Removable Bowling Lane Platform for Flat Floor Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bowling alley facilities face challenges in converting their arrays of lanes into a continuous, flat, level platform for various activities without damaging the existing surfaces, as existing removable platforms cannot accommodate the height variations and require easy assembly, removal, and storage, while being economically feasible and using locally available materials.
Innovation Solution
A removable platform with base support members made from linear low-density polyethylene, featuring transverse and longitudinal support members, and a planar sheet-like member to create a solid platform that spans the bowling lanes without contacting the gutters or cappings, allowing for easy installation and storage, and utilizing readily available materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a removable platform is installed over bowling lanes to convert the facility for other activities, then the facility utilization is improved, but the bowling lane surface may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is divided into multiple individual lane sections, each fitting over a single bowling lane. This segmentation allows the platform to be installed and removed without damaging the bowling surface, while still providing a continuous platform when all sections are in place.
Solution Approach 2:
A protective intermediate layer (platform) is introduced between the bowling lane surface and the activities conducted above it. This intermediary platform allows other activities to be conducted without direct contact with and potential damage to the bowling lane surface.
2Shape
If existing removable platforms are used, then the conversion to flat surface is achieved, but they cannot accommodate height variations of bowling alley components
Solution Approach 1:
Each lane section of the platform is designed with specific local adaptations to accommodate the unique height variations and features of bowling alley components (gutters, cappings, ball returns). The platform sections are contoured or adjusted to match the specific geometry of each lane's supporting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform sections incorporate adjustable or flexible elements that can adapt to different height variations in the bowling alley infrastructure. This dynamic design allows the same platform sections to be used across multiple lanes with varying configurations.
3Ease of operation
If a removable platform is designed for easy assembly and removal, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is segmented into multiple sections that can be independently assembled and removed. Each section is designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, yet when assembled together, they form a stable continuous surface through interlocking joints or support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is designed to be completely removable and extractable from the bowling alley facility. The segmentation and connection design allow for easy disassembly without leaving any permanent modifications to the bowling lanes, maintaining both ease of operation and structural integrity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The platform provides a safe, durable, and economically viable solution for converting bowling alleys into flat surfaces for diverse activities, ensuring minimal damage to the bowling lanes and facilitating repetitive use, while being easily assembled and stored.
Implementation Method 1
base support members made from rotational molded linear low-density polyethylene
Data Source
AI summary
A removable platform for covering bowling alley lanes to provide a flat surface above the lanes suitable for a variety of other activities.