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Overview of Bowling Pinsetter Machines

Apr 26, 2025

Bowling Pinsetter Machine Overview

Introduction

  • Jared introduces the concept of a bowling pinsetter machine used in 10-pin bowling.
  • Discusses variations of bowling like nine-pin, duckpin, candlepin, and five-pin bowling.
  • Historical context: Early 1900s required manual setup of pins before machines.
  • Focus on Brunswick GS-X pinsetter machine for competitive events.

Functionality

Basic Operations

  • Ball Cushion Assembly: Absorbs impact of the bowling ball.
  • Transport Band: Conveyor belt moving pins to the back; balls diverted through a separate door.
  • Ball Accelerator: Shared by two lanes to speed up ball return.
  • Ball Return Rack: Includes ball lift with S-shaped curve to return ball to player.

Pin Elevator System

  • Pin Elevator: 14 shovels lift pins; pin feed deflectors guide pins to center.
  • Shovel Guide and Roller: Tilt shovels allowing pins to roll off at the top.

Distributor System

  • Moves pins to their respective places quickly.
  • Shark Assembly: Sorts pins between left and right using shark fin.
  • Conveyor Belts and Pin Stations: 10 pin stations split between left (6 spots) and right (4 spots).
  • Overflow Chutes: Excess pins recycled back to the elevator.

Pin Station Mechanism

  • Ejector Flap & Retaining Bow: Ensure pins are placed on stations.
  • Pin Release Lever: Releases pins to the setting table.

Setting Table Operations

  • Pin Holders: Grippers hold pins in place; rotate to set pins down.
  • Swing Shafts: Ensure simultaneous rotation of pin holders.
  • Jam Assembly Arm: Controls setting table's pin release.

Additional Features

  • Spotting Tongs: Grab and release pins for scoring and resetting.
  • Pin Detector Plate: Helps machine detect standing pins.

Sweeping System

  • Sweep Wagon: Prevents pins from rolling back; activated by sensors.
  • Sweep Crank Arm & Release Assembly: Controls sweep wagon movement.

Drive Frame

  • Motors:
    • Distributor Motor: Runs conveyor belts and pin elevator.
    • Sweep Motor: Operates the sweep wagon.
    • Table Motor: Manages setting table operations including spotting tongs.

Conclusion

  • Highlight the complexity and coordination required among various parts for efficient operation.
  • Ensures a seamless bowling experience by maintaining a fresh set of pins.