Abstract: The invention relates to a pin-setting apparatus for bowling or skittle lanes (3?-6?) comprising a plurality of pins (3-6), wherein each pin is connected to an associated string (3?-6?). The apparatus comprises for each pin (3-6) a rotatable pulley (13-16) arranged to roll up and/or off the associated string (3?-6?) and detecting means arranged to detect a movement of the pin (3-6) when hit directly or indirectly by a bowling ball, and activating means arranged to rotate the pulley (13-16) so as to roll off the string (3?-6?) as soon as the pin (3-6) gets hit. This way, the pin (3-6) will not be obstructed by possible tension in the string (3?-6?) and will move as if it was not attached at all.

Abstract: A novel small-scale replica bowling game is disclosed. The game is a realistic simulation of the game of either 5 pin or 10 pin bowling on an approximate 1:6 scale. The game comprises a player operated pin reset mechanism which is operable from the player end of the game as well as a gravity operated ball return mechanism.

Abstract: An automatic pin setter includes a pinsetting deck structure movable toward and away from a pin supporting surface on a bowling lane for controlling setting of bowling pins on the lane supporting surface. A rake sweeps pins from the lanes. A rake up switch senses if the rake is in a raised position. A drive system is operatively coupled to the deck structure and rake and includes a cycle solenoid, the drive system for controlling an automatic pin setter cycle in response to energization of the solenoid. The pinsetter cycle controls movement of the deck structure and the rake to selectively remove or set pins on the lane. A pit cushion is positioned at a rear end of the lane and is linked to the rake to lower the rake from the raised position when a thrown ball strikes the pit cushion. A control comprises a ball sensor mounted on the lane before the pit cushion for sensing presence of a ball on the lane and developing an electrical trigger signal in response thereto.