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General Description
Figure 1. VPS Components
(1) VPS CHASSIS (2) BALL DETECT
The Video Pinsensing System (VPS) is an electrical/optical device used to
count standing pins and control the on/off operation of both pinsetters. The
system uses a VPS chassis, a ball detect, and special pinsetter modifications
to accomplish this. Refer to Figure 1.
The VPS unit is mounted on the capping in the center of a lane pair so the
front edge of the unit’s base is 151-1/2” (3.85 m) from the center of the last
row of pins. Refer to Figure 2. The VPS unit uses two cameras that take a
“video picture” of the pit area of both pinsetters. The picture is then analyzed
by the VPS Logic Board. During the analysis, a portion of the picture is
searched for shapes resembling pins. This is accomplished by searching the
area of the video image using various preprogrammed templates. Once the
templates have identified an image as a pin, the processor board refers to a
user stored calibration to determine which pin caused it. This information is
then sent to the scorer console where it is processed and displayed as a score.
To provide the necessary timing, an infared ball detect is located near the drop
sweep to ensure that the VPS scores only after a ball has been thrown. After
the ball detection occurs, the VPS will take a picture of the pins on the pindeck
either automatically after a preset delay or at the appropriate time during the
pinsetter cycle through the use of switches added to the pinsetter.
Video Pinsensing System 3