Interaction and use of audio, video, effects and architectural lighting with bowling scoring systems

Abstract

An interactive bowling system using a scoring system and / or other computer infrastructure that interacts with visual and / or audio effects within a bowling center. The system includes a management system having stored therein instructions for providing special effects associated with one or more events to one or more special effects components. Upon occurrence of an event, the management system: determines that the occurrence of the event is associated with one or more special effects; and provides instructions to the one or more special effects components to implement the special effects associated with the one or more events.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 495,403, filed on October 6, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 257,301, filed on April 21, 2014, entitled "INTERACTION OF AUDIO, VIDEO, EFFECTS AND ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING WITH BOWLING SCORING SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE". The disclosures of the priority documents listed above are fully incorporated into this document by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to bowling systems, and more particularly, to interactive bowling systems that utilize a scoring system and / or other computer infrastructure that interacts with visual and / or audio effects within a bowling center. Background Art

[0004] Bowling is a very popular sport for both recreational and league bowlers. For recreational bowlers, bowling is a leisure activity that can be played at any time of the day, year-round, regardless of weather. The game of bowling has also become very popular with families and adults of all ages.

[0005] There are many different bowling games, including ten-pin bowling, nine-pin bowling, candlepin bowling, duckpin bowling, five-pin bowling, and mini-pin bowling, for example. Today, bowling is a popular sport around the world. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system for providing an interactive bowling experience is provided. The system includes a management system, which includes a memory and a processing device. The system also includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium in communication with the processing device, the computer-readable medium storing one or more programming instructions, which when executed cause the processing device to store a list of one or more triggering events and any special effects associated with each triggering event, monitor at least a portion of the activities in the bowling center to detect the occurrence of the triggering event, and determine whether the triggering event has occurred. If it is determined that the triggering event has occurred, the one or more programming instructions, when executed, cause the processing device to determine one or more special effects associated with the triggering event. The special effects include any one or both of the following: displaying one or more graphics on one or more bowling pins; and activating one or more lighting or vibration events at the user's seated position. When executed, the one or more programming instructions also cause the processing device to provide instructions to one or more special effects components to perform one or more special effects associated with the triggering event. The special effects may also include activating one or more lighting effects on the ball return system.

[0007] According to various embodiments, the one or more triggering events include at least one of a hit or series of hits, gutter balls, a high score, a perfect score, a score exceeding a certain value, and the start of a user's turn.

[0008] According to various embodiments, the one or more special effects components include at least one of a video display, a video projector, an audio system, a haptic feedback system, and an architectural lighting system.

[0009] According to various embodiments, the one or more special effects include at least one of a video projection effect, a multi-color lighting effect, an ultraviolet lighting effect, a laser effect, an audio effect, a fog effect, a smoke effect, a carbon dioxide effect, a snow effect, a bubble effect, and a confetti effect.

[0010] According to various embodiments, the one or more programming instructions further include instructions for causing the management system to receive initialization information from at least one input device, the initialization information relating to the operation of at least a portion of the bowling center.

[0011] According to various embodiments, the initialization information includes at least one of a type of game to be played, one or more player names, one or more player ages, and a selection of one or more special effects that can be triggered during play.

[0012] According to various embodiments, the detection of the occurrence of the triggering event is detected by at least one of a scoring system, a security system, one or more cameras, one or more proximity sensors, one or more pressure sensors, and one or more motion sensors.

[0013] According to various embodiments, the programming instructions are further configured to cause the processor to determine a location of the user.

[0014] According to various embodiments, the system also includes one or more tracking tags configured to be worn by the user.

[0015] According to various embodiments, the system further includes one or more shoes, wherein the one or more tracking tags are housed within the one or more shoes.

[0016] According to various embodiments, the programming instructions are further configured to cause the processor to determine whether one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

[0017] According to various embodiments, the programming instructions are further configured to cause the processor to generate a notification when it has been determined that one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

[0018] According to various embodiments, the user's location is a seat within a bowling center, and activating one or more lighting or vibration events at the user's seated location includes activating one or more lighting or vibration events at the seat within the bowling center where the user is located.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for providing an interactive bowling experience is provided. The method includes storing, by a management system, a list of one or more triggering events and any special effects associated with each of the one or more triggering events, receiving, by the management system, initialization information related to the operation of at least a portion of a bowling center from at least one input device, receiving, by the management system, event occurrence information from one or more detection devices, monitoring, by the management system, the event occurrence information for the occurrence of a triggering event having at least one associated special effect, and determining, by the management system, whether a triggering event having at least one associated special effect has occurred. The method also includes: in response to the occurrence of a triggering event having at least one associated special effect, determining, by the management system, one or more special effects associated with the triggering event, and providing, by the management system, instructions to one or more special effects components to execute the one or more special effects associated with the triggering event. The special effects include any one or both of: displaying one or more graphics onto one or more bowling pins; and activating one or more lighting or vibration events at a user's seated position. The special effects also include activating one or more lighting effects on a ball return system.

[0020] According to various embodiments, the one or more triggering events include at least one of a hit or series of hits, a gutter ball, a high score, a perfect score, a score exceeding a certain value, and the start of a user's turn.

[0021] According to various embodiments, the method also includes determining the location of the user using one or more tracking tags configured to be worn by the user.

[0022] According to various embodiments, one or more tracking tags are housed within one or more shoes.

[0023] According to various embodiments, the method further includes determining whether one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

[0024] According to various embodiments, the method further includes generating a notification when it has been determined that the one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

[0025] According to various embodiments, the user's location is a seat within a bowling center, and activating one or more lighting or vibration events at the user's seated location includes activating one or more lighting or vibration events at the seat within the bowling center where the user is located. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] In the following detailed description, the present disclosure is described by way of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the several accompanying drawings mentioned.

[0027] Figure 1 A representative bowling center is shown in accordance with an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 A representative bowling scoring and management system for implementing aspects of the present disclosure is shown, according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 3 A representative system infrastructure according to an embodiment is shown.

[0030] Figure 4 Another representative bowling center is shown in accordance with an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 5 An example process for providing one or more special effects in response to a bowling event is shown in accordance with an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 6 A representative bowling center is shown in accordance with an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7A-7C Shows Figure 6 A line drawing of the various components of a bowling center. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The present disclosure is not limited to the specific systems, devices, and methods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in the specification is for the purpose of describing the particular versions or embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope.

[0035] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. As used herein, the term "including" means "including but not limited to."

[0036] The present disclosure relates to bowling systems, and more particularly to interactive bowling systems that include a bowling center's scoring system and / or other computer infrastructure that interacts with and / or manages special effects within a bowling center. This includes using the bowling scoring system to interact with management and / or automation systems to control and manage audio, video, effects and architectural lighting, HVAC systems, security systems, security camera systems, life safety systems, video camera systems, and provide complete building management.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, for example, the interactive bowling system can be triggered by a bowling event. As used herein, for example, a bowling event refers to a strike or a series of strikes, a gutter shot, a high score (e.g., a perfect score), a score exceeding a certain value (e.g., a score exceeding 200), and other triggering events that occur on any lane or combination of lanes or generally in a bowling center. Advantageously, for example, an existing scoring system (scoring console) or other detection system can be used to automatically trigger an event, the other detection system including but not limited to a camera, a proximity sensor, a pressure sensor, and a motion sensor, which has a connection to and is managed by a central management system.

[0038] As used herein, for example, special effects refer to any entertainment-related effects that enhance the bowling game experience. These special effects may include, but are not limited to, video projection, flat-panel video displays, LED video displays, multi-color lighting, ultraviolet lighting, laser effects, audio effects, and / or fog / smoke / CO2 / snow / bubbles / confetti effects, which may or may not include cameras or sensors for interacting with the bowler and / or the bowling ball. It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the special effects described herein are merely illustrative examples, and the present disclosure contemplates other effects, whether visual, audio, or tactile.

[0039] In an embodiment, the present disclosure contemplates enabling special effects to interact with a bowling scoring and management system and special effects control. In this way, a bowling center's bowling scoring and / or management and special effects control system can control and / or manage special effects to be delivered within the bowling center. This provides an interactive experience with some meaningful environmental interactions based on information available to the bowling scoring system, management system, and special effects control. Illustratively, the information can be detection of a person or bowling ball at a location within the bowling center (e.g., crossing a foul line), scoring events (such as a strike, a gutter ball), speed and tracking of a bowling ball, and other similar information.

[0040] Thus, the present disclosure relates to an interactive system that includes special effects managed by a bowling scoring and / or management system and / or special effects control for use in a bowling center. This allows special effects content to respond to scoring games and events that occur on the bowling lanes and are typically known and managed by the scoring system, management system and special effects control and within the bowling center. The result is that the bowling scoring, management system and special effects control can drive and also influence special effects content (with or without a camera / detection device for interacting with the bowler and / or bowling ball).

[0041] refer to Figure 1 In an example embodiment, the control system can utilize the video projection system 10 to display special effects, video / still content, and / or video / still images recorded at the bowling center and projected onto bowling center surfaces and / or video displays. For example, the bowling center surfaces can be the floor 15, walls 25, ceiling 25, shielding units 20, bowling pins 45, bowling lanes 55, and bowling walkway areas 35, among other surfaces in the bowling center. However, it should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that these bowling center surfaces are merely illustrative examples, and the present disclosure contemplates projecting special effects onto any surface within the bowling center, including, for example, any surface of any system used in the bowling center.

[0042] More specifically, in one or more embodiments, the special effects may include a video projector system 10, for example, including one or more video projector units and / or automated video projection units, configured to project video content onto a shielding unit 20 at the end of a bowling lane, the shielding unit being adapted to receive the content using a front projection system or a rear projection system, and projecting the content onto a bowling lane 55 or a walkway area 35 or bowling pins 45 or any other surface or combination of surfaces in a bowling center 25 to add video content and / or effects to a bowling center environment. In one or more embodiments, the special effects may include a video projection system 10 in combination with a camera or other detection device (e.g., see the apparatus described below) Figure 4) to identify people and / or objects that cross into the video projection surface area, the area equipped with cameras and / or sensors, and / or other locations within the bowling center. Such detection devices can enable the systems of the present disclosure (e.g., bowling scoring, management system, and special effects control 100) to react and change the images, video content (or other special effects) displayed by the video projection system 10 based on the movement of people or one or more objects in the video projection display area or other similar events that may occur during bowling that can be observed by the detection devices.

[0043] In further embodiments, the present disclosure may implement the use of multi-color lighting devices 30, e.g., LED lighting, automated lighting devices, above a bowling lane, wherein the multi-color lighting devices (e.g., LED lighting devices) project lighting effects onto a bowling lane surface 55, a wall surface 25, a shielding unit 20, bowling pins 45, a walkway area 35 (or any other surface or lighting effect), changing the color appearance of the lane surface (or other surfaces or lighting effects in a bowling center), and creating visual effects on the bowling lane (or other surfaces or lighting effects in a bowling center), each of which may be controlled by a scoring system and / or a centralized management system. Special effects may also include a sound / audio system 75 and other effects, such as fog / smoke / CO2 / snow / bubbles / confetti machines, spinning, moving, automated effect lights, lasers, architectural lighting, mirror effects, etc., all of which are represented by reference numerals 10 and 30, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 shown.

[0044] For example, Figure 1 Also disclosed are the links of the audio 75, building lighting 85, security camera system 90, HVAC system 95, video camera system 40, security system 50, and life safety system 60 to the management system 100. The interconnection of the scoring and management systems provides a central control system for controlling all or substantially all operational aspects of the bowling center into one central control system.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, in an embodiment, a bowling center includes a bowling scoring, management system and special effects control 100. For example, the bowling scoring, management system and special effects control 100 includes various features, including a lane scoring computer, a centralized management system and special effects control, a redemption system, and a representative computer infrastructure. These and additional features are discussed in more detail in the following discussion.

[0046] Lane Score Calculator

[0047] As should be known to those skilled in the art, a lane scoring computer (also referred to as a scoring system) 200 is a computerized system for managing a game on a lane or multiple lanes. Figure 3The scoring system 200 is discussed in more detail. In an embodiment, the examples described herein assume a pair of lanes; although other configurations are also contemplated by the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the scoring system 200 includes a main CPU 205, which is connected to:

[0048] I. A local monitor 210 (usually an overhead display monitor above the lane). The monitor 210 can display bowling information to the bowler, for example, including bowling scores and other bowling related information, including messages, etc.;

[0049] II. I / O device 215, for interfacing with the bottle-swaying machine;

[0050] III. I / O devices 220 for collecting information about when the ball was thrown, how many pins have been dropped, whether a foul has been detected, and other information available on the lane about the bowling ball being bowled; and

[0051] IV. I / O console device 225, configured to allow the scoring system to interact locally with the bowler on the lane.

[0052] In an embodiment, for example, the I / O console device 225 includes a keypad (e.g., a touch screen or other similar input device) configured to receive input from a bowler or other user. For example, the bowler can enter the name of each bowler and other relevant information. In an embodiment, the I / O console device 225 can also allow the bowler or other user to enter triggering events and associated special effects to trigger programmed special effects. For example, as further described herein, the bowler can enter a command via the I / O console device 225, for example, the command indicates that the lights will flash when the bowler has a full strike or a gutter ball, the bowler crosses the foul line, or any combination of actions that may occur.

[0053] Centralized management system and special effects control

[0054] The centralized management system and special effects control 300 is a computerized system that includes, for example, one or more computers located at the counter and back office and / or electrical and HVAC storage areas of the bowling center. Figure 3 The centralized management system and special effects control 300 are discussed in more detail.

[0055] In an embodiment, for example, the centralized management system, special effects control 300 and scoring system 200 communicate with each other. The centralized management system 300 can allow the manager / employee of the bowling center to manage customers (bowling hands) from registration to checkout. One of the many functions performed by the management system 300 is to send the necessary information to set up the scoring system 200 for each bowler and for the bowling game to be conducted for each lane. At the end of the game, the centralized management system 300 can collect the necessary information from the scoring system 200 to manage game scores, rankings, payments and other information related to the completed game. In addition, the central management and special effects control 100 provides control and interfaces with the effect lighting system 30, the building lighting system 85, the audio system 75, the video system 10, the security camera system 90, the security system 50, the life safety system 60, the video camera system 40 and the HVAC system 95.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, the centralized management system 300 can operate in conjunction with an automation system configured to connect various aspects of the bowling system. For example, the automation system can provide overall control for operating and managing all other systems within the bowling center, including receiving commands from the bowling system and various tracking / monitoring devices and executing preset responses. However, for the purposes of discussion, the functionality of the automation system will be described with respect to the management system 300 as discussed herein.

[0057] In one or more embodiments, the centralized management system 300 controls / manages Figure 2 and Figure 3 More specifically, a user may input any combination of trigger events and associated special effects into the centralized management system 300 via the scoring system 200 as described above. When a trigger event occurs, the centralized management system 300 may then instruct the video system 10, the lighting system 30, the video camera system 40, and the audio system 75, for example, to provide a programmed special effect. The central management system 300 also provides user interfaces for the security camera system 90, the security system 50, the life safety system 60, the building lighting system 85, and the HVAC system 95.

[0058] In further embodiments, the trigger event may be provided by the bowler, for example, by inputting a desired trigger event or combination of trigger events into the scoring system 200. The bowler may also input a desired special effect from a pre-programmed special effect list. The scoring system 200, in turn, will provide the programmed trigger event to the centralized management system 300. Upon the occurrence of a trigger event (e.g., a strike on a particular lane) that may be determined and / or monitored by the scoring system 200 or special effects control 300, the scoring system 200 will notify the centralized management system 300 of such a trigger event, in which scenario the centralized management system 300 will instruct the video system 10, lighting 30, audio 75, video camera system 40, for example, to provide the associated programmed special effect.

[0059] In further embodiments, a central management system provides control interfaces for the HVAC system 95 , security camera system 90 , and building lighting 85 , security system 50 , and life safety system 60 .

[0060] Exchange System

[0061] Integrated with the centralized management system and special effects control 300 and / or the scoring system 200 is a redemption device 500. The redemption device can project tickets, virtual tickets and / or tokens as images in any combination of surfaces or areas onto the lane surface 55, the walkway area 35, the shielding unit 20 or the bowling pins 45. This includes virtual "color pins" for game and redemption purposes, with programmed interaction by the scoring system 200.

[0062] Representative computer infrastructure

[0063] Figure 3 A representative computer infrastructure is shown that can represent the bowling scoring and / or management system and / or special effects control of the present disclosure. Illustratively, the computer infrastructure can represent the scoring system 200 or the centralized management system and special effects control 300.

[0064] To this end, the computer infrastructure may include a server, media player, or other computing system 12 that can perform the processing described herein. In particular, the server 12 may include or be operably connected to a computing device 14. The server 12 and / or computing device 14 may communicate via any communication link, such as an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, serial, Ethernet, or digital multiplex network (DMX) contact closure, ASCII, HEX, infrared, and other common communication protocols and technologies. For example, the scoring system 200 may communicate with the central management system 300 using an intranet, LAN, WAN, Internet, or other similar connection. The computing device 14 may reside on a network infrastructure or computing device of a third-party service provider provided and stored at a remote location.

[0065] The computing device 14 may also include a processor 20, a memory 22A, an I / O interface 24, and a bus 26 for operably connecting various components within the computing device. In addition, the computing device includes a random access memory (RAM) 27A, a read-only memory (ROM) 27B, and an operating system (O / S) stored in a memory such as the memory 22A. The computing device 14 may communicate with external I / O devices / resources 28 and the storage system 22B. The I / O devices 28 may include any device that enables a person to interact with the computing device 14 (e.g., a user interface) or any device that enables the computing device 14 to communicate with one or more other computing devices using any type of communication link. The external I / O devices / resources 28 may be, for example, a handheld device, a PDA, a mobile phone, a keyboard, a touch panel, a smart phone, a tablet computer, etc.

[0066] Typically, the processor 20 executes computer program code (e.g., program control 44), which may be stored in the memory 22A and / or the storage system 22B. The program control 44 provides the processing described herein. The program control 44 may be implemented as one or more program codes stored in the memory 22A as a separate or combined module. In addition, the program control 44 may be implemented as a separate dedicated processor or a single or several processors to provide the functions of these tools. When executing the computer program code, the processor 20 may read data from the memory 22A, the storage system 22B, and / or the I / O interface 24 and / or write data to the memory 22A, the storage system 22B, and / or the I / O interface 24. The bus 26 provides a communication link between each component in the computing device 14.

[0067] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the techniques and processes as described herein may be embodied as systems, methods, or computer program products. Thus, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of fully hardware embodiments, fully software-based embodiments (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects.

[0068] In addition, aspects of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media, which have a computer-readable program code embodied thereon. Any combination of one or more computer-readable media may be utilized. A computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. For example, a computer-readable storage medium may be, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor system, device or apparatus, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable storage media will include the following: an electrical connection with one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this article, a computer-readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that may contain or store a program used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, device or apparatus.

[0069] According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the scoring system and / or management system manages special effect content based on a certain triggering event. More specifically, in one or more embodiments, the special effect device (e.g., Figure 1 The video system 10) can be set up near the lanes or in other parts of the bowling center. The special effects devices can be directly managed by the centralized management system 300 through direct commands sent over standard or proprietary protocols (e.g., serial communications, Ethernet, DMX). They can also be managed by a dedicated service separate from the centralized management system 300, which is intended to be, for example, a dedicated server machine running specific software, which receives inputs from the centralized management system 300 and converts these inputs into commands for each special effects device connected to it, in which case also using a defined communication protocol running, for example, over a standard network connection, or using a proprietary protocol, such as serial, Ethernet or DMX contact closure, ASCII, HEX, infrared and other similar protocols.

[0070] According to aspects of the present disclosure, the management system manages the HVAC system 95, security system 50, life safety system 60, security camera system 90, and building lighting 85 content based on input from a bowling center manager / user / operator from a user interface (e.g., a touch panel interface) or through scheduled or programmed events. More specifically, in an embodiment, Figure 1HVAC systems 95, security systems 50, life safety systems 60, security camera systems 90, and architectural lighting 85 may be located throughout the bowling center. All of these systems may be directly managed by the centralized management system 300 through direct commands sent over standard or proprietary protocols (serial communications, Ethernet, DMX, Bluetooth, contact closure, ASCII, HEX, infrared). They may also be managed by a dedicated service separate from the centralized management system 300, intended to be, for example, a dedicated server machine running specific software that receives inputs from the centralized management system 300 and converts these inputs into commands for each specific system connected to it, in this case also using a defined communication protocol running, for example, over a standard network connection, or using a proprietary protocol such as serial, Ethernet, infrared, ASCII, HEX, contact closure or DMX or other similar protocols.

[0071] The centralized management system 300 may be a stand-alone centralized computerized system that is able to know the specific "mode" of the bowling center at all times. For example, the centralized management system 300 may always "know" the status of each lane, such as open / closed, how many bowlers are playing, what game they are playing, whether there are children using paddles, whether the lane is in open play or league mode, etc. The status of each lane may be set manually by a front desk operator, manually by a bowler at the lane through a bowler console of the scoring system 200, automatically through a bowling mode feature, or completely online by the patron and his or her payment method.

[0072] The central management system may also be aware of the "modality" of many other areas of the bowling center. These areas include, but are not limited to, the status of the HVAC system 95, which has the ability to monitor and change the temperature in each HVAC zone / room by operating the thermostats by the central control system 300. In one or more embodiments, the central management system may also: control the audio system 75 with volume levels and sources in all zones; operate, view and monitor the security camera system 90; manage and operate the building lighting system 85 with power and dimming controls for the entire interior and exterior of the building and parking lot; monitor and operate the entire video system 10 with all video input sources, DVD players, media players, digital signage players, and all video output displays; control and operate the effects lighting system 30 and all special effects devices. (e.g., including all fog / smoke / CO2 / snow / bubble / confetti machines, spinning, moving, automatic effect lights, lasers, architectural lighting, mirror effects and other similar special effects); control and operate the video camera system 40; control and manage the security system 50; and control and manage the status of the life safety system 60 in conjunction with the status of the fire detection system. The status of each system in the bowling center can be set manually on-site or remotely by a front desk operator, manager, bowling alley owner through the management system 300 or a remote device bowler handheld device, PDA, cell phone, keyboard, touch panel, smart phone, tablet computer or other similar computing device, or by a predetermined event.

[0073] In one or more embodiments, "bowling mode" refers to a feature of the centralized management system 300 that allows the user to define and program a set of parameters related to the status of each lane on a predefined schedule, such as the type of competition (open competition, league, tournament), the status of optional accessories (baffles, night lighting), the availability of specific competitions, background grids or video animations on the lanes. This provides complete and automatic customization of the bowling environment for the entire center and the entire day, week, month or year. As an example, a bowling center can be set to automatically switch to night lighting, turn to a specific volume level, switch any or all TV channels, run programmed advertising specials, dim the building lighting level, adjust the thermostat heating / cooling level at certain times on certain days of the week, month or year, for example, every Friday starting at 10 pm or every Wednesday at 4 pm, certain lanes are set to be open for children's games, and these lanes are set to only show animations and games for children with children's music. All of these controls can be zone, zone or room specific, or can be set to include the entire facility. This also includes managing the entire building by controlling building lighting 85, lighting 30, video system 10, HVAC system 95, audio 75, video camera system 40, security system 50 and life safety system 60, which has predetermined events for opening and closing programs.

[0074] On the other hand, the scoring system 200 refers to the devices associated with the lane, including a scoring CPU, a bowler console for interacting with the bowler, and a monitor for displaying score information (or other video content managed by the scoring system 100), an interface with an automatic pinspotter, and a device for detecting pin counts and ball speeds. The scoring system 200 is responsible for storing a set of data related to the bowler (name, extra score, left and right hands), and is responsible for detecting and processing all game-related events on the lane (e.g., each bowler's score, how many innings have been played, etc.). In one or more embodiments, the scoring system 200 can be connected and integrated with the centralized management system 300 in a manner that continuously exchanges data between these components. As an example, the centralized management system 300 may instruct the scoring system 200 by sending information about what type of games can be played or the names of the bowlers, and the scoring system sends information about events occurring on the lanes, such as the scores of each bowler, or the pitch information of each bowler on each lane, and / or other similar information to the centralized management system 300. These events may then be used to trigger a special effect or effects.

[0075] In an embodiment, the centralized management system 300 can use input from the scoring system 200 to trigger commands for specific special effects directly after a specific event occurs (e.g., whenever anyone in the center scores a strike, a flashing word "Strike!" is displayed on the shielding unit video display, and / or a predefined light pattern is projected on the lane via ceiling mounted RGB LED lights or LED lane capping lights, and the architectural lighting changes color and / or pattern, or a specific video / still image is displayed on the bowling pins, or any combination of special effects). To expand this feature, the present disclosure can be combined with the bowling mode to set multiple predefined commands, which the centralized management system 300 can send to any special effect device based on the status of the lanes and the events occurring on each lane sent in real time from the scoring system 200 or special effects control 300.

[0076] In an embodiment, the interaction between the centralized management system 300 and a particular ongoing "event" determines the special effects as multi-color lighting, laser effects, audio effects, fog, and / or other similar special effects. Events may include the following examples, as well as other examples as described throughout this disclosure.

[0077] Single game events or combinations of events occurring on one or more lanes (e.g., a strike, a series of strikes, a specific score, and other similar events) can trigger special effects. In this example, the scoring system 200 can detect these events and send this information to the centralized management system 300, which, if bowling mode is active, generates some specific special effects (any / all combinations of lighting, sound, or video) after cross-referencing the input with the "modality" of the center at that moment.

[0078] The system administrator (center owner, manager, or reception / front desk operator) can send some specific input to the centralized management system 300 through any terminal belonging to the centralized management system 300, such as the front desk reception terminal. In this example, the system administrator can convey that all customers on a specific lane are children. At this point, the centralized management system 300 uses this specific data and will know exactly which specific special effects with audio and / or video content to generate based on this information. These effects can be targeted to a specific lane or combination of lanes. As an example, if there are three hits on three different lanes, the centralized management system 300 can trigger a fog effect on the lane or a special lighting effect on the entire facility.

[0079] A game player (e.g., a bowler of the game) can send specific inputs directly to the scoring system 200 through the lane bowler console to provide trigger events and special effects. For example, a player can select a specific color to be projected on the lane after an event occurs. In this example, the scoring system 200 sends this input to the centralized management system 300, which cross-references this information with the specific "modality" of the center at that moment, and if valid, will send a command to the projector, lighting device, or special effect installed on the lane to project the selected video, still image, or color on the lane.

[0080] Thus, in one or more embodiments, in addition to being the system that generates the "modality" of the bowling center, the centralized management system 300 can also be a "collector" of all inputs obtained by the scoring system 200, tracking cameras 415, proximity sensors 100, pressure sensors 95, by system administrators, and / or by game players (again through the scoring system). Once collected, and depending on the particular combination, the centralized management system 300 can determine which particular special effects to generate on a lane, multiple lanes, at other locations within the bowling center, and any combination thereof.

[0081] The central management system 300 and the scoring system 200 may include other inputs or triggers from the security system 50 and the life safety system 60. For example, the security system monitors activity within the bowling center. If the center is burglarized after normal operating hours, the security system detects the intrusion and then contacts the authorities / police, owners and management. The central management system 300 may send a signal to increase all building lighting levels in the building lighting system 85 and turn on the video camera system 40 to record and capture additional video footage of the intrusion. The life safety system may be triggered by a fire alarm, which then communicates with the central management system 300. The central management system may then mute the audio system 75, increase all building lighting 85 levels, turn off the effect lighting 30, the video projection system 10, and trigger the scoring system 200 to turn off the bowling equipment. Any other equipment and / or games in the playground or other areas may also be turned off. Other life safety systems may include an emergency station 105 located in any part of the facility and / or on the management system 300 user interface to notify the authorities of a malfunction / theft / Adam alarm, etc. When an event like this occurs, all central management system 300 user interfaces (touch panels / controls) will provide details of the event. These events must be cleared before the facility can operate normally.

[0082] Representative bowling center

[0083] Figure 4 Another representative bowling center according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, Figure 4 Several components and interactions between components in a bowling center are shown. For example, Figure 4 A front desk 400, a back office 410, and an electrical room 435 are shown, any of which may store any combination of components of the centralized management system 300. For example, in an embodiment, a monitor and input device for the centralized management system 300 may reside at the front desk 400; while a server for the centralized management system 300 may reside in the back office 410, dimming and relay controls and other lighting controls for the centralized management system 300 may reside in the electrical room 435, and HVAC temperature sensors may reside in each area or room of the bowling center ( Figure 4 ). The HVAC thermostat will generally reside in the electrical room 435.

[0084] In addition, Figure 4In the bowling center representation of FIG. 2 , the scoring system 200 is shown paired with two lanes 200a, 200b, respectively. As shown, the scoring system 200 includes an input component, such as a keypad or touch panel 200c, and a monitor 200d. In addition, the input component can include an image capture device, such as a camera, for capturing an image of the bowler for inclusion and display by the scoring system 200, and for example, posting to a website or social media webpage associated with the bowling center or the bowler's own network or social media online account. Similarly, the input component can include a biometric reader, as a separate component or, for example, integrated into the touch panel, to call up previously stored information related to the bowler, such as demographic and personal information, previous performance statistics, preferred system settings, and other similar information.

[0085] Figure 4 Also shown is a projection system 10, which may include lighting and other special effects as described herein. For example, a tracking camera (system) 415 including infrared lighting 425 is also disposed on top of the bowling lanes 200a, 200b. The tracking camera (system) 415 may be positioned at other locations in the bowling center and preferably has an overview of the bowling center, including the lanes 200a, 200b, the walkway area 65 and the foul line 65a and other related areas. In one or more embodiments, the tracking camera system 415 may be a laser or other motion detection system positioned at the foul line 65a to determine whether the bowler has crossed the foul line during the bowling event or as a trigger for any or all special effects.

[0086] In further embodiments, the tracking system 415 can track the movement of objects (e.g., bowling pins, bowling balls, and bowling hands and other similar objects) and provide such information to the centralized management system 300. Also, the pressure sensor 95 can detect the bowling hands and their positions in the bowling center and provide this information to the centralized management system 300. The proximity sensor 100 can be used to track the position and speed of the bowling balls rolling on the lanes 200a and 200b. This information can also be sent to the centralized management system 300. The centralized management system 300 can use this information to determine whether such an event is a triggering event for a special effect, and if so, instruct the special effect component(s) to provide the associated special effect, such as lighting, fog, or other interactions. As an example, the tracking camera (system) 415 and / or pressure sensor 95 can determine that a person is in the walkway area 65, and if another person on an adjacent lane is bowling, instruct the special effects component (e.g., a projector) to project an image or text on the walkway, requesting the bowler to wait for the other bowler in the adjacent lane of the unit to release the bowling ball. The tracking camera system 415 and infrared lighting 425 can track the rolling bowling ball, communicate with the central management system, and instruct the video system 10 to project the video on and / or around the bowling ball rolling along the lanes 200a and 200b. The proximity sensor 100 that tracks the bowling ball rolling along the lanes can instruct the central management system to cause the LED lane lights to follow the ball rolling along the lanes 200a and 200b. The pinning area 70 can include special effects equipment, such as pinning lighting 420, such as LED, fluorescent, ultraviolet, and / or pin video projection 85, below the shielding unit or pin area 35 for additional tracking effects / visual effects / animation.

[0087] A plurality of overhead monitors 425 may also be provided in the bowling center. In an embodiment, much like other visual effect components of the present disclosure, these overhead monitors 425 may provide visual effects upon triggering events controlled by the centralized management system 300. For example, the visual effects may be animations or other effects.

[0088] Figure 4 The bowling center of the present invention also includes other bowling related components, such as a ball return system 430. In an embodiment, visual effects and special effects can be provided on any surface of the bowling center, including the ball return system 430.

[0089] like Figure 4As shown, the various components included in the bowling center can be operably connected via wired and / or wireless connections. For example, the scoring system 200 can have a wired connection with the centralized management system 300. However, one or more of the special effects components (such as the pin lighting 420) or one or more of the monitoring components (such as the tracking camera system 415) can be operably connected to the centralized management system 300 via a wireless connection.

[0090] Example process that provides an interactive experience

[0091] Figure 5 An example process for providing an interactive bowling experience using the techniques described herein is shown according to one or more embodiments. A centralized management system is initialized 502. As described above, an employee of a bowling center may begin the initialization process by opening or activating one or more lanes and assigning the type of game to be played (e.g., an open game or a league). The initialization process may be continued by one or more people playing at the lane by entering their personal information into a lane score calculation input device at the lane itself. For example, a user may enter their name (and the names of other players), the age of the player, whether any player needs special help (such as a baffle), and other relevant information. In addition, as taught herein, a player may select one or more options for special effects to be presented during the game. For example, a player may choose to turn off all special effects, choose to turn on all special effects, or select a specific combination of special effects to be presented during the game.

[0092] After initialization, the centralized management system can monitor 504 events occurring at the one or more specific lanes for any events that are programmed to occur that trigger special effects. If the centralized management system determines 506 that no event has occurred (or that no event has occurred that is programmed to trigger special effects), the system can continue to monitor 504. However, if the centralized management system does determine 506 that an event has occurred, the system can further determine 508 which associated special effects are associated with the event. For example, if the event is a strike, the system can determine 308 that the lights at the lane will flash, a sound effect will play, and an associated image (e.g., an "X") will be displayed on the monitor. Additionally or alternatively, the system can determine 310 a specific location where the special effect is to occur. For example, for common events such as strikes, the system can determine 510 that the special effect will only be displayed on the lane where the event occurs. However, for events that rarely occur (such as a perfect game), the system can determine 510 that the special effect should be displayed throughout the bowling center.

[0093] After determining 508 what special effect to present and determining 510 where to present the special effect, the special effect is presented 512. As described above, the special effect can include one or more of video projection, flat-panel video display, LED video display, multi-color lighting, ultraviolet lighting, laser effects, audio effects, and / or fog / smoke / CO2 / snow / bubbles / confetti effects and other similar special effects.

[0094] It should be noted that if Figure 5 The process shown and described above is for a single group of players at a particular bowling lane only as an example. The technology as described herein should be understood to be applicable to all aspects of a bowling center, as described in more detail above. Thus, the centralized management system is configured to monitor and respond to any and (possibly) all events occurring within a bowling center.

[0095] Figure 6 Another representative bowling center according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown, and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C Shows Figure 6 A line diagram of the various components of a bowling ball center. More specifically, Figure 6 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C Several components and interactions between components in a bowling center are shown. For example, Figure 6 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C A bowling pin detection system 602 and a bowling ball shot detection system 642 are shown.

[0096] The bowling pin detection system 602 is used to detect which bowling pins are still standing before and after the bowling ball rolls down the bowling lane 604. The bowling pin detection system 602 may determine which bowling pins are still standing using camera tracking 606, motion detection 608, laser detection 610, pressure sensors 612, or optical sensors under the pins 614, infrared 616, or similar devices with a connection to a system processor 618. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 then uses this information to determine the combination of pins that the bowling ball hit or stood up.

[0097] Based on this information, the system processor 618 executes programming instructions to communicate with the bowling management system 620 via, for example, a network switch 621. According to various embodiments, the bowling management system 620 then triggers one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other suitable effects. According to various embodiments, the bowling management system 620 can be coupled to one or more user interfaces, such as, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel 623, and / or other suitable user interfaces.

[0098] According to various embodiments, the bowling shot detection system 642 is used to determine whether a bowling shot has been made or whether a bowling ball has rolled down the bowling lane 604. A motion detector 644, a camera 646, a laser 648, an infrared beam 650, a pressure sensor 652, an optical sensor 654, and / or the like are connected to the system processor 618. According to various embodiments, when a sensor is triggered, the system processor 618 communicates with the bowling management system 620. The bowling management system 620 records the actions taken by the system processor 618. According to various embodiments, if additional actions are required, the bowling management system 620 triggers one or more special effects (300), a playback device 624, a video effect 626, an audio effect 628, a fog effect 630, a smoke effect 632, a carbon dioxide effect 634, a snow effect 636, a bubble effect 638, a confetti effect 640, and / or other suitable effects.

[0099] According to various embodiments, a video deck projection mapping system 656 is implemented. The video deck projection mapping system 656 is a video system that uses bowling pins as a projection surface. According to various embodiments, the video deck projection mapping system 656 uses a camera to scan the bowling pins to obtain the size and shape of each pin. According to various embodiments, this is done for all 1024 bowling shot combinations for a complete bowling game. Then, a computing device is used to add color, video graphics, effects, themed content, advertising, instructions, lane identification, and / or other types of content (e.g., video content) to each scanned image of the bowling pins.

[0100] Since the video content is digital, there is virtually no limit to what images can be displayed on the bowling pins. According to various embodiments, the video content is loaded onto a playback device 658. The playback device 658 can be various types of devices. These can include a USB memory stick, a DVD player, a Blu-ray player, a media server, a cable / satellite receiver, a computer, and / or other types of playback devices. The playback device 658 is connected to the system processor 618 to control which video content the playback device 658 is to play back. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 is connected to a bowling scoring system 660 (e.g., such as a Figure 2 and Figure 4 The scoring system 200 shown is connected to the pin detection system 602 and to the bowling ball shot detection system 642.

[0101] According to various embodiments, the bowling scoring system 660, the pin detection system 602, and the bowling shot detection system 642 provide information about pin combinations and / or bowling shots. This information is used to select video content to be selected and played by the playback device 658. The playback device outputs the video signal to a video projector 662 for illuminating the bowling pins. The video projector 662 is mounted on a bowling machine / pinsetter / bowling vending machine 664 or a shielding unit 666 or a projector stand.

[0102] According to various embodiments, the video bottle projection mapping system 656 can operate at various types of resolutions. For example, these include standard definition and high definition, ultra high definition 4k or 8k, XGA, WXGA and WUXGA, and / or other types of resolutions currently available or yet to be determined. Various aspect ratios can be used in conjunction with the video projector 662. For example, these include widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio, 4:3 aspect ratio, and / or other aspect ratios. The video projector 662 provides versatility so that various images, videos, and / or colors can be projected and mapped onto the bowling pins.

[0103] According to various embodiments, a manual focus and / or a powered focus video projector 662 may be used. According to various embodiments, when a manual focus video projector 662 is used, the focus is calibrated to all ten pins, with the primary focus being on pin number five. This pin is located in the center of the ten-pin setup for the entire rack of bowling pins. According to various embodiments, when a powered focus video projector 662 is used, the focus may be automated to work with the system control processor 618 and the bowling management system 620. According to various embodiments, each of the video playback files includes an optimal focus setting. The file loads the focus parameters and is sent to the video projector 662. Thus, each video image is in its optimal focus.

[0104] According to various embodiments, the video projector 662 brightness is measured in lumens. The brightness required to illuminate the bowling pins varies depending on the ambient lighting at the location. According to various embodiments, a minimum of 500 lumens is achieved to obtain acceptable video quality. However, it should be noted that other levels of lumens can be achieved. The higher the lumen number of the projector, the brighter the projected image. The white surface of each bowling pin is an ideal surface to project onto. All ten pins are used as the projection surface for the duration of all innings within each bowling game played.

[0105] The video content may be displayed on one or more lanes at a time or in any combination. Using the video content on multiple pinners 664 at a time will create a "display" on multiple bowling lanes 604. This may include interactive effects with the game on multiple lanes, where a player can pitch a ball causing effects and graphics to move to adjacent lanes.

[0106] The video pin projection mapping system 656 is typically used with the pin table light(s) 668 turned off. This is done to further enhance the quality and intensity of the video image. Although it should also be noted that the pin table lights 668 may be used in conjunction with the video pin projection mapping system 656 according to various embodiments. The pin table lighting system 668 is another feature operated and controlled by the bowling management system 620. Additional interactive effects and programming may be included.

[0107] The video pin projection mapping system 656 can also provide targets on the bowling pins to show the best position to hit the pins to successfully complete a bowling inning. These targets are a powerful training tool for bowlers of all levels and abilities. The video pin projection mapping system 656 can also be used for lane identification. This can be done by projecting lane numbers or graphics onto the bowling pins to identify the bowling lane 604. The video pin projection mapping system 656 can be connected to a bowling scoring system 660 so that each player's score can be projected on the pins at the beginning of each inning.

[0108] According to various embodiments, the video pin projection mapping system 656 can be used to play additional bowling games in which specific colors or graphics are projected on pins or combinations of pins. When the colored or graphic pins are hit by the player's bowling ball, the system processor 618 can notify the bowling management system 620 of the result of the hit. The bowling management system 620 then triggers one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, one or more other effects and / or a scoring system 660. According to various embodiments, the scoring system 660 then rewards the result of the action by changing the score or awarding a prize to the player. These types of games can be played by one or more lanes at a time. In addition, the bowling scoring system master control 670 can be used to set up the bowling game, set the colors, graphics, themes and prizes, where the system is interconnected with the bowling management system 620. Games, themes, effects and graphics can be selected by players at each lane using the bowling scoring system terminal 672 at each lane.

[0109] Additionally, a video pin projection mapping system 656 can be used to provide video projection on the pin swinger scanning arm on a traditional ten pin swinger and on the pin swinger ball blocker / scanning arm on a string pin swinger. The video pin projection mapping system 656 can be linked and synchronized to the audio track and / or audio system 628. Synchronization between all of these systems is performed by the bowling management system 620.

[0110] According to various embodiments, the lane detection system 674 is used to track a bowling ball along the bowling lane 604 and provide information about the trajectory of the bowling ball to the system processor 618. This is accomplished, for example, by using a motion detector 676, a camera 678, a laser 680, a pressure sensor 682, an optical sensor 684, infrared 686, and / or a similar device having a connection to the system processor 618. When a sensor is triggered, the system processor 618 communicates with the bowling management system 620 to deploy one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects. The system processor 618 is connected to the bowling management system 620 and will communicate the actions performed and the triggers. The bowling management system 620 may provide additional special effects 622 to any or all other bowling lanes 604 based on the bowling shot being made. According to various embodiments, synchronization between the systems is performed by the bowling management system 620.

[0111] According to various embodiments, the ball return effect system 688 provides an active lighting effect 690 and warning lights 692 where the bowling ball is returned from the pin jack 664 to the ball returner of the ball return effect system 688 at each lane. According to various embodiments, the warning lights 692 are positioned around the ball return opening at the ball returner of the ball return effect system 688. This will warn the bowler that the ball is returning to the rack and to keep his hands away to prevent possible injury. According to various embodiments, the ball return effect system 688 can be used for ball returns under the lane or over the lane.

[0112] For the ball return under the lane, the ball return cover or cover can be replaced with a transparent or translucent cover 694. Several types of sensors can be used to track the bowling ball. These sensors include motion 696, camera 698, laser 700, infrared sensor 702, pressure sensor 704, optical sensor 706 and / or other sensors. According to various embodiments, sensors are installed in the ball return effect system 688 to track the return of the bowling ball from the pin swing 664 to the ball returner. According to various embodiments, LED lighting is installed in the ball return track 691, providing active lighting effects 690 at the ball return track 691, to the opening where the bowling ball returns, to the ball returner (ball return rack lighting 708) around, and to the partition cover (710 and 712) on the other side or the bowling lane 604. These and other lighting systems 715 are connected to the lighting controller 714. According to various embodiments, the lighting controller 714 and the ball return effect system 688 are connected to the system processor 618. According to various embodiments, when the ball return effect system 688 is triggered by the returning bowling ball, the system processor 618 communicates with the lighting system controller 714 to illuminate the lighting and track the bowling ball as it returns to the ball returner. This provides additional visual effects. In addition, one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects can be triggered by the bowling management system 620. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 is connected to the bowling management system 620 and communicates the actions and triggers performed.

[0113] According to various embodiments, the ball return effect system 688 can be used in conjunction with the scoring system 660. According to various embodiments, when each player is set up in the scoring system 660, they are assigned a specific color. When it is the player's turn to bowl, the scoring system 660 triggers the bowling management system 620 to change the color of the ball returner and cover lighting system (716 and 718) to the corresponding color of that player.

[0114] According to various embodiments, for the ball returner above the lane, the system will be similar, but no cover plate or cover will be required. The system will operate in the same manner as the ball returner below the lane.

[0115] According to various embodiments, the system includes one or more pairs of interactive bowling shoes 720. According to various embodiments, the interactive bowling shoes 720 include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 722 mounted on or in one or both of the pair of bowling shoes 720. The RFID tag 722 uses radio waves to identify a person or object. The radio frequency wireless device 724 reads the information contained in the wireless RFID tag 722 from a distance without physical contact. According to various embodiments, when the bowling shoes 720 are rented from the facility, the RFID tags 722 in the bowling shoes 720 can be read and assigned to each player. Other types of RFID tags can be used for customers who do not purchase the rental bowling shoes 720. For example, these include wristbands, lanyards, wearable RFID tags, and / or other types of tags. It should also be noted that other types of tagging technologies can be implemented.

[0116] According to various embodiments, for example, an RFID reader 724 with a communication antenna or other communication hardware can be strategically installed into a bowling facility. The RFID reader 724 can internally track the location of each player within the facility. The RFID reader system 724 can be connected to the system processor 618. The system processor 618 can be connected to and trigger the bowling management system 620. The bowling management system 620 can trigger one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects based on the location or event of the player.

[0117] According to various embodiments, the bowling scoring system 660 is connected to the bowling management system 620 so that the scoring system 660 can indicate to the bowling management system 620 that it is the player's turn to throw a ball by triggering one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects. According to various embodiments, the effects powered by the battery 726 can be included within or externally on the bowling shoe(s) 720. For example, the effects can include LED lighting and vibration devices 728.

[0118] According to various embodiments, the tracking of bowling shoes 720 can provide a warning to the bowling console 730 (e.g., via the serial interceptor 731) or management that the bowling shoes 720 have been or are being removed from the facility. It can also send an email to management or customers indicating that the rented bowling shoes 720 have been lost or are about to be lost. Management can then contact the customer about the lost shoes 720 and the loss can be prevented.

[0119] For example, other uses of bowling shoe 720 having RFID tag 722 installed in shoe 720 may include, but are not limited to:

[0120] Opening an equipment locker with an RFID lock 732;

[0121] Access control 734 for attraction admission (e.g., mini golf, laser tag, ropes courses, trampolines, go-karts, dark rides, etc.);

[0122] providing an arcade game 736 for use by the RFID reader 724;

[0123] Providing information to a point of sale system (POS) 738 for food and beverage purchases; and providing information about the status of the shoe 720 and whether the shoe 720 has been sanitized 739 by, for example, staff.

[0124] According to various embodiments, the system includes interactive bowling seats 740. According to various embodiments, the interactive bowling seats 740 may include tactile transducers 742 mounted below the base of each seat 747. The tactile transducers 742 are connected to the audio system 628. According to various embodiments, when a specific tone is played through the audio system 628, the tactile transducers 742 cause the seats to vibrate. According to various embodiments, the bowling management system 620 may control and trigger the interactive bowling seats 740 to vibrate at specific times. The system may work as a standalone effect or in any combination with other special effects 622 controlled by the bowling management system 620. According to various embodiments, the seats 740 include one or more sensors 745 for sensing one or more players.

[0125] According to various embodiments, with the bowling scoring system 660 connected to the bowling management system 620, triggers can be associated with bowling shots and provide game interactions. For example, a player can bowl a strike, which causes the tactile transducer 742 to output a sound and, in turn, causes the interactive bowling seat 740 to vibrate. This effect can be used with all other special effect triggers triggered by the bowling management system 620, including one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects. According to various embodiments, a message can be sent to the bowler's mobile device.

[0126] According to various embodiments, the scoring system 660 is interconnected with the radio frequency identification (RFID) reader system 724, the interactive bowling seating system 740, and / or the bowling management system 620, and the combination of the systems can alert the player when it is his turn to throw a ball. According to various embodiments, the scoring system 660 can identify which player's turn it is, the RFID reader system 724 tracks the players within the bowling center, and determines if the player is sitting in the interactive bowling seat 740. The bowling management system 620 will use the tactile transducer 742 to vibrate the seat where the player is sitting and trigger lighting effects within the seat 744.

[0127] According to various embodiments, the system includes a bowler's aid lane detection system 746 for tracking the position of the bowler on the bowler's aid lane 748. The system 746 includes tracking the position and location of the player's feet. This can be accomplished by using a motion detector 750, a camera 752, a laser 754, a pressure sensor 756, an optical sensor 758, and / or similar sensors connected to the system processor 618. According to various embodiments, when the sensor is triggered, the system processor 618 communicates with the bowling management system 620 to trigger one or more special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects. This includes placing a video mapping pin projection system 656 on the bowling pins of each lane 604. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 is connected to the bowling management system 620 and will communicate the actions and triggers performed. The bowling management system 620 can provide additional effects to any or all other bowling lanes 604 based on the bowling shot performed. According to various embodiments, all synchronization between the bowler hand-assisted lane detection systems 746 is performed by the bowling management system 620.

[0128] According to various embodiments, additional effects on the walkway 748 can be accomplished by connecting the walkway detection system 746 with a walkway projection mapping system 760 mounted above the bowler's walkway 748. According to various embodiments, the lane projection mapping system 760 projects colors, video graphics, advertisements, instructions, lane identification, scores, television and / or other types of content (e.g., video content) onto the bowler's walkway 748 and surrounding areas. According to various embodiments, a video projector 762 can be mounted above the bowler's walkway 748 and connected to the system processor 618. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 includes connections to one or more tracking device cameras 764, motion sensors 766, lasers 768, infrared sensors 770, one or more other sensors and / or the walkway detection system 746 to track players in the area. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 uses this information to determine where the player is standing on the walkway 748. According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 is connected to the bowling management system 620. The bowling management system 620 triggers which video images should be projected onto the walkway 748. According to various embodiments, the bowling management system 620 can then trigger one or more additional special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects. The walkway projection mapping system 760 can cover the entire walkway 748 in the bowling center or only a portion of it. This includes video projection on the ball returner and the bowling balls in the ball returner. In addition, a windowed video processor can be added to the walkway projection system 760 to provide any type of video content to a window or picture-in-picture display.

[0129] According to various embodiments, direct view LED panels 772 may be installed in place of traditional LCD video panels for scoring. For example, these LED panels 772 may be ceiling mounted with one continuous screen above the bowler's walkway 748. The LED panels may display video graphics, advertisements, instructions, lane identification, scores, television, and all types of content. The video content may be sized for a particular bowling lane or any combination of bowling lanes 604. The direct view LED panels 772 may also be used as one continuous image across all LED panels 772.

[0130] According to various embodiments, the system processor 618 and the window processor may be used to provide system programming and content. The system processor 618 may include programming instructions to communicate with the bowling management system 620. The bowling management system 620 may then trigger one or more additional special effects 622, playback devices 624, video effects 626, audio effects 628, fog effects 630, smoke effects 632, carbon dioxide effects 634, snow effects 636, bubble effects 638, confetti effects 640, and / or other effects.

[0131] According to various embodiments, utilizing the interconnection with the bowling management system 620, video content may be displayed simultaneously on any or all of the following displays: the video masking system 774, the video pin deck projection mapping system 656, the bowler's aid walkway projection mapping system 746, and / or any LED video display panel 772.

[0132] Additional Examples and Embodiments of the Disclosure

[0133] Reference again Figure 1-Figure 4 In operation, a video signal may be transmitted to the video projector system 10, such as a movie, TV channel, media server / player, Internet device (AppleTV / Roku, etc.), PC, game console, DVD player, Blu-ray player, camera system, smart phone, tablet PC, digital signage player or device, and the scoring system 200 with any of these video sources may be processed by the computerized special effects equipment and directed by the centralized management system 300. The video sources may be managed by the computerized special effects equipment system and the centralized management system 300 so that each video projector or multiple projectors may display video and / or other effects according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0134] For example, each video projector can display a different portion of the original video signal so that the combination of the video projectors produces a larger image. This is called a matrix video wall (i.e., a 3×3 display matrix can display a single video into an area 9 times larger than a single projector). This can be accomplished by hard edge blending or soft edge blending of the video projector output. In a bowling center, this technology can be used on a video mask to display a single very large picture, video, or any of the above video sources on all lanes in the bowling center, or an advertising banner that moves / rolls on all lanes in the bowling center (e.g., from lane 1 to lane 30). For the example 30 lanes, a typical matrix video wall on the shielding unit would be a 1×15 wall. Any combination and size of the matrix video wall is possible. Alternatively, one or more video screens can be used to provide a video wall for the shielding unit. For example, in addition to or as a substitute for the video projector as described above, a 3×3 matrix of flat panel displays can be used to create a video wall.

[0135] Furthermore, in operation, the video projection system 10 may be distributed throughout a bowling center (e.g., Figure 4 The video projector array may use a camera device (or other detection device) (e.g., tracking camera 415) to identify people and objects that cross the video projection surface area and enable the system to react and change the image displayed by the projector based on the movement of the person or object / objects in the video projection display area. In an embodiment, the video projector array is managed by the centralized management system 300. Many types of lighting equipment can also be controlled by the centralized management system 300 to create lighting effects and "atmosphere" within the bowling center. These lighting devices can be multi-color lighting devices, such as LED lighting, above the bowling lanes 55, the walkway area 65, the pins 420, the shading units 45, the architectural lighting 85, the walls or any surface 25, wherein the multi-color lighting devices (such as LED lighting) project lighting effects onto the lane surfaces 200a and 200b, the walkway area 35, the pins 45, the shading units 55, the architectural lighting 85, the walls or any surface 25 in the bowling center, thereby changing the color appearance of the surface and creating a good visual effect on the surface in the bowling center, any of which is managed by the centralized management system 300.

[0136] Thus, in one or more embodiments, the present disclosure provides for the interaction of projection and lighting effects systems used in a bowling center with a bowling scoring and management system 100 to allow the video content, audio, and lighting content delivered by these systems to respond to many different events, including scoring games and events occurring on the bowling lanes (and known and managed by the scoring system 200, tracking system 415, proximity sensors 100, pressure sensors 95). As a result, the bowling scoring and management system 100 can drive and also affect the video content delivered by the video projector system 10 (with or without cameras / sensors / detection devices for interacting with bowlers and / or bowling balls) and / or the video camera 40, architectural lighting 85, audio 75, lighting 30 systems in the bowling center.

[0137] This integration and interaction can be achieved in many different ways, since the video, audio and lighting systems can be provided with computerized controls and standardized interfaces (i.e., the computerized system controlling the video projector is a computer, so the computer software running on it can get input from the bowling scoring system via Ethernet). For example, the effects lighting control system can be a DMX controller, which can be arranged to interact with the bowling scoring and management system via serial, infrared, ASCII, Hex, contact closure or Ethernet connection.

[0138] Examples of interaction enabled by linking these devices to a bowling scoring and management system include the following features, among others, and in no particular order of importance.

[0139] I. Extend any graphics, environment or scoring data available within the bowling and scoring management system 100 to bowling lanes, walkways and shelter units or other surfaces.

[0140] II. Allow bowlers to use a scoring console or mobile device to select content to be projected onto bowling lanes, walkways, and shelter units or other surfaces. For example, there may be games within the scoring system that allow the user to select images or animations and project them onto the lane surface (i.e., a bowling lane may look like grass, ice, a road, plasma, a night sky with stars, etc.).

[0141] III. Allow bowlers to create their own content through the scoring console or mobile device and project it onto the lane (e.g., by using different patterns, brushes, stamps, etc. Children who have time can create their own pictures on the lane as if they were painting it).

[0142] IV. Projecting a welcome screen (or any type of digital content) onto the approach lane to welcome bowlers who have just arrived at the lane or other surface.

[0143] V. Any graphical, environmental or scoring data available within the bowling and scoring management system can be sent to bowling lanes, walkway areas and shelter units or other surfaces.

[0144] VI. Integration with redemption device 500 to deliver virtual tickets, free / discounted bowling games, food and beverage coupons, arcade tokens and / or tokens as images projected onto the lane surface.

[0145] VII. Display any advertising messages and images originating from the scoring and management system onto the bowling lanes, walkways, shelter units and / or any / all video displays.

[0146] VIII. Projecting a topographic image representing the oil pattern onto a bowling lane, walkway, or surface.

[0147] IX. Project safety warning messages or images onto the lanes to warn bowlers not to cross the foul line and to obey bowling center rules.

[0148] X. Once the scoring system detects that the foul detector unit has been triggered by a person crossing the foul line, a foul video clip animation is projected.

[0149] XI. Any game managed by a scoring system is extended to a bowling center surface, e.g., a lane surface, so that competition between lanes can be visualized on the lane surface by a histogram starting from the end of the lane and growing toward the walkway area. At each throw, the corresponding histogram bar grows. The first lane to reach the walkway area wins.

[0150] XII. Extend any game managed by the scoring system to a bowling center surface, such as a lane surface, thereby displaying scenes on the lane surfaces, all across the bowling center. (i.e., a train image enters lane 1 and moves through all adjacent lanes, back and forth several times, each time getting closer to the walkway. When the train stops, all doors open and a "You Win!" banner is displayed from one of the train cars).

[0151] XIII. Displaying scoring information directly on the lanes or other bowling center surfaces in addition to or in lieu of scoring information displayed on a monitor. For example:

[0152] i. Displaying nicknames, pictures and other data about bowlers on the lanes, walkways and / or shelter units;

[0153] ii. Display the score made with the most recent throw to the lane, walkway and / or shelter unit (i.e. "7" or "Striker");

[0154] iii. Celebrate significant scoring achievements (i.e., “three strikes in a row”) with specific animations on the lanes, walkways, and / or shelter units;

[0155] iv. Displaying bowler rankings and brief review data on the lane and / or shelter unit; and /

[0156] or

[0157] v. Display a histogram on the lane with one bar for each bowler, labeled with name and current score, to visually show how the game is going and who is leading and following.

[0158] XIV. Allow bowlers to use the scoring console to create content images (avatars) that will follow the path of the ball on the lane.

[0159] XV. Integrate with sound system to produce specific sounds that react to ball movement and / or graphic images.

[0160] For example, gutter-washing balls are accompanied by sound effects.

[0161] XVI. Integrate a back-up detector projected onto the bowling lane to show the bowler where to throw the ball using arrows on the lane (an extension of the back-up detector in the scoring system).

[0162] XVII. Projecting ball paths onto lanes to help bowlers learn and improve their performance (e.g.

[0163] Using different colors for the first and second balls, display colored stripes at specific locations on the lane where the balls must pass).

[0164] XVIII. Maintain a history of ball paths and project them onto the lane to show how consistent a bowler's delivery pattern is. Additionally, such a feature can be used for training purposes to improve the skills of a bowler. XIX. Improve safety in bowling centers by using the system to identify objects that do not look like bowling balls crossing the foul line onto the lane and warn the bowler by projecting visual and audible alarms and stopping the bowling ball vending machine when shapes get too close.

[0165] XX. Improve the safety and security of the center by being able to view, monitor and operate the security camera system 90 by the central management system 300.

[0166] XXI. Security and life safety are improved by including an emergency button 105 on the central management system 300 user interface or a separate hidden button near the interface to automatically alert the relevant authorities when there is a potential problem or malfunction at the bowling center.

[0167] XXII. Reduce the need for additional lighting, security systems, HVAC controls by integrating them into the central management system 300.

[0168] XXIII. Reduce energy consumption throughout the bowling center by integrating and scheduling system on / off times. XXIV. Use LED lighting in and on equipment and surfaces with integrated DMX / Art-Net or similar controls with wired or wireless connectivity. These include but are not limited to bowling balls, bowling pins, furniture, ball returners, bowling automats / pin shifters, shelter units, bowling shoes, clothing or other surfaces, fixtures and items within the bowling center.

[0169] The description of various embodiments of the present disclosure has been presented for illustrative purposes, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein is selected to best explain the principles of the embodiments, practical applications, or technical improvements to technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A system for providing an interactive bowling experience, the system include: Management system, including: Memory and processing means, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium in communication with the processing device, the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing one or more programming instructions that, when executed, cause the processing device to: storing a list of one or more triggering events and any special effects associated with each of the one or more triggering events, Monitor activity within the bowling center to detect the occurrence of triggering events, determining a location of a user, wherein the location of the user is a seat within the bowling center; determining whether the triggering event has occurred, and if it is determined that the triggering event has occurred, then: Determine one or more special effects associated with the trigger event, wherein the one or more special effects include: activating one or more lighting or vibration effects at the seat within the bowling center where the user is located; and providing instructions to one or more special effects components to perform the one or more special effects associated with the triggering event, wherein the system includes interactive bowling seating and scoring system, The system further includes a radio frequency identification reader system, which tracks users in the bowling center and determines whether the users are sitting in interactive bowling seats, and the scoring system is interconnected with the radio frequency identification reader system, the interactive bowling seats and / or the management system.

2. The system according to claim 1, in, The one or more triggering events include at least one of a hit or a series of hits, a gutter ball, a high score, a perfect score, a score exceeding a specified value, and the start of a user's turn.

3. The system according to claim 1, in, The one or more special effects components include at least one of a video display, a video projector, an audio system, a haptic feedback system, and an architectural lighting system.

4. The system according to claim 1, in, The one or more special effects include at least one of a video projection effect, a multi-color lighting effect, an ultraviolet lighting effect, a laser effect, an audio effect, a fog effect, a smoke effect, a carbon dioxide effect, a snow effect, a bubble effect, and a confetti effect.

5. The system according to claim 1, in, The one or more programming instructions also include one or more programming instructions configured to cause the management system to receive initialization information from at least one input device, the initialization information related to the operation of the bowling center.

6. The system according to claim 5, in, The initialization information includes at least one of a type of game to be played, one or more player names, one or more player ages, and a selection of one or more special effects that can be triggered during play.

7. The system according to claim 1, in, The occurrence of the triggering event is detected by at least one of a scoring system, a security system, one or more cameras, one or more proximity sensors, one or more pressure sensors, and one or more motion sensors.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more tracking tags configured to be worn by the user.

9. The system of claim 8, further comprising one or more shoes, in, The one or more tracking tags are housed within the one or more shoes.

10. The system according to claim 9, in, The programmed instructions are further configured to cause the processing device to determine whether the one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

11. The system according to claim 10, in, The programmed instructions are further configured to cause the processing device to generate a notification when it has been determined that the one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the interactive bowling seats include a tactile transducer mounted below the base of each seat and one or more sensors for sensing one or more users.

13. A method for providing an interactive bowling experience, the method include: storing, by the management system, a list of one or more triggering events and any special effects associated with each of the one or more triggering events; receiving, by the management system, initialization information related to the operation of the bowling center from at least one input device; The management system receives event occurrence information from one or more detection devices; determining, via each interactive bowling seat and / or a radio frequency identification reader system, the location of the user as a seat within the bowling center, wherein the radio frequency identification reader system tracks users within the bowling center and determines whether the user is seated at an interactive bowling seat; The management system monitors the event occurrence information for the occurrence of a trigger event having at least one associated special effect; determining, by the management system, whether the triggering event having the at least one associated special effect has occurred; as well as In response to the occurrence of the trigger event having the at least one associated special effect: The management system determines one or more special effects associated with the trigger event, wherein the one or more special effects include: activating one or more lighting or vibration effects at the seat within the bowling center where the user is located; and The management system provides instructions to one or more special effect components to execute the one or more special effects associated with the trigger event, Wherein, the scoring system is interconnected with the RFID reader system, the interactive bowling seats and / or the management system.

14. The method according to claim 13, in, The one or more triggering events include at least one of a hit or a series of hits, a gutter ball, a high score, a perfect score, a score exceeding a specified value, and the start of a user's turn.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining the location of the user using one or more tracking tags configured to be worn by the user.

16. The method according to claim 15, in, The one or more tracking tags are housed within one or more shoes.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising determining whether the one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: include: When it has been determined that the one or more shoes have been removed from the bowling center, a notification is generated.

19. A system for providing an interactive bowling experience, the system include: Management system, including: Memory and processing means, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium in communication with the processing device, the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing one or more programming instructions that, when executed, cause the processing device to: storing a list of one or more trigger events and any special effects associated with each trigger event; monitoring activity within the bowling center to detect an occurrence of at least one of the one or more triggering events; and In response to the occurrence of at least one of the one or more triggering events: For at least one bowling pin, provide instructions to one or more special effects components to: scanning an image of the at least one bowling pin; adding one or more graphics to the scanned image; and The scanned image and one or more added graphics are projected onto the at least one bowling pin.

20. The system according to claim 19, in: The programming instructions further cause the processing device to: activate a confetti event in response to the occurrence of the one or more triggering events.

21. The system of claim 19, wherein the programming instructions further cause the processing device to: determine the location of a user using one or more tracking tags, the one or more tracking tags configured to be worn by the user.

Images