EP3024557B1 - Covering structure and conversion system for bowling centers - Google Patents
Covering structure and conversion system for bowling centers Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3024557B1 EP3024557B1 EP14829587.6A EP14829587A EP3024557B1 EP 3024557 B1 EP3024557 B1 EP 3024557B1 EP 14829587 A EP14829587 A EP 14829587A EP 3024557 B1 EP3024557 B1 EP 3024557B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- covering
- bowling
- bowling lane
- conversion system
- fencing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 title claims description 22
- 230000000873 masking effect Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004509 smoke generator Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 8
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 3
- 241000531908 Aramides Species 0.000 description 2
- 229920003235 aromatic polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009408 flooring Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63D—BOWLING GAMES, e.g. SKITTLES, BOCCE OR BOWLS; INSTALLATIONS THEREFOR; BAGATELLE OR SIMILAR GAMES; BILLIARDS
- A63D1/00—Installations for bowling games, e.g. bowling-alleys or bocce courts
- A63D1/04—Form or material of the surface; Pin-stands integral with the surface
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63D—BOWLING GAMES, e.g. SKITTLES, BOCCE OR BOWLS; INSTALLATIONS THEREFOR; BAGATELLE OR SIMILAR GAMES; BILLIARDS
- A63D1/00—Installations for bowling games, e.g. bowling-alleys or bocce courts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63D—BOWLING GAMES, e.g. SKITTLES, BOCCE OR BOWLS; INSTALLATIONS THEREFOR; BAGATELLE OR SIMILAR GAMES; BILLIARDS
- A63D5/00—Accessories for bowling-alleys or table alleys
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B5/00—Floors; Floor construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted therefor
- E04B5/43—Floor structures of extraordinary design; Features relating to the elastic stability; Floor structures specially designed for resting on columns only, e.g. mushroom floors
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F15/00—Flooring
- E04F15/02—Flooring or floor layers composed of a number of similar elements
- E04F15/02044—Separate elements for fastening to an underlayer
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H3/00—Buildings or groups of buildings for public or similar purposes; Institutions, e.g. infirmaries or prisons
- E04H3/10—Buildings or groups of buildings for public or similar purposes; Institutions, e.g. infirmaries or prisons for meetings, entertainments, or sports
- E04H3/14—Gymnasiums; Other sporting buildings
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63D—BOWLING GAMES, e.g. SKITTLES, BOCCE OR BOWLS; INSTALLATIONS THEREFOR; BAGATELLE OR SIMILAR GAMES; BILLIARDS
- A63D5/00—Accessories for bowling-alleys or table alleys
- A63D2005/003—Means for preventing the bowling ball to enter the gutter
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F2201/00—Joining sheets or plates or panels
- E04F2201/05—Separate connectors or inserts, e.g. pegs, pins, keys or strips
- E04F2201/0594—Hinge-like connectors
Definitions
- bowling is enjoyed by 95 million people in more than ninety countries worldwide. Thousands of bowling centers are built around the world. Bowling centers are built and decorated with elegant materials and they often offer additional services like cafes, restaurants, arcades, children's playrooms or the like for bowlers. Most typically bowling centers offer two to sixteen lanes but there are bowling centers having up to over one hundred bowling lanes.
- the lane width is around 42 inches i.e. around 1,06 meters, and the total lane length is around 75-80 feet i.e. around 23-24 meters.
- the area of one bowling lane is approximately 25m 2 , which means that, for example, in a four-lane bowling center the area of bowling lanes is at least 100m 2 .
- US 3,477,719 discloses a convertible bowling lane including movable cover means for closing troughs on a playing surface, the cover means having one position providing a planar surface in the plane of the playing surface, and another position exposing the troughs.
- a bowling lane conversion system for a bowling center comprising at least one bowling lane, wherein the bowling lane conversion system comprises at least one covering structure configured to be placed in the vicinity of the bowling lane, for example, longitudinally to the bowling lane for covering a gutter of the bowling lane in a covering position, wherein the covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet, and wherein in the covering position the covering sheet is arranged above the gutter so that said at least one covering structure and the bowling lane are configured to form a flat surface.
- Said at least one covering structure further has a fencing position, wherein in the fencing position the covering sheet is arranged to form fencing for a ball.
- the covering sheet is turnably fixed to a support structure of the gutter so that the covering sheet is turnable from the covering position to the fencing position.
- the covering sheet In the fencing position the covering sheet is arranged horizontally on a side of the gutter preventing the ball from slipping from the gutter.
- the covering sheet is liftable from the fencing position to the covering position.
- the covering sheet comprises an embedded light source, a visual effect generating apparatus, a sound effect generating apparatus, a smoke generator, a fan, a touch sensitive apparatus or a movement detector.
- the bowling lane conversion system comprises a carpet behind a masking wall of the bowling center, wherefrom the carpet is configured to be arranged on the covering structure and the bowling lane, when the covering structure is in the covering position.
- the covering sheet also at least partially covers a bowling ball return system of the bowling center.
- the covering structure further comprises a cover for a trough of a ball return system.
- the covering structure is arranged horizontally on the cover in the fencing position.
- the bowling lane comprises a rest for the covering sheet.
- the rest comprises a fixing structure for preventing sideward movement of the covering sheet.
- a bowling center requires a great deal of space.
- a single lane requires a footprint of about 44m 2 , including, in addition to the lane, two gutters, a ball return system and a pin setting apparatus. This does not include space for seating, party rooms, arcades, the concourse, kitchen, administrative areas, fire safety systems, and other building requirements.
- Bowling lanes are, in many cases, laid out in married pairs with each pair sharing a ball return track between the lanes. This way every other gutter pair is separated by the ball return track and every other only by the fencing structure.
- the bowling ball return system After a bowling ball has been rolled down the lane to strike pins, the bowling ball return system returns the ball to the approach area of the lane for repeated use i.e. the ball travels on a track of a bowling ball return system when being returned to the bowler.
- the ball return system may include lifting means leading the ball to the track which extends alongside the lane or between two lanes back to a bowling rack at the approach area.
- Conventionally in automated bowling systems the joint track is provided between two lanes and located below the horizontal level of the lanes i.e. the horizontal level of the lanes may be raised so that the bowling ball return system fits between lanes and possibly at least partly beneath the flooring level.
- the return track is set on the floor level or in the other embodiment to the bottom of a sunken trough also extending alongside a bowling lane/s longitudinally.
- the trough may be made of, for example, concrete or some other suitable material.
- the return track is usually made of steel pipes or plastic profile.
- another fencing on the sides of the return track to prevent ball from slipping out of the tracks.
- the present invention provides a covering method for bowling ball gutters and bowling ball return systems of bowling centers, wherein the covering method comprises a covering structure configured to be placed in the vicinity of a bowling lane, for example, longitudinally to the bowling lane for covering at least a gutter of the bowling lane in a covering position.
- the covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet that is suitable to be arranged, for example, by turning, sliding, and/or lifting, to a covering position from a fencing position. In the covering position, covering sheets are arranged horizontally above gutters so that the lane and the covering structure form an essentially uniform, planar and flat surface.
- covering sheets may be arranged horizontally one on the other above a ball return trough of a bowling ball return system or a space between gutters of two adjacent lanes so that the covering sheet or sheets form a pile acting as a barrier i.e. fencing for a ball.
- fencings prevent the ball from slipping to the adjacent lane or a ball return system.
- the present invention further provides a bowling lane conversion system for bowling centers.
- the bowling lane conversion system it is possible to convert the bowling center, for example, to an entertainment hall, concert hall, dining room etc. Because, when all covering sheets are arranged horizontally for covering the gutters, the covered bowling lane area creates a uniform and flat surface.
- the bowling lane conversion system may further comprise a carpet or the like by which the covered bowling lane area is possible to be coated by. The carpet or the like protects the lanes from damages that may otherwise take place when people are using the covered bowling lane area for other purposes than bowling.
- the carpet for example, as a roll behind a masking wall that is located in front of the pin setter; the masking wall is what the player directly faces while bowling. From behind the masking wall the carpet is easy to roll into place. Also it is possible to store the carpet in any other place in vicinity of the lanes, for example, front, back sides or even beneath the lanes.
- the covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet suitable to be arranged to cover a gutter of a bowling lane or, when comprising two covering sheets, to cover gutters of adjacent bowling lanes, and wherein the covering sheet may also act as a fencing structure next to a gutter of a bowling lane or between gutters of adjacent bowling lanes.
- the covering structure may further comprise a carpet for coating the covering sheets and lanes.
- the covering sheet may be turnably fixed to a support structure of a bowling ball gutter or a bowling ball return system so that the covering sheet can be arranged from a covering position to a fencing position or vice versa (see fig.
- the covering sheet may be arranged above a space between two adjacent lanes or a cover of a sunken ball return trough of a bowling ball return system in the fencing position wherefrom it can be arranged by turning, sliding or lifting to the covering position above gutter (see fig. 4a and 4b ). Further, the covering sheet may be arranged to the trough of a bowling ball return system, for example in the trough, between the gutter and the trough or between gutter and the lane next to the trough, in a substantially vertical position wherefrom it can be arranged by turning and lifting to the covering position above gutter (see fig.
- the covering sheets of covering structures are suitable to be used for covering gutters so that the lane and the covering sheet(s), form an essentially planar surface. If the covering sheet or sheets are not wide enough for covering also the space between two adjacent lanes or a trough of the bowling ball return system while covering the gutter, then a separate cover for the trough can be arranged if it does not already exist like in fig. 4a and 4b .
- the invention can be a covering structure that comprises only one covering sheet, for example, for a single bowling lane or the covering structure can comprise two covering sheets between an adjacent pair of bowling lanes comprising a space between the lanes or a common bowling ball return track system between the lanes.
- Figures 1a-c show a covering structure 10 comprising two covering sheets 11 for gutters 12 of two adjacent lanes 13, 14.
- the covering structure 10 comprises two covering sheets 11 between an adjacent pair of bowling lanes 14.
- the covering sheets 11 are in a fencing position.
- the covering sheets 11 form fencings, barriers, so that a ball cannot slip from a gutter 12 to the adjacent lane 14 over a space 16 between the lanes 13, 14.
- the covering sheets 11 are in a state between the fencing position and a covering position i.e. the covering sheets 11 are turned towards the covering position.
- the covering sheets may also serve an additional purpose of "bumper" where the sheets 11 prevent the ball from dropping in the gutter - thus helping e.g. children bowl without gutter shots.
- the covering sheets 11 are in the covering position, wherein the covering sheets 11 are turned to a horizontal position above the gutters 12 so that the covering sheets 11 and lanes 14 form a planar surface.
- the covering sheets 11 are turnably fixed to a support structure 18 of a gutter 12 between the ends of the covering sheet 11.
- the covering sheets 11 are turnably fixed, for example, by a hinge 15 or any other suitable structure.
- the rest 17 may further comprise a fixing structure that prevents sideward movement of the covering sheet.
- the fixing structure may be, for example, plug-and-socket joint or tongue-and-groove joint between the rest and the covering sheet.
- Figures 2a-b show a covering structure 20 comprising two covering sheets 21 for gutters 22 of two adjacent lanes 24.
- the covering sheets 21 are turned toward the covering position shown in figure 2b .
- the covering sheets 21 of this embodiment are not wide enough to cover a ball return trough 23. Therefore, an additional cover 26 for the trough 23 is needed.
- the covering sheets 21 in the covering position above gutters 22, the cover 26 above the trough 23 and the lanes 24 form a uniform surface.
- the cover 26 may be lifted to its place after the covering sheets 21 are set to the covering position.
- Figure 3 shows a covering structure 30 comprising two covering sheets 31 for gutters 32 of two adjacent lanes 34.
- the covering structure 30 comprises two covering sheets 31 between an adjacent pair of bowling lanes 34 comprising a common bowling ball return system between the lanes 34.
- the covering sheets 31 are embedded in a substantially vertical position to a trough 33 in a fencing position. From the fencing position the covering sheets 31 can be arranged, for example, by lifting and turning to the covering position above gutters 32 and the trough 33.
- the covering sheets 31 in this embodiment need a separate cap above covering sheets 31 for preventing a ball 36 from slipping to the trough 33 in the fencing position.
- covering sheets 31 are only partly embedded in the trough 33, in which case a separate cap is not necessarily needed.
- the return track 35 is set to the bottom of the trough 35 of the bowling ball return system.
- the covering sheets 31 have an additional function as side guards, fencings, to return tracks 35.
- the turning/movement mechanism of the covering sheet may also include rails, linkages, one or several hinges, brackets, slides or other means of enabling movement between different positions.
- a pivoting axle may locate in the bottom part of a support structure 37. In the fencing position the pivoting axle is first lifted to upper end of the same support structure through e.g. a slot arranged in both ends of the hinge/pivoting axle and then the covering sheet can be turned to the horizontal covering position.
- Figures 4a-b show a covering structure 40 comprising two covering sheets 41a, b for gutters 42 of two adjacent lanes 44 according to an embodiment of the invention.
- the covering sheets 41a, b are arranged one on the other on a cover 41c of a sunken trough 43 i.e. as a pile in the fencing position.
- the covering sheets 41a, b are on the cover 41c, they form a fencing for preventing a ball 45 from slipping to the trough 43 in the fencing position.
- the covering sheets 41a, b can be arranged, for example, by turning, lifting, sliding, or folding to the covering position above gutters 42 so that the first covering sheet 41a is arranged above the first gutter 42 and the second covering sheet 41b is arranged above the second gutter 42.
- the cover 41c of the trough 43 may remain in its place.
- the connecting structure may be, for example, a hinge or corresponding structure allowing, for example, turning and folding. It is also possible to arrange a separate heightening structure 46 above the covering sheet 41a in the fencing position. It is also possible that there is no cover 41c of the trough 43 between the lanes 24. There could only be a space 16 instead of the ball return trough 43 as in figure 1a-c .
- FIGS 5 a and b show a bowling center structure 50 according to an embodiment of the invention.
- a carpet roll 51 of a covering structure is arranged behind a masking wall 52 and in front of a pin setter structure 53 (pins not shown).
- the covered bowling lane area 54 creates a uniform and flat surface and from behind the masking 52 the carpet 51 is easy to roll into place on the lanes and covering sheets.
- the covered bowling lane area 54 that is coated by the carpet 51 or the like protects the lanes and covering structures from damages that may otherwise take place when people are using the bowling lane area for other purposes than bowling.
- Figure 6 shows a covering structure 60 comprising one covering sheet 61 for a gutter 64 of a single lane 62.
- the covering sheet 61 it is possible to plain the lane 62, covering sheet 61, and the floor 63 in to same level (the floor 63 is optional in this embodiment). It is also possible, that there exists a ball return system next to the gutter 64.
- covering structure that comprises two covering sheets. It is also possible to use covering sheets of some other embodiment of this invention as a single covering sheet.
- Figures 7a-c show covering structure 70 comprising two covering sheets 71 for gutters 72 of two adjacent lanes 74.
- the covering structure comprises two covering sheets 71 between an adjacent pair of bowling lanes 74.
- the covering sheets 71 are in the fencing position.
- the covering sheets 71 form fencing, barriers, so that a ball cannot slip from a gutter 72 to the covering structure 70, for example, to a trough 73.
- the covering sheets 71 are in a state between the fencing position and a covering position i.e. the covering sheets 71 are turned towards the covering position.
- the covering sheets may also serve an additional purpose of "bumper" where the sheets 71 prevent the ball from dropping in the gutter 72.
- the covering sheets 71 are in the covering position, wherein the covering sheets 71 are turned to a horizontal position above the gutters 72 so that the covering sheets 71 and lanes 74 form a planar surface.
- the covering sheets 71 are turnably fixed to a support structure of the gutter 72 between the ends of the covering sheet 71 so that one part of the covering sheet 71 covers the gutter and the other part half of the trough 73 i.e.
- the first half of the width of the trough 73 is covered by the first covering sheet 71 and the second half of the width of the trough 73 is covered by the second covering sheet 71.
- the covering sheets 71 are turnably fixed, for example, by a hinge 75 or any other suitable structure. In these embodiments, covering sheets 71 are so wide that an additional cover for the trough 73 is not needed.
- the covering structure is a series of covering strips typically perpendicular to the lane and joint with hinge or some other form of bending structure to form a continuous cover that can be rolled in a similar manner than the carpet e.g. behind the masking wall.
- This embodiment is shown in figure 8 .
- the strips are marked by number 80.
- Figure 9 shows a covering structure 90 comprising two covering sheets 91.
- the covering sheets 91 have a two-part structure, wherein parts are connected together by a hinge structure 92.
- a covering sheet of a covering structure can be arranged vertically between a gutter and a bowling lane, when the covering structure is not in a covering position.
- the covering sheet or sheets are so wide that they cover a trough of a bowling ball return system, they at the same at least partially cover the bowling ball return system.
- the covering sheet may be made of aluminum or wooden plate, composite structure like glass-, carbon- or aramide fibre composite, honeycomb cored structure or any other suitable material.
- covering structures are arranged as a pile shown in figure 4a , it may be advantageous to use plates made of wood or e.g. light cored composite panels because the structures are so thick that they form an adequate fencing.
- aluminum or composite covering sheets are light to handle.
- plastic profiles or other fence heightening structure may be used above covering sheets in the fencing position.
- covering sheets may prevent balls from slipping from gutter or from return tracks depending on the placement of covering sheets in the fencing position.
- a covering sheet according to this invention may be uniform and may longitudinally cover the whole gutter. Additionally, one covering sheet can be formed from one or more pieces that together form/s a covering sheet.
- the covering sheets 91 have a two-part structure, wherein parts are connected together by a hinge structure 92. In this embodiment, there is not a space or a ball returning system between the covering sheets 91.
- a covering sheet of a covering structure can be arranged vertically between a gutter and a bowling lane, when the covering structure is not in a covering position.
- the covering sheet or sheets are so wide that they cover a trough of a bowling ball return system, they at the same at least partially covers the bowling ball return system.
- the covering sheet may be made of aluminum or wooden plate, composite structure like glass-, carbon- or aramide fibre composite, honeycomb cored structure or any other suitable material.
- covering structures are arranges as a pile shown in figure 4a , it may be advantageous to use plates made of wood or e.g. light cored composite panels because the structures are so thick that the form an adequate fencing.
- aluminum or composite covering sheets are light to handle.
- plastic profiles or other fence heightening structure may be used above covering sheets in the fencing position.
- covering sheets may prevent balls from slipping from gutter or from return tracks depending on the placement of covering sheets in the fencing position.
- a covering sheet according to this invention may be uniform and may longitudinally cover the whole gutter. Additionally, one covering sheet can be formed from one or more pieces that together forms a covering sheet.
- Covering structures according to this invention may also be used as an installation place for bowling lane illuminating systems and it is advantageous to embed various light sources (e.g. LEDs or lasers) or movement detecting apparatus, detectors, visual or sound effect generating apparatus or similar to these structures as they are installed very close to the lane and thus provide a good place for any lane illuminating or ball movements detecting system.
- various light sources e.g. LEDs or lasers
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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Description
- Today, bowling is enjoyed by 95 million people in more than ninety countries worldwide. Thousands of bowling centers are built around the world. Bowling centers are built and decorated with elegant materials and they often offer additional services like cafes, restaurants, arcades, children's playrooms or the like for bowlers. Most typically bowling centers offer two to sixteen lanes but there are bowling centers having up to over one hundred bowling lanes. The lane width is around 42 inches i.e. around 1,06 meters, and the total lane length is around 75-80 feet i.e. around 23-24 meters. Thus, the area of one bowling lane is approximately 25m2, which means that, for example, in a four-lane bowling center the area of bowling lanes is at least 100m2. When the area of gutters and the space between and next to the lanes is calculated, the total surface area of a four-lane bowling lane is around 160m2. In 12-lane bowling centers the corresponding area is almost 500m2. This requires large buildings, bowling centers, that are built and maintained with high investments but without an opportunity to use that bowling lane area for any other purpose. Especially in new type of entertainment centers or entertainment clubs there is a real need for simple and fast lane covering system to enable more efficient use of space, for example, as performance stage structures, dining halls, exhibition rooms etc.
- There exist structures that have been introduced for temporary flooring purposes, which structures are arranged to be drawn over a floor of a bowling lane area by using an existing pair of rails or they are arranged to be laid onto bowling lanes. In both cases, these structures are quite heavy and they raise the floor level essentially when these existing structures are arranged on top of the bowling lane area. Also the existing systems have certain limitations regarding the bowling center's measurements like the free height or the extra width needed for the system. Also in current systems the time needed for the conversion - especially for a larger area can be a big limitation for daily use.
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US 3,477,719 (A ) discloses a convertible bowling lane including movable cover means for closing troughs on a playing surface, the cover means having one position providing a planar surface in the plane of the playing surface, and another position exposing the troughs. - Now an improved covering structure for gutters of bowling lanes has been invented, by which the above problems are overcome. Various aspects of the invention include a bowling lane conversion system that is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim. Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.
- According to the invention, there is provided a bowling lane conversion system for a bowling center comprising at least one bowling lane, wherein the bowling lane conversion system comprises at least one covering structure configured to be placed in the vicinity of the bowling lane, for example, longitudinally to the bowling lane for covering a gutter of the bowling lane in a covering position, wherein the covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet, and wherein in the covering position the covering sheet is arranged above the gutter so that said at least one covering structure and the bowling lane are configured to form a flat surface.
- Said at least one covering structure further has a fencing position, wherein in the fencing position the covering sheet is arranged to form fencing for a ball. According to an embodiment, the covering sheet is turnably fixed to a support structure of the gutter so that the covering sheet is turnable from the covering position to the fencing position. In the fencing position the covering sheet is arranged horizontally on a side of the gutter preventing the ball from slipping from the gutter. According to an embodiment, the covering sheet is liftable from the fencing position to the covering position. According to an embodiment, the covering sheet comprises an embedded light source, a visual effect generating apparatus, a sound effect generating apparatus, a smoke generator, a fan, a touch sensitive apparatus or a movement detector. According to an embodiment, the bowling lane conversion system comprises a carpet behind a masking wall of the bowling center, wherefrom the carpet is configured to be arranged on the covering structure and the bowling lane, when the covering structure is in the covering position. According to an embodiment, the covering sheet also at least partially covers a bowling ball return system of the bowling center. According to an embodiment, the covering structure further comprises a cover for a trough of a ball return system. According to an embodiment, the covering structure is arranged horizontally on the cover in the fencing position. According to an embodiment, the bowling lane comprises a rest for the covering sheet. According to an embodiment, the rest comprises a fixing structure for preventing sideward movement of the covering sheet.
- In the following, various embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the appended drawings, in which
- Fig. 1a-c
- show a covering structure comprising two covering sheets;
- Fig. 2a-b
-
Figure 2a-b show a covering structure comprising two covering sheets; - Fig. 3
- shows a covering structure comprising two covering sheets;
- Fig. 4a-b
- show a covering structure comprising two covering sheets according to an embodiment of the invention;
- Fig. 5a-b
- show a structure of a bowling lane area of a bowling center according to an embodiment of the invention;
- Fig. 6
- shows a covering structure comprising one covering sheet for a single lane;
- Fig. 7a-c
- show a covering structure comprising two covering sheets;
- Fig. 8
- shows a covering structure comprising a series of covering strips according to an embodiment of the invention; and
- Fig. 9
- shows a covering structure comprising two covering sheets.
- In the following, several embodiments of the invention will be described in the context of a covering structure for bowling centers. A bowling center requires a great deal of space. A single lane requires a footprint of about 44m2, including, in addition to the lane, two gutters, a ball return system and a pin setting apparatus. This does not include space for seating, party rooms, arcades, the concourse, kitchen, administrative areas, fire safety systems, and other building requirements. Bowling lanes are, in many cases, laid out in married pairs with each pair sharing a ball return track between the lanes. This way every other gutter pair is separated by the ball return track and every other only by the fencing structure.
- After a bowling ball has been rolled down the lane to strike pins, the bowling ball return system returns the ball to the approach area of the lane for repeated use i.e. the ball travels on a track of a bowling ball return system when being returned to the bowler. The ball return system may include lifting means leading the ball to the track which extends alongside the lane or between two lanes back to a bowling rack at the approach area. Conventionally in automated bowling systems the joint track is provided between two lanes and located below the horizontal level of the lanes i.e. the horizontal level of the lanes may be raised so that the bowling ball return system fits between lanes and possibly at least partly beneath the flooring level. The return track is set on the floor level or in the other embodiment to the bottom of a sunken trough also extending alongside a bowling lane/s longitudinally. The trough may be made of, for example, concrete or some other suitable material. The return track is usually made of steel pipes or plastic profile. Typically, there is one common bowling ball return system and thus also one common trough for two adjacent lanes so that the trough with the return track is between the adjacent gutters of two adjacent lanes. In addition, there may exist a fencing between gutters, so that the ball cannot slip to the ball return system or to the adjacent gutter or lane. Also there may exist another fencing on the sides of the return track to prevent ball from slipping out of the tracks.
- The present invention provides a covering method for bowling ball gutters and bowling ball return systems of bowling centers, wherein the covering method comprises a covering structure configured to be placed in the vicinity of a bowling lane, for example, longitudinally to the bowling lane for covering at least a gutter of the bowling lane in a covering position. The covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet that is suitable to be arranged, for example, by turning, sliding, and/or lifting, to a covering position from a fencing position. In the covering position, covering sheets are arranged horizontally above gutters so that the lane and the covering structure form an essentially uniform, planar and flat surface. In the fencing position, covering sheets may be arranged horizontally one on the other above a ball return trough of a bowling ball return system or a space between gutters of two adjacent lanes so that the covering sheet or sheets form a pile acting as a barrier i.e. fencing for a ball. This way, fencings prevent the ball from slipping to the adjacent lane or a ball return system.
- The present invention further provides a bowling lane conversion system for bowling centers. By the bowling lane conversion system it is possible to convert the bowling center, for example, to an entertainment hall, concert hall, dining room etc. Because, when all covering sheets are arranged horizontally for covering the gutters, the covered bowling lane area creates a uniform and flat surface. In addition, the bowling lane conversion system may further comprise a carpet or the like by which the covered bowling lane area is possible to be coated by. The carpet or the like protects the lanes from damages that may otherwise take place when people are using the covered bowling lane area for other purposes than bowling. It is possible to store the carpet, for example, as a roll behind a masking wall that is located in front of the pin setter; the masking wall is what the player directly faces while bowling. From behind the masking wall the carpet is easy to roll into place. Also it is possible to store the carpet in any other place in vicinity of the lanes, for example, front, back sides or even beneath the lanes.
- In the following, several embodiments will be described in the context of a covering structure for a bowling lane area, wherein the covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet suitable to be arranged to cover a gutter of a bowling lane or, when comprising two covering sheets, to cover gutters of adjacent bowling lanes, and wherein the covering sheet may also act as a fencing structure next to a gutter of a bowling lane or between gutters of adjacent bowling lanes. The covering structure may further comprise a carpet for coating the covering sheets and lanes. The covering sheet may be turnably fixed to a support structure of a bowling ball gutter or a bowling ball return system so that the covering sheet can be arranged from a covering position to a fencing position or vice versa (see
fig. 1a, 1b, 1c ,2a, 2b ,3 ,7a, 7b ,7c ,9 ). In addition, the covering sheet may be arranged above a space between two adjacent lanes or a cover of a sunken ball return trough of a bowling ball return system in the fencing position wherefrom it can be arranged by turning, sliding or lifting to the covering position above gutter (seefig. 4a and 4b ). Further, the covering sheet may be arranged to the trough of a bowling ball return system, for example in the trough, between the gutter and the trough or between gutter and the lane next to the trough, in a substantially vertical position wherefrom it can be arranged by turning and lifting to the covering position above gutter (seefig. 3 ). The covering sheets of covering structures are suitable to be used for covering gutters so that the lane and the covering sheet(s), form an essentially planar surface. If the covering sheet or sheets are not wide enough for covering also the space between two adjacent lanes or a trough of the bowling ball return system while covering the gutter, then a separate cover for the trough can be arranged if it does not already exist like infig. 4a and 4b . - An example embodiment of the present invention and its potential advantages are understood by referring to
figures 1 through 9 of the drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the invention can be a covering structure that comprises only one covering sheet, for example, for a single bowling lane or the covering structure can comprise two covering sheets between an adjacent pair of bowling lanes comprising a space between the lanes or a common bowling ball return track system between the lanes. -
Figures 1a-c show a coveringstructure 10 comprising two coveringsheets 11 forgutters 12 of twoadjacent lanes structure 10 comprises two coveringsheets 11 between an adjacent pair ofbowling lanes 14. Infigure 1a the coveringsheets 11 are in a fencing position. As can be seen fromfigure 1a , the coveringsheets 11 form fencings, barriers, so that a ball cannot slip from agutter 12 to theadjacent lane 14 over aspace 16 between thelanes figure 1b the coveringsheets 11 are in a state between the fencing position and a covering position i.e. the coveringsheets 11 are turned towards the covering position. In this transitional state the covering sheets may also serve an additional purpose of "bumper" where thesheets 11 prevent the ball from dropping in the gutter - thus helping e.g. children bowl without gutter shots. Infigure 1c the coveringsheets 11 are in the covering position, wherein the coveringsheets 11 are turned to a horizontal position above thegutters 12 so that the coveringsheets 11 andlanes 14 form a planar surface. The coveringsheets 11 are turnably fixed to asupport structure 18 of agutter 12 between the ends of the coveringsheet 11. The coveringsheets 11 are turnably fixed, for example, by ahinge 15 or any other suitable structure. In addition, there is a rest, a support, 17 in a side of abowling lane 13, for example, in a sheet of the bowling lane or in a lane bed, for supportingcovering sheets 11 abovegutters 12 in the covering position so that a flat surface can be formed and stored. The rest 17 may further comprise a fixing structure that prevents sideward movement of the covering sheet. The fixing structure may be, for example, plug-and-socket joint or tongue-and-groove joint between the rest and the covering sheet. -
Figures 2a-b show a coveringstructure 20 comprising two coveringsheets 21 forgutters 22 of twoadjacent lanes 24. Infigure 2a the coveringsheets 21 are turned toward the covering position shown infigure 2b . As can be seen fromfigure 2b , the coveringsheets 21 of this embodiment are not wide enough to cover aball return trough 23. Therefore, anadditional cover 26 for thetrough 23 is needed. The coveringsheets 21 in the covering position abovegutters 22, thecover 26 above thetrough 23 and thelanes 24 form a uniform surface. Thecover 26 may be lifted to its place after thecovering sheets 21 are set to the covering position. It is also possible that there is noball return trough 23 between thelanes 24. There could only be aspace 16 instead of theball return trough 23 as infigure 1a-c . This is possible in case the ball return is arranged on top side of the lanes, in which case the return tracks are on lane level or above it. -
Figure 3 shows a coveringstructure 30 comprising two coveringsheets 31 forgutters 32 of twoadjacent lanes 34. In this embodiment, the coveringstructure 30 comprises two coveringsheets 31 between an adjacent pair ofbowling lanes 34 comprising a common bowling ball return system between thelanes 34. Infigure 3 thecovering sheets 31 are embedded in a substantially vertical position to atrough 33 in a fencing position. From the fencing position the coveringsheets 31 can be arranged, for example, by lifting and turning to the covering position abovegutters 32 and thetrough 33. As can be seen fromfigure 3 , the coveringsheets 31 in this embodiment need a separate cap above coveringsheets 31 for preventing aball 36 from slipping to thetrough 33 in the fencing position. However, it is also possible that coveringsheets 31 are only partly embedded in thetrough 33, in which case a separate cap is not necessarily needed. Thereturn track 35 is set to the bottom of thetrough 35 of the bowling ball return system. Also in this embodiment the coveringsheets 31 have an additional function as side guards, fencings, to return tracks 35. - The turning/movement mechanism of the covering sheet may also include rails, linkages, one or several hinges, brackets, slides or other means of enabling movement between different positions. For example, in
figure 3 in the fencing position, a pivoting axle may locate in the bottom part of asupport structure 37. In the fencing position the pivoting axle is first lifted to upper end of the same support structure through e.g. a slot arranged in both ends of the hinge/pivoting axle and then the covering sheet can be turned to the horizontal covering position. -
Figures 4a-b show a coveringstructure 40 comprising two coveringsheets 41a, b forgutters 42 of twoadjacent lanes 44 according to an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, thecovering sheets 41a, b are arranged one on the other on acover 41c of asunken trough 43 i.e. as a pile in the fencing position. When thecovering sheets 41a, b are on thecover 41c, they form a fencing for preventing aball 45 from slipping to thetrough 43 in the fencing position. From the fencing position thecovering sheets 41a, b can be arranged, for example, by turning, lifting, sliding, or folding to the covering position abovegutters 42 so that thefirst covering sheet 41a is arranged above thefirst gutter 42 and thesecond covering sheet 41b is arranged above thesecond gutter 42. Thecover 41c of thetrough 43 may remain in its place. There may be a connecting structure/s between coveringsheets 41a, coveringsheets 41b and/orcover 41c, that connect all or part of these together. The connecting structure may be, for example, a hinge or corresponding structure allowing, for example, turning and folding. It is also possible to arrange a separate heighteningstructure 46 above thecovering sheet 41a in the fencing position. It is also possible that there is nocover 41c of thetrough 43 between thelanes 24. There could only be aspace 16 instead of theball return trough 43 as infigure 1a-c . - In a case where there is only one gutter, there is also only one covering sheet that is on the cover of a trough in the fencing position and above the gutter in the covering position.
-
Figures 5 a and b show abowling center structure 50 according to an embodiment of the invention. Acarpet roll 51 of a covering structure is arranged behind a maskingwall 52 and in front of a pin setter structure 53 (pins not shown). When the covering sheets are arranged horizontally on the lanes for covering the gutters, the coveredbowling lane area 54 creates a uniform and flat surface and from behind the masking 52 thecarpet 51 is easy to roll into place on the lanes and covering sheets. The coveredbowling lane area 54 that is coated by thecarpet 51 or the like protects the lanes and covering structures from damages that may otherwise take place when people are using the bowling lane area for other purposes than bowling. -
Figure 6 shows a coveringstructure 60 comprising one coveringsheet 61 for agutter 64 of asingle lane 62. By the coveringsheet 61 it is possible to plain thelane 62, coveringsheet 61, and thefloor 63 in to same level (thefloor 63 is optional in this embodiment). It is also possible, that there exists a ball return system next to thegutter 64. - When there is no adjacent lane and the lane has its own bowling ball return system, there may not be need for a covering structure that comprises two covering sheets. It is also possible to use covering sheets of some other embodiment of this invention as a single covering sheet.
-
Figures 7a-c show covering structure 70 comprising two coveringsheets 71 forgutters 72 of twoadjacent lanes 74. In these embodiments, the covering structure comprises two coveringsheets 71 between an adjacent pair ofbowling lanes 74. Infigure 7a the coveringsheets 71 are in the fencing position. As can be seen fromfigure 7a , the coveringsheets 71 form fencing, barriers, so that a ball cannot slip from agutter 72 to the coveringstructure 70, for example, to atrough 73. Infigure 7b the coveringsheets 71 are in a state between the fencing position and a covering position i.e. the coveringsheets 71 are turned towards the covering position. Also in this embodiment, in transitional state the covering sheets may also serve an additional purpose of "bumper" where thesheets 71 prevent the ball from dropping in thegutter 72. Infigure 7c the coveringsheets 71 are in the covering position, wherein the coveringsheets 71 are turned to a horizontal position above thegutters 72 so that the coveringsheets 71 andlanes 74 form a planar surface. The coveringsheets 71 are turnably fixed to a support structure of thegutter 72 between the ends of the coveringsheet 71 so that one part of the coveringsheet 71 covers the gutter and the other part half of thetrough 73 i.e. the first half of the width of thetrough 73 is covered by thefirst covering sheet 71 and the second half of the width of thetrough 73 is covered by thesecond covering sheet 71. The coveringsheets 71 are turnably fixed, for example, by ahinge 75 or any other suitable structure. In these embodiments, coveringsheets 71 are so wide that an additional cover for thetrough 73 is not needed. - In another embodiment the covering structure is a series of covering strips typically perpendicular to the lane and joint with hinge or some other form of bending structure to form a continuous cover that can be rolled in a similar manner than the carpet e.g. behind the masking wall. This embodiment is shown in
figure 8 . The strips are marked bynumber 80. -
Figure 9 shows a coveringstructure 90 comprising two coveringsheets 91. In this embodiment, the coveringsheets 91 have a two-part structure, wherein parts are connected together by ahinge structure 92. In this embodiment, there is not a space or a ball returning system between the coveringsheets 91. - There may also be an embodiment, where a covering sheet of a covering structure can be arranged vertically between a gutter and a bowling lane, when the covering structure is not in a covering position.
- It should be noted that when the covering sheet or sheets are so wide that they cover a trough of a bowling ball return system, they at the same at least partially cover the bowling ball return system.
- The covering sheet may be made of aluminum or wooden plate, composite structure like glass-, carbon- or aramide fibre composite, honeycomb cored structure or any other suitable material. When covering structures are arranged as a pile shown in
figure 4a , it may be advantageous to use plates made of wood or e.g. light cored composite panels because the structures are so thick that they form an adequate fencing. Whereas, aluminum or composite covering sheets are light to handle. - Also it is advantageous to store possible plastic profiles or other fence heightening structure inside the gutters under the covering sheets when in covering position. The plastic profiles or other fence heightening structure may be used above covering sheets in the fencing position.
- It should be noted, that in the fencing position covering sheets may prevent balls from slipping from gutter or from return tracks depending on the placement of covering sheets in the fencing position.
- A covering sheet according to this invention may be uniform and may longitudinally cover the whole gutter. Additionally, one covering sheet can be formed from one or more pieces that together form/s a covering sheet.
- the covering
sheets 91 have a two-part structure, wherein parts are connected together by ahinge structure 92. In this embodiment, there is not a space or a ball returning system between the coveringsheets 91. - There may also be an embodiment, where a covering sheet of a covering structure can be arranged vertically between a gutter and a bowling lane, when the covering structure is not in a covering position.
- It should be noted that when the covering sheet or sheets are so wide that they cover a trough of a bowling ball return system, they at the same at least partially covers the bowling ball return system.
- The covering sheet may be made of aluminum or wooden plate, composite structure like glass-, carbon- or aramide fibre composite, honeycomb cored structure or any other suitable material. When covering structures are arranges as a pile shown in
figure 4a , it may be advantageous to use plates made of wood or e.g. light cored composite panels because the structures are so thick that the form an adequate fencing. Whereas, aluminum or composite covering sheets are light to handle. - Also it is advantageous to store possible plastic profiles or other fence heightening structure inside the gutters under the covering sheets when in covering position. The plastic profiles or other fence heightening structure may be used above covering sheets in the fencing position.
- It should be notes, that in the fencing position covering sheets may prevent balls from slipping from gutter or from return tracks depending on the placement of covering sheets in the fencing position.
- A covering sheet according to this invention may be uniform and may longitudinally cover the whole gutter. Additionally, one covering sheet can be formed from one or more pieces that together forms a covering sheet.
- Covering structures according to this invention may also be used as an installation place for bowling lane illuminating systems and it is advantageous to embed various light sources (e.g. LEDs or lasers) or movement detecting apparatus, detectors, visual or sound effect generating apparatus or similar to these structures as they are installed very close to the lane and thus provide a good place for any lane illuminating or ball movements detecting system.
- It is obvious that the present invention is not limited solely to the above-presented embodiments, but it can be modified within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (11)
- A bowling lane conversion system for a bowling center comprising at least one bowling lane (13,14,24,34,44,62,74), wherein the bowling lane conversion system comprises at least one covering structure (10,20,30,40,60,70,90) configured to be placed in the vicinity of the bowling lane for covering a gutter of the bowling lane in a covering position, wherein the covering structure comprises at least one covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91), and wherein in the covering position the covering sheet is arranged above the gutter so that said at least one covering structure and the bowling lane are configured to form a flat surface, wherein said at least one covering structure further has a fencing position, wherein in the fencing position the covering sheet is arranged to form a fencing for a ball (36,45), characterized in that in the fencing position the covering sheet is arranged horizontally on a side of the gutter preventing the ball from slipping from the gutter.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to claim 1, wherein the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91) is turnably fixed to a support structure of the gutter (12,22,32,42,64,72) so that the covering sheet is turnable from the covering position to the fencing position.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to claim 1, wherein the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91) is liftable from the fencing position to the covering position.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to any of the claims 1-3, wherein the covering structure (10,20,30,40,60,70,90) further has a transitional state between the covering position and the fencing position, wherein in the transitional state the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91) is arranged to form a bumper preventing balls from dropping into the gutter (12,22,32,42,64,72).
- A bowling lane conversion system according to any of the claims 1-4, wherein the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91) comprises an embedded light source, a visual effect generating apparatus, a sound effect generating apparatus, a smoke generator, a fan, a touch sensitive apparatus or a movement detector.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to any of the claims 1-5, wherein the bowling lane conversion system comprises a carpet behind a masking wall (52) of the bowling center, wherefrom the carpet is configured to be arranged on the covering structure (10,20,30,40,60,70,90) and the bowling lane (13,14,24,34,44,62,74), when the covering structure is in the covering position.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to any of the claims 1-6, wherein the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91) also at least partially covers a bowling ball return system of the bowling center.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to any of the claims 1-7, wherein the covering structure (10,20,30,40,60,70,90) further comprises a cover (26,41c) for a trough (23,33,43,73) of a ball return system.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to claim 8, wherein the covering structure (10,20,30,40,60,70,90) is arranged horizontally on the cover in the fencing position.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to any of the claims 1-9, wherein the bowling lane (13,14,24,34,44,62,74) comprises a rest (17) for the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91) for supporting the covering sheet in the covering position.
- A bowling lane conversion system according to claim 10, wherein the rest (17) comprises a fixing structure for preventing sideward movement of the covering sheet (11,21,31,41a,41b,61,71,91).
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
FI20135795A FI124878B (en) | 2013-07-26 | 2013-07-26 | Cover structure and bowling alley conversion system for bowling alley |
PCT/FI2014/050585 WO2015011340A1 (en) | 2013-07-26 | 2014-07-18 | Covering structure and conversion system for bowling centers |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3024557A1 EP3024557A1 (en) | 2016-06-01 |
EP3024557A4 EP3024557A4 (en) | 2017-03-15 |
EP3024557B1 true EP3024557B1 (en) | 2019-09-04 |
Family
ID=52392783
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP14829587.6A Active EP3024557B1 (en) | 2013-07-26 | 2014-07-18 | Covering structure and conversion system for bowling centers |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP3024557B1 (en) |
FI (1) | FI124878B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015011340A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3477719A (en) | 1967-06-06 | 1969-11-11 | Brunswick Corp | Convertible bowling lane |
US3761086A (en) * | 1972-05-31 | 1973-09-25 | R Miller | Bowling ball return track system |
US4801143A (en) * | 1986-11-04 | 1989-01-31 | Will Heddon | Bowling lane construction |
AU636253B2 (en) * | 1990-11-02 | 1993-04-22 | Keynode Corporation Pty. Ltd. | Adjuncts for bowling alleys |
US7137900B1 (en) * | 2005-06-03 | 2006-11-21 | Van Dyke Peter F | Apparatus and method for practicing golf ball putting |
FI20116141L (en) * | 2011-11-16 | 2013-05-17 | System 300 Group Oy | Temporary floor structure |
-
2013
- 2013-07-26 FI FI20135795A patent/FI124878B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2014
- 2014-07-18 EP EP14829587.6A patent/EP3024557B1/en active Active
- 2014-07-18 WO PCT/FI2014/050585 patent/WO2015011340A1/en active Application Filing
Non-Patent Citations (1)
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None * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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FI20135795A (en) | 2015-01-27 |
FI124878B (en) | 2015-03-13 |
EP3024557A1 (en) | 2016-06-01 |
WO2015011340A1 (en) | 2015-01-29 |
EP3024557A4 (en) | 2017-03-15 |
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