Exploring the impact of bowling ball properties and performance through the use of technology: An analysis of bowling ball motion

Bowling balls are traditionally drilled with three holes to enhance the grip of the bowler and roll it down the lane. The path of the ball may be either straight or curved, with the intention of knocking over the pins situated at the edge of the lane. Alterations in the trajectory of the ball lead to irregular pinfalls, ultimately affecting the player’s score. This research was initiated to investigate the characteristics of bowling balls (weights), with a focus on examining the motion of bowling balls in relation to various factors such as pocket entry angle, speed, and position on the boards, as well as the impact of different types of drilling on bowling-ball kinematics. The Powerhouse Blueprint software was utilized to simulate thirty-two (32) distinct types of drilling on four separate bowling balls. The arrangement of the drilling proved to have a substantial impact on the kinematic entry factors, as evidenced by the statistically significant result of p < 0.01. It is essential from a practical standpoint to comprehend the characteristics and movement of bowling balls to enhance performance and improve outcomes during tenpin bowling competitions.