist and ball during release of the ball. The band and the strap have hook and loop fasteners commonly sold under the trademark VELCRO to provide the adjustment of the band on the arm and the strap on the band.

Abstract: A light and sound system for a bowling pin deck includes a controller interposed between a music system and a light assembly connected to a forward end of a pin setter assembly and positioned forwardly and above a bowling pin deck. The light assembly includes a rearwardly and downwardly projecting light arrangement of colored and infrared LEDs mounted upon a light plate. Positioned above the light plate is a standard fluorescent bulb for uniform traditional illumination of the pin deck. The LEDs are configured and positioned for full illumination of the pin deck in various colors including red, green and blue, which are illuminated by a controller either independently of or in conjunction with the music system. During all periods, the infrared LEDs are illuminated to operate in conjunction with the automatic scorer.

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: Bowling game apparatus allowing even children of little strength to obtain high score by strikes and spares. The bowling game apparatus comprising an approach as an area where players roll a ball, a lane extending from the approach and on which the ball the players bowl rolls, a plurality of pins arranged and placed on the end of the lane and trough-like gutters is further provided with pin toppling means (20) for overturning several pins individually, bowling ball detectors (35) for detecting a ball rolling down the lane, controllers (41), (45) for timing the actuation of pin toppling means (20) to the collision of the ball with the pins on the basis of a detection signal from bowling ball detector (35) to overturn previous selection from the pins.

Abstract: Methods and systems for determining a bonus bowling score may include determining a speed with which bowling pins are knocked down by a player. The speed may correspond to a bonus score that may be used, in some configurations, to break ties. In one arrangement, a bowling game may determine a reference time at which a bowling ball crosses a predefined location in a bowling lane. A speed time may be determined based on when a last of the pins that have been knocked down has fallen. A bonus score may then be determined based on the difference between the speed time and the reference time. In one example, the smaller the difference (i.e., faster speeds), the higher the bonus score. Bonus scores might only be used in tie breaking situations. Alternatively, bonus scores may be used in regular scoring.

Abstract: Methods and systems for determining a bonus bowling score may include determining a speed with which bowling pins are knocked down by a player. The speed may correspond to a bonus score that may be used, in some configurations, to break ties. In one arrangement, a bowling game may determine a reference time at which a bowling ball crosses a predefined location in a bowling lane. A speed time may be determined based on when a last of the pins that have been knocked down has fallen. A bonus score may then be determined based on the difference between the speed time and the reference time. In one example, the smaller the difference (i.e., faster speeds), the higher the bonus score. Bonus scores might only be used in tie breaking situations. Alternatively, bonus scores may be used in regular scoring.

Abstract: The game will be called Bowl N Hold-em. It will combine the standard game of bowling, along with the poker game Texas Hold-em. The game will utilize the bowling center's computer scoring system, along with a standard deck of playing cards. This will be done by creating a computer program that will be compatible with a bowling center's existing computer software. The maximum number of players per pair of lanes, shall be ten. One standard deck of playing cards shall be used per pair of lanes.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a semi-custom-fitted house ball to a customer of a bowling center are provided. In one embodiment, a plurality of house balls in a variety of weights is provided, wherein each of the house balls comprises a thumb hole sized to receive a removable thumb insert of varying sizes, and wherein at least one house ball of a given weight comprises a different finger hole drilling pattern than at least one other house ball of that given weight. In another embodiment, a method for identifying a suitable house ball for a customer of a bowling center is provided. Other embodiments are disclosed, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.

Abstract: A bowling center bowling ball system has a mechanism to size a bowler's hand. The mechanism provides the bowler with a hand size, selected from a small number of hand sizes, that corresponds to the best bowling ball fit for the bowler. A plurality of bowling balls each having a desired weight and hole set is provided. The hole sets corresponds to the small number of hand sizes. The plurality of individual balls are coded such that once the bowler has his hand size and ball weight, the bowler can select his specific bowling ball using the coded system on the bowling balls to provide the bowler with a desired weight bowling ball and finger hole set that corresponds to the bowler's hand size.

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 system comprises bowling centers (C1-C3) where an information terminal IT is provided for each lane, a data management center (DMC), a financial institution (BK), and the Internet (INT). The data management center (DMC) collects frame data from each bowling center, stores it therein in a centralized way, and distributes game information at suitable timings. Also, the data management center (DMC) is provided with a multimedia bulletin board (MM) and a bowler in any bowling center can communicate with another bowler by using functions of the bulletin board of registering, posting, searching, selecting, and retrieving information (text, sound, and image).

Abstract: A variation of the traditional game of bowling combining skill-based gaming methods and systems for maximizing interest and strategy within the traditional bowling scoring and playing environment to enable the bowler to compete for prizes. In one embodiment, the bowler is rewarded for exactly bowling a predetermined score. Such score may be chosen by the bowler, by a third party, or randomly generated. Such score may be chosen prior to the first frame or at another designated time. Prizes are awarded based on how close the bowler comes to bowling the exact score required. Games may be played at an individual level, as a competition among bowlers at a given bowling alley, or between a plurality of bowling alleys.

Abstract: A moveable gutter for a bowling lane is disclosed. The gutter includes a bumper surface that functions as a bumper when said inner edge is raised from a lower position to a fixed upper position higher than the adjacent lane surface. One or more illumination sources may be disposed along the surface of the gutter and bumper surface. A portion of said bumper surface is approximately parallel with the surface of a bowling ball on the bowling lane when the upper surface is in the upper position.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and method for conveying a bowling pin into a Pin Sock at a bowling alley. This invention stitches a Hardened Inserting into a Pin Sock. The lip of the Hardened Insert extends beyond the end of output exit of the Pin Sock. Moreover, the output exit of the Pin Sock is larger than traditional Pin Socks. The insertion of a Hardening Insert makes the Pin Sock, and in particular the lower end of the Pin Sock more durable against the constant wear and tear caused by bowling pins entering the sock from an Overflow Chute. By reducing this wear and tear, the bowling pins exiting the Pin Sock would cause less damage to the Transport Band where the pins are deposited after exiting the Pin Sock. Additionally, the enlarged output exit reduces the possibility of pin jams as compared to traditional Pin Socks.

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: A bowling center control system includes an input device configured for input of a bowler's selection of one of a plurality of entertainment styles, wherein each style has predetermined audiovisual, lighting and sound characteristics. A bowling center control system further includes a multimedia server in communication with the input device. The multimedia server is configured with multimedia content corresponding to each of the characteristics of each entertainment style. The multimedia server is further configured to associate predetermined portions of the content with the bowler in response to the bowler's selected style. The multimedia server is yet further configured to generate an output signal operative to reproduce at least certain portions of the predetermined portions of the content corresponding to the characteristics of the selected entertainment style in response to a signal indicative of an occurrence of a bowling event associated with the bowler.

Abstract: A bowling system and method for bowlers bowling at different locations in which scores are automatically generated for the bowlers bowling at each of the locations; the scores are communicated among the locations; and the scores are displayed at each location.

Abstract: A glow-in-the-dark bowling game includes an enclosure with ambient lighting normally illuminating the same, and at least one bowling lane. A UV sensitive dye or pigment is incorporated into at least a portion of the upper surface of the bowling lane. A UV light source is positioned generally above the bowling lane, and is selectively operable for directing UV light onto the upper surface of the bowling lane. To play the glow-in-the-dark bowling game, the ambient lighting is dimmed or turned off, and the UV light source is turned on, causing the UV sensitive dye or pigment to emit visible light.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement (1) for a bowling simulator (2) that has a bowling lane (3), a lane approach (4), a ball stop system (5), a pin pit (9), a lateral gutter (6) and a bail return system. A projection screen (8) is arranged in front of the pin pit (9) and above the bowling lane. A projector (11) is arranged to display images (12) on the projection screen. Sensors (13-15) are provided along the bowling lane and arranged to sense the direction of impact, speed and force of the bowling ball. A computer unit (17) is connected to the projector and sensor to calculate the onward travel of the ball towards the pins. A realistic image (12) of the pins as they are knocked over the ball (16) is then projected onto the projection screen (8).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making and/or decorating bowling balls and the like includes flexible transfer sheets with heat-activated ink applied to at least portions thereof. A form or mold with opposite halves, which shift between open and closed positions, includes a cavity sized to closely receive therein the article to be decorated. At least one transfer sheet is positioned in the mold with the article, such that when the mold is closed, the same are captured in the mold cavity in an overlying relationship. Heat is applied to the mold to a predetermined temperature causing the article to expand through thermal expansion, which expansion is resisted by the mold to uniformly press the transfer sheet against the underlying outer surface of the article, and also causing the heat-activated ink to transfer from the transfer sheet to the outer surface of the article to form the design thereon.

Abstract: A one game scratch match play single elimination tournament for league players, including the steps of providing a pool of eligible league players; placing each eligible league player into one of eight divisions, each division being defined by highest average scores attained by league players in current league play; conducting a local first round of competition in which each of the eligible league players in each of the eight divisions engages in one game scratch match play, single elimination, eight-player brackets, until one player prevails in each division and continues on to a regional second round; conducting a regional second round in 512 locations that are geographically distributed as equally as possible in which each of the eight divisions engages in one game scratch match play, single elimination, until one player prevails in each division and continues on to a championship round; conducting a championship round in a single location in which each of the 512 league players who prevail in the regional

Abstract: A system adapted for use in permitting a bowling game between bowlers at remotely located bowling centers includes pin fall sensors at each bowling center for sensing pin falls caused by balls bowled to knock down pins. Communication circuitry at each bowling center is configured to send locally generated scoring data based on the pin falls to a remotely located bowling center and to receive remotely generated scoring data from the remotely located bowling center. Display devices at each bowling center display the locally generated scoring data and the remotely generated scoring data.

Abstract: A table for a bowling establishment or center having a size and shape for use by patrons during bowling and being positioned relative the lane approach section and the ball return rack to provide space for scoring, eating food, drinking beverages, and allowing ease of access for bowling.

Abstract: A bowling game variation of the game of bingo bowling is provided which allows for a bowling game wherein the bowlers can eliminate the “race” element of the game, and instead, play a bingo bowling game with scoring points being awarded. According to the invention, the bowler is given a set of shot or frame outcomes to achieve, and is awarded points based on the completion of the shot or frame outcomes within a pre-set time period or within a pre-set number of frames. Scoring for the card can be accomplished using a computer based system. This system allows for a wider variety of games to be played by a bowler.

Abstract: A unique pit board is designed for bowling alleys of the type having a pit conveyor assembly with a shaker mechanism to convey downed pins to an associated pinsetter, and comprises top and bottom shell members constructed from a synthetic resin material. The top shell member has a formed upper surface which is inclined downwardly toward a marginal portion to convey downed pins to an adjacent pinsetter. The bottom shell member has formed reinforcing ribs to rigidify the same. The top and bottom shell members are interconnected in an overlying relationship to provide a very rigid, lightweight construction. A mounting member connects the pit board directly to the shaker mechanism without any intermediate frame.

Abstract: A caloric value calculation device of calculating a caloric value consumed by delivering a material body. A caloric value calculation device wherein a bowler calculates a consumed caloric value by delivering a bowl includes a personal information access unit for accessing personal information of the bowler; a bowl information access unit for accessing information of delivering the bowl by the bowler; a calorie calculation unit for calculating the caloric value consumed by the bowler based on the personal information and bowler information; and an output unit for outputting the caloric value calculated by the calorie calculation unit.

Abstract: A bowling automatic scoring system so far did not have means for displaying an absent bowler, did not have means for calculating absent bowler's score, did not have means for comparing absent bowler's score, nor did not have means for judgment and display of absent bowler's win and loss, for a bowling automatic scoring system so far was to calculate score based on results of bowling identifying the pins fallen by a ball on each lane. Therefore it was impossible to bowl general match play or “frame by frame” match game alone when a bowler could not find other bowlers, for a bowling automatic scoring system so far did not have means for providing an opposition for a single bowler.