Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A bowling ball return mechanism having a unitary frame structure which is mounted above a lifting track which curves upwards from the end of an underlane bowling ball return track up to the ball storage tray at the approach of the bowling alley. The unitary structure maintains the complete unit including a rotating tire with a compressable surface for positive engagement of an incoming bowling ball for movement up the lifting track, a rotating lifting belt which runs over the tire at one end and a crown pulley at the other for frictionally engaging the ball and moving it up the remaining length of the lifting track, an electric motor with a corresponding drive train for rotating the tire and the lifting belt, and a means for tensioning the lifting belt during its rotation. The unitary frame structure is pivotably mounted over the lifting track such that, upon engagement of the bowling ball by the tire, the structure will move away from its rest position and absorb the momentum of the moving ball. The weight of the mechanism causes a return pivot to the rest position while the tire and belt lift the bowling ball to the storage tray height.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim