US20060019762A1 - Panel structure for a bowling lane - Google Patents
Panel structure for a bowling lane Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060019762A1 US20060019762A1 US10/898,254 US89825404A US2006019762A1 US 20060019762 A1 US20060019762 A1 US 20060019762A1 US 89825404 A US89825404 A US 89825404A US 2006019762 A1 US2006019762 A1 US 2006019762A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- lane
- head
- panel
- plug
- hole
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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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
Definitions
- This invention is directed to a bowling lane, and more particularly, to a panel structure for a bowling lane.
- Traditional bowling lanes are constructed of strips of hardwood fastened together to form a smooth, flat surface.
- paneled surfaces formed of a laminate structure have been used as a lane panel when refurbishing traditional bowling lanes and when installing new bowling lanes.
- the lane panel is typically attached to an underlayment that may include the original wooden bowling lane surface or, alternatively, some other wooden or metallic structure.
- the underlayment may provide support and may add stiffness to the lane panel.
- the lane panel should be attached to the underlayment in a manner that allows the bowling lane surface to maintain its flatness. Accordingly, during installation, the lane panel may require a number of adjustments to its position.
- the installation process may include attaching the lane panel to the underlayment, measuring the flatness of the lane panel, detaching the lane panel from the underlayment, shimming between the lane panel and underlayment, and repeating this process until the desired flatness is achieved.
- One known method for installing a lane panel includes forming a recess in the lane panel and driving a screw into the recess to the underlayment.
- the screw head pushes downward on the bottom of recess.
- such a system applies force in the downward direction only, against the bottom of the recess. Because the thickness of the panel is reduced at the bottom of the recess, the bottom of the recess may be weak and may fracture. In the event that additional adjustment of the lane panel is required, the force from the screw may be removed and re-applied, thereby increasing the risk of fracture. Repairing damage to the lane panel caused by fractured recesses can be time consuming and expensive.
- This invention is directed to a system for attaching the lane panel to the underlayment.
- an aspect of the invention includes a panel structure for a bowling lane.
- the panel structure may include a lane panel having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface forming a bowling surface of the bowling lane.
- An underlayment may be disposed below the lane panel.
- a tapered hole may extend from the top surface to the bottom surface of the lane panel. The area of the hole may be larger at the top surface than at the bottom surface.
- the panel structure may also include a fastener having a head and a securing portion. The head may be disposed in the tapered hole and may have a wall tapered at substantially the same angle as the tapered hole. The securing portion may extend from the head into the underlayment.
- the lane panel may be formed of a laminate structure, and the tapered hole may be a conical frustum.
- the head includes a recess formed therein.
- the recess may be configured to receive a tool, such as a hex socket wrench or a spanner wrench.
- a plug may be disposed within the tapered hole above the fastener.
- the plug may include an upper surface substantially flush with the top surface of the lane panel.
- the plug may also include a wall tapered at substantially the same angle as the tapered wall of the hole.
- the plug may include a projection configured to project into the recess in the head.
- the plug is formed of a generally fluid material, such as a liquid urethane.
- the plug and the head are attached to each other by a ball joint.
- the head of the fastener has a thickness less than thickness of the lane panel.
- an insert may be disposed in the underlayment.
- the insert may be configured to receive the securing portion of the fastener and may include threads.
- the head and the securing portion are integral.
- the head is configured to connect onto the securing portion.
- the securing portion may include a first section and a second section, with the first section being configured to attach to the head and the second section extending into the underlayment.
- the method may include forming a tapered hole in a lane panel.
- the lane panel may be a laminate structure having a top and a bottom surface.
- the tapered hole may extend from the top surface of the lane panel to the bottom surface of the lane panel.
- the area of the hole may be larger at the top surface than at the bottom surface.
- the lane panel may be placed on an underlayment.
- a securing portion of a fastener may be driven into the underlayment.
- a head of the fastener may be driven into the tapered hole in the lane panel.
- the head may have a wall tapered at substantially the same angle as the tapered hole.
- FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of an exemplary bowling lane.
- FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of an isometric view of an exemplary paneling structure.
- FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of the assembled paneling structure of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a paneling structure.
- FIG. 5 a is a diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of the assembled paneling structure of FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 5 b is another diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of an assembled paneling structure.
- FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic representation of an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a paneling structure.
- FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of the assembled paneling structure of FIG. 6 .
- FIGS. 8A, 8B , and 8 C are diagrammatic representations of another exemplary embodiment of a paneling structure.
- embodiments of the present invention include a hole with tapered walls extending through a lane panel.
- the lane panel is secured to an underlayment by a fastener having a tapered head extending into the hole in the lane panel.
- the tapered head contacts the tapered walls of the hole, urging the lane panel toward the underlayment.
- the contact applies a force against the lane panel having a component in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Because the hole is a through hole, lacking a recess, and because applied forces are not only in the downward direction, the lane panel may be less likely to fracture during installation. Accordingly, installation of the lane panel may be more efficient and cost effective.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a bowling lane 100 consistent with an aspect of the present invention.
- the bowling lane 100 includes a pin deck 102 , lane panels 104 , an approach area 106 , and gutters 108 .
- the upper surface of any of the pin deck 102 , lane panels 104 , and the approach area 106 may form the visible surface of the bowling lane 100 , and may constitute a bowling surface 109 .
- the pin deck 102 , the lane panels 104 , and/or the approach area 106 may be formed of a paneling structure 110 shown in greater detail in FIGS. 2-8 .
- FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a portion of a paneling structure 110 consistent with a further aspect of the present invention.
- the paneling structure 110 may include a lane panel 112 , an underlayment 114 , and a fastener 116 .
- the lane panel 112 may be formed of any of a number of suitable materials, including, for example, a solid phenolic panel, a laminate structure of sheets bonded to a particle board, and a wooden panel. Other materials may also be used.
- the lane panel 112 is formed of a phenolic laminate panel.
- the laminate panel may include sheets of phenolic soaked craft paper and a decorative layer (not shown), bonded together with a high pressure bonding process known in the art.
- the decorative surface of the lane panel 112 may form the bowling surface 109 (shown in FIG. 1 ) of the bowling lane 100 , and may be an image, such as an image of wooden strips.
- the lane panel 112 may include a melamine layer forming the top surface of the bowling lane 100 .
- the thickness of the lane panel 112 is within the range of about 0.3 to 1.5 inches. However, the lane panel could have a different thickness as would be apparent to one skilled in the art.
- the lane panel 112 includes a top or first surface 118 and a bottom or second surface 120 .
- a hole 122 extends through the lane panel 112 from the top surface 118 to the bottom surface 120 .
- the hole 122 is a conical frustum including a tapered wall 123 ( FIG. 3 ). Accordingly, the hole 122 may have a first diameter at the top surface 118 and a second, relatively smaller, diameter at the bottom surface 120 of the lane panel 112 .
- a taper angle ⁇ , measured at the walls of the hole 122 may be, in one exemplary embodiment, within a range of 20 to 120 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the taper angel ⁇ is within a range of 30 to 40 degrees.
- the underlayment 114 includes a top surface 124 and is located below the lane panel 112 .
- the underlayment 114 may be formed of a medium or high density fiberboard, oriented strand board, plywood, structural wood, metallic supports, a previously provided bowling lane surface, a structural foundation, and/or other suitable materials.
- the underlayment 114 may provide support and stability to the lane panel 112 .
- the fastener 116 includes a head 126 and a securing portion 128 .
- the head 126 includes a tapered wall 130 , a top surface 132 , and a bottom surface 133 .
- the tapered wall 130 of the head 126 is formed at an angle that substantially aligns with the taper angle ⁇ of the hole 122 formed in the lane panel 112 .
- the bottom surface 133 of the head 126 may have a diameter that is substantially equal to or greater than the diameter of the bottom of the hole 122 , at the bottom surface 120 . This helps ensure that the bottom of the fastener 116 does not pass through the bottom of the hole 122 .
- the height of the head 126 substantially corresponds to the height of the lane panel 112 . Therefore, when fully installed, the top surface 132 of the head 126 is substantially flush with the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 , and the bottom surface 133 of the head 126 is substantially flush with the bottom surface 120 of the lane panel 112 .
- the top surface 132 of the head 126 may include a recess 134 formed to receive a tool for rotating the head 126 to drive or screw the securing portion into the underlayment 114 .
- the tool may be, for example, a hex-headed socket wrench.
- the recess 134 may be formed to fit other tools as may be apparent to one skilled in the art.
- the surface 132 includes multiple recesses that may be configured to receive a tool, such as a spanner wrench.
- the securing portion 128 is integrally attached to and extends from the head 126 .
- the securing portion 128 may include threads for grabbing, such as, for example, those found on a wood screw.
- a hole (not shown) may be preformed in the underlayment 114 , and the securing portion 128 may be a dowel that may be secured into the preformed hole with, for example, an adhesive.
- the securing portion 128 may be any length sufficient to attach to the underlayment 114 and, in one embodiment, has a length of about 1.75 inches. However, other lengths may be used.
- the diameter of the securing portion 128 is less than the diameter of the bottom surface 133 of the head 126 , and likewise, may be less than the diameter of the hole 122 at the bottom surface 120 of the lane panel 112 . In another exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the bottom surface 133 of the head 126 is about equal to the diameter of the hole 122 at the bottom surface 120 .
- the securing portion 128 protrudes into the underlayment 114 . Accordingly, when the fastener 116 is driven through the hole 122 of the lane panel 112 , the head 126 contacts and urges the lane panel 112 against the underlayment 114 .
- shims or other materials may be applied between the underlayment 114 and the lane panel 112 .
- FIGS. 4, 5 a , and 5 b show a portion of another paneling structure 110 consistent with a further aspect of the present invention.
- the head 126 has a height less than the lane panel 112 . Accordingly, as best seen in FIGS. 5 a and 5 b , when the fastener 116 is driven through the hole 122 into the underlayment 114 , the top surface 132 of the head 126 is recessed below the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 .
- a plug 140 is included as a part of the paneling structure 110 .
- the plug 140 may be formed of any material including a material that is the same as, or a material that is different, from the lane panel 112 .
- the plug 140 is formed of the same material used to form the head 126 .
- the plug 140 includes a tapered surface 142 , a top surface 144 , and a bottom surface 146 .
- the tapered surface 142 may be formed at an angle that substantially aligns with the taper angle ⁇ of the hole 122 formed in the lane panel 112 .
- the height and diameter of the plug 140 may be established so that the top surface 144 of the plug 140 is substantially flush with the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 when the plug 140 is installed in the hole 122 .
- the plug 140 may be configured so that, when installed in the hole 122 , a gap is formed between the top surface 132 of the head 126 and the bottom surface 146 of the plug 140 .
- the plug 140 is configured so that the bottom surface 146 of the plug 140 is flush against the top surface 132 of the head 126 .
- the plug 140 includes a projection 148 extending from its bottom surface 146 that is configured to fit within the recess 134 of the fastener 116 .
- the projection 148 may have any shape, including, for example, a hex socket shape, that may match or fit within the shape of the recess 134 . Securing the projection 148 to the fastener 116 in the hole 122 aids in reducing the chance of dislocation of the plug 140 from the hole 122 .
- the projection 148 may be secured in the recess by any method, including, for example, a friction fit or an adhesive.
- the plug 140 may be secured within the hole 122 with an adhesive. In one exemplary embodiment, the plug 140 does not include the projection 148 , but is secured to the fastener 116 and/or the tapered wall 123 of the hole 122 using an adhesive.
- the plug 140 is formed in the hole 122 .
- a generally fluid material such, for example, a liquid, epoxy, polymer, or putty-type material, may be placed in the hole after insertion of the fastener 126 .
- the fluid material may be any material capable of forming to the shape of the hole 122 , and may set, dry, or harden in the hole 122 to form the plug 140 .
- the plug 140 may be formed of pourable urethane. The urethane may be poured into the hole 122 in a substantially liquid form, and may harden, forming the plug 140 with the top surface 132 of the plug 140 being substantially flush with the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 .
- FIG. 5 b shows another exemplary embodiment of the paneling structure 110 .
- the paneling structure 110 includes a ball joint 170 connecting the head 126 of the fastener 116 to the plug 140 .
- the ball joint 170 includes a ball 172 formed on the head 126 and a recess 174 formed in the plug 140 .
- the recess 174 receives the ball 172 to connect the plug 140 to the head 126 .
- the recess 174 is formed in the shape of a ball to have a narrow opening and a wider cavity, thereby enabling the recess 174 to snap onto the ball 172 .
- the orientation of the plug 140 is not dependent on the straightness of the head 126 , and the plug 140 can connect to the head 126 when the head 126 is not straight within the hole 122 . Therefore, the top surface 144 of the plug 140 may lie flush with the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 , even if the fastener 116 is installed at an angle.
- the ball joint 170 helps hold the plug within the hole 122 . It should be noted that the ball could be on the plug 140 and the recess could be in the head 126 . It should also be noted that an adhesive could be used in combination with the ball joint.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a portion of yet another paneling structure 110 consistent with a further aspect of the present invention.
- This embodiment includes an insert 150 that may be inserted into a pre-drilled hole 152 in the underlayment 114 .
- the insert 150 may be a cylindrical insert formed of any material, including, for example, a metal, plastic, or wooden material, and may be configured to receive threads of the securing portion 128 of the fastener 116 .
- the insert 150 may be removably disposed within the underlayment 114 . Therefore, if the insert 150 were to become damaged or stripped, it may be removed and replaced with a new insert. However, it should be apparent that the insert 150 may also be permanently installed within the underlayment 114 .
- the insert 150 contains internal threads that correspond in size and type with threads on the securing portion 128 of the fastener 116 .
- the securing portion 128 may be a machine screw threadable into the insert 150 .
- the plug 140 described with reference to FIGS. 4, 5 a and 5 b , may be used with the fastener 116 described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 .
- the insert 150 is an expansion type insert having one or more slits extending from a bottom surface, substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the fastener, toward a top surface.
- the slits may extend less than the complete length of the fastener.
- the sides of the insert may be tapered with an outer diameter at the top surface being less than the outer diameter at the bottom surface.
- the insert may be configured so that as the securing portion 128 moves through the insert from the top surface, the bottom surface expands, widening the slits, and forcing the bottom surface of the insert against the wall of the hole 152 . It is anticipated that other types of inserts could be used and are meant to be within the scope of this disclosure.
- the insert may guide the fastener 116 into the hole, aiding in keeping the fastener 116 substantially perpendicular to the upper surface 118 of the lane panel 112 . This may be beneficial to ensure that the top surface 132 of the head 126 sits substantially flush with, or substantially parallel to, the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 .
- FIGS. 8A, 8B , and 8 C are cross-sectional views of a portion of another exemplary paneling structure 110 at different stages during assembly.
- the lane panel 112 includes the hole 122 having the tapered wall 123 extending from the top surface 118 to the bottom surface 120 .
- FIG. 8B shows the fastener 116 including the head 126 and the securing portion 128 .
- the head 126 is separate from the securing portion 128 .
- the head 126 includes a bore 160 formed in the bottom surface 133 .
- the bore 160 may be configured to receive a part of the securing portion 128 and may include threads that may correspond to threads on the securing portion.
- the bore 160 may be smooth or have other suitable surface features.
- the head includes two recesses 134 formed in the top surface 132 that are configured to be used when driving the head 126 .
- the recesses 134 could be formed to fit a spanner wrench, or other tool. It should be noted that the head could include any number of recesses, including one or more than two. In addition, in one embodiment, the head does not include any recesses.
- the securing portion 128 includes a first section 162 and a second section 164 .
- the first section 162 includes threads, such as those used on a machine screw
- the second section 164 includes threads, such as those used on a wood screw.
- the first section 162 is disposed substantially within the hole 122 in the lane panel 112 and the second section 164 is disposed substantially within the underlayment 114 .
- the securing portion 128 is threaded entirely with a machine screw thread or entirely threaded with a wood screw thread.
- one or more of the sections of the securing portion 128 is a dowel that may be secured to the underlayment 114 and/or the head 126 using, for example, an adhesive.
- FIG. 8C shows that the head 126 may be threaded onto, or otherwise attached to, the first section 162 .
- the tapered wall 130 of the head 126 contacts the tapered wall 123 of the hole 122 , forcing the lane panel 112 downward against the underlayment 114 .
- the method includes a step of forming a hole 122 in a lane panel 1 . 12 .
- the hole 122 may extend from the top surface 118 of the lane panel 112 to the bottom surface 120 of the lane panel 112 .
- the hole 122 may be a through hole including a tapered wall 123 , such that the hole is a frustum or a conical shape. Therefore, the diameter of the hole 122 is larger at the top surface 118 than at the bottom surface 120 .
- the method may also include a step of forming a hole within the underlayment 114 , such as the hole 152 .
- the insert 150 may be inserted within the hole 152 and may be secured within the hole 152 , such as by an adhesive, or other method known in the art.
- the lane panel 112 may be placed on the underlayment 114 .
- the fastener 116 having a head 126 and a securing portion 128 may be driven through the hole 122 in the lane panel 112 into the underlayment 114 , or in some embodiments, such the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , into the insert 150 in the underlayment 114 .
- the securing portion 128 may be driven into the underlayment 114 prior to placing the lane panel 112 . Then, the hole 122 in the lane panel 112 may be aligned with the securing portion 128 , and the lane panel 112 may be placed on the underlayment so that the securing portion 128 protrudes into the hole 122 .
- the head 126 may include a tapered wall 130 substantially corresponding to the taper angle ⁇ of the tapered wall 123 of the hole 122 .
- the head 126 may be sized so that the bottom surface 133 of the head 126 has a diameter that is equal to or greater than the diameter of the hole 122 at the bottom surface 120 of the lane panel 112 . Accordingly, the head 126 may be configured so that it is maintained within the hole 122 .
- the head 126 may be threaded or driven downward into the hole 122 , such that the tapered wall 130 of the head 126 contacts the tapered wall 123 of the hole 122 . Driving the head 126 further may force or urge the lane panel 112 downward against the underlayment 114 or against a material between the lane panel 112 and the underlayment 114 .
- the flatness of the lane panel 112 may then be measured using methods known in the art. If the flatness is outside desired tolerances, the fastener 126 may be loosened until the lane panel 112 may be raised. A shim may be placed between the lane panel 112 and underlayment 114 . The head 126 may again be threaded or driven downward until the lane panel 112 is secure, and the flatness may be re-measured.
- the insert 150 may be removed and replaced with a new insert.
- a fastener 116 having a larger diameter securing portion 128 may be used.
- Some methods may also include a step of installing the plug 140 into the hole 122 after the fastener 116 is driven into the hole 122 .
- the top surface of the plug 140 may be configured to align substantially flush with the top surface 118 of the underlayment.
- the method may include an additional step of installing a projection 148 on the bottom surface 146 of the plug 140 into the recess 134 formed in the head 126 of the fastener 116 .
- the step of installing the plug 140 may include installing a generally fluid material into the hole 122 .
- the generally fluid material could be for example, a liquid, epoxy, polymer, or putty-type material, or any material capable of forming to the shape of the hole 122 .
- the generally fluid material may set, dry, or harden in the hole 122 to form the plug 140 .
- One exemplary method includes pouring urethane into the hole 122 .
- the urethane may harden, forming the plug 140 with the top surface 132 of the plug 140 being substantially flush with the top surface 118 of the lane panel.
- the plug 140 may be snapped onto the head 126 . This may be accomplished using a ball joint connecting a ball on the head 126 to a recess in the plug 140 , or vice versa.
- the paneling structure of the present invention may provide increased efficiency of bowling lane installation by applying a force with a fastener against the lane panel having a component in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Because the hole is a through hole, lacking a recess, and because applied forces are not only in the downward direction, the lane panel may be less likely to fracture during installation.
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Abstract
Description
- This invention is directed to a bowling lane, and more particularly, to a panel structure for a bowling lane.
- Traditional bowling lanes are constructed of strips of hardwood fastened together to form a smooth, flat surface. Recently, paneled surfaces formed of a laminate structure have been used as a lane panel when refurbishing traditional bowling lanes and when installing new bowling lanes. The lane panel is typically attached to an underlayment that may include the original wooden bowling lane surface or, alternatively, some other wooden or metallic structure. The underlayment may provide support and may add stiffness to the lane panel.
- The lane panel should be attached to the underlayment in a manner that allows the bowling lane surface to maintain its flatness. Accordingly, during installation, the lane panel may require a number of adjustments to its position. The installation process may include attaching the lane panel to the underlayment, measuring the flatness of the lane panel, detaching the lane panel from the underlayment, shimming between the lane panel and underlayment, and repeating this process until the desired flatness is achieved.
- One known method for installing a lane panel includes forming a recess in the lane panel and driving a screw into the recess to the underlayment. Thus, the screw head pushes downward on the bottom of recess. However, such a system applies force in the downward direction only, against the bottom of the recess. Because the thickness of the panel is reduced at the bottom of the recess, the bottom of the recess may be weak and may fracture. In the event that additional adjustment of the lane panel is required, the force from the screw may be removed and re-applied, thereby increasing the risk of fracture. Repairing damage to the lane panel caused by fractured recesses can be time consuming and expensive.
- This invention is directed to a system for attaching the lane panel to the underlayment.
- In the following description, certain aspects and embodiments of the present invention will become evident. It should be understood that the invention, in its broadest sense, could be practiced without having one or more features of these aspects and embodiments. In addition, it should be understood that any features and aspects of one embodiment may be used in the other embodiments. It should also be understood that these aspects and embodiments are merely exemplary.
- As embodied and broadly described herein, an aspect of the invention includes a panel structure for a bowling lane. The panel structure may include a lane panel having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface forming a bowling surface of the bowling lane. An underlayment may be disposed below the lane panel. A tapered hole may extend from the top surface to the bottom surface of the lane panel. The area of the hole may be larger at the top surface than at the bottom surface. The panel structure may also include a fastener having a head and a securing portion. The head may be disposed in the tapered hole and may have a wall tapered at substantially the same angle as the tapered hole. The securing portion may extend from the head into the underlayment.
- In one aspect, the lane panel may be formed of a laminate structure, and the tapered hole may be a conical frustum.
- In another aspect, the head includes a recess formed therein. The recess may be configured to receive a tool, such as a hex socket wrench or a spanner wrench. In another aspect, a plug may be disposed within the tapered hole above the fastener. The plug may include an upper surface substantially flush with the top surface of the lane panel. The plug may also include a wall tapered at substantially the same angle as the tapered wall of the hole. In one aspect, the plug may include a projection configured to project into the recess in the head. In another aspect, the plug is formed of a generally fluid material, such as a liquid urethane. In another embodiment, the plug and the head are attached to each other by a ball joint. In another aspect, the head of the fastener has a thickness less than thickness of the lane panel.
- In yet another aspect, an insert may be disposed in the underlayment. The insert may be configured to receive the securing portion of the fastener and may include threads.
- In one aspect, the head and the securing portion are integral. In another aspect, the head is configured to connect onto the securing portion. The securing portion may include a first section and a second section, with the first section being configured to attach to the head and the second section extending into the underlayment.
- Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a method for installing a bowling lane. The method may include forming a tapered hole in a lane panel. The lane panel may be a laminate structure having a top and a bottom surface. The tapered hole may extend from the top surface of the lane panel to the bottom surface of the lane panel. The area of the hole may be larger at the top surface than at the bottom surface. The lane panel may be placed on an underlayment. A securing portion of a fastener may be driven into the underlayment. A head of the fastener may be driven into the tapered hole in the lane panel. The head may have a wall tapered at substantially the same angle as the tapered hole.
- In addition to the structural and procedural arrangements set forth above, the invention could include a number of other arrangements such as those explained hereinafter. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary only.
- The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain some principles of the invention.
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FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of an exemplary bowling lane. -
FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of an isometric view of an exemplary paneling structure. -
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of the assembled paneling structure ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a paneling structure. -
FIG. 5 a is a diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of the assembled paneling structure ofFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 5 b is another diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of an assembled paneling structure. -
FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic representation of an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of a paneling structure. -
FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic representation of a cross-sectional view of the assembled paneling structure ofFIG. 6 . -
FIGS. 8A, 8B , and 8C are diagrammatic representations of another exemplary embodiment of a paneling structure. - Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
- As described in more detail below, embodiments of the present invention include a hole with tapered walls extending through a lane panel. The lane panel is secured to an underlayment by a fastener having a tapered head extending into the hole in the lane panel. The tapered head contacts the tapered walls of the hole, urging the lane panel toward the underlayment. The contact applies a force against the lane panel having a component in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Because the hole is a through hole, lacking a recess, and because applied forces are not only in the downward direction, the lane panel may be less likely to fracture during installation. Accordingly, installation of the lane panel may be more efficient and cost effective.
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FIG. 1 illustrates abowling lane 100 consistent with an aspect of the present invention. Thebowling lane 100 includes apin deck 102,lane panels 104, anapproach area 106, andgutters 108. The upper surface of any of thepin deck 102,lane panels 104, and theapproach area 106 may form the visible surface of thebowling lane 100, and may constitute abowling surface 109. Thepin deck 102, thelane panels 104, and/or theapproach area 106 may be formed of apaneling structure 110 shown in greater detail inFIGS. 2-8 . -
FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a portion of apaneling structure 110 consistent with a further aspect of the present invention. Thepaneling structure 110 may include alane panel 112, anunderlayment 114, and afastener 116. Thelane panel 112 may be formed of any of a number of suitable materials, including, for example, a solid phenolic panel, a laminate structure of sheets bonded to a particle board, and a wooden panel. Other materials may also be used. In one exemplary embodiment, thelane panel 112 is formed of a phenolic laminate panel. The laminate panel may include sheets of phenolic soaked craft paper and a decorative layer (not shown), bonded together with a high pressure bonding process known in the art. The decorative surface of thelane panel 112 may form the bowling surface 109 (shown inFIG. 1 ) of thebowling lane 100, and may be an image, such as an image of wooden strips. In another exemplary embodiment, thelane panel 112 may include a melamine layer forming the top surface of thebowling lane 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the thickness of thelane panel 112 is within the range of about 0.3 to 1.5 inches. However, the lane panel could have a different thickness as would be apparent to one skilled in the art. - The
lane panel 112 includes a top orfirst surface 118 and a bottom orsecond surface 120. Ahole 122 extends through thelane panel 112 from thetop surface 118 to thebottom surface 120. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 , thehole 122 is a conical frustum including a tapered wall 123 (FIG. 3 ). Accordingly, thehole 122 may have a first diameter at thetop surface 118 and a second, relatively smaller, diameter at thebottom surface 120 of thelane panel 112. A taper angle θ, measured at the walls of thehole 122, may be, in one exemplary embodiment, within a range of 20 to 120 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the taper angel θ is within a range of 30 to 40 degrees. - The
underlayment 114 includes atop surface 124 and is located below thelane panel 112. Theunderlayment 114 may be formed of a medium or high density fiberboard, oriented strand board, plywood, structural wood, metallic supports, a previously provided bowling lane surface, a structural foundation, and/or other suitable materials. Theunderlayment 114 may provide support and stability to thelane panel 112. - The
fastener 116 includes ahead 126 and a securingportion 128. Thehead 126 includes atapered wall 130, atop surface 132, and abottom surface 133. As seen inFIG. 3 , thetapered wall 130 of thehead 126 is formed at an angle that substantially aligns with the taper angle θ of thehole 122 formed in thelane panel 112. In addition, thebottom surface 133 of thehead 126 may have a diameter that is substantially equal to or greater than the diameter of the bottom of thehole 122, at thebottom surface 120. This helps ensure that the bottom of thefastener 116 does not pass through the bottom of thehole 122. - In the exemplary embodiment shown in
FIG. 3 , the height of thehead 126 substantially corresponds to the height of thelane panel 112. Therefore, when fully installed, thetop surface 132 of thehead 126 is substantially flush with thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112, and thebottom surface 133 of thehead 126 is substantially flush with thebottom surface 120 of thelane panel 112. - The
top surface 132 of thehead 126 may include arecess 134 formed to receive a tool for rotating thehead 126 to drive or screw the securing portion into theunderlayment 114. The tool may be, for example, a hex-headed socket wrench. Therecess 134 may be formed to fit other tools as may be apparent to one skilled in the art. In one exemplary embodiment, thesurface 132 includes multiple recesses that may be configured to receive a tool, such as a spanner wrench. - In the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2 and 3 , the securingportion 128 is integrally attached to and extends from thehead 126. The securingportion 128 may include threads for grabbing, such as, for example, those found on a wood screw. In one exemplary embodiment, a hole (not shown) may be preformed in theunderlayment 114, and the securingportion 128 may be a dowel that may be secured into the preformed hole with, for example, an adhesive. The securingportion 128 may be any length sufficient to attach to theunderlayment 114 and, in one embodiment, has a length of about 1.75 inches. However, other lengths may be used. In one exemplary embodiment, the diameter of the securingportion 128 is less than the diameter of thebottom surface 133 of thehead 126, and likewise, may be less than the diameter of thehole 122 at thebottom surface 120 of thelane panel 112. In another exemplary embodiment, the diameter of thebottom surface 133 of thehead 126 is about equal to the diameter of thehole 122 at thebottom surface 120. - As shown in
FIG. 3 , the securingportion 128 protrudes into theunderlayment 114. Accordingly, when thefastener 116 is driven through thehole 122 of thelane panel 112, thehead 126 contacts and urges thelane panel 112 against theunderlayment 114. In some exemplary embodiments, shims or other materials may be applied between the underlayment 114 and thelane panel 112. -
FIGS. 4, 5 a, and 5 b show a portion of anotherpaneling structure 110 consistent with a further aspect of the present invention. In this embodiment, thehead 126 has a height less than thelane panel 112. Accordingly, as best seen inFIGS. 5 a and 5 b, when thefastener 116 is driven through thehole 122 into theunderlayment 114, thetop surface 132 of thehead 126 is recessed below thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112. - In this exemplary aspect, a
plug 140 is included as a part of thepaneling structure 110. Theplug 140 may be formed of any material including a material that is the same as, or a material that is different, from thelane panel 112. In one exemplary embodiment, theplug 140 is formed of the same material used to form thehead 126. - The
plug 140 includes atapered surface 142, atop surface 144, and abottom surface 146. Thetapered surface 142 may be formed at an angle that substantially aligns with the taper angle θ of thehole 122 formed in thelane panel 112. The height and diameter of theplug 140 may be established so that thetop surface 144 of theplug 140 is substantially flush with thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112 when theplug 140 is installed in thehole 122. In one exemplary embodiment, theplug 140 may be configured so that, when installed in thehole 122, a gap is formed between thetop surface 132 of thehead 126 and thebottom surface 146 of theplug 140. In another exemplary embodiment, theplug 140 is configured so that thebottom surface 146 of theplug 140 is flush against thetop surface 132 of thehead 126. - In the exemplary embodiment shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5 a, theplug 140 includes aprojection 148 extending from itsbottom surface 146 that is configured to fit within therecess 134 of thefastener 116. Theprojection 148 may have any shape, including, for example, a hex socket shape, that may match or fit within the shape of therecess 134. Securing theprojection 148 to thefastener 116 in thehole 122 aids in reducing the chance of dislocation of theplug 140 from thehole 122. Theprojection 148 may be secured in the recess by any method, including, for example, a friction fit or an adhesive. In addition, theplug 140 may be secured within thehole 122 with an adhesive. In one exemplary embodiment, theplug 140 does not include theprojection 148, but is secured to thefastener 116 and/or thetapered wall 123 of thehole 122 using an adhesive. - In yet another embodiment, the
plug 140 is formed in thehole 122. In this embodiment, a generally fluid material, such, for example, a liquid, epoxy, polymer, or putty-type material, may be placed in the hole after insertion of thefastener 126. The fluid material may be any material capable of forming to the shape of thehole 122, and may set, dry, or harden in thehole 122 to form theplug 140. In one exemplary embodiment, theplug 140 may be formed of pourable urethane. The urethane may be poured into thehole 122 in a substantially liquid form, and may harden, forming theplug 140 with thetop surface 132 of theplug 140 being substantially flush with thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112. -
FIG. 5 b shows another exemplary embodiment of thepaneling structure 110. In this embodiment, thepaneling structure 110 includes a ball joint 170 connecting thehead 126 of thefastener 116 to theplug 140. As shown, the ball joint 170 includes aball 172 formed on thehead 126 and arecess 174 formed in theplug 140. Therecess 174 receives theball 172 to connect theplug 140 to thehead 126. In the embodiment shown therecess 174 is formed in the shape of a ball to have a narrow opening and a wider cavity, thereby enabling therecess 174 to snap onto theball 172. Because of the ball joint 170, the orientation of theplug 140 is not dependent on the straightness of thehead 126, and theplug 140 can connect to thehead 126 when thehead 126 is not straight within thehole 122. Therefore, thetop surface 144 of theplug 140 may lie flush with thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112, even if thefastener 116 is installed at an angle. In addition, the ball joint 170 helps hold the plug within thehole 122. It should be noted that the ball could be on theplug 140 and the recess could be in thehead 126. It should also be noted that an adhesive could be used in combination with the ball joint. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a portion of yet anotherpaneling structure 110 consistent with a further aspect of the present invention. This embodiment includes aninsert 150 that may be inserted into apre-drilled hole 152 in theunderlayment 114. Theinsert 150 may be a cylindrical insert formed of any material, including, for example, a metal, plastic, or wooden material, and may be configured to receive threads of the securingportion 128 of thefastener 116. In one exemplary embodiment, theinsert 150 may be removably disposed within theunderlayment 114. Therefore, if theinsert 150 were to become damaged or stripped, it may be removed and replaced with a new insert. However, it should be apparent that theinsert 150 may also be permanently installed within theunderlayment 114. - In one exemplary embodiment, the
insert 150 contains internal threads that correspond in size and type with threads on the securingportion 128 of thefastener 116. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the securingportion 128 may be a machine screw threadable into theinsert 150. In one exemplary embodiment, theplug 140, described with reference toFIGS. 4, 5 a and 5 b, may be used with thefastener 116 described with reference toFIGS. 6 and 7 . - In another exemplary embodiment, the
insert 150 is an expansion type insert having one or more slits extending from a bottom surface, substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the fastener, toward a top surface. The slits may extend less than the complete length of the fastener. The sides of the insert may be tapered with an outer diameter at the top surface being less than the outer diameter at the bottom surface. The insert may be configured so that as the securingportion 128 moves through the insert from the top surface, the bottom surface expands, widening the slits, and forcing the bottom surface of the insert against the wall of thehole 152. It is anticipated that other types of inserts could be used and are meant to be within the scope of this disclosure. - The insert may guide the
fastener 116 into the hole, aiding in keeping thefastener 116 substantially perpendicular to theupper surface 118 of thelane panel 112. This may be beneficial to ensure that thetop surface 132 of thehead 126 sits substantially flush with, or substantially parallel to, thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112. -
FIGS. 8A, 8B , and 8C are cross-sectional views of a portion of anotherexemplary paneling structure 110 at different stages during assembly. In a first stage shown inFIG. 8A , thelane panel 112 includes thehole 122 having the taperedwall 123 extending from thetop surface 118 to thebottom surface 120. In a second stage,FIG. 8B shows thefastener 116 including thehead 126 and the securingportion 128. In this exemplary embodiment, thehead 126 is separate from the securingportion 128. Thehead 126 includes abore 160 formed in thebottom surface 133. Thebore 160 may be configured to receive a part of the securingportion 128 and may include threads that may correspond to threads on the securing portion. Alternatively, thebore 160 may be smooth or have other suitable surface features. In addition, in the embodiment shown, the head includes tworecesses 134 formed in thetop surface 132 that are configured to be used when driving thehead 126. Therecesses 134 could be formed to fit a spanner wrench, or other tool. It should be noted that the head could include any number of recesses, including one or more than two. In addition, in one embodiment, the head does not include any recesses. - The securing
portion 128 includes afirst section 162 and asecond section 164. In one exemplary embodiment, thefirst section 162 includes threads, such as those used on a machine screw, and thesecond section 164 includes threads, such as those used on a wood screw. In the exemplary embodiment shown, thefirst section 162 is disposed substantially within thehole 122 in thelane panel 112 and thesecond section 164 is disposed substantially within theunderlayment 114. - It should be noted that in one exemplary embodiment, the securing
portion 128 is threaded entirely with a machine screw thread or entirely threaded with a wood screw thread. In another exemplary embodiment, one or more of the sections of the securingportion 128 is a dowel that may be secured to theunderlayment 114 and/or thehead 126 using, for example, an adhesive. - In a third stage,
FIG. 8C shows that thehead 126 may be threaded onto, or otherwise attached to, thefirst section 162. Thetapered wall 130 of thehead 126 contacts thetapered wall 123 of thehole 122, forcing thelane panel 112 downward against theunderlayment 114. - A method for constructing a bowling lane will now be described. The method includes a step of forming a
hole 122 in a lane panel 1.12. Thehole 122 may extend from thetop surface 118 of thelane panel 112 to thebottom surface 120 of thelane panel 112. Thehole 122 may be a through hole including a taperedwall 123, such that the hole is a frustum or a conical shape. Therefore, the diameter of thehole 122 is larger at thetop surface 118 than at thebottom surface 120. - In one exemplary embodiment, the method may also include a step of forming a hole within the
underlayment 114, such as thehole 152. Theinsert 150 may be inserted within thehole 152 and may be secured within thehole 152, such as by an adhesive, or other method known in the art. - The
lane panel 112 may be placed on theunderlayment 114. Thefastener 116 having ahead 126 and a securingportion 128 may be driven through thehole 122 in thelane panel 112 into theunderlayment 114, or in some embodiments, such the embodiment shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , into theinsert 150 in theunderlayment 114. - In some methods, referring to
FIGS. 8 a-8 c, the securingportion 128 may be driven into theunderlayment 114 prior to placing thelane panel 112. Then, thehole 122 in thelane panel 112 may be aligned with the securingportion 128, and thelane panel 112 may be placed on the underlayment so that the securingportion 128 protrudes into thehole 122. - As described above, the
head 126 may include atapered wall 130 substantially corresponding to the taper angle θ of the taperedwall 123 of thehole 122. In addition, thehead 126 may be sized so that thebottom surface 133 of thehead 126 has a diameter that is equal to or greater than the diameter of thehole 122 at thebottom surface 120 of thelane panel 112. Accordingly, thehead 126 may be configured so that it is maintained within thehole 122. - The
head 126 may be threaded or driven downward into thehole 122, such that thetapered wall 130 of thehead 126 contacts thetapered wall 123 of thehole 122. Driving thehead 126 further may force or urge thelane panel 112 downward against theunderlayment 114 or against a material between thelane panel 112 and theunderlayment 114. - The flatness of the
lane panel 112 may then be measured using methods known in the art. If the flatness is outside desired tolerances, thefastener 126 may be loosened until thelane panel 112 may be raised. A shim may be placed between thelane panel 112 andunderlayment 114. Thehead 126 may again be threaded or driven downward until thelane panel 112 is secure, and the flatness may be re-measured. - In the embodiment using the
insert 150, such as the embodiment shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , if the insert becomes stripped or unusable, the insert may be removed and replaced with a new insert. Alternatively, afastener 116 having a largerdiameter securing portion 128 may be used. - Some methods may also include a step of installing the
plug 140 into thehole 122 after thefastener 116 is driven into thehole 122. In one exemplary embodiment, such as the embodiment shown inFIGS. 4, 5 a, and 5 b, the top surface of theplug 140 may be configured to align substantially flush with thetop surface 118 of the underlayment. The method may include an additional step of installing aprojection 148 on thebottom surface 146 of theplug 140 into therecess 134 formed in thehead 126 of thefastener 116. In another exemplary embodiment, the step of installing theplug 140 may include installing a generally fluid material into thehole 122. The generally fluid material could be for example, a liquid, epoxy, polymer, or putty-type material, or any material capable of forming to the shape of thehole 122. The generally fluid material may set, dry, or harden in thehole 122 to form theplug 140. One exemplary method includes pouring urethane into thehole 122. The urethane may harden, forming theplug 140 with thetop surface 132 of theplug 140 being substantially flush with thetop surface 118 of the lane panel. In yet another embodiment, such as the embodiment shown inFIG. 5 b, theplug 140 may be snapped onto thehead 126. This may be accomplished using a ball joint connecting a ball on thehead 126 to a recess in theplug 140, or vice versa. - The paneling structure of the present invention may provide increased efficiency of bowling lane installation by applying a force with a fastener against the lane panel having a component in both the vertical and horizontal directions. Because the hole is a through hole, lacking a recess, and because applied forces are not only in the downward direction, the lane panel may be less likely to fracture during installation.
- It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the structure and methodology described herein. In addition, it will be apparent that the description of any one disclosed embodiment may be used to describe relevant portions of any other disclosed embodiment. Further, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the examples discussed in the specification. Rather, the present invention is intended to cover modifications and variations.
Claims (48)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/898,254 US20060019762A1 (en) | 2004-07-26 | 2004-07-26 | Panel structure for a bowling lane |
PCT/US2005/025306 WO2006020135A2 (en) | 2004-07-26 | 2005-07-15 | Panel structure for bowling lane |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/898,254 US20060019762A1 (en) | 2004-07-26 | 2004-07-26 | Panel structure for a bowling lane |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060019762A1 true US20060019762A1 (en) | 2006-01-26 |
Family
ID=35657966
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/898,254 Abandoned US20060019762A1 (en) | 2004-07-26 | 2004-07-26 | Panel structure for a bowling lane |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20060019762A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006020135A2 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8435128B2 (en) | 2009-02-03 | 2013-05-07 | Brunswick Bowling & Billards Corporation | Bowling lane with mural image |
US20140091519A1 (en) * | 2012-08-20 | 2014-04-03 | Stern Pinball, Inc. | Cabinet construction for an amusement game device |
IT201900020817A1 (en) * | 2019-11-11 | 2021-05-11 | Rubner Holzbau S R L | PROCEDURE FOR FIXING A COMPONENT TO A WATERPROOF SUPPORT |
US11905986B1 (en) | 2020-09-01 | 2024-02-20 | Blue Origin Llc | Quick-access fastener assembly for high temperature applications |
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US6295773B1 (en) * | 1999-07-22 | 2001-10-02 | Louis Karl Alty | Devices and methods for securing an object to a first structure through a hole in a second structure |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8435128B2 (en) | 2009-02-03 | 2013-05-07 | Brunswick Bowling & Billards Corporation | Bowling lane with mural image |
US8636602B2 (en) | 2009-02-03 | 2014-01-28 | Brunswick Bowling & Billiards Corporation | Bowling lane with mural image |
US20140091519A1 (en) * | 2012-08-20 | 2014-04-03 | Stern Pinball, Inc. | Cabinet construction for an amusement game device |
IT201900020817A1 (en) * | 2019-11-11 | 2021-05-11 | Rubner Holzbau S R L | PROCEDURE FOR FIXING A COMPONENT TO A WATERPROOF SUPPORT |
US11905986B1 (en) | 2020-09-01 | 2024-02-20 | Blue Origin Llc | Quick-access fastener assembly for high temperature applications |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2006020135A2 (en) | 2006-02-23 |
WO2006020135A3 (en) | 2007-03-08 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: AMF BOWLING PRODUCTS, INC., VIRGINIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FORD, GARY J.;KILPATRICK, MARK D.;CROUSE JR., JACK H.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:015616/0693 Effective date: 20040721 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: QUBICAAMF WORLDWIDE, LLC, VIRGINIA Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:AMF BOWLING PRODUCTS, LLC;REEL/FRAME:017325/0229 Effective date: 20050915 |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ANTARES CAPITAL CORPORATION AS COLLATERAL AGENT, I Free format text: GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:QUBICAAMF WORLDWIDE, LLC;REEL/FRAME:017125/0046 Effective date: 20051007 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- AFTER EXAMINER'S ANSWER OR BOARD OF APPEALS DECISION |