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Title:
GOLF PRACTICE APPARATUS
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2003/078002
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A golf practicing apparatus having a ball receiving section with a generally horizontal planar floor and an enclosure for enclosing the floor to define a ball receiving space for receiving golf balls, and wherein the ball receiving space is open at an entrance end of the ball receiving section. The apparatus also has a swing platform section with a front end which is in communication with the entrance end of the ball receiving section, wherein the swing platform section is comprised of an elevated platform area for accommodating a golfer. The elevation of the swing platform creates a spatial separation between the golfer and any spectators or passersby thus reducing the possibility of injury to such persons from being struck by a swinging golf club.

Inventors:
MUNROW BERNARD A (CA)
HAMDON JAMIEL (CA)
Application Number:
PCT/CA2002/000371
Publication Date:
September 25, 2003
Filing Date:
March 18, 2002
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
MUNROW BERNARD A (CA)
HAMDON JAMIEL (CA)
International Classes:
A63B47/02; A63B63/00; A63B69/36; A63B71/02; (IPC1-7): A63B63/00; A63B69/36; A63B47/02; A63B47/00
Domestic Patent References:
WO2001045800A22001-06-28
WO1992007632A11992-05-14
Foreign References:
US4538814A1985-09-03
US4146232A1979-03-27
US5131661A1992-07-21
US2061973A1936-11-24
GB2255022A1992-10-28
US4375888A1983-03-08
US5358251A1994-10-25
US3860236A1975-01-14
US4556219A1985-12-03
US5018731A1991-05-28
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Garwasiuk, Helen (Tower Two Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3R8, CA)
Download PDF:
Claims:
The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
1. A golf practice apparatus comprising: (a) a ball receiving section, the ball receiving section comprising: (i) a generally horizontal planar floor; and (ii) an enclosure for enclosing the floor to define a ball receiving space for receiving golf balls, wherein the ball receiving space is open at an entrance end of the ball receiving section; and (b) a swing platform section having a front end which is in communication with the entrance end of the ball receiving section, wherein the swing platform section is comprised of an elevated platform area for accommodating a golfer.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the floor of the ball receiving section is constructed essentially of a rigid material.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein the floor of the ball receiving section is constructed essentially of sheet metal.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, further comprising a ball collection area within the ball receiving space for collecting golf balls.
5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 4 wherein the ball collection area is comprised of a ball collection sump located in the floor of the ball receiving section.
6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5 wherein the floor of the ball receiving section is sloped towards the ball collection sump.
7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein the floor of the ball receiving section is comprised of a substantially horizontal perimetric edge and a central portion, wherein the ball collection sump is located within the central portion of the floor, and wherein the floor slopes downward between the perimetric edge of the floor and the ball collection sump.
8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein the swing platform section is further comprised of a rear end, wherein the elevated platform area is comprised of a rear platform area edge which is located between the front end and the rear end of the swing platform section, and wherein the swing platform section defines a platform area buffer zone having a buffer zone length extending between the rear platform area edge and the rear end of the swing platform section, so that the elevated platform area does not extend to the rear end of the swing platform section.
9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein the platform area buffer zone is comprised of at least one step for providing access to the elevated platform area, such that the buffer zone length is equal to a length of at least one step tread and such that the elevated platform area is elevated by a height of at least two step risers.
10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 9 wherein the platform area buffer zone is comprised of at least two steps for providing access to the elevated platform area, such that the buffer zone length is equal to the length of at least two step treads and such that the elevated platform area is elevated by the height of at least three step risers.
11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 9 wherein the elevated platform area is further comprised of a front platform area edge which is contiguous with the entrance end of the ball receiving section, wherein the elevated platform area is further comprised of side platform area edges, and wherein the swing platform section is further comprised of deflector walls extending upwards from the front platform area edge along a substantial portion of each of the side platform area edges for deflecting golf balls towards the ball receiving section and for isolating the elevated platform area.
12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11 wherein the deflector walls are comprised of planar surfaces which are adapted to provide a substrate for advertising material.
13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, further comprising an advertising material affixed to the deflector walls.
14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein the enclosure is comprised of a net material.
15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 14 wherein the enclosure is further comprised of an enclosure frame extending upwards from the floor of the ball receiving section for supporting the net material.
16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15 wherein the enclosure is comprised of a top enclosure edge and two front vertical corner edges, wherein the enclosure frame is comprised of two front vertical corner members and four horizontal members, wherein the two front vertical corner members define the front vertical corner edges, and wherein the four horizontal members define the top enclosure edge.
17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 16 wherein the top enclosure edge is comprised of a front top enclosure edge, a rear top enclosure edge and two side top enclosure edges and wherein the net material adjacent to the front top enclosure edge, the side top enclosure edges and the front vertical corner edges is supported within the enclosure in spaced relation from the enclosure frame.
18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 16 wherein the top enclosure edge is comprised of a front top enclosure edge, a rear top enclosure edge and two side top enclosure edges, wherein the enclosure is further comprised of a front top oblique ball deflector extending within the enclosure adjacent to and in spaced relation from the front top enclosure edge, and wherein the enclosure is further comprised of two side top oblique ball deflectors, each extending within the enclosure adjacent to and in spaced relation from one of the side top enclosure edges, and wherein the enclosure is further comprised of two front vertical corner oblique ball deflectors, each extending within the enclosure adjacent to and in spaced relation from one of the front vertical corner edges.
19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18 wherein the front top oblique ball deflector, the two side top oblique ball deflectors and the two front vertical corner oblique ball deflectors are all comprised of the net material.
20. The apparatus as claimed in claim 19 wherein the front top oblique ball deflector is further comprised of a spacer connected with the front top enclosure edge and wherein the net material comprising the front top oblique ball deflector is connected with and supported by the spacer adjacent to the front top enclosure edge.
21. The apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein each of the side top oblique ball deflectors is further comprised of a lower side deflector support cable connected with the enclosure frame and parallel with one of the side top enclosure edges, wherein each of the side top oblique ball deflectors is further comprised of an upper side deflector support cable connected with the enclosure frame and parallel with one of the side top enclosure edges, and wherein the net material comprising the side top oblique ball deflectors is connected with and supported by the lower side deflector support cables and the upper side deflector support cables.
22. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, further comprising a levelling system for levelling the ball receiving section and the swing platform section when the apparatus is positioned on an uneven surface.
23. The apparatus as claimed in claim 22 wherein the ball receiving section and the swing platform section define a perimeter of the apparatus and wherein the levelling system is comprised of a plurality of jacks which are distributed about the perimeter of the apparatus.
24. The apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein the jacks are screw jacks.
25. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, further comprising a ball distribution device and further comprising a ball transport system for transporting golf balls from the ball collection sump to the ball distribution device.
26. The apparatus as claimed in claim 25 wherein the ball transport system is comprised of a sloped ball track which extends downwards from the ball collection sump to the ball distribution device.
27. The apparatus as claimed in claim 26 wherein the sloped ball track is comprised of a ball tube.
28. The apparatus as claimed in claim 25 wherein the ball distribution device is comprised of a ball collection tray for accumulating a selected number of golf balls received from the ball transport system.
29. The apparatus as claimed in claim 28 wherein the ball collection tray is rotatable about a longitudinal axis to discharge the selected number of golf balls from the ball collection tray.
30. The apparatus as claimed in claim 29 wherein the ball distribution device is further comprised of a rotation imparting mechanism and wherein the ball collection tray is operatively connected with the rotation imparting mechanism so that the ball collection tray can be rotated about the longitudinal axis.
31. The apparatus as claimed in claim 30 wherein the rotation imparting mechanism is comprised of a sprocket associated with the ball collection tray, a rotatable driving mechanism, and a chain operatively linking the sprocket and the driving mechanism.
32. The apparatus as claimed in claim 31 wherein the ball distribution device is further comprised of a vending system and wherein the driving mechanism is operatively connected with the vending system so that the driving mechanism is rotatable upon delivery to the vending system of a predetermined payment to actuate the ball distribution device.
33. The apparatus as claimed in claim 32 wherein the ball distribution device is further comprised of a ball delivery receptacle communicating with the ball collection tray so that the selected number of golf balls is delivered to the ball delivery receptacle from the ball collection tray upon actuation of the ball distribution device.
34. The apparatus as claimed in claim 33 wherein the ball distribution device is located within one of the deflector walls.
35. The apparatus as claimed in claim 34 wherein the vending system and the ball delivery receptacle are both accessible without occupying the elevated platform area or the platform area buffer zone.
36. The apparatus as claimed in claim 35 wherein the platform area buffer zone is comprised of side buffer zone edges and wherein the swing platform section is further comprised of barriers extending upwards along a substantial portion of each of the side buffer zone edges, for isolating the platform area buffer zone.
37. The apparatus as claimed in claim 36 wherein the barriers are comprised of railings.
38. The apparatus as claimed in claim 36 wherein the vending system and the ball delivery receptacle are separated from the platform area buffer zone by the barriers.
39. The apparatus as claimed in claim 21 wherein the enclosure is further comprised of a front enclosure wall and two side enclosure walls and wherein the ball receiving section is further comprised of a drape net extending within the enclosure between the side enclosure walls in spaced relation from the front enclosure wall.
40. The apparatus as claimed in claim 39 wherein the drape net has a width greater than the distance between the side enclosure walls to allow for an amount of movement of the drape net toward and away from the front enclosure wall.
41. The apparatus as claimed in claim 40 wherein the enclosure frame is further comprised of a drape net support cable extending between the side enclosure walls and wherein the drape net is supported within the enclosure by the drape net support cable such that the drape net does not extend to the floor, in order that a golf ball can pass between the drape net and the floor without substantial interference from the drape net.
42. The apparatus as claimed in claim 41 wherein the drape net is connected with the side enclosure walls.
43. The apparatus as claimed in claim 42 wherein the drape net is further comprised of two drape net pockets located adjacent to the connections between the drape net and each of the side enclosure walls.
44. The apparatus as claimed in claim 43 wherein the drape net pockets are supported within the enclosure by the lower side deflector support cables and the by the upper side deflector support cables.
Description:
GOLF PRACTICE APPARATUS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a golf practice apparatus, more particularly, a cage-like golf practice apparatus having safety features and which can be linked to a vending system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Various devices have been developed for the practice of golf by hitting golf balls. Examples of these devices are discussed below.

U. S. Pat. No. 3, 860, 236, issued Jan. 14,1975 to Buchanan is directed at a device for enabling golfers to practice driving golf balls in all types of weather which comprises a temperature controlled shelter structure with an open end from which golf balls can be hit towards an adjacent open field. This device is designed to extend the season of seasonal outdoor sports such as golf by protecting and giving comfort to persons during bad weather.

U. S. Pat. No. 4,556, 219, issued Dec. 3,1985 to Tillery is directed at a device relating to a golf practice cage which includes means to substantially prevent dangerous rebound of flying golf balls which is comprised of a platform upon which a golfer can stand and a ball collection section for receiving golf balls at a ball collection level.

U. S. Pat. No. 5,018, 731, issued May 28,1991 to Doyle is directed at a device relating to a golf practice apparatus which includes a platform for standing, a conical net, and automatic golf ball return with coin activated dispenser.

There remains a need for an apparatus for use by a golfer for the practice of hitting of a golf ball that is safe, simple, non-restraining, and can be used for vending.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a golf practicing apparatus comprising: (a) a ball receiving section, the ball receiving section comprising: (i) a generally horizontal planar floor; and (ii) an enclosure for

enclosing the floor to define a ball receiving space for receiving golf balls, wherein the ball receiving space is open at an entrance end of the ball receiving section; and (b) a swing platform section having a front end which is in communication with the entrance end of the ball receiving section, wherein the swing platform section is comprised of an elevated platform area for accommodating a golfer. The elevation of the swing platform creates a spatial separation between the golfer, being the user of the apparatus, and any spectators or passersby thus reducing the possibility of injury to such persons from being struck by a swinging golf club.

The floor of the ball receiving section may be constructed of any material suitable for and capable of providing a generally horizontal planar surface. Preferably, the floor of the ball receiving section is constructed essentially of a rigid material. Although any rigid material may be used, in the preferred embodiment, the floor of ball receiving section is most preferably constructed essentially of sheet metal.

Further, some embodiments of the present invention may further comprise a ball collection area within the ball receiving space for collecting golf balls. Specifically, the ball collection area permits the collection or congregation of the golf balls hit by the golfer into the ball receiving space, thus permitting the golf balls, where desired, to be recirculated for further use. Any manner or configuration of ball collection area within the ball receiving space may be provided. However, preferably, the ball collection area is comprised of a ball collection sump located in the floor of the ball receiving section.

The golf balls may be directed towards the ball collection sump by any mechanism and in any manner permitting the golf balls to drain towards and collect in the ball collection sump. As indicated above, the ball receiving section is comprised of a generally horizontal planar floor. In other words, the floor provides a generally planar surface overall which is oriented such that it is generally horizontal. However, in order to facilitate the collection of the golf balls in the ball collection sump, the floor may include a slight gradient, incline or slope. Specifically, the floor of the ball receiving section is preferably sloped towards the ball collection sump. Thus, the gradient, incline or slope of the floor is of a degree or amount capable of facilitating the drainage of the golf balls towards the ball collection sump, while still providing overall a generally horizontal planar floor and not jeopardizing the safety of persons who might walk on the floor for servicing of the apparatus. In this embodiment, the rigid generally horizontal sloped floor allows reliable drainage of balls away from the golfer or user of the apparatus while at the same time permitting low shots to be hit without interference from the floor as is the case with upwardly sloped floors in the prior art.

The ball collection sump may be positioned at any location within the floor of the ball receiving section. However, preferably, the floor of the ball receiving section is comprised of a substantially horizontal perimetric edge and a central portion, wherein the ball collection sump is located within the central portion of the floor, and wherein the floor slopes downward between the perimetric edge of the floor and the ball collection sump.

In addition, preferably, the swing platform section of the apparatus is further comprised of a rear end, while the elevated platform area is comprised of a rear platform area edge. The elevated platform area may be located at any position within the swing platform section between the front end and the rear end of the swing platform section. However, in the preferred embodiment, the rear platform area edge of the elevated platform area is located between the front end and the rear end of the swing platform section. In other words, the elevated platform area does not extend to the rear end of the swing platform section.

Further, the elevated platform area is preferably further comprised of a front platform area edge and may be further comprised of side platform area edges. As indicated, the elevated platform area may be located at any position within the swing platform section between the front end and the rear end of the swing platform section.

However, in the preferred embodiment, the front platform area edge is contiguous with the entrance end of the ball receiving section.

The swing platform section and the floor of the ball receiving section are preferably configured to eliminate or at least reduce the likelihood of golf balls rebounding back towards a user of the apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, this desired configuration is achieved by several features.

First, the elevated platform area is preferably sloped so that it inclines slightly towards the ball receiving section. This sloping of the elevated platform area facilitates drainage of the elevated platform area and also provides a natural rising trajectory for golf balls which reduces the likelihood of a ball striking the floor.

Second, the floor and the ball receiving section are preferably"stepped"so that the front platform area edge is slightly higher than the entrance end of the ball receiving section. This feature ensures that a golf ball will not strike the interface between the elevated platform area and the ball receiving section and rebound back towards a user.

Third, the floor of the ball receiving section is preferably"stepped"at the locations of any joints in the floor so that a portion of the floor on the user's side of a joint is higher than the portion of the floor on the other side of the joint. This feature ensures that a golf ball will not strike a joint in the floor and rebound back towards a user. This feature also makes it more difficult for a golf ball to travel back to the user along the floor after it has been hit, thus reducing the possibility of a user retrieving a golf ball after it has been hit and then hitting the same ball more than once. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a front portion of the floor is slightly lower than a rear portion of the floor.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the swing platform area defines a platform area buffer zone, preferably at or adjacent the rear platform area edge of the elevated platform area. The inclusion of the buffer zone on the swing platform section further separates the golfer or user of the apparatus from spectators for safety reasons. The platform area buffer zone may extend for any distance from the rear platform area edge towards the rear end of the swing platform area. However, in the preferred embodiment, the platform area buffer zone has a buffer zone length extending between the rear platform area edge and the rear end of the swing platform section, so that the elevated platform area does not extend to the rear rend of the swing platform section.

In other embodiments, the platform area buffer zone is comprised of at least one step for providing access to the elevated platform area, such that the buffer zone length is equal to a length of at least one step tread and such that the elevated platform area is elevated by a height of at least two step risers. In this embodiment, the platform area buffer zone is preferably comprised of at least two steps for providing access to the elevated platform area, such that the buffer zone length is equal to the length of at least two step treads and such that the elevated platform area is elevated by the height of at least three step risers.

As well, in some embodiments of the present invention, the swing platform section may be further comprised of deflector walls extending upwards from the front platform area edge of the elevated platform area for deflecting golf balls towards the ball receiving section and for further isolating the elevated platform area. In this instance, the deflector walls preferably extend upwards from the front platform area edge along a substantial portion of each of the side platform area edges.

Although the deflector walls may have any shape or configuration capable of deflecting the golf balls and isolating the elevated platform area, the deflector walls are preferably comprised of planar surfaces. Further, the planar surfaces are preferably

adapted to provide a substrate for advertising material. In other words, the planar surfaces provide a substrate onto which advertising material may be affixed. Thus, the apparatus may be further comprised of the advertising material affixed to the deflector walls. The deflector walls are also a safety feature as a physical barrier protecting spectators or passersby from flying stray golf balls. Preferably, the tops of the deflector walls are shaped to discourage users from placing objects such as food and drink containers on top of the deflector walls where they could either fall onto the elevated platform area or onto persons who are outside the deflector walls.

Components of the apparatus other than the deflector walls may serve as substrates for advertising material. For example, advertising material may be affixed to the floor of the ball receiving section or to other portions of the ball receiving section and the swing platform section.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the enclosure may be comprised of a net material. In other embodiments, the enclosure is further comprised of an enclosure frame extending upwards from the floor of the ball receiving section for supporting the net material. Preferably the enclosure is comprised of four enclosure corners and a top enclosure edge, and the enclosure frame is comprised of four vertical members and four horizontal members. The four vertical corner members define the enclosure corners and the four horizontal members define the top enclosure edge. The four vertical corner members may be comprised of two front vertical corner members and two rear vertical corner members.

Preferably the top enclosure edge is comprised of a front top enclosure edge, a rear top enclosure edge and two side top enclosure edges and the net material adjacent to the front top enclosure edge and the side top enclosure edges is supported within the enclosure in spaced relation from the horizontal members to minimize the likelihood of a golf ball impacting the enclosure frame and rebounding back towards a user. Similarly, the net material adjacent to the front vertical corner edges is preferably supported within the enclosure in spaced relation from the front vertical corner members. hi some embodiments, the top enclosure edge is comprised of a front top enclosure edge, a rear top enclosure edge and two side top enclosure edges, and the enclosure is further comprised of a front top oblique ball deflector extending within the enclosure adjacent to and in spaced relation from the front top enclosure edge. Preferably, the enclosure is further comprised of two side top oblique ball deflectors, each extending within the enclosure adjacent to and in spaced relation from one of the side top enclosure

edges. Preferably, the enclosure is further comprised of two front vertical corner oblique ball deflectors, each extending within the enclosure adjacent to and in spaced relation from one of the front vertical corner edges.

The oblique ball deflectors each extend in planes which are at oblique angles relative to the enclosure frame. Preferably the oblique angle is about 45 degrees.

The oblique ball deflectors have two primary functions. First, the oblique ball deflectors minimize the likelihood of a golf ball impacting the enclosure frame and rebounding back towards a user. Second, the oblique ball deflectors direct golf balls towards the center of the enclosure to assist in the collection of the golf balls by the ball collection sump.

Although the oblique ball deflectors may be comprised of any suitable material, they are preferably comprised of the net material. The oblique ball deflectors may be connected with and supported within the enclosure in any manner.

For example, the oblique ball deflectors may each be further comprised of a spacer connected with the enclosure frame, wherein the net material comprising the oblique ball deflector is connected with and supported by the spacer adjacent to the enclosure frame. The spacer is preferably comprised of a natural or synthetic material such as vinyl which is connected with both the enclosure frame and the net material so as to provide a"space"between the enclosure frame and the net material.

Alternatively, the oblique ball deflectors may be further comprised of a lower deflector support cable connected with the enclosure frame and parallel with the adjacent enclosure edge and an upper deflector support cable connected with the enclosure frame and parallel with the adjacent enclosure edge, in which case the net material comprising the oblique ball deflector is supported by the lower deflector support cable and the upper deflector support cable. In this embodiment, the net material spans between the deflector support cables to form an oblique angle relative to the enclosure frame.

In the preferred embodiment, the front top oblique ball deflector and the front vertical corner oblique ball deflectors are comprised of spacers for supporting the oblique ball deflectors on the enclosure frame. In the preferred embodiment, the side top oblique ball deflectors are each comprised of a lower side deflector support cable connected with the enclosure frame and parallel with one of the side top enclosure edges and are each further comprised of an upper side deflector support cable connected with the enclosure frame and parallel with one of the side top enclosure edges, for supporting the net material comprising the side top oblique ball deflectors.

The intersections of the front top enclosure edge, the side top enclosure edges and the front vertical corner edges define front top enclosure corners. In the preferred embodiment, the enclosure is further comprised of two orthogonal oblique ball deflectors which interconnect the front top oblique ball deflector, the side top oblique ball deflector and the front vertical corner oblique ball deflector adjacent to each front top enclosure corner. Preferably the orthogonal oblique ball deflectors are comprised of the net material. The function of the orthogonal oblique ball deflectors is to span the gaps which exist between the front top oblique ball deflector, the side top oblique ball deflector and the front vertical corner oblique ball deflector adjacent to the front top enclosure corners.

In order to minimize further the likelihood of a golf ball rebounding within the enclosure, the ball receiving section may be provided with padding adjacent to the enclosure frame or adjacent to the edges of the floor.

Some embodiments of the present invention may further comprise a levelling system for levelling the ball receiving section and the swing platform section when the apparatus is positioned on an uneven surface. Any levelling system, assembly or mechanism may be associated with the apparatus which is capable of levelling the apparatus in the desired manner. However, preferably the levelling system comprises a plurality of jacks. The jacks are preferably located or positioned about the apparatus at one or more locations such that levelling of the apparatus may be achieved. Preferably, the ball receiving section and the swing platform section define a perimeter of the apparatus and the levelling system is comprised of a plurality of jacks which are distributed about the perimeter of the apparatus. Each jack may be of any type or configuration capable of levelling the apparatus. However, in the preferred embodiment, the jacks are screw jacks.

As well, some embodiments of the present invention may further comprise a ball distribution device and may further comprise a ball transport system for transporting golf balls from the ball collection sump to the ball distribution device. Any system or mechanism may be provided for transporting the golf balls to the ball distribution device.

Preferably, the ball transport system is comprised of a sloped ball track which extends downwards from the ball collection sump to the ball distribution device. More preferably, the sloped ball track is comprised of a ball tube.

Further, any system or mechanism may be provided for distributing the golf balls received from the ball transport system. Preferably, the ball distribution device is comprised of a ball collection tray for accumulating a selected number of golf balls received from the ball transport system. The ball collection tray may be rotatable about a longitudinal axis to discharge the selected number of golf balls from the ball collection tray. The ball distribution device may further comprise a rotation imparting mechanism, wherein the ball collection tray is operatively connected with the rotation imparting mechanism so that the ball collection tray can be rotated about the longitudinal axis. The rotation imparting mechanism may be comprised of any structure or device capable of rotating the ball collection tray about the longitudinal axis. However, preferably, the rotation imparting mechanism is comprised of a sprocket associated with the ball collection tray, a rotatable driving mechanism and a chain operatively linking the sprocket and the driving mechanism.

Some embodiments of the golf practice apparatus may further comprise a vending system. More particularly, the ball distribution device of the apparatus may be comprised of a vending system. Although any type of vending system may be associated with the ball distribution device which is capable of controlling the release and distribution of the golf balls to the golfer or user of the apparatus, preferably, the driving mechanism is operatively connected with the vending system so that the driving mechanism is rotatable upon delivery to the vending system of a predetermined payment to actuate the ball distribution device.

The predetermined payment may be delivered by any means, including but not limited to bills, coins, tokens, electronic payment, credit card or debit card. The vending function is preferably incorporated into the apparatus in a manner which both prevents a golfer or user of the apparatus from hitting the same ball twice and which allows a waiting user to use the vending device without fear of being hit by a golf club since the vending system may be located so that it is accessible only from outside of the swing platform section.

The ball distribution device may further comprise a ball delivery receptacle communicating with the ball collection tray so that the selected number of golf balls is delivered to the ball delivery receptacle from the ball collection tray for retrieval by a user of the apparatus upon actuation of the ball distribution device. The ball distribution device is preferably located within one of the deflector walls. More preferably, the vending system and the ball delivery receptacle are both accessible without occupying the elevated platform area or the platform area buffer zone. Users may also be provided with a

container such as a ball holder for the convenient transport of golf balls from the ball delivery receptacle to the elevated platform area.

The platform area buffer zone may be comprised of side buffer zone edges and the swing platform section may be further comprised of barriers extending upwards along a substantial portion of each of the side buffer zone edges for isolating the platform area buffer zone. Although any barrier structure may be used, the barriers are preferably comprised of railings. Preferably the vending system and the ball delivery receptacle are separated from the platform area buffer zone by the barriers. Barriers such as railings may also serve to assist users, such as elderly or disabled persons, in ascending onto or descending from the elevated platform area.

The enclosure may be further comprised of a front enclosure wall and two side enclosure walls and the ball receiving section may be further comprised of a drape net extending within the enclosure between the side enclosure walls in spaced relation from the front enclosure wall. The drape net may be comprised of any material but is preferably comprised of the same or a similar net material as the enclosure. The drape net is preferably connected with the side enclosure walls.

Preferably, the drape net has a width greater than the distance between the side enclosure walls to allow for an amount of movement of the drape net toward and away from the front enclosure wall. Such configuration of the drape net provides extra slack to absorb the impact of a golf ball and slow the ball down. Preferably the width of the drape net is about twice the distance between the side enclosure walls so that the drape net is"gathered"to fit within the enclosure.

The drape net may be supported within the enclosure in any manner and by any structure or mechanism capable of supporting the drape net in the desired position such that the drape net may be impacted by the golf ball. However, preferably, the enclosure frame is further comprised of a drape net support cable extending between the side enclosure walls, wherein the drape net is supported within the enclosure by the drape net support cable. Preferably the drape net is supported so that it does not extend to the floor of the ball receiving section so that a golf ball can pass substantially unimpeded between the bottom of the drape net and the floor.

Supporting the drape net by the drape net support cable instead of by the top of the enclosure allows a rising golf ball to pass between the drape net support cable and the top of the enclosure instead of impacting directly at an interface between the drape

net and the top of the enclosure, so that the golf ball can either hit the front wall and drop to the floor or rebound back against the drape net.

In a preferred embodiment, the drape net is further comprised of two drape net pockets located adjacent to the connections between the drape net and each of the side enclosure walls. The function of the drape net pockets is to provide additional net material to absorb the energy from a moving golf ball and thus enhance the effectiveness of the drape net.

In the preferred embodiment, the drape net pockets are supported within the enclosure by the lower side deflector support cables and by the upper side deflector support cables such that the deflector support cables assist in forming the drape net pockets.

The apparatus is preferably provided with a soundproofing system for dampening the noise which is caused during use of the apparatus. The soundproofing system may be associated with any components of the apparatus but is preferably associated with the floor of the ball receiving section and with each of the deflector walls.

The soundproofing system may be comprised of a soundproofing coating which may be applied to surfaces of the floor and the deflector walls. More particularly, the soundproofing coating is preferably applied to the bottom surface of the floor and to some or all of the interior surfaces of the deflector walls.

The soundproofing coating which comprises the soundproofing system may be comprised of at least one layer of a mesh material. The mesh material may be affixed to the surfaces by an adhesive or in some other manner. The mesh material is preferably comprised of a relatively soft weave material in comparison with the net material, which is preferably comprised of a relatively tight weave material.

The soundproofing coating may be further comprised of a secondary coating material which is applied on top of the mesh material. The secondary coating material either affixes or enhances the affixation of the mesh material to the surfaces and also provides additional soundproofing properties. The secondary coating material may be comprised of any sealing or coating material or combination of materials, including but not limited to plastic, rubber, adhesive or paint. In the preferred embodiment the secondary coating material is comprised of a mixture of paint and sand.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a golf practice apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a top plan view of an embodiment of a golf practice apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a simplified side elevation view of an embodiment of a golf practice of the present invention, including a cutaway view of a deflector wall showing the soundproofing system of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an enclosure of a golf practice apparatus.

Figure 5 is an enlarged detail cutaway view of the front top corner of an embodiment of the ball receiving section.

Figure 6 is an enlarged detail cutaway view of the back top corner of an embodiment of the ball receiving section.

Figure 7 is a cutaway top plan view of an embodiment of a golf practicing apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of an embodiment of a golf practice apparatus showing a cutaway portion of the floor of the ball receiving section.

Figure 9 is an enlarged cutaway side elevation view of an embodiment of a golf practice apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 10 is a simplified cutaway elevation view of an embodiment of a side deflector wall showing components of a ball distribution device.

Figure 11 is a simplified cutaway elevation view of an embodiment of a side deflector wall showing components of a ball distribution device.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a screw jack.

Figure 13 is an enlarged end view of an embodiment of a ball collection tray and ball delivery receptacle.

Figure 14 is an enlarged end view of an embodiment of a ball collection tray and ball delivery receptacle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring to Figures 1-3, there is shown an embodiment of a golf practice apparatus 20 of the present invention comprising a swing platform section 22 and a ball receiving section 24 having rear portion 25 and front portion 27. Swing platform section 22 is positioned adjacent and connected to rear portion 25 of ball receiving section 24 such that a golfer or user may stand on swing platform section 22 and strike golf balls into ball receiving section 24. Ball receiving section 24 is comprised of generally rectangular base 30 and enclosure 32 positioned on top and connected to base 30.

Referring to Figures 1-4, enclosure 32 is comprised of enclosure frame 34 having four vertical corner members 36 each of which are connected at a lower end to base 30 to define the vertical corner edges 35 of enclosure 32. The vertical corner members 36 comprise two front vertical corner members 37.

At an upper end, the vertical corner members 36 are connected to four horizontal members 38 by corner connectors 40 to define sides 44 and 46, front 48, top 50, top enclosure edge 43 comprising front top enclosure edge 52, side top enclosure edges 45 and 47 and rear top enclosure edge 49, and top enclosure corners 51. The top enclosure corners 51 located at the front portion 27 of the ball receiving section 24 are front top enclosure corners 53.

Enclosure frame 34 is provided with net material 56 which covers sides 44 and 46, front 48 and top 50 of enclosure frame 34 (as further described below), thereby defining ball receiving space 60 which is open at entrance end 62. The lower end 39 of the enclosure frame 34 is provided with a vinyl edge 41 which includes padding for

cushioning the impact of golf balls which strike at the lower end 39 of the enclosure frame 34.

Referring to Figures 4-6, net material 56 is attached to enclosure frame 34 to the horizontal member 38 and the vertical corner members 36 at the rear portion 25 of the enclosure frame 34 by means of sleeves 57.

Adjacent front top enclosure edge 52, net material 56 is attached to enclosure frame 34 by means of a spacer 58 which spans between the enclosure frame 34 and the net material to distance the net material 56 from the enclosure frame 34. The spacer 58 between the front top enclosure edge 52 and the net material 56 facilitates a front top oblique ball deflector 71.

Adjacent side top enclosure edges 45 and 47, net material 56 is attached to enclosure frame 34 by means of tubular guides 59 that are connected to the net material 56, and which are strung on upper and lower side deflector support cables 61 and 63. The deflector support cables 61 and 63 act as spacers to keep the net material 56 away from the horizontal members 38 along the side top enclosure edges 45 and 47 to provide side top oblique ball deflectors 73.

Adjacent to each of the front vertical corner edges 35, a panel of net material 56 is attached to the net material 56 on the side 44 or 46 and the front 48 of the enclosure frame 34 to provide a front vertical corner oblique ball deflector 75.

The oblique ball deflectors 71,73 and 75 act as a safety feature by reducing the possibility of a golf ball ricocheting off the enclosure frame 34 back at the user or a spectator. They also help to direct golf balls towards the center of the enclosure 32.

Adjacent front top enclosure corners 53, orthogonal oblique ball deflectors 81 interconnect the front top oblique ball deflector 71, the side top oblique ball deflector 73 and the front vertical comer oblique ball deflector 75 to span the gaps between the oblique ball deflectors 71,73 and 75.

Drape net 77 is provided as an additional safety feature for dampening the blow of a golf ball striking the front wall of the ball receiving section 24. Drape net 77 is supported by drape net support cable 79 connected to side horizontal members 38 and extending between the side enclosure walls 44 and 46, and has a width greater than the distance between the side enclosure walls 44 and 46 to allow for movement of the drape net 77 when it is struck by the force of a golf ball. Preferably the width of the drape net 77

is approximately twice the distance between the side enclosure walls 44 and 46. Drape net 77 is connected to the side enclosure walls 44 and 46.

Drape net 77 extends from the drape net support cable 79 towards the floor 90 but is spaced from the floor 90 so that a golf ball can pass between the drape net 77 and the floor substantially unimpeded.

Drape net support cable 79 allows the drape net 77 to be supported within the enclosure without being connected to the top 50 of the enclosure 32, thus facilitating "gathering"of the drape net 77 material between the side enclosure walls 44 and 46. In addition, supporting the drape net 77 independent of the top 50 of the enclosure 32 allows a rising golf ball to pass between the drape net support cable 79 and the top 50 of the enclosure 32.

Drape net 77 includes drape net pockets 83 located adjacent to the connections between the drape net 77 and each of the side enclosure walls 44 and 46.

Drape net pockets 83 provide additional net material 56 to absorb the impact of golf balls which hit the drape net 77. Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 4, drape net pockets 83 are supported within the enclosure 32 by the upper side deflector support cables 61 and by the lower side deflector support cables 63 such that the deflector support cables 61 and 63 assist in forming the drape net pockets 83.

Referring to Figure 8, base 30 is constructed from eight panel members 70, each panel member 70 having flange end portion 72, corner end portion 74, lower edge 76, and upper edge 78. The panels members 70 are connected to each other by connectors, for example bolts 80, so that a flange end portion 72 of one panel 70 is connected to a flange end portion 72 of another panel 70, and a comer end portion 74 of one panel 70 is connected to a corner end portion 74 of another panel 70 to define a rectangular configuration of base 30. While the illustrated embodiment of base 30 has a number of assembled panel members 70, a person skilled in the art would know of other suitable configurations.

At the flange end portions 72 and the corner end portions 74 of the assembled panel members 70 are provided screw jacks 82 which are part of a levelling system of the apparatus 20 as further described below. While the illustrated embodiment employs screw jacks 82 to raise and lower base 30, it is noted that any other type of jack or device for raising or lowering may be used. Base 30 further comprises box member 84 having side walls 86 that define an open top end 87. Box member 84 is located within the

rectangular configuration of assembled panel members 70. The upper edges 78 of the assembled panel members 70 are elevated in relation to the top end 87 of box member 84.

This may be accomplished in a number of ways, for example, the panel members 70 may be raised relative to the box member 84 by the jacks 82, or the height of the panel members 70 may be greater than the height of the side walls 86 of the box member 84.

Spanning the distance between the upper edges 78 of the assembled panel members 70 and the top end 87 of box member 84 are a plurality of floor panels 88 to define floor 90 of ball receiving section 24 of the apparatus 20. The floor panels 88 may be made of sheet metal or other suitable rigid material, for example, wood, plastic, composites, metal and may be coated or covered with a resilient material, including but not limited to, paint, rubber, plastic, artificial turf, natural turf, netting or carpet.

Ball receiving section 24 further includes a ball collection area such as a ball collection sump 92. Floor 90 is generally horizontal but is sloped sufficiently to gravitationally direct golf balls falling on it towards and into ball collection sump 92 but is preferably not sloped to such a degree that the floor is hazardous to walk on for persons servicing the apparatus 20.

Apparatus 20 further comprises a ball transport system 93 which includes a ball tube 94. The ball transport system 93 communicates with and is fed by the ball collection sump 92. Ball tube 94 is sloped to gravitationally transport golf balls from ball collection sump 92 to a ball distribution device 96.

Referring to Figures 1-3, swing platform section 22 includes an elevated platform area 100 which is"stepped"relative to floor 90 of the ball receiving section 24 so that it is slightly higher than floor 90, and which is sloped slightly upwards in the direction of the ball receiving section 24. The increased height of the elevated platform area 100 relative to the floor 90 ensures that a golf ball will not strike the joint between the elevated platform area 100 and the floor 90 and rebound back towards the user or a spectator. In the preferred embodiment the elevated platform area 100 is approximately 5/8 inches higher than the floor 90 at the joint between the elevated platform area 100 and the floor 90. The upward slope of the elevated platform area 100 facilitates drainage and provides a natural rising trajectory for golf balls.

In the preferred embodiment, the floor 90 includes eight floor panels 88 which are shaped so that the floor 90 is generally rectangular. Referring to Figure 2, floor panels 88 are"stepped"along a floor joint 95 so that the floor 90 on the side of the floor

joint 95 towards the rear of the ball receiving section 24 is slightly higher than the floor 90 on the other side of the floor joint 95. Similarly, the floor 90 adjacent to the box member 84 is slightly higher than the box member 84.

The height difference at the floor joint 95 ensures that a golf ball will not strike the floor joint 95 and rebound back towards the user or a spectator. The floor joint 95 also inhibits golf balls from moving along the floor 90 across the floor joint 95 from the front portion 27 of the ball receiving section 24 to the rear portion 25 of the ball receiving section 24. In the preferred embodiment the floor 90 on the side of the floor joint 95 towards the rear of the ball receiving section 24 is approximately 5/8 inches higher than the floor 90 and the box member 84 on the other side of the floor joint 95.

Elevated platform area 100 is provided with tee off area 102 having simulated grass surface 104 and golf tee 106 from which a user may strike golf balls into ball receiving section 24. Front end 108 of swing platform section 22 is in communication with entrance end 62 of ball receiving section 24. Platform area side edges 120 and 122 each have upwardly extending deflector walls 124 and 126, having planar surfaces, which extend the length of the side edges 120 and 122 nearly to the ball receiving section 24.

The deflector walls 124 and 126 act to deflect golf balls that may have been improperly struck by a user into the ball receiving section 24, and to isolate elevated platform area 100 from onlookers. Deflector walls 124 and 126 preferably have contoured top edges 127 which are shaped to discourage users of the apparatus 20 from placing objects such as food and drink containers on top of the deflector walls 124 and 126. The shape of the contoured top edges 127 may be any shape which is effective to achieve this desired objective.

Deflector walls 124 and 126 may serve as a substrate for advertising material 128. This advertising material may be affixed to or otherwise incorporated into one or both of the deflector walls 124 and 126. Advertising material may be included on any or all surfaces of the deflector walls 124 and 126. Advertising material may similarly be affixed to or otherwise incorporated into other components of the apparatus 20, such as the floor 90, the base 30, and the steps 112.

The ball distribution device 96 may be associated with any component of the apparatus 20. In the preferred embodiment the ball distribution device 96 is incorporated into one of the deflector walls 124 or 126. Either of deflector walls 124 or 126 may contain the ball distribution device 96 (deflector wall 126 in the case of the illustrated embodiment) for distributing golf balls to a user. In the preferred embodiment

the ball distribution device 96 includes a vending system 190 to automate the generation of revenue from the apparatus 20.

Rear end 110 of swing platform section 22 is provided with steps 112, having risers 113 and step treads 115, which abut rear platform area edge 114. The portion of the swing platform section 22 between rear platform area edge 114 and rear end 110 (the portion occupied by steps 112) provides a platform area buffer zone 116 for safety to onlookers. Side buffer zone edges 140 and 142 are provided with upwardly extending barriers 144 and 146 which may be in the form of railings to act as additional safety features. Barriers 144 and 146 such as railings may serve both to protect passersby and to assist users of the apparatus 20 in ascending onto or descending from the elevated platform area 100.

The lower edges of the swing platform section 22 and the ball receiving section 24 define perimetric edge 151 upon which a number of screw jacks 82 are positioned which make up the levelling system of the apparatus 20. Referring to Figure 12, each screw jack 82 is comprised of a mounting bracket 180 for mounting the screw jack 82 to the apparatus 20 along the perimetric edge 151 by mounting bolts 185.

Threaded nut portion 182 is provided for receiving bolt 184 which engages pad 186 that is placed on the surface upon which the apparatus 20 is to be located. The desired level of the apparatus 20 at each of the screw jacks 82 may be adjusted by raising or lowering bolt 184 relative to threaded nut portion 182.

Referring to Figures 7-9, ball collection sump 92 feeds into ball transport system 93 and ball transport system 93 transports golf balls to ball distribution device 96.

The ball distribution device comprises ball collection tray 150 which is in line with ball tube 94 and located at discharge end 152 of the ball tube 94 to receive at receiving end 153 a set number of golf balls that roll out of the ball tube 94. The length of ball collection tray 150 determines the number of golf balls it may hold. Ball collection tray 150 has longitudinal shaft 154 which is journaled for rotation within bearing 156 (although any other suitable journaling mechanism may be used as would be apparent to a skilled technician). Receiving end 153 is also journaled for rotation on support 160 which also maintains the receiving end 153 of the ball collection tray 150 and the discharge end 152 of the ball tube 94 in alignment. Thus, ball collection tray 150 is rotatable about longitudinal axis 162 which enables golf balls in the ball collection tray 150 to be discharged when the ball collection tray 150 is so rotated (shown in Figures 10 & 11).

Located below ball collection tray 150 is ball delivery receptacle 166 which receives the golf balls discharged from ball collection tray 150 and delivers them gravitationally to a user of the apparatus 20. A rotation imparting mechanism causes ball collection tray 150 to rotate and discharge golf balls. In the preferred embodiment the rotation imparting mechanism is comprised of a driving mechanism 170, a driven sprocket 176 connected to the longitudinal shaft 154 of the ball collection tray 150 and a chain 174 for connecting the driving mechanism 170 and the driven sprocket 176. The driving mechanism 170 includes a drive sprocket 172 for engaging the chain 174. The driving mechanism 170 may include a motor or it may be manually driven. In the preferred embodiment the driving mechanism 170 is driven manually by turning the drive sprocket 172. Tensioners 178 and 179 are provided in the ball distribution device 96 to maintain a desired amount of tension of chain 174 on sprockets 172 and 176.

Ball distribution device 96 includes the vending system 190 which is associated with the driving mechanism 170. The driving mechanism 170 is inoperable unless and until suitable payment is delivered to the vending system 190. In the preferred embodiment, delivery of payment to the vending system 190 allows the driving mechanism 170 to rotate and thus impart rotation to the ball collection tray 150 to empty the ball collection tray 150 into the ball delivery receptacle 166. The apparatus 20 may be further provided with ball holders (not shown) such as buckets which can be used by users of the apparatus 20 to carry golf balls from the ball delivery receptacle 166 to the elevated platform area 100.

The vending system 190 may be comprised of any type of structure or apparatus which facilitates actuation of the driving mechanism 170 only after suitable payment has been delivered to the vending system 190. The vending system 190 may be designed to accept coins, paper money, credit cards, debit cards, tokens, codes or any other representation of payment which is considered to be suitable for use with the apparatus 20.

Referring to Figure 3, in the preferred embodiment the apparatus 20 is provided with a soundproofing system 192. The soundproofing system 192 is comprised of a soundproofing coating 192 which is applied to the bottom surfaces of the floor panels 88 and to the side, front and rear interior surfaces of the deflector walls 124 and 126. The soundproofing coating is comprised of a layer of a mesh material which is preferably affixed to the surfaces with an adhesive and is further comprised of a secondary coating material which is applied on top of the mesh material to provide additional affixation of the mesh material and additional soundproofing properties. The mesh material is preferably comprised of a relatively soft weave material in comparison with the net

material 56, which is preferably comprised of a relatively tight weave material. The secondary coating material is most preferably a mixture of paint and sand.

In operation, a user delivers a predetermined payment to the vending system 190 to permit actuation of driving mechanism 170 by manual rotation of the drive sprocket 172. Rotation of the drive sprocket 172 results in the rotation of the ball collection tray 150 by one revolution to discharge golf balls into the ball delivery receptacle 166 as shown in Figures 10,11, 13 & 14, and to return to its receiving position ready to receive more golf balls from a queue of balls in the ball tube 94. The user collects the golf balls from receptacle 166 and ascends steps 112 onto the swing platform section 22 and stands on elevated platform area 100. The user places a golf ball on either of golf tees 106 and strikes the ball into the ball receiving section 24. The golf ball strikes the net material 56 located within the enclosure 32 and its velocity is dampened such that the ball is retained within the ball receiving section 24. The ball falls onto floor 90 where it is directed into ball collection sump 92, and back through ball transport system 93 into the ball distribution device 96.




 
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