Edge String Pin Plugs With Friction-Based Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current string attachment methods for bowling pins are time-consuming, inconsistent, and require skilled personnel, making maintenance inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A string plug with channels and friction-based retention mechanism that secures the string to the bowling pin, eliminating the need for knots and simplifying the attachment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional knot-based string attachment methods are used, then the string can be securely attached to the bowling pin, but the maintenance process becomes time-consuming and requires skilled personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the complex knot-tying operation from the string attachment process by introducing a separate plug component that mechanically secures the string through friction and geometric features (tapered holes, ribs, grooves), eliminating the need for skilled knot-tying while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The plug design enables self-service string attachment through friction-based retention and simple insertion/removal mechanics. The tapered holes and ribs create a self-locking effect that secures the string without requiring external tools or specialized skills, allowing untrained staff to perform maintenance quickly
2Reliability
If traditional string attachment methods are used, then the string can be secured to the pin, but the process becomes inconsistent and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the attachment mechanism from skill-dependent knot-tying to parameter-controlled mechanical retention. The friction coefficient, hole taper angle, rib geometry, and groove depth are optimized parameters that ensure consistent string retention across all pins, eliminating variability introduced by different operators' knot-tying skills
3Productivity
If a simple string insertion method is used, then the attachment process becomes quick, but the string retention becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The plug combines multiple functional features in a single component: friction-based retention through material selection, geometric locking through tapered holes, mechanical reinforcement through ribs, and string guidance through grooves. This composite approach achieves both quick insertion and reliable retention that simple insertion methods cannot provide
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
Reduces maintenance time by over 33% and allows untrained staff to perform pin rotation and replacement efficiently, enhancing operational efficiency in bowling centers.
Implementation Method 1
The string plug utilizes friction between the string and the plug to secure the string to the bowling pin
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a pin string retention device used in a string pinspotter and, more particularly, to a string plug that is inserted into a bowling pin. More specifically, the disclosure relates to the improvement in the string retention capability and more specifically the ease of use and installation. The string plug utilizes friction between the string and the plug to secure the string to the bowling pin.