Bowling Lane Conditioner Mixing Layout to Prevent Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bowling lane maintenance machines require premixing of lane conditioners and cleaning compositions, which can lead to storage issues and inefficient operation, as they often need to power both cleaning and dressing systems simultaneously, limiting the types of compositions that can be used and affecting performance.
Innovation Solution
A machine with separate reservoirs for conditioning and cleaning components, allowing for on-demand mixing at the application point, independent control of application heads, and the use of a strip brush and roller to ensure precise and efficient application of lane conditioners, reducing power consumption and preventing 'tracking' issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If separate reservoirs are used for storing lane conditioners and cleaning compositions, then the machine can hold different compositions separately for extended periods, but the compositions cannot be mixed until just prior to application, requiring additional mixing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the reservoir system into multiple separate reservoirs (first reservoir for lane conditioner, second reservoir for cleaning composition) that remain segregated during storage and transport. This segmentation allows each composition to be stored independently for extended periods without compatibility issues, while enabling on-demand mixing at the point of application through the mixing junction.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing junction acts as an intermediary device that receives separate streams from the first and second reservoirs, combines them in controlled proportions, and delivers the mixed composition to the applicator. This intermediary component enables the transition from separate storage to combined application without requiring premature mixing or complex pre-mixing systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cleaning and dressing systems operate simultaneously, then the machine can perform both functions, but power consumption increases and limits the types of compositions that can be used
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements independent control systems for the cleaning pump and conditioner pump, allowing each system to be activated only when needed. The cleaning system can operate alone, the dressing system can operate alone, or both can operate together, providing dynamic flexibility while minimizing unnecessary power consumption by avoiding simultaneous operation when only one function is required.
3Manufacturing precision
If conditioner is applied before cleaning, then the lane can be conditioned, but the maintenance machine wheels may track on top of the applied conditioner, disrupting the desired pattern
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional sequence by positioning the conditioner applicator head to apply conditioner to the lane surface before the cleaning components pass over it. The cleaning components are positioned forward of the conditioner applicator, so they clean the lane first, then the conditioner is applied to the cleaned surface, eliminating tracking interference while maintaining precise pattern application.
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
Enables the use of incompatible conditioning components, optimizes the application process by mixing only what is needed, reduces power consumption, and ensures a consistent and effective application pattern on the bowling lane, extending the life of application components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pump associated with the separate conditioning component reservoirs and operable to pump the constituent conditioning components from the separate conditioning components reservoirs to the at least one conditioner dispensing head
Implementation Method 2
provides a mixing junction to be used with the lane conditioner applicator head whereby separate lines each conveying different conditioning components may be mixed in desired ratios just prior to application
Implementation Method 3
a buffer for receiving the constituent conditioning components dispensed from the at least one conditioner dispensing head and applying the constituent conditioning components to a bowling lane in a preselected pattern
Data Source
AI summary
A bowling lane maintenance machine is provided with separate reservoirs for constituent conditioning components to allow separate storage of the conditioning components and mixing of the conditioning components just prior to application to a surface of the bowling lane. One conditioning component may be a polar component such as a polyethylene glycol and another conditioning component may be a non-polar component such as a mineral oil based product. Separate reservoirs for constituent cleaning components are also provided so that the cleaning components may also be stored separately and then mixed together just prior to application to the bowling lane surface. Primary and secondary drive wheels are positioned on opposite sides of the machine forwardly of a conditioner application roller in the intended forward direction of travel of the machine so that they do not leave “tracks” on the conditioner after its application on the bowling lane.