ROTATIONALLY ADJUSTABLE FINGER GRIP INSERT FOR BOWLING BALL

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/734,883, filed on Dec. 17, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to bowling balls, and more particularly to rotationally adjustable finger grip inserts for bowling balls.

BACKGROUND

Bowling balls are an integral and personalized component for those engaged in the sport of bowling. Obviously, a bowling ball is a necessary part of the sport, as one has to aim and throw the ball down a lane to knock over as many, or a selected pin or group of pins, to practice the game successfully. As a consequence, the selection of the bowling ball as to its weight, the location and configuration of any internal weight, and the number, location, and arrangement of the finger holes or grips, are all personal to the user.

Over the years, improvements in the design of bowling ball technology have changed the sport significantly. For example, the composition of bowling balls has historically comprised a polyester resin core surrounded by a rubber, plastic, or urethane outer layer (or shell). High density weights of varying configurations and locations within the bowling ball, have also been used to advantage by bowling ball designers and users. Typically, the weights are used to counter-balance the loss of weight on one side of the bowling ball, owing to the holes drilled for the finger grips.

Usually, two or three holes are drilled in the bowling ball for the finger grips. Those finger grips facilitate control of the bowling ball from the moment the bowler lifts up the ball, to the time of release and delivery of the ball down the bowling alley. The locations and spacings of the finger grip holes are personal to the user, as it can significantly affect not only the comfort and control of the user over the ball, but also the manner which the ball travels toward the pins to be knocked down.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional illustration of a bowling ball with a centrally positioned core and an outer portion to form a spherical ball, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a side view of a bowling ball that shows a pair of finger grip holes and the core with hidden lines, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional illustration of a bowling ball with a central core and an associated “pancake” weight segment that has a higher density than the central core, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a test jug used to elevate a bowling ball pneumatically so it will rotate into a position with a heaviest portion pointing downward for marking the bowling ball, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2B is a top view of a bowling ball with three finger grip holes that includes a marked heavy portion that is in a central region between the holes, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2C is a view of the bowling ball showing the ball track, three finger grip holes, and a marked heavy portion offset from the ball track, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2D is a view of the bowling ball showing the ball track, three finger grip holes, and a marked heavy portion offset towards the ball track, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional illustration of a bowling ball with an asymmetrical central core, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 3B is a top view of a bowling ball with two finger grip holes and a marked heavy portion, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a plan view illustration of a finger grip insert that includes a pair of finger grip holes and a centrally positioned bore to accommodate a locking mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a side view of the finger grip insert that shows the two finger grip holes and the locking mechanism bore with hidden lines, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4C is a side view of the finger grip insert that shows the two finger grip holes and the locking mechanism bore with hidden lines and a textured bottom surface, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4D is a side view of the finger grip insert that shows the two finger grip holes and the locking mechanism bore with hidden lines and a compliant washer along a bottom surface of the finger grip insert, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional illustration of a bowling ball with a rotatable finger grip insert that is configured to be locked into a cavity of the bowling ball with a locking mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a plan view illustration of a bowling ball with a rotatable finger grip insert that is coupled to the bowling ball in a first position, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a plan view illustration of the bowling ball in FIG. 6A with the rotatable finger grip insert that is coupled to the bowling ball in a second position, in accordance with an embodiment.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

Described herein are bowling balls, and more particularly to rotationally adjustable finger grip inserts for bowling balls, in accordance with various embodiments. In the following description, various aspects of the illustrative implementations will be described using terms commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced with only some of the described aspects. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, materials and configurations are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the illustrative implementations. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, well-known features are omitted or simplified in order to not obscure the illustrative implementations.

Various operations will be described as multiple discrete operations, in turn, in a manner that is most helpful in understanding the present disclosure, however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. In particular, these operations need not be performed in the order of presentation.

Various embodiments or aspects of the disclosure are described herein. In some implementations, the different embodiments are practiced separately. However, embodiments are not limited to embodiments being practiced in isolation. For example, two or more different embodiments can be combined together in order to be practiced as a single device, process, structure, or the like. The entirety of various embodiments can be combined together in some instances. In other instances, portions of a first embodiment can be combined with portions of one or more different embodiments. For example, a portion of a first embodiment can be combined with a portion of a second embodiment, or a portion of a first embodiment can be combined with a portion of a second embodiment and a portion of a third embodiment.

One of the problems addressed by the present invention, is how to determine the optimum number, arrangement, and locations of the finger grip holes in a bowling ball. A bowling ball shop or manufacturer can drill a bowling ball to fit general specifications, or custom specifications. But once the ball is drilled for the finger grip holes, modification or relocation of the holes is problematical. As a bowler becomes more experienced and skilled, the optimum locations for the finger grip holes may change. Also, purchase of a new bowling ball with an internal weight having a different location, configuration, or density than previously used, may shift the best locations for the finger grip holes.

Therefore, the need exists for an improved and adaptable system, to allow the bowler to modify the location of the finger grip holes, in relation to the internal weight of the bowling ball. The need further exists for the bowler to make adjustments in the locations of the finger grip holes, without having to purchase another bowling ball and relocate the drilled holes. The present invention provides a rotationally adjustable finger grip insert for a bowling ball. The finger grip holes are pre-drilled in an insert component, preferably circular in configuration having a spherical segment on an outer side. The bowling ball is pre-drilled to form a circular cavity, within which the insert is located. A quickly releasable locking mechanism is provided to secure the insert within the cavity in a predetermined rotational position. This insert arrangement allows quick and easy relocation of the finger grip holes, without the necessity of drilling relocated holes in a new bowling ball.

It also facilitates a change in the number and locations of the finger grip holes by simply substituting another insert, configured as needed, for the previously installed insert. In that manner, the bowler can experiment with various numbers, arrangements, and locations of the finger grip holes in their bowling ball until the best configuration is determined. This relocation of the insert is accomplished by first releasing the locking mechanism which secures the insert within the cavity in the bowling ball. The insert may then be withdrawn from the cavity and rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, in relation to its former position. The insert is then placed within the cavity, in its new rotational position, and the locking mechanism is actuated to secure the insert within the cavity. These and other objects of the present invention will be discussed in more detail below in the textual, graphical, and photographic disclosures which follow.

Turning now to FIG. 1A, a conventional prior art bowling ball 110 is shown. Ball 110 is comprised of a polyester resin core 111 surrounded by a rubber, plastic, or urethane outer layer 112. As manufactured, ball 110 is perfectly symmetrical and weight balanced around its center. Although it is not unknown for a few bowlers to practice the sport with bowling balls lacking finger holes, most prefer the additional control and ease of handling provided by two or three finger grip holes 113 (as shown in FIG. 1B). Typically, these holes 113 are drilled to accommodate the pointing finger, the ring finger, and the thumb of the bowler. However, a significant number of bowlers prefer a ball with only two holes 113.

When the finger holes are drilled in a bowling ball 110, the material removed causes a weight imbalance in the bowling ball 110. This can cause wobbling or unpredictable travel, as the ball 110 rolls down the alley toward the pins. To counteract the imbalance, a weight 114 may be provided in a modified bowling ball 110, shown in FIG. 1C. Weight 114 is sometimes termed a “pancake”, owing to its shape. In an embodiment, the weight 114 is located on one side of the core 111, and secured thereto. After the outer layer 112 is formed around the core 111 and the weight 114, the finger insert holes 113 must be drilled over the weight 114, so the proper counteraction will be provided.

Referring now to FIG. 2A, a simplified weight locating receiver 217 that is designed to allow marking of a heavy side of the ball 210, or the top center of the weight 214 is shown. The ball may include an outer layer 212 that is provided around a core 211. The receiver 217 includes an arcuate cup portion 218, sized and configured to conform to a portion of the ball 210. An air inlet 219 is located in the lower portion of receiver 217, and is in pneumatic communication with the cup portion 218. A vertical aperture 221 is provided in the lower portion of receiver 217, extending from the lower end of receiver 217 into the cup portion 218. The ball 210 is placed into the cup portion 218, and air of sufficient pressure provided through inlet 219 slightly elevates the ball 210. The heavy portion of the ball 210, also coincident with the bottom center of weight 214, assumes a position directly over aperture 221. At that time, the technician inserts the marker 222 through the aperture 221, and marks the top center 223 of the ball 210.

With the top center 223 so marked, the technician can drill the finger holes 224 and the thumb hole 226 (as shown in FIG. 2B). Since the holes 224 and 226 are relatively equidistant from the top center 223, the material removed from the ball 210 is effectively counter-balanced by the presence of the weight 214, so the ball 210 is well balanced for accurate rolling motion.

Through experimentation, it was discovered that when the top center 223, or heavy mark, was shifted in relation to the finger holes, the bowling ball would react differently when rolled down a bowling alley. The referenced shift of the finger holes could be to the left, right, up, or down, compared to the top center 223. The United States Bowling Congress (USBC), the bowling sport's governing body in the U.S., has set forth rules and regulations regarding the location and weight shift allowed. Using a DODO scale, measuring off the center of the finger grips, one is allowed to have a one ounce shift either to the fingers or the thumb, a one ounce shift either to the right or left, and a maximum weight of three ounces added on the top of the ball, as measured from the conventional center of the grip.

All references hereafter in this disclosure, refer to right handed bowlers. Corresponding explanations for left handed bowlers would be exactly the opposite. When shifting or altering the position of the finger and thumb holes 224 or 226 relative to the center of the weight so that the top center 223 is up and to the right of the “standard position”, the ball would be weighed “finger and positive side” (as shown in FIG. 2C). The maximum legal allowance for the ball 210 would be one ounce positive and one ounce finger.

When shifting or altering the position of the finger and thumb holes relative to the center of the weight so that the top center 223 is down and to the left of the “standard position” (as shown in FIG. 2D), the ball 210 would be weighed “thumb and negative side.” The maximum legal allowance for ball 210 would be one ounce negative and one ounce thumb. It should be noted that the line drawn in FIGS. 2C and 2D corresponds to the surface of the ball where the ball rolls on the bowling lane. This is often referred to as the track 229. It would be commonplace for a right-handed bowler to roll the ball generally along this track. As a bowler's technique improves, the location of the track on the ball tends to be more and more consistent.

Bowling lanes are 60 feet long. A common practice is to oil the lane surface for the first 36 feet, tapering the amount of oil to the sides from a heavier amount down the middle of the lane. When ball 210 shown in FIG. 2B is thrown down the lane, the ball 210 will skid in the oil and continue down the lane in that state before hooking. When the ball passes out of the oil, friction arises between the ball and the lane. The internal weight in the ball is remote from the track 229 of the ball 210 on the “positive side” of the ball, causing the ball to hook sharply. This side of the ball is called the “positive side”, because this side of the ball enters the “pocket” where the pins are located.

When the ball 210 shown in FIG. 2D is thrown down the lane, the ball 210 will also skid in the oil, but to a lesser degree. This is because the weight in the ball is closer to the track 229, so the inertia of the weight assists the rolling action of the ball rather than impeding such action. This “thumb and negative side” weight shift hooks the ball much less when entering the pocket, because the weight is on the negative side of the ball, or away from the pocket.

Other developments include large weight block masses inside the bowling ball, such as the irregular weight 331 located in ball 310, as shown in FIG. 3A. This ball 310 architecture may be formed using a solid pour of urethane 333 around the weight 31. The same method used to determine the heavy spot, or top center previously described, is used to mark the top center of these balls as well.

Yet another development in bowling, was the practice of bowling using a bowling ball 310 that only includes two finger holes 324, as shown in FIG. 3B. Using this arrangement, bowlers could also use two hands, or throw the ball 310 down the lane with just one hand. When bowling like this, the bowler could turn the ball 310 180 degrees and throw it, resulting in a totally different ball track. The USBC, mentioned above, instituted a rule that a “two finger only” bowler must mark the ball with an “X” 323 on the side of the finger holes where the palm of the bowler rests during handling of the ball.

With this as background, the features and advantages of the rotationally adjustable finger grip insert of the present disclosure are more easily understood. One of the problems addressed by embodiments disclosed herein, is how to determine the optimum number, arrangement, and locations of the finger grip holes in a bowling ball. A bowling ball shop or manufacturer can drill a bowling ball to fit general specifications, or custom specifications. But once the ball is drilled for the finger grip holes, modification or relocation of the holes is problematical. As a bowler becomes more experienced and skilled, the optimum locations for the finger grip holes may change. Also, purchase of a new bowling ball with an internal weight having a different location, configuration, or density than previously used, may shift the best locations for the finger grip holes.

Therefore, the need exists for an improved and adaptable system, to allow the bowler to modify the location of the finger grip holes, in relation to the internal weight of the bowling ball. The need further exists for the bowler to make adjustments in the locations of the finger grip holes, without having to purchase another bowling ball and relocate the drilled holes. Embodiments disclosed herein may provide a rotationally adjustable finger grip insert for a bowling ball. The finger grip holes are pre-drilled in an insert component, preferably circular in configuration having a spherical segment on an outer side. The bowling ball is pre-drilled to form a circular cavity, within which the insert is located. A quickly releasable locking mechanism is provided to secure the insert within the cavity in a predetermined rotational position. This insert arrangement allows quick and easy relocation of the finger grip holes, without the necessity of drilling relocated holes in a new bowling ball.

Embodiments disclosed herein may also facilitate a change in the number and locations of the finger grip holes by simply substituting another insert, configured as needed, for the previously installed insert. In that manner, the bowler can experiment with various numbers, arrangements, and locations of the finger grip holes in their bowling ball until the best configuration is determined. Relocating the insert is accomplished by first releasing the locking mechanism which secures the insert within the cavity in the bowling ball. The insert may then be withdrawn from the cavity and rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, in relation to its former position. The insert is then placed within the cavity, in its new rotational position, and the locking mechanism is actuated to secure the insert within the cavity.

Referring now to FIG. 4A, a plan view illustration of a finger grip insert 438 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment, the finger grip insert 438 may have a circular perimeter (as viewed from above). This facilitates the rotational adjustment of the insert 438, with respect to the bowling ball (not shown in FIG. 4A), in a manner which will be explained more fully below. The finger grip insert 438 may include a plurality of finger holes 424. For example, at least two finger holes 424 are shown in FIG. 4A.

The finger grip insert 438 may also comprise a central bore 441 (which may also be referred to herein as a hole), to accommodate passing a bolt, a pin, or the like (not shown in FIG. 4A or FIG. 4B) through a thickness of the insert 438 to engage a locking mechanism in the floor of a cavity formed in the bowling ball. The cavity and locking mechanism will be described in greater detail herein. By engaging the bolt with the locking mechanism, the insert 438 is secured into a selectable rotational position. Indicia 449 are located around the upper, exposed periphery of insert 438 for the purpose of establishing a predetermined rotational position, or other point of reference, for the insert 438. Numbers may be included adjacent indicia 449, indicating degrees or other information. Indicia 449 are selectively aligned with a reference mark on a portion of the bowling ball, adjacent the edge of the cavity, to confirm a precise rotational position for the insert 438, as will be described in greater detail herein with respect to FIGS. 6A and 6B. In an embodiment, a bowler may obtain a different rotational position for the insert 438, by disengaging the bolt from the locking mechanism, allowing the bowler to rotate the insert 438 into a new rotational position. Then, the bolt is reengaged with the locking mechanism to secure the insert 438 and the bowling ball together.

In an embodiment, the finger holes 424 may have a first diameter and the central bore 441 may have a second, smaller diameter. The finger holes 424 may have diameters that are at least approximately twice as large as a diameter of the central bore 441 or at least approximately four times the diameter of the central bore 441. Though, the finger holes 424 may include any suitable diameter desired by a bowler. While the two finger holes 424 in FIG. 4A have substantially the same diameter, other embodiments may include finger holes 424 with different diameters. Similarly, in the case of an insert 438 with more than two finger holes 424, 426, any combination of finger hole 424, 426 diameters may be used. In an embodiment, the finger holes 424 may be lined with a finger grip.

In an embodiment, the insert 438 may comprise any suitable dimensions. In a particular embodiment, the insert 438 may have a diameter that is approximately 2.0 inches or larger, approximately 2.75 inches or larger, or approximately 3.0 inches or larger. While a circular insert 438 is shown herein, it is also possible that the insert 438 may have any radially symmetric outer perimeter. For example, the insert 438 may be faceted, (e.g., with six, eight, ten, or twelve facets), where each facet corresponds to a new rotational position. Other radially symmetric inserts 438 may include star shaped perimeters (with any number of points) or the like. Such an arrangement would provide a positive locking feature resisting rotation of the insert, but would generally have a limited number of rotational positions. In contrast, a circular insert 438 may have an essentially unlimited number of rotational positions.

Referring now to FIG. 4B, a side view illustration of a finger grip insert 438 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment, the insert 438 in FIG. 4B may include a bottom surface 436 with sidewall surfaces 439. A top surface 437 may be provided opposite from the bottom surface 436. The bottom surface 436 may be substantially orthogonal to the sidewall surface 436. That is, the bottom surface 436 may be considered a “flat” or “horizontal” surface. The top surface 437 may comprise a partial spherical surface. The partial spherical surface may be the rounded surface of a spherical cap. In an embodiment, a radius of curvature of the top surface may be substantially equal to the radius of the bowling ball that the insert is used with. Typically, a bowling ball may have a radius of about 4.25 inches. Though, other radii may be possible in some embodiments. Matching the radius of the top surface 436 with the radius of the bowling ball allows for a continuous spherical surface once the insert 438 is coupled to the bowling ball so that a smooth rolling motion is provided. In an embodiment, the sidewall surfaces 439 may have any desired heigh. In a particular embodiment, the sidewall surfaces 439 have a height that is about 1.25 inches, about 1.50 inches, or about 1.75 inches. Though, smaller heights and/or larger heights may also be used in some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 4B, the finger holes 424 may comprise a first diameter D₁, and the central bore 441 may have a smaller second diameter D₂.

In the illustrated embodiment, the central bore 441 (indicated with dashed lines) passes through an entire thickness of the insert 438. Similarly, the finger holes 424 may pass through an entire thickness of the insert 438. Though, depending on the total thickness of the insert 438, the finger holes 424 (also indicated with dashed lines) may pass only partially through a thickness of the insert 438. That is, the finger holes 424 may be considered a blind hole that does not exit the bottom surface 436 in some embodiments.

In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal axes of the central bore 441 and the finger holes 424 are substantially parallel to each other and orthogonal to the bottom surface 436. Though, in other embodiments, one or more of the longitudinal axes of the central bore 441 and the finger holes 424 may be non-parallel with other holes. Additionally, while the diameters D₁ of the finger holes 424 and the diameter D₂ of the central bore 441 are substantially uniform through a thickness of the insert 438, other embodiments may include non-uniform diameter holes. For example, one or more of the holes may include a taper, a step (e.g., to accommodate the head of a bolt for the central bore 441), or any other shaped profile.

Referring now to FIG. 4C, a cross-sectional illustration of an insert 438 with a modified bottom surface 436 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. For example, the modified bottom surface 436 may comprise a plurality of ridges and valleys. The ridges may be used to assist in the mechanical coupling of the insert 438 to the bowling ball. For example, the ridges may engage a rubber washer that is provided at the bottom of a cavity in the bowling ball in order to further prevent the insert 438 from rotating within the cavity. Other interlocking arrangements between the two surfaces may also be used interchangeably.

Referring now to FIG. 4E, a cross-sectional illustration of an insert 438 with a compliant washer 435 over the bottom surface 436 of the insert 438 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The compliant washer 435 (e.g., a rubber washer or other gasket like material) may be used to improve the fit of the insert 438 into the cavity of the bowling ball. For example, a compliant washer may mitigate manufacturing tolerances in the formation of the cavity and/or the insert 438. In an embodiment, the washer 435 may be a single continuous ring, a plurality of ring portions, or the like. Further, while a washer may imply a “ring-like” shape, a compliant buffer layer with any shape may be used to improve the fit of the insert 438 within the cavity of the bowling ball. In some embodiments, the washer 435 may also reduce undesired rotation of the insert 438.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a partial cross-sectional illustration of a bowling ball 510 with a rotatable finger grip insert 538 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment, the bowling ball 510 may be similar to any of the bowling balls described in greater detail herein, with the exception of a cavity 515 formed into a surface 507 of the bowling ball. For example, the cavity 515 may be provided into the outer layer 512 of the bowling ball 510. Though, in other embodiments, the cavity 515 may extend to a depth that passes through the outer layer 512 and enters a core (not shown in FIG. 5) of the bowling ball 510. In an embodiment, a coupling cavity 560 may be provided into a floor of the cavity 515. The coupling cavity 560 may include a coupling feature 561. The coupling feature 561 may be secured within the coupling cavity 560 with an epoxy 562, a glue, or the like.

In an embodiment, the insert 538 is set into the cavity 515. The dimensions of the insert 538 and the dimensions of the cavity 515 may be matched so that the top surface 537 of the insert 538 and the surface 507 of the bowling ball form a substantially continuous spherical surface for the bowling ball 510. Though, it is to be appreciated that a small gap and/or seam 509 may be provided at the interface between an edge of the insert 538 and an edge of the cavity 515. In an embodiment, a compliant washer 535 may be provided between a bottom surface 536 of the insert 538 and a floor of the cavity 515.

In an embodiment, the insert 538 may be similar to any of the inserts described in greater detail herein. For example, the insert 538 may include a central bore 541 and a plurality of finger holes 524. The insert 538 may be mechanical coupled to the bowling ball 510 in a fixed rotational position by a mounting pin 555 that passes through the central bore 541 and engages the coupling feature 561. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting pin 555 has a threaded end 556 that engages a corresponding threaded coupling feature 561. Though, other coupling mechanisms may also be used, such as a push pin lock, a molly bolt (e.g., a bolt with an expanding feature), and/or the like. In other embodiments, a magnetic coupling solution and/or any other mechanical coupling solution that maintains the insert 538 in a rotationally fixed position and provides a substantially spherical surface for the bowling ball 510 may be used. For example, the end surface 557 of the mounting pin 555 may have a curvature to match a curvature of the surface 507 of the bowling ball 510. In other embodiments, the end surface 557 of the mounting pin 555 may be recessed from the surface 537 of the insert 538 when the mounting pin 555 is engaged to the mounting feature 561.

In an embodiment, the insert 538 may be made of a material that has substantially the same density as the outer layer 512 of the bowling ball 510 in order to maintain the balance of the bowling ball 510. For example, the insert 538 may comprise a urethane material. Similarly, mounting hardware (e.g., mounting feature 561, the mounting pin 555, and/or the like) may comprise polymeric materials, such as a nylon material. Though, metal hardware may also be used in some embodiments.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, series of plan view illustrations of a bowling ball 610 with an insert 638 that is in different rotated positions is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown, a reference mark 603 may be provided on the surface 607 of the bowling ball 610. The reference mark 603 may be used in conjunction with the indicia 649 provided on a surface 637 of the insert 638 to provide a measure of the rotation of the insert 638. For example the insert 638 in FIG. 6B is rotated R in a counter clockwise direction relative to the insert 638 in FIG. 6A. As described herein, reconfiguring the bowling ball 610 from the configuration in FIG. 6A to the configuration in FIG. 6B may comprise releasing the fastener, rotating the insert 638 the desired amount, and reengaging the fastener. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the insert 638 comprises a pair of finger holes 624 and a central bore 641. Though, it is to be appreciated that inserts similar to any of those described in greater detail herein may be used in a similar manner.

While the inserts described herein may allow for reconfiguring a single bowling ball without switching out the insert, a bowler may also have the option to use a plurality of differently configured inserts for any desired purpose (e.g., experimentation and/or testing). The finger grip insert of the present invention is primarily directed toward bowlers who use their fingers only, in gripping and releasing the bowling ball. Variables that control the reaction of the ball include bowling lane conditioning, the surface texture of the ball, the durometer of the ball, the finger hole drill layout, the rotation a bowler puts on the ball, and the speed of the ball. Of these variables, the drilling of the bowling ball is a complex operation that the bowler only has limited control over.

Embodiments of the present disclosure put the position of the finger holes in relation to the mass of the bowling ball, in the hands of the bowler. Each time the position of the finger holes is shifted or rotated in relation to the ball, the bowling ball will roll on a totally different area of the bowling ball's surface. This will put the weight block in a different relative position, giving the ball a different reaction when thrown down the bowling lane. Using the present invention, the bowler will be able to “fine tune” the reaction of the bowling ball, giving maximum results for the bowler's purchase of that ball.

These modifications may be made to the disclosure in light of the above detailed description. The terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosure to the specific implementations disclosed in the specification and the claims. Rather, the scope of the disclosure is to be determined entirely by the following claims, which are to be construed in accordance with established doctrines of claim interpretation.

EXAMPLES

Example 1: an insert for a bowling ball, comprising: a bottom surface; a sidewall surface that extends up from the bottom surface; a top surface, wherein the top surface is a partial spherical surface with a radius substantially equal to a radius of the bowling ball; a first hole into the top surface; a second hole into the top surface; and a third hole with a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the first hole or the second hole, and wherein the third hole passes through a thickness of the insert.

Example 2: the insert of Example 1, wherein the first hole and the second hole pass through the thickness of the insert.

Example 3: the insert of Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the diameter of the first hole or the second hole is at least twice the diameter of the third hole.

Example 4: the insert of Examples 1-3, wherein the insert comprises a urethane material.

Example 5: the insert of Examples 1-4, wherein the sidewall surface is substantially orthogonal to the bottom surface.

Example 6: the insert of Examples 1-5, wherein the bottom surface is textured.

Example 7: the insert of Examples 1-6, wherein the bottom surface has a circular perimeter.

Example 8: the insert of Example 7, further comprising: a plurality of rotational indicia marks around a perimeter of the insert.

Example 9: the insert of Example 7 or Example 8, wherein the bottom surface has a diameter that is about 2.75 inches.

Example 10: the insert of Examples 1-9, wherein a height of the sidewall surface is between about 1.25 inches and about 1.75 inches.

Example 11: a bowling ball, comprising: a core; a shell around the core; a cavity into the shell, wherein the cavity is circular; a coupling feature set into a floor of the cavity; and an insert set into the cavity, wherein the insert is configured to be rotated within the cavity, and wherein the insert comprises: a plurality of finger holes into a top surface of the insert; and a central bore through a thickness of the insert; and a mounting pin that passes through the central bore, wherein the mounting pin is mechanically coupled to the coupling feature to secure the insert within the cavity.

Example 12. The bowling ball of Example 11, wherein the insert has a partial spherical surface with a radius that is substantially equal to a radius of the bowling ball.

Example 13. The bowling ball of Example 11 or Example 12, further comprising: a compliant washer between the insert and the floor of the cavity.

Example 14. The bowling ball of Examples 11-13, wherein the cavity has vertical sidewalls.

Example 15. The bowling ball of Examples 11-14, wherein the plurality of finger holes comprises two holes.

Example 16. The bowling ball of Examples 11-15, wherein the mounting pin is a push pin.

Example 17. The bowling ball of Examples 11-16, wherein the mounting pin comprises a threaded end, wherein the coupling feature comprises a threaded hole, and wherein the mounting pin is screwed into the coupling feature.

Example 18. The bowling ball of Examples 11-17, wherein the core comprises: a first region with a first density; and a second region with a second density.

Example 19. The bowling ball of Examples 11-18, wherein the cavity passes through a thickness of the shell.

Example 20. The bowling ball of Examples 11-19, wherein a diameter of the insert is about 2.75 inches.