JPS6151905B2 - - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Summary of the Invention] A movable golf green is disclosed that is movable along a predetermined trajectory, the golf green is rotatable, and the golf green is rotatable and provides a user with the ability to move a number of golf greens. Provides simulated placement and varying pin positions.

[Technical field to which the invention pertains]

The present invention relates to golf equipment, and more particularly to a golf green equipment that is movable over a predetermined course and rotatable about a predetermined axis.

[Prior art and its problems]

Different types of golf tees and different types of golf greens are designed to allow golfers to get maximum practice in a minimum amount of time and to maximize the use of land by minimizing the area devoted to each type of practice. being developed. For example, U.S. Pat.
No. 3,937,875 discloses a movable platform used as a golf tee on which various golf shots can be practiced. Shots including uphill, downhill and sidehill lies can be practiced by changing the orientation of this movable platform.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,633,918 discloses a similar device that mimics uneven lies on which golfers can practice various golf shots.

A more sophisticated type of golf practice device has been awarded a U.S. patent no.
It is disclosed in Publication No. 3693979. The device according to US Pat. No. 3,693,979 consists of a wedge-shaped member placed on a rotatable base. In another embodiment, a pair of wedge-shaped members are arranged on a common axis and are relatively movable to impart various angular orientations to the upper surface.

Another variable golf practice tee device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,869,127. This device is primarily designed for use in locations other than golf courses. However, a device of this type can obviously also be used on a golf course. This device is manually adjustable with a handle.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,658,343 discloses a variable contour putting green for use in indoor golf games. A plurality of motor-driven reciprocating hydraulic jacks move portions of the putting green to form greens with various contours.

The above patents can be divided into two categories, the first of which consists of movable or contour-changing putting greens. To practice putting, a variable contour putting green provides a plurality of different contours to the putting green, allowing the golfer to practice putting on a nearly infinitely variable putting green. Similarly, variable golf tees provide golfers with multiple different lies for practicing golf shots. Therefore, each device has a location that provides the golfer with the maximum amount of practice in the minimum amount of time and space, depending on the particular situation. However, to the best of the inventor's knowledge, no such device yet exists that provides the golfer with the ability to practice driving shots onto the green over variable distances and with variable contours to the green.

The apparatus of the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing the golfer with a practice area where the green approaches and moves away from the golfer, and provides the golfer with a variable approach to the green.

[Purpose of the invention]

The objects of the present invention are as follows: To provide a new and useful golf device; To provide a new and useful golf green device; To provide a new and useful movable golf green device. To provide a new and useful rotary golf green device capable of rotating on an axis; To provide a new and useful rotary golf green device movable along a predetermined course; To imitate various golf shots from a fixed position. To provide a new and useful golf practice device having multiple orientations in the golf ball; To provide a new and useful golf device to have multiple pin positions; Rotating sweeper for sweeping balls from a green. To provide a new and useful rotary golf green device with: a new and useful movable golf green device with macroscopic distance information; and a new and useful golf practice device.

[Key points of the invention]

The device according to the invention consists of a movable golf green that moves along a track or guide and rotates on its axis. Movement of the golf green provides a variable distance to the golfer making a driving shot from a fixed position, and since the golf green equipment rotates, in addition to this variable distance, a variable trap position or A variable golf green with equipment can be provided to the user. Furthermore, a plurality of variable pin positions is also possible. The device also provides a visual distance indicator to allow the user (golfer) to more accurately correlate the location and distance of the movable golf green device.

According to the present invention, a lower frame including a structural frame member; a rotating frame fixed to the lower frame and rotatable; a golf green fixed to the rotating frame and rotatable; A movable golf green device is provided which combines means for rotating the rotating frame and means for moving the lower frame.

[Embodiments of the invention]

Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in more detail by way of example embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a practice golf course including the apparatus of the present invention. This practice golf course is generally designated by the reference numeral 1. This course 1 includes a fairway 2 and occupies the largest portion of the practice course 1. Furthermore, a putting green 3 is also included, but is spaced apart from the fairway 2. Between the putting green 3 and the fairway 2 are a plurality of tee stations or boxes 4, which contain driving mats for the golfer and generally extend from one side of the practice course to the other. do. Multiple users (golfers) can use this practice course at the same time due to the presence of multiple tee stations. At one end of these tee boxes or stations there is a sand bunker 5 from which golfers can practice their shots onto the green. Sand bunker shots are perhaps the most difficult in golf, and the device of the present invention allows golfers to practice bunker-to-green shots, and the green can be placed at various distances from the bunker. . This type of exercise is hardly achievable except with the device of the present invention. Adjacent to the practice putting green 3 is a main building 6, which houses offices, electrical controls of the device according to the invention, rental equipment, etc. In addition to the electrical controls described in detail below, there is a secondary or remote control station 8 located outside the main administrative building adjacent to the T-station or T-box 8.

In the fairway 2 there is a movable green 10 which moves in response to appropriate control signals from either a control box 8 or a control board located within the main structure 6. This green 10 moves on a track 12, which is shown in a curved shape, with a track tip 14 located adjacent to the control box 8 and generally located in the center of the course, and spaced apart from the teeing station on the practice course 1. It terminates at the trailing end 16 of the track located at the "far" or trailing end. A branch track 260 branches from the track 12 and forms a track end 26
Terminates at 1. This branch track 260 is curved away from the track 12 to form another path for the movable green 10. A pair of fixed distance markers 18 and 19 are shown adjacent the track 12 and forward of the tee station 4 and side bunker 5. The purpose of these distance markers 18 and 19 is to indicate to the individual using the device the distance from the teeing station and bunker at which the mobile green 10 is located.

Although the movable green 10 is irregularly shaped as shown, it can also be in a normal configuration with a putting green 20, a sand trap 22, and an apron portion 24 extending outwardly from the putting green 20. . The overall arrangement of the device can be arbitrary as desired and can include a plurality of sand traps 22 or other artificial obstacles and a plurality of cups 21. green 1
0 can move freely on the orbit 12. Furthermore, the green is rotatable relative to the central frame, which will be explained later with reference to the drawings. That is, the device can be rotated to perform different practice shots onto the green in different directions, and can be moved inwardly or outwardly to allow the golfer to practice different shots from different distances. You can do it like this. The apparatus 10 will be referred to as a "mobile golf green." However, technically speaking, this is generally associated with a "green" and includes features with an apron and a sand trap around its periphery. For convenience, apparatus 10 will be referred to as a "mobile golf green apparatus."

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the apparatus according to FIG. 1, and is an enlarged perspective view of the movable green 10 arranged on a portion of the track 12 in the fairway 2. FIG. This movable green 10 is shown on a slightly larger scale than in FIG. 1 to show details of the external shape of the movable green. The movable green 10 is shown with a putting green 12 disposed at the top thereof. Pattuting Green 20
The shape of is generally flat, but can have an irregular circumferential shape or any desired shape. It will be seen that the putting green 20 is raised upwardly from the surrounding fairway 2. This is clearly required by the structural elements of device 10, which will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 4 and 6.

An apron 24 extends outward and downward from the putting green 20. This apron 24 extends slopingly downward and outward from the putting green in the direction of the fairway 2. Similar to the putting green, the shape of the apron can be any outer circumferential shape or arrangement as desired. Apron 24 can be provided with one or more sand traps 22 as desired. The upward slope of the apron from the fairway 2 to the putting green 20 can also be varied as desired. The outer periphery of the apron is such that a golf ball hit from the teeing station 4 (see FIG. 1) lands on the green 20 or bounces onto the apron, and then preferably onto the putting green 20 or below the device 10. It is arranged adjacent to the fairway 2 so as to jump into the sand trap 22 without rolling. A pin 26 is shown projecting upward from the cup 21 on the putting green 20. More than one cup may be placed on the green 20 if desired. Cup 21 is preferably rotatable. The pin 26 has a scavenger 28 pivotally fixed thereto, which extends radially outwardly from the pin-mounted cup. The cup is rotatable, and so are the pins and sweeper to sweep the ball on the green 20 from the immediate vicinity of the cup. Each drive shot,
The goal, such as in practice, is to sink the golf ball into the cup, or get it as close to the cup as possible. Therefore, as much as possible, the ball should not be present in the green area adjacent to the cup. The overall effect of the movable green 10 is:
To provide an effective practice device or a golf simulation device for practice that is as realistic as possible.

In FIG. 2, the movable green 10 is shown mounted on a track 12. The track 12 is used to guide the movable green over a predetermined course. That is, the track 12 is fixed with respect to the practice course 1 shown in FIG. 1, and the movable green 10 moves relative to this track, that is, relative to the course, when guided on the track. The actual shape of the trajectory is not important. Complete loops or regular or irregular loops can be used if desired.

FIG. 3 is a partial sectional view taken along line 3--3 in FIG. 2. This is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the fairway 2 and track 12 showing the movable green equipment 10 and the guidance of the movable green 10 by the track. This movable green 10 has a front horizontal frame member 32
, to which the front guide pin 44 is appropriately fixed. The guide pin 44 extends downward substantially perpendicular to the movable frame and thus perpendicular to the fairway 2. The guide pin 44 includes an external roller 45, which is rotatably supported by the pin.

The track 12 plunges downward into the ground of the fairway 2 and forms a pair of parallel and spaced apart walls 200 and 2.
Equipped with 04. The walls 200 and 204 are substantially perpendicular to the plane of the fairway 2 and project downwardly into the basement from the upper surface of the fairway. Each wall includes an outwardly extending wall flange connecting it directly to the top of the wall. Wall 200 includes a flange 202 while wall 204 includes a flange 206. Flanges 202 and 206 extend in opposite directions but are generally relatively aligned. These form a grass-free area around the track 12. Flanges 202 and 206 are shown as integral parts of track walls 200 and 204. However, this is for illustrative purposes only. The primary purpose of the flange is to provide a grass-free area adjacent to the track to keep the track free of grass, debris, etc. If the flange is solid like the wall, the golf ball that hits this flange will hit the fairway 2 or the device 10.
The ball bounces off substantially differently than the ball that hits it. Therefore, artificial grass or turf may be used in place of flanges 202 and 206 to obtain the practical advantage of having a realistic and grass- or weed-free area adjacent to the track.

It will be seen that the bottom of track 12 opens directly into the ground below walls 200 and 204. The bottom of the track can be lined with gravel, but it is preferably not dense so as not to impede the drainage of rain or other water that flows into or falls onto the track. Therefore, the tracks are kept open to avoid standing water from rain, flooding of the golf course fairway, etc.

The movable green 10 is arranged as close to the fairway 2 as possible in the vertical direction. Moreover, the lower the device, the more practical it will look. For example, it may be advantageous to have media, features, etc. placed close to the ground to prevent the golf ball from rolling down the green.

The guide pin 44 is inserted into the track by the vertical walls 200 and 20.
It rushes between 4 and 4. The width, or spacing, between the walls of the track shall be sufficient to accommodate the guide pins without binding, yet large enough to prevent the pins from bouncing between the walls as the golf green equipment is moved. shall be taken as a thing. Furthermore, wall portions 202 and 2
04, the distance between the golf ball and the walls 20
The size is such that it does not enter the orbit between 2 and 204.

FIG. 4 is a partial sectional view taken along line 4--4 of the apparatus according to FIG. 2, and is a partial sectional view of the movable golf green 10.

The movable green 10 includes a lower frame 30 and a rotating frame 1 fixedly arranged on the lower frame.
00 and an upper frame 150.
Upper frame 150 is suitably fixed to rotating frame 100 and is rotatable.

The lower frame 30 is comprised of a plurality of structural frame members including a front transverse frame member 32, an aft transverse frame member 34, and four intermediate transverse frames spaced between the front and aft transverse frame members 32 and 34. Members 36, 38, 40 and 42
Equipped with. The transverse frame members are secured to a pair of longitudinally extending side frame members, the right side member 50 of which is shown in FIG. Lower frame 30 is movable on four wheels, with front drive wheels 72 and rear caster wheels 76 shown in FIG. The drive wheels are located forward of the lower frame and are connected by a laterally extending axle 70. A motor 80 is shown disposed on the lower frame 30 and is suitably secured to the front transverse frame member 32. Sprocket 82
is properly fixed to the axle 70, and this is connected to the motor 80.
Rotate together in response to. Chain 84 is
The motor is connected to the axle 70 through a sprocket 82 and a suitable sprocket secured to the drive shaft of the reversing motor 80.

For purposes of explanation, the lateral frame member 32 will be referred to as the "front"
It will be appreciated that the frame member 34 is shown as the "rear" member. The device is therefore optionally defined as having a front part and a rear part. However, these names are for illustrative purposes only. It will be appreciated that the device moves "forward" and "backward" along the trajectory.

Movable green 10 is guided on track 12 by a pair of guide pins 44 and 46. The guide pin 44 is fixed to the front transverse frame member 32 by its rollers 45 and projects downwardly into the track 12 from there. The rear guide pin 46 is also provided with suitable rollers 47, which also project downwardly into the track 12 from the lower frame. Rear guide pin 46 is shown extending downwardly and extends from rear transverse frame member 34
Fixed. Preferably, guide pins 44 and 46 are positioned along the longitudinal axis of lower frame 30 intermediate the side frame members.

The guide pin 46 extends downwardly from the rear transverse frame member 34 and is located at the rear of the lower frame 30 and at the front of the exterior of the movable green 10; However, it is located inward from the outer periphery of the movable green 10.

The rotating frame 100 is fixed to a plate 104 from which a plurality of upright posts 10
Platforms 102 spaced apart by 6, 108 and 110
This is shown in FIG. Other vertical support 11
2 is shown in dotted lines in FIG. These upright posts are secured to both platform 102 and plate 104. A plate 104 located below and spaced from platform 102 is then secured to rotating drum 114 . The drum 114 is rotatably supported relative to the lower frame 30 by suitable bearings 116. Preferably, both platform 102 and plate 104 are circular and flat in shape, with platform 102 being substantially larger in diameter than plate 104. The bearing 116, the drum 114, the plate 104, and the stand 102 are all attached to the intermediate horizontal frame member 3.
It is located between 8 and 40.

In addition to the vertical struts 106, 108 and 110 shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of diagonally extending struts 12
0, 122 and 124 are also shown in FIG. 4 and provide additional support for the platform 102.
Another diagonally extending strut 126 is shown in FIG. Thus, there are four upright columns and four diagonally extending columns that provide structural support between plate 104 and platform 102. The diagonal struts can also be provided with tie plates if desired.

A motor 86 is suitably secured to the transverse frame member 42 in the rearward direction of the drum 114. A gear is secured to drum 114 and/or motor 86, and a belt or chain 90 connects the motor to the drum through the gear and pulley or sprocket. motor 8
6 controls the drum 114 in response to appropriate control signals.
and the stand 102 are rotated relative to the lower frame 30.

The controls for mobile green equipment 10 are located in a control box 130, which is shown secured to lower frame 30 between rear transverse frame member 34 and intermediate transverse frame member 42. Appropriate electrical connections extend to both motors 80 and 86.

Upper frame 150 is shown in FIG. 4 and is positioned on and supported by rotating frame 100. Preferably, upper frame 50 is comprised of a lightweight material, such as fiberglass, aluminum tubing, foamed plastic, etc., and is different from the rigid, preferably steel, structural frame members associated with lower frame 30 and rotating frame 100.

The upper frame 150 includes a base 152;
This is placed on the stand 102 and fixed thereto. An outer peripheral base 154 extends outward and downward from the base 152. The outer peripheral base 154 extends outwardly with respect to the lower frame 30. Depending on the dimensions of the upper frame 50, a plurality of wheel holders 156 may be provided.
A wheel well may be suitably located adjacent the outer periphery of the outer base 154. These wheel holders 156 house and fix caster wheels 158 therein, and provide support to the outer periphery of the movable green 10. Preferably, wheels 158 are located at the same radial distance from the center of rotation of rotating frame 100. If the size and shape of the green do not require these wheels 158, they may be omitted.

Fixed to the base 152 but extending upwardly is a green feature 160. This green form 160 is attached to the base 1 by a plurality of structural members 168.
Fixed at 52. In FIG. 4, structural member 16
8 is shown extending vertically. The green form 160 has three main parts, namely the center part 162 of the putting green, and the apron form part 16.
4 and a trap forming section 166. The central feature 162 of the putting green is a recess in the green feature 160 that receives a suitable material to form a generally flat green 20 thereon. An apron form 164 extends outwardly from the center form 162 of the putting green;
An apron 24 is fixedly provided thereon, and this apron consists of the outer periphery of the movable green 10. The trap form part 166 is the apron form part 16
It consists of 4 recesses and is equipped with a trap 22.

The pin 26 is the cup 21 on the green 20.
It is shown extending upward from. If desired, the cup 21 can be extended downwardly below the green feature 160 and a signaling device can be provided to indicate a hole-in-one achieved by the user of the device. Multiple cups are shown providing different pin arrangements.

As mentioned above, these cups are preferably rotated so that golf balls can be removed by pin sweepers attached to the pins. Preferably,
Each cup is secured directly to its own motor as shown in FIG. These motors can be connected together with simple wiring and moved from cup to cup when only one pin is used.
The pin can also be cleaned in response to rotation of any cup in which it is placed.

The movable green 10 includes three separate parts, including a lower frame 30 that is fixed to the lower frame and connected to a fixed track in the fairway 2 by a pair of downwardly extending pins that project into the track. You will be guided along the route. A reversing motor 80 is coupled to the drive wheels of the lower frame to allow the mobile green apparatus to move along the track in two directions. The drive wheels connected to the drive motor are fixed wheels, while the wheels spaced apart from the drive wheels and also fixed to the lower frame are caster wheels, which move the movable golf green apparatus 10 in a curved or meandering manner. It is possible to appropriately guide the vehicle along a non-linear trajectory.

Next, the rotating frame 100 is attached to the lower frame 3.
It is fixed at 0 and pivoted to rotate at that point. This provides support for the upper frame 150 which covers both the rotating frame and the lower frame. The upper frame has two main parts: the base 10
2 and a green form 160 fixed to this base 152;
Equipped with. Green form 160 includes two elements: a central portion of the putting green and an apron portion that extends outwardly and downwardly. A trap feature is shown provided in a portion of the apron feature of the green apparatus 10. Obviously, the device can be provided with more than one trap or traps can be omitted as desired. However, one trap is shown for illustrative purposes. The trap may also include a drainage hole or a receptacle for golf balls, if desired.

The movable green 10 not only moves in the longitudinal direction on a track relative to the fairway (see FIG. 1), but also rotates so that it can perform various approaches from the teeing station (see FIG. 1).

The mobile green 10 therefore provides a practical target for practicing a variety of golf shots. By moving the green 10 away from the tee box or tee station 4 and sand bunker 5 as shown in Figure 1, you can practice driving shots, and by moving the green closer to the tee station and bunker, you can practice various shots. You can practice pitching shots and tipping shots.
Furthermore, by rotating the green, you can practice various approach shots that go over traps, for example. This green is a practical set-up in that the putting green in the center of the equipment is surrounded as desired by a gently sloping apron and one or more traps. Of course, it will be appreciated that the actual shape of upper frame 150 may be as regular or irregular as desired. Furthermore, the slope of the apron can also be varied.
In other words, a wide variety of conditions can be incorporated into the movable green equipment to mimic a wide variety of realistic golf conditions.

The mobile green equipment can be as large or small as desired, and can be relatively shallow or relatively deep as desired. The overall height of the device is limited to a minimum required by the various structural members and motors and controls and batteries necessary to drive the motors. Outrigger type with small turning radius
The apron form 1 is provided with wheels to prevent the apron form from sinking or dragging in the fairway when the device moves and rotates.
Protect the outer peripheral edge of 64. These wheels thus protect the fairway. Although skids can be used in place of wheels, wheels are considered preferable.

FIGS. 5 and 5a illustrate two of the macroscopic display devices indicated by circle 5 in FIG. 1 that may be used with the device of the invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing two embodiments. The visual distance display device of FIG. 5 is a generally rectangular box with suitable means for electronically providing a luminous distance indication.
Visual display box 220 includes a front face 222 presenting a three-digit number. The number displayed in Figure 5 is "148", which is the movable green 10
is approximately 148 yards from the TS station. Obviously, this distance will not be accurate for all T-boxes, but only from certain locations. This is because each tee box or station is located at a slightly different distance from the moving green at any given time. For maximum accuracy,
The T-box can be arranged on a circular arc having a predetermined curvature from a predetermined point on the orbit.

The distance display on surface 222 can be any desired device, such as a plurality of lamps suitably connected to each other to provide numbers, a rotating digital display, or the like.

With respect to the visual display device 18 shown in FIG. 5, only one display surface is shown and therefore it must be appropriately oriented to provide a visual display to the maximum number of users of the golf course. . This display is separated from each T-station so that it does not interfere with driving shots from the T-station.

In FIG. 1, two distance markers are shown, one located on one side of the practice course and the other on the opposite side of the practice course. These two separately spaced markings are visible to the naked eye from nearly every tea box.

An alternative to a single macroscopic viewing surface as shown in FIG. 5 is shown in FIG. 5a as macroscopic display 18a. The visual distance display 18a is generally triangular and includes a pair of display surfaces 222 and 224.
The display surfaces 222 and 224 are adjacent to each other but preferably separated by an obtuse angle greater than 90 degrees. If a distance marker such as 18a is used, only one distance marker is required, depending on the width of the training course 1 and the dimensions of the distance marker.

Distance markers such as 18 or 18a can be used in combination with various actuating devices. For example, move a micro switch etc. to orbit 1.
2 and actuated by guide pins during movement through the track 12. Additionally, the microswitch can be wired directly to the distance marking device, or the microswitch can activate a remote transmitter to send a signal to a receiver connected to the distance marking device. Alternatively, an inductive pick-up device may be included in the track to be sensed by the moving green as it moves along the track and actuate a transmitter to increase the visual display of the distance marker. . Additionally, a guidance device may alternatively be provided on the track. The guiding device detects the passage of the movable green and sends a signal to the distance marker appropriately to increase the visual indication.

Other devices that may be used are radar devices,
A pin or pin flag is used as a radar target or reflector, and distance information is transmitted to a distance marker for visual reading and printing. clearly,
There are also several variations of this type of device. moreover,
Other devices can also be used.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line 6--6 of the device of FIG. This is a plan view of the lower frame 30 and the rotating frame 100 fixed thereto. A portion of the rotating frame is cut away to show the parts below the platform 102.

Lateral frame members 32, 34, 36, 38, 40
and 42 are shown extending between and secured to side frame members 50 and 52. To provide further support for the axle 70, a pair of longitudinally extending struts 54 and 56 are shown extending and fixed between the front transverse frame member 32 and the intermediate transverse frame member 36. This axle 70 is
and 56 and further side flange members 50 and 5
2 and is suitably fixed and pivotally supported for rotation. Drive wheels 72 and 74 are secured to this axle 70.

A drive motor 80 is shown positioned on intermediate frame member 36 . Chain 84 extends from a sprocket connected to the rotating shaft of motor 80 to a sprocket 82 fixed to axle 70. Axle 70
is the drive shaft for drive wheels 72 and 74.

Another pair of struts 50 and 60 extend longitudinally between rear frame member 34 and intermediate frame member 42. Frame members 58 and 60, together with side frame members 50 and 52, form struts 58 and frame members 5, respectively.
0 and provides suitable support for caster wheels 76 and 78 which are secured to struts 60 and frame members 52. Caster wheels 76 and 78 are mounted on the lower frame 3 of the movable golf green apparatus 10.
0 can be moved along a curved (or tortuous or serpentine) path according to the particular shape of the guide track 12 as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4. Lower frame 30, and thus apparatus 10, is guided in the track by a pair of guide pins 44 and 46 suitably secured to front and rear frame members 32 and 34, respectively.

The rotating frame 100 is centrally arranged with respect to the lower frame 30. The rotating frame 100 has four vertical columns 106, 108, 110 and 112 and four diagonal columns (or cover plates) 120,1
Plate 10 by 22, 124 and 126
4 is provided. The vertical struts extend directly between pedestal 102 and plate 104, whereas the diagonal struts are shown in FIG. 4 extending outwardly and upwardly from the bottom of the vertical struts to pedestal 102. There is.

Plate 104 is secured to drum 114.
The drum is rotatably supported in bearings 116 fixed between intermediate transverse frame members 38 and 40 and between longitudinal side members 50 and 52 (see FIG. 4). Therefore, this rotating frame 10
0 is located centrally and symmetrically with respect to the lower frame 30.

Sprocket 88 is secured to drum 114 and chain 90 is suspended around sprocket 88 to connect drive motor 86 to the rotating frame. Next, the drive motor 86 is controlled by the control box 13.
0 to the intermediate frame member 42 adjacent to the frame member 42.

While motor 80 is a reversing motor so that device 10 can be moved inwardly or outwardly along the track, motor 86 need not be a reversing motor. The purpose of the motor 86 is to rotate the rotating frame and the upper frame (see FIG. 4) fixed thereto relative to the lower frame 30. This rotation can only occur in one direction and not in the opposite direction. The actual action is the same, motor 8
If 6 moves in only one direction, the control device is simplified.

A pair of battery packs 132 and 134 are maintained secured to the transverse frame member 42, right frame member 50, and left frame member 52, respectively. These battery packs are shown positioned below the rotating frame and on opposite sides of the motor 86. The illustration of battery packs 132 and 134 is for illustrative purposes only. Obviously, motors 80 and 86 must be provided with a power source. Batteries are the most common power source. A battery pack or battery reservoir can be secured to the lower frame 30 at a suitable location. Both motors 80 and 86 can be powered by multiple batteries connected in series and/or in parallel, or each motor can be connected to its own separate battery system.

A movable golf green device 10 including a rechargeable battery and an electric motor driven by the battery.
appears to provide the most practical and economical source of power for movement and operation. However, it is clear that other power sources can also be used. For example, a pair of conductive cables can be placed in the track from the lower frame and the electric motor can be connected to the cables. Alternatively, an endless cable can be provided in the track and the device can be fixed to this cable and moved along the track. The rotating platform 100 can also be configured to gradually rotate as the lower frame moves with the cable; however, as described above, a rechargeable battery and two electric motors may be provided to provide a movable golf green apparatus. These are the 10 most practical driving methods.

FIG. 7 shows the pin 26 spaced apart from the rotating cup 21.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of circle 7 in FIG. 4; The pin 26 has a cup and a sweeper 28 fixed to the pin.
The ball rotates with the ball and sweeps the ball from the cup.

The cup 21 is suitably pivotally supported for rotation on a bearing cup 170.
0 is suitably secured to the green form 160, for example by bolts or the like. This cup 21 is provided with a socket 174 for engaging the engagement stem 17 of the pin 26.
Accommodates 6. The sweeper 28 is pivotably secured to the pin 26 by a hinge 29.

A motor 180 is secured to bearing cup 170 and connected to socket 174 to rotate the socket as well as the pin and its sweeper. Slow down the motor to provide proper rotational speed for the socket and pin.

As shown in FIG. 2, the green 20 includes a plurality of cups 21 into which pins can be inserted. The advantage of having more than one cup is to provide a variety of different green configurations for practice. Preferably, each cup has its own motor, and the motors are all electrically connected so that no switch is required to manually move pin 26 from one cup to another. Each cup motor can be controlled by a timer to periodically rotate the cup. As an alternative,
These motors can also be remotely controlled if desired.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the control box or console 8 shown in FIG. 1, located adjacent to the tee station for remotely controlling the mobile golf course equipment 10. This control box or console 8 is substantially similar to other consoles that may be provided in the main building 6. However, for flexibility it is advantageous to provide a remote control console 8. The console 8 is disposed within a housing 230 and is preferably waterproof to protect the circuitry within the housing from rain and the like. The housing 230 includes a front console plate 232 on which are located suitable controls for moving the apparatus 10. The console illustrated in FIG. 8 has six members, one power switch 234.
, two directional control switches 236 and 238, a rotary movement switch 240, and two indicator lights 242 and 244. Preferably, the power on/off switch is spring loaded in the "closed" position and must therefore be held in the "open" position by the user.
Similarly, push button switches 236 and 238, and rotary switch 240, respectively, are spring loaded in the closed position. This prevents accidental actuation of the device and prevents unnecessary power leakage from the battery in the device. for example,
Other function switches may also be provided, such as a switch for rotating the green cup to clean the green.

Because golf equipment 10 includes its own power unit, no direct wiring connections are required to power the equipment. Since no direct electrical wiring is required, a suitable transmitting-receiving device, such as a remote transmitter (see FIG. 1) in the control box 8 or office 6 and a receiver in the mobile green equipment 10, is provided to Motors 80, 86 and 180 must be turned on and off in response to switch actuation.

On-off switch, i.e. power switch 2
34 is spring loaded in the closed position. When held in the open position, power is supplied to a transmitter within the control box 8 or remotely located within the main building 6 (see FIG. 1). At the same time that switch 234 is held in the open position, either plug-in switch 236 or 238 is held in the plug-in position to rotate motor 80 in its forward direction (i.e., in the "in" direction) or in the opposite direction (i.e., in the "unplug" direction). direction), depending on the operation of the switch. Similarly, to rotate the rotating frame, switch 2
40 at its open value, while on-off switch 234 is held in its open position, upper frame 150 must be rotated by activating motor 86 and rotating rotating frame 100 (see FIG. 4). . Switches 236, 238 and 2
40 is connected to a suitable transmitter which transmits the appropriate signals to a receiver at control box 130 (FIGS. 4 and 6). Appropriate control circuitry then relays commands to the motor to cause movement of device 10.

Indicator lights 242 and 244 can be used to indicate information such as power is on and commands are being transmitted, as desired.

Two switches 236 and 238 are shown in FIG.
It is also clear that this could be done using a single pole double throw switch instead of separate switches.

If desired, a timer can be incorporated into the device 10 so that each motor can be controlled by a preset timer. This allows automatic movement of the device at predetermined time intervals.

FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of a distance marker 250 that may be used with the apparatus of the present invention. The distance marker 250 consists of a fixed marker with a pole 252 embedded in and extending upwardly from the fairway 2 to which a plate 254 is permanently secured. Plate 254 has 3
The digit number indicates that this sign is located 130 yards from the center of the T-station. This fixed distance marker 250 is the simplest and cheapest type of distance marker that can be used with the apparatus of the present invention. However, installing distance markers of this type along the track creates the obvious problem that a golf ball could collide with one of these markers, as well as issues regarding distance vision by the user of the device that must be considered. It occurs as a factor of Because these signs are located far from the tee station, they must be larger to be more easily visible to users of the equipment at the tee station.

Another consideration with fixed distance markers is the problem of placing them at a meaningful distance from each other. In other words, if these are spaced apart at intervals of about 10 yards, there must obviously be a large number of signs;
This tends to clutter golf courses.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a rotatable track system that may be used with the present invention. A track 12 is shown above the fairway 2, with a branch track 260 connecting the main track 12.
Extending away from. The movable golf green apparatus 10 includes a pair of movable plates 21 along a track 12.
2 and 216, these movable plates are hinged to the track 12 and the device 10
can switch to trajectory 260. Movable plates 212 and 216 are connected to tracks 12 and 260
A solenoid 28 disposed within the enclosure 270 below the top surface, that is, below the airway 2.
0.

FIG. 11 is a partial sectional view taken along line 11--11 of the device of FIG. 10. This is a partial cross-sectional view of enclosure 270 showing movement of switch plates 212 and 216 by solenoid 280.

A front guide pin 44 is shown in dotted lines with its rollers 45, which guide pin projects downwardly into the track 12 from the front member 32 of the movable green 10. The vehicle frame 32 and guide pins are shown in dotted lines and project downward into the track 12. Track walls 200 and 204 are interrupted by a pair of openings 210 and 214, respectively. A pair of movable plates 2 are provided in the openings 210 and 214, respectively.
12 and 216 are present. These plates 2
12 and 216 are suitably pivoted to walls 200 and 204 by a plurality of hinges 218. Practically, two hinges 218 are fixed to each plate,
One hinge can be attached to the top of each plate and the other hinge can be fixed to the bottom of each plate. These hinges are suitably fixed to the track wall and plate.

A solenoid 280 is present within the enclosure or box 270 and rests on the floor or bottom 272 of the enclosure 270. Solenoid based 2
82 and place the base on the floor or bottom 2 of the enclosure.
Fixed at 72. Connect the operating rod 282 to the solenoid 28
0 and the plates 212 and 2
16 properly. solenoid 280
Activation of causes inward movement of actuation rod 284 relative to solenoid 280, with concomitant pivoting movement of plates 212 and 216 at their hinges 218 away from track walls 200 and 204, respectively.

The power to operate the solenoid 280 is
The supply is provided via suitable electrical connections threaded through electrical conduits 286 secured to wall 274 of enclosure 270 . These electrical connections extend through the conduits and into the solenoid 280. Solenoid 280 is
Plates 212 and 216 are spring loaded to the position shown in FIG. 10 in which they are properly aligned with track walls 200 and 204, as is well known in the art. The guide pin 44 therefore guides the device 10 in the track 12. However, upon activation of the solenoid 280, the actuation rod 28
4 moves to the left (i.e., inward with respect to solenoid 280) as shown in FIG.
4 and guide pin 44 to guide the device into track 260.

FIG. 12 is a plan view taken along line 12--12 of the apparatus of FIG. 11. This is a partial cross-sectional view of tracks 12 and 260 spaced apart from track 12 and showing track 2
60 direction of guide plates 212 and 2
16 turns are shown.

The connection between track 260 and track 12 is shown enlarged in FIG. Track 260 includes a pair of spaced apart walls 262 and 266. Both walls 262 and 266 are secured to track wall 204 of track 12. Openings 214 in track wall 204 are located at the connections between track wall 204 and track walls 262 and 266 of track 260. Additionally, the track wall 266 also includes an opening 267, which is adjacent to the opening 214. When the guide plate 216 is placed in the opening 214 and so the solenoid 280 is in its closed position,
The plate 21 is parallel to the track wall 204.
6 are aligned substantially parallel to plate 212 and track 200. Activation of solenoid 280 causes plate 216 to swing in an arc on its hinge 218 to opening 267 in track wall 266 . At the same time, the plate 212 is
Opening 2 at the connection of track walls 204 and 262 between track walls 200 and 204 by 8
Turn to 14. The guide pin 44, which has plunged downwardly into the track 212, therefore contacts the plate 212 and connects the track walls 262 and 266 through the opening 214 as it is guided between them by the plates 212 and 216. during a trajectory 260.

Guide plates 212 and 216 include a pair of apertures or slots 213. These apertures or slots 213 are connected to the solenoid actuating rod 28.
Contains a portion of 4. These apertures or slots have a length substantially greater than the diameter of the actuating rod 284, allowing the actuating rod to move along a straight line as the plate pivots. Therefore,
The extra length (i.e., width) of the slot allows the actuating rod 2 to move during pivoting movement of plates 212 and 216.
84 axial movement.

Actuation rod 284 is secured to plates 212 and 216 by a pair of washers or pins that are secured to the actuation rod on opposite sides of each plate. A pair of washers or pins 286 are secured to the actuating rod 284 on opposite sides of the guide plate 212, and a pair of washers or pins 288 are secured to the actuating rod 284 on opposite sides of the guide plate 216. The length or diameter of these pins may be greater than the length (or width) of the aperture or slot 213, as required, so that plates 212 and 216 can move the actuating rod in either direction depending on the state of the solenoid 280. Ensure that the vehicle turns in response to the In FIG. 12, washers or pins 286 and 288
are shown slightly spaced apart on opposite sides of plates 212 and 216. This causes the actuating rod 284 to move into the aperture or slot 213 and move the pin 44 from the track 12 into the track 260, or vice versa, as required when the solenoid 280 is actuated to its switching position. When the solenoid is activated, from trajectory 260 to trajectory 1
2 or when solenoid 280 is in its off, or inoperative, state, pin 44
remains in the orbit 12, and this state is shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. In the actuated state of solenoid 280, plate 212 moves to the position shown in dotted lines in FIG. By moving in, the track 260 is opened.

Apparently, the solenoid 280 is connected to the guide pin 44
and must be operable to move device 10 into and out of track 260. solenoid 280
Activation of can be directly responsive to a remote switch, for example, in the control box 8 shown in FIG. 8 or the console 232 in the main building 6 shown in FIG. As can be seen in FIG. 12, plate 212 is slightly longer than 216. However, the actual dimensions of these plates may vary as desired depending on the track, guide pin diameter, and spacing between track walls.

Surrounding portion 270 may be made of any suitable material. Clearly, for repair and replacement of solenoids and plates associated with trajectory switching, it is preferred to provide a removable lid or top for this enclosure.

FIG. 13 shows the movable golf green 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an outrigger type distance marking device that may be used with the 0; The distance marking device 300 allows for continuous display of information and therefore does not rely on microswitches or any type of inductive or other sensing device to provide distance information. However, similar to the fixed distance marking device shown in FIG. 9, a significant drawback with distance marking device 300 is the size of the numbers for reading purposes, which is comparable to The objective is to provide information that is easily visible at a distance.

This distance marker 300 includes a plate 310 fixed to the lower frame 30 of the movable golf green 10 (see FIGS. 4 and 6). The plate 310 is preferably rectangular in shape and includes a plurality of holes 312 passing through the plate to accommodate suitable bolts to accommodate the distance marker 300.
is fixed to the lower frame 30.

A truss 314 is present between the enclosure 302 and the plate 310. This truss is fixed to both the enclosure and the plate. As shown in FIG. 13, this truss is comprised of three sections 316, 330 and 340. Each section includes a pair of spaced apart struts of rods or tubes and a plurality of diagonal struts extending therebetween. For example, truss 316 includes a pair of parallel struts 318 and 32 connected to plate 310, respectively.
0. Three diagonal struts 322, 324 and 326 extend between struts 318 and 320.

The truss 330 has a pair of parallel struts 332 and 3
34 and a pair of diagonal struts 336 and 338 extending and fixed therebetween. Truss 340 has a pair of parallel struts 342 and 344
and three diagonal columns 3 extending between these columns.
46, 348 and 350.

The posts are suitably secured to each other, such as by welding, to define separate trusses which, when secured together, space the enclosure 302 from the frame of the golf green apparatus 10. Distance sign 3
00 is fixed directly to the lower frame rather than the rotating or upper frame. The enclosure 302 is thus kept in a fixed position relative to the lower frame and to the user of the device, regardless of the orientation of the rotating frame and the upper frame fixed to this rotating frame. As the rotating frame and upper frame rotate to present different targets to the golfer using the device, the distance marking device 300 remains in a fixed position regardless of the rotation of the rotating frame and upper frame. However, the truss 314 is located sufficiently low to the ground (ie, relative to the fairway 2) that it does not impede rotation of the upper frame. Caster wheels fixed to the upper frame roll on truss 314 without damaging either the caster wheels or the rotating frame. Of course, sufficient flexibility exists in the upper frame to allow such movement. Alternatively, a U-shaped saddle bracket 352, such as that shown in FIG. (see Figure 4).

Bracket 352 consists of a pair of parallel and spaced side plates 354 and 358 and a bottom plate 356 extending between and secured to the side plates. The truss portions may be suitably secured to side plates 354 and 358, such as by welding. A bottom plate 356 is positioned adjacent the fairway at a radial distance equal to the radial distance of the wheels 158 to form a saddle on which the wheels 158 can roll past the truss 330 .

FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 13 taken along line 14--14. This is a partial cross-sectional view of the enclosure portion 302 of the distance marking device 300.

Post 342 is shown secured to bracket 360, such as by welding. The enclosure 302 is secured to the bracket 360 by any suitable means. A bottom plate 362 is present within the enclosure 302 . Yoke 364 is secured to plate 362 by suitable means, such as bolts 366, for example. This yoke 364 is then fixed to and supported by the wheel 370. The wheels are secured to and supported by the yoke 364 by an axle 372.
Rotations of wheel 370 and its axle 372 are counted by counter 380. Counter 380 is coupled to axle 372 and wheel 370 by a rotating member 382 that abuts directly against axle 372 . A cable connection 384 extends between the counter 380 and the display control 386. This cable connection 384 may be an electrical cable, if desired.
It may also be a direct drive cable connection. The display control section 386 is connected to a display panel 388 adjacent to the surface 304 of the enclosure section 302 . As mentioned above, the display board 388, which may be a plurality of electric lights, displays distance information so that a user of the golf course equipment at the teeing station can at any particular time from the teeing station where the movable golf green equipment is located. Make it possible to recognize the distance between.

This display control unit 386 is connected to the T-station 4
(see Figure 1) to the front or "introduction" track end 14, and then the distance information is set from this front, or (introduction) track end 14 to the rear. , ie, up to the "derived" trajectory end 16, all as shown in FIG. Each of the tee stations may also be provided with an auxiliary device for the distance to be added to the information displayed on plate 388 regarding the position of the different tee stations away from the central tee station.

FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of truss 314 at circle 15 in FIG. 13. FIG. This is a partial cross-sectional view of the connection between truss sections 330 and 340.

The support column 334 of the truss 330 has a pin 335 fixed to the hole of the support column by, for example, welding.
It consists of a tubular member with. Pins 335 extend outwardly from tubular struts 334.

The struts 344 of the truss section 340 are also comprised of tubular members and are substantially the same as the struts 334. pin 3
35 projects into the hole of the support column 344. bolt 3
41 extends into alignment holes in struts 344 and pins 335 to secure struts 334 and 344 together. Preferably, the apertures extend diametrically through the struts and pins. Natsuto 343
is threaded onto the shank of the bolt 341, and preferably a locking washer is secured to the shank of the bolt between the nut and the post 344.

The relative fixation of the two truss sections 334 and 344 shown in FIG. 15 is similar to the relative fixation of each strut in the three truss sections.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the device according to FIG. 13, consisting of a single tubular rod or strut for the display enclosure. A continuous display distance marker 400 is shown with display enclosure 402. The surrounding section 402 includes a display surface 404 on which distance information is displayed. This distance information is
Connects to wheels 406 in a manner similar to that shown and described in the figures.

Continuous distance display 400 uses a single rod 418 rather than truss 314 as shown in FIG. 13 above.
It is made up of This rod 418 is fixed to a bracket consisting of a pair of plates 410 and 414. Plate 414 includes a plurality of holes 412 to secure plate 410 to the lower frame of mobile green apparatus 10 in the same manner as described above. Plate 414 is shown positioned generally perpendicular to plate 410. rod 418 and then plate 4
Fixed at 14. The rod 418 includes three tubular sections: a first tubular section 420 , an intermediate tubular section 424 , and a distal tubular section 428 .
Tubular portion 420 is suitably secured to plate 414, such as by welding. tubular portion 420
and 424 are secured to each other, such as by suitable bolts 422 passing through coaxial portions of both tubular sections. Similarly, bolts 426 pass through the coaxial portions of tubular sections 424 and 428 to secure them together.

Distal tubular portion 428 is suitably secured to enclosure 402. A pair of struts, including struts 430 and 432, extend outwardly from tubular section 428 to enclosure 402 to secure the enclosure to the tubular section, ie, to rod 418.

For example, the bracket 35 shown in FIG. 13A
Brackets such as 2 may be interposed, for example, between sections of the rod 418 so that the stabilizing outrigger wheels 158 can be passed over the rod or therein in the simplest manner as described above for the embodiment of FIG. can be passed over.

Appropriate display information is displayed on surface 404 of enclosure 402. Distance information is ultimately obtained from wheels 406. The surrounding part 402 is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13.
It can be substantially identical to the enclosure 402 described above with respect to the figures. The distance information from wheel 402 can be substantially the same as described in FIG. 13 and for wheel 370.

The alternative display information illustrated in FIG. 13 and described with respect to FIGS. It can be a digital display formed by fragmented panels. This kind of fragmentation panel is the 17th
It is illustrated more clearly with reference to the figures.

A sixteenth single rod 418 may also be used in place of the truss arrangement of FIG. clearly,
Although single rods are cheaper and lighter than trusses, they are also obviously less durable. Therefore, various factors must be considered in selecting the most advantageous type of continuous distance information display device. Bracket 352 of FIG. 13A can be used in either case. For a truss, a relatively long bracket, such as that shown in dotted lines in FIG. 13A, or two shorter brackets may be used with the truss. For example, if two brackets are used, one bracket can be secured to each column at the junction of two adjacent truss sections.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another indicator of an enclosure 450 that may be used with the apparatus of FIGS. 13 and 16 in place of enclosures 302 and 402. Enclosure 450 is shown secured to tubular section 428 in FIG. 16.

Beneath the enclosure 450 is seen a portion of a wheel 452 whose revolutions are counted and converted to distance measurements as described above with respect to FIG.

Distance information originating from wheels 452 is displayed by a pair of display plates or surfaces 454 and 456. These surfaces are arranged at obtuse angles to each other to convey distance information over a larger area than can be conveniently obtained using only a single viewing surface, such as those shown in FIGS. 13, 14, and 16. give. Display board 4
54 and 456 are each divided into six segments or portions, with three segments located in the bottom half of each display board and the remaining three segments located in the top half of each display board. These segments are approximately identical in size and each segment constitutes half of the digital display number. The top and bottom segments work together to give a single number. These numbers are controlled separately from each other and are
Gives distance information for each increment of yards. Digital readers are well-known conventional reading devices that are widely used for digital watches and the like. The only major difference between the digital readout used in the enclosure 450 of FIG. 17 and that in a digital clock is the control of the dimensions and readout, which is controlled by the wheels rather than by motors as in the digital clock. Based on the increase in distance due to 452 rotations.
Furthermore, the digital readout of enclosure 450 in FIG. 17 is continuous in both directions of movement.

As described herein, a movable golf green apparatus moves along a fixed path defined by a slotted track. Slotted tracks with other branch tracks are relatively inexpensive and offer maximum flexibility of use. This device requires only two motors, one to rotate the green and one to move the device along the track (of course, the small motor for cleaning the green is temporary, but these (It is relatively small.) The electrical circuitry involved in this type of device is also minimal, requiring only transmitting and receiving equipment or using pre-programmed circuitry to move both the frame and the green on direct command. It is also possible to operate the two motors according to a predetermined time schedule, etc., without depending on commands.

However, it is clear that other types of guidance devices may also be used, such as embedded cables and guidance sensing for directional control, pre-programmable piloting devices or remote directional control for commanded or actual time maneuvering. can be used. For the first example, embedded cables and other circuitry for inductive sensing are required for this type of device. Furthermore, the same holds true for pre-programming control devices, such as those in which pre-programmed pre-selected courses can be pre-programmed into the drive and control devices of the device. Similarly, remote directional control devices require significant modifications and additions to the electrical circuitry involved. All three alternative systems described herein require a movable steering wheel system, which is not required with the track and guide pin system disclosed herein.

The device described herein is a relatively inexpensive device that provides maximum flexibility in drive shot range and mimics a wide variety of situations found on golf courses. This device allows the user of the drive shot range to practice a wide variety of shots, all of which are accomplished in a relatively small space and with minimal investment.

Although the principles of the invention are clear from the examples described above, many design changes are possible in the structure, arrangement, proportions, members, materials, and parts used in carrying out the invention, and deviations from the principles described above are possible. Modifications to the design to be particularly suited to particular environmental and operational requirements will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but that many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

1 is a plan view of a practice golf course including the device of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the device according to FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is an enlarged partial cross-section taken along line 3--3 of the device according to FIG. 4-4 of the apparatus according to Fig. 2.
5 is a perspective view of a macroscopic display device indicated by circle 5 in FIG. 1 that may be used with the device of the present invention; FIG. Figure 6 shows part 6-6 of the device according to Figure 4.
7 is an enlarged partial sectional view at circle 7 of the device according to FIG. 4; FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a control console that can be used with the device according to the invention; and FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a control console that can be used with the device according to the invention. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a possible distance information device; FIG.
10 is a partial sectional view taken along line 11--11 of the apparatus according to FIG. 10; FIG. 12 is a partial sectional view taken along line 12--12 of FIG. 11 of the apparatus according to FIG. 10; and FIG. FIG. 13A is a partially omitted perspective view of the bracket, and FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the outrigger type visual display device according to FIG. 13.
15 is an enlarged partial sectional view of the portion indicated by circle 15 in FIG. 13 of the device according to FIG. 12, and FIG. 16 is an enlarged partial sectional view of the device according to FIG. 13. A perspective view, FIG. 17, is a perspective view of another display device that may be used with the devices of FIGS. 13 and 16. 1... course, 2... fairway, 3... batting green, 4... tee station, 5... sand bunker, 6... main building, 8... control station, 10... movable green, 12, 14, 16
... Track, 18, 19... Distance marker, 20... Batting green, 21... Cup, 22... Sand trap, 24... Apron section, 26... Pin, 28... Sweeper, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 ,4
2... Frame member, 44... Guide pin, 45... External roller, 46... Guide pin, 47... Roller, 50,
52... Frame member, 58, 60... Support column, 70...
Axle, 72, 74... Drive wheel, 76, 78... Wheel,
80...Motor, 82...Sprocket, 84...Chain, 86...Motor, 88...Sprocket, 90
...belt, chain, 100...frame, 102
...stand, 104...plate, 106, 108, 11
0,112...Strut, 114...Drum, 116...Bearing, 120,122,124,126...Support, 130...Control box, 132,134...
Battery pack, 150... Upper frame, 15
2,154...Base, 156...Wheel holder, 158
... Caster wheel, 160 ... Green, 164 ... Apron, 166 ... Trap, 168 ... Structural member,
170...bearing cup, 174...socket,
176... executive, 180... motor, 200... wall,
202...flange, 204...wall, 206...flange, 210...opening, 212...plate, 21
3... Slot, 214... Opening, 216... Plate, 218... Hinge, 220, 222... Display box, 230, 232, 234, 236, 238,
240...Switch, 242,244...Indicator light, 2
50... Distance marker, 252... Pole, 254... Plate, 260, 261... Track, 262... Wall, 2
66...Wall part, 267...Opening part, 270...Encircling part,
272, 274... Surrounding wall portion, 280... Solenoid, 282... Base, 284... Operating rod, 286,
288... Watshiya, 300... Distance marking device, 30
2... Surrounding part, 310... Plate, 312... Hole part,
314, 316...Truss, 318, 320, 32
2,324,326...Strut, 330...Truss, 3
32,334...Strut, 335...Pin, 336,3
38...Strut, 340...Truss, 341...Bolt,
342...Strut, 343...Nut, 344,34
6,348,350...Strut, 352...Bracket, 354,356,358...Plate, 360
...Bracket, 362...Bottom plate, 364...Yoke,
366...Bolt, 370...Wheel, 372...Axle,
380... Counter, 382... Rotating member, 384... Cable connection section, 386... Display control section, 388... Display board, 400... Distance indicator, 402... Surrounding section, 4
04... Display surface, 406... Vehicle, 410... Plate, 412... Hole, 414... Plate, 418...
Rod body, 420... Tubular portion, 422... Bolt, 42
4... Tubular part, 426... Bolt, 428... Tubular part, 430, 432... Strut, 450... Surrounding part, 4
52...Wheel, 454,456...Display board.

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. A lower frame including a structural frame member, a rotary frame fixed to the lower frame and rotatable, a golf green fixed to the rotary frame and rotatable, and a golf green fixed to the lower frame and rotatable; On the other hand, there is provided a movable golf green device which combines means for rotating the rotary frame and means for moving the lower frame. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the lower frame comprises wheels fixed to the lower frame, on which the lower frame is movable. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the means for moving the lower frame comprises a first motor connected to wheels. 4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the means for rotating the rotating frame comprises a second motor connected to the rotating frame. 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the wheels include a pair of drive wheels connected to the first motor to move the lower frame. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the wheels further include a pair of caster wheels for rotating the lower frame. 7. The device of claim 4, wherein the lower frame further comprises means for guiding the lower frame. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the means for guiding the lower frame comprises a track consisting of a pair of spaced apart walls. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the means for guiding the lower frame further comprises a pair of guide pins fixed to the lower frame and projecting into the track. 10. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first motor comprises a first motor connected to the wheel and control means for controlling the first motor to move the lower frame. 11. The device according to claim 1, comprising a device for providing distance information from a movable golf green device to a predetermined position. 12. The device according to claim 11, wherein the device for providing distance information is fixed to the lower frame.