US2061973A - Golf apparatus - Google Patents

Description

Nov. 24, 1936. J. LOEB GOLF APPARATUS 6 Sheets-Sheet 1 Filed Aug. 6, 1934 JOSEPH LOEB INVENTOR TORNFTY Nov. 24, 1936. J. LOEB GOLF APPARATUS Filed Aug. 6, 1954 6 Sheets-Sheet 2 JOSEPH L053 I I NVEN TOR TTORNEY Novf 24, 1936. J. LOEB GOLF APPARATUS Filed Aug. 6,1954

6 Sheets-Sheet 5 JaSEPHLOEB J N VEN TOR ATTORNEY Nov. 24, 1936. J. LOEB GOLF APPARATUS 6 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed Aug. 6, 1934 JOSEPH .LoEB

INVENTOR W ATTORNEY J. LOEB GOLF APPARATUS Nov. 24, 1936.

e Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed Aug. 6, 1934 2x A 217 l INVEN TOR TORNEY Nov. 24, 1936. J. LOEB I GOLF APPARATUS Filed Aug. 6, 1934 6 Sheets-Sheet 6 TORNE'Y JOSEPH [.022

Mag- 4 Patented Nov. 24, 1936 NHTD PATENT OFFICE GOLF APPARATUS This invention relates in general to golf apparatus of the type adaptable for use with either manual or automatic teeing devices and relates more specifically to golf apparatus which provides a golf playing field of relatively small dimensions that has incorporated therein features which simulate the essential conditions existing on golf links and many desirable conditions that do not exist on golf links. Broadly stated, the apparatus, embodying my invention, consists of a uniquely con-. structed platform upon which either a left or right handed player may stand and from which a ball may be propelled, which permits a tee to pass therethrough, either automatically or by manual actuation, and which provides means for adjusting the heighth of the tee with respect to the platform in order to reproduce the, different elevations from which a golf ball may be played. The invention, also, includes an objective or target against which golf balls may be propelled from the platform, said objective or target incorporating features and instrumentalities for absorbing and dissipating the force of the blows received from the balls, there being provided means for dividing the objective into a plurality of compartments, and means for avoiding damage or destruction of the objective or target. The apparatus, also, includes a fairway and other features and structure, which will be more fully described forthwith.

The primary object of the invention is to provide facilities for teaching, learning and practicing golf with apparatus which simulates the out of doors, thus eliminating practically all of the distracting and disturbing mental hazards and physical impediments inherent in indoor golf apparatus of the present type.

Another important object of my invention is to provide a full force driving golf court and related apparatus, landscaped in order to make the same as representative of the natural conditions of an outdoor golf course as is possible which materially assists in developing coordination of mind and body of a player in order to obtain consistent placement accuracy.

Still another object of my invention is to provide apparatus which may be used with marked success to develop in the player natural concentration by providing unbroken continuity and repetition of normal drivingaction necessary to develop' proper coordination of mind and body to obtain placement accuracy.

A further object of my invention is to provide a playing field simulating the out of doors and for the purpose of fixing in the players mind the Portland, Oreg.

1934, Serial No. 738,582

same nature, color and perspective effect in practice as is obtained in play on a golf links, and which possesses means for cushioning the blow of the golf club on the platform portion immediately adjacent the golf ball tee, an objective, means for dividing the objective or target into compartments without detracting from the scenery, and

' means for cushioning, absorbing and dissipating the blows received by each portion of the objective or target.

An object of my invention is to provide a smooth, level and uniform platform, upon which a player may stand for the purpose of drivin golf balls toward an objective or target, said platform including a driving mat assembly which is capable of cushioning the blows received from a golf club incident to driving a ball from the tee and which prevents damage to the tee actuating mechanism and club and prevents the sclafling of the platform with the sole of the shoe of the club k while making a stroke.

Another object of my invention is to provide means for dividing the objective or target so that a player may observe the path of travel of the balls after they are struck, there being provided audible means for indicating the fact that a player has made a straight drive.

Another object of my invention is to provide golf apparatus which results in the increase in the number of balls that may be driven by a player in 30 a given time without a proportionate amount of increase in fatigue of the player and which effectively and quickly discloses the errors com mitted by the player.

Another object of my invention is to provide golf apparatus which occupies comparatively little space, which is simple, durable, inexpensive to manufacture and maintain, is attractive in appearance and which may be assembled with a maximum of speed and a minimum of tools and which may be knocked down for shipping purposes without the requirement of expert labor.

Other objects of my invention are the provision of a fairway which simulates the greensward of an out of door golf course; the provision of means for protecting the superstructure and upper portions of the objective target and compartment curtains from balls having a high trajectory; the provision of a self contained frame structure assembled and held rigidly together without guy wires or external supports and anchors; the provision of visible and audible signals and means for automatically registering each tee movement; and the provision of means for maintaining the ceiling, end and side walls under proper tension. 5

The invention resides in the new and useful formation, combination and interrelation of parts, members and features and is directed to other objects and possesses other features and advantages, a full understanding of which will become readily apparent from the following description to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one embodiment by which the invention may be realized and in which:

Figure l is a perspective front View of the playing field and other elements embodying my invention.

Figure 2 is a plan View of a portion of the understructure of the platform embodying my invention showing the details of construction and graphically indicating the elevating mechanism for adjusting the heighth of the tee with respect to the top of the platform.

Figure 3 is a side view taken on line 3-3 of Figure 2 looking in the direction indicated showing the construction of portions of the elevating mechanism.

Figure 4 is a sectional, side View taken on line 44 of Figure 2 looking in the direction indicated showing a portion of the ball escapement conduit, and related structure.

Figure 5 is a perspective, plan view of the driving mat assembly embodying my invention and forming part of the platform shown in Figure 2.

Figure 6 is a plan view of the driving mat assembly shown in Figure 5 and illustrating the relative positions of the several resilient members forming the driving mat assembly.

Figure 7 is a plan view of the driving mat assembly shown in Figures 5 and 6 without the top resilient members to show the supporting frame upon which there is mounted a plurality of resilient straps.

Figure 8 is an inverted plan view of the driving mat assembly shown in Figures 5, 6 and 7 showing the manner of locking the supporting frame within the platform shown in Figure 2.

Figure 9 is a sectional, end view taken on line 99 ofFigure '7 looking in the direction indicated showing the end construction of the driving mat supporting frame.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the ball well assembly embodying my invention which is employedin directing the returned balls into the reservoir of the tee actuating mechanism.

Figure 11 is a sectional, end view taken on line lI-ll of Figure 10 looking in the direction indicated showing the fabrication of the runners of the ball well.

Figure 12 isa side view of the frame skeleton embodying my invention showing the structural details thereof and also showing the relative relationship between the frame, the fairway and the platform.

Figure 13 is a top View of the frame skeleton showing the structural details thereof and also illustrating the relationship between the frame, the fairway and the platform.

Figure 14 is a side elevation taken on line l4l 4 of Figure 13 looking in the direction indicated showing the construction of the baiile target and compartment curtains and also showing the means for cushioning and dissipating the shocks received by these curtains.

Figure 15 is a front elevation, partially broken away, of the baffie targetiand compartment curtains illustrated in Figure 14 and being taken on line l5l5 of Figure 14 looking in the direction indicated.

Figure '16'is a sectional, perspective end view taken on line l6l6 of Figure 14 looking in the direction indicated showing the means for connecting the side wall and ceiling supports with respect to each other.

Figure 17 is a top view, fragmentary in parts, of the bafile target curtains, shock cushioning, absorbing and dissipating mechanism and of the compartment curtains tensioning members.

Figure 18 is a perspective side view of one of the signalling switches associated with the center baffle target curtain.

Figure 19 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a rear corner of the frame showing the manner of attaching the side and rear walls to the frame and to I each other.

Figure 25 is a fragmentary, sectional, front view of the ballet curtains placed immediately in front of the compartment and baffle target curtains and adjacent the ceiling to prevent the rebounding of misdirected balls and protect the superstructure adjacent the ceiling.

Figure 21 is a fragmentary, sectional, end view taken on line 2i--2l of Figure 12 looking in the direction indicated showing the manner of se curing the side wall curtains to the base of the frame.

Figure 22 is a fragmentary, sectional, side view of a portion of the fairway showing the manner of joining the fairway panels to each other and to their supports.

Figure 23 is a perspective, plan view of one of the air space drums that are placed in inclined position between the compartment curtains to assist the driven balls to travel by gravity to the golf ball well.

Figure 24 is a fragmentary, sectional, side view of the drum shown in Figure 23 taken on line 24-24 of said figure looking in the direction indicated.

Figure 25 is a top plan View, partially in section, of a modified form of playing field embodying my invention to be used primarily for putting purposes.

Figure 26 is a sectional, side view taken on line 26-45 of Figure25 looking in the direction indicated showing more graphically the construc-- tion of the playing field shown in Figure 25.

Figure 27 is a fragmentary, sectional, end view of a side wall taken on line 2'|2l of Figure 26 looking in the direction indicated showing the construction thereof.

Figure 28 is a fragmentary, sectional, end view taken on line 28-28 of Figure 27 looking in the direction indicated showing the method of securing the cross braces to the side walls.

Figure 29 is a plan view of the platform embodying my invention with the top portion removed showing the details of construction of the understructure.

Figure 30 is a sectional, end view of one of the runs, taken on line 3J3fl of Figure 25 looking in the direction indicated illustrating the covering used on the runs.

Like reference characters, to be referred to in the description to follow, indicates corresponding and like parts in the several views shown in the accompanying drawings.

The assembled golf apparatus embodying my invention is graphically illustrated in Figure 1 wherein reference character A designates generally the platform, reference character B designates generally the playing field, reference character C designates generally the objective or target members and reference character E the fairway. For a more detailed description of the construction of the platform, attention is called to Figures 2 to 9 inclusive of the drawings. The

' supporting structure for the platform, designated by reference character A, consists of leg members I and l, 2 and 2, 3 and 3' and 4 and 4. Legs l to 4 inclusive are rigidly held in spaced relationship with each other by cross bars 5, 6 and 1; legs I to 4 inclusive are rigidly held in spaced relationship with each other by a single cross bar 8; legs I and l are rigidly held in spaced relationship with each other by cross bar 9; legs 2 and 2' are held together by cross bar IU; legs 3 and 3' are held together by cross bar I! and legs 4 and 4 are rigidly held together by cross bar l2 forming a rigid frame for the platform. For greater rigidity and in order to reinforce the frame heretofore described, there is provided a plurality of braces l3, which are secured diagonally between the cross bars at their juncture with the legs.

The platform designated generally by reference character A is divided into three sections l4, l5 and 16. Platform section I4 is hingedly secured to the understructure or frame by any suitable means, as by hinges 20 and 2|; platform section 15 is hingedly secured to the understructure or frame by any suitable means, as by hinges 22 V and 23; and platform section it is hingedly secured to the undestructure or frame by any suitable means, as by hinges 2d and 25. While. in practice, these platform sections are hinged to the understructure; still they may be placed upon the understructure or frame without being mechanically attached thereto. Ends 26, 21 and 28 of platform sections l4, I5 and i5 respectively, overlap the understructure or frame heretofore described for the purpose of hiding from view the ball well assembly, the description of which will be related shortly. Each of the platform sections l4, l5 and I6 is covered with a resilient material impregnated with a substance which simulates the greensward of a golf course; although if desirable, the same may be covered with any other material, which will resist wear and provide a suitable non-skid supporting surface. Platform sections l4 and iii are construct-ed in accordance with identical specifications, the details of which will become apparent from the description that will follow. The construction of platform section I5 is graphically illustrated in Figure 8 of the drawings which shows an elon gated opening I l which divides the platform section [5 into two parts. These parts are held together by transverse cross bars l8 and I9. These cross bars are also used for supporting the driving mat assembly and for disengageably engaging the assembly to the platform section 55.

A demountable driving mat assembly designated generally by reference character D is placed in opening I? so that it'rests upon transverse cross bars l8 and E9. The driving mat assembly is held rigidly against the transverse cross bars by retaining brackets (39 and an, engaging the transverse cross bar l8, and by retaining brackets 3i and 32, engaging transverse cross bar 19. In order to facilitate the removal of the driving mat assembly from opening I l, the retaining brackets 3! and 32, which have respectively arcuate slots 33 and 34 therein, are rotatably secured to sides 35 and 4d of the frame to be more particularly described. The arcuate slots 33 and 3d are adapted for engagement by bolt and wing nuts 35 and 35 respectively in order to hold the brackets 35 and 32 in locked position relative to transverse cross bar l9 when desired.

The detailed construction of the driving mat assembly frame is illustrated in Figures 5 to 9 inclusive but more graphically illustrated in Figure 7 of the drawings wherein sides 39 and 45 are parallelly disposed with respect to each other and held rigidly spaced apart by cross members 4|, 42 and 43 themselves spaced apart. For additional rigidity and reenforcement of the frame, there is provided a quadrangular metallic frame 44 which is secured in any desirable manner to sides 39 and 453 and to cross brace ii. A member 35, having cut out portions 5! and 52 at each end thereof, is disposed transversely of the sides 39 and 49 and is removably secured to end wall 41 of the quadrangular frame 44 by any suitable means, as by bolts and wing nuts it and 56 passing through the member 45 and end wall 4?. A metallic strip 46, whose length is equal to the over all length of the member 45 and its out out portions 5| and 52, is disposed adjacent the member 45 and is normally held in intimate contact therewith by bolts and wing nuts 49 and which also pass therethrough. The cut out portions 5| and 52 disposed within member 45 form seats for a pair of resilient members which form a part of the floor of'the driving mat assembly, and it at once becomes apparent that, since the metallic strip 45 overlies these out out portions, the ends of the resilient members may easily be re'movably but fixedly held within said out out portions under tension or otherwise and retained in that position by the metallic strip i5 when the nut wings 49 and 55 are tightened about their respective bolts.

A flexible bed, consisting of a plurality of straps 53, made of any desirable resilient material, such as rubber, are secured to the sides 39 and 40 of the frame by means of removable metallic anchor strips 54.

A specially treated resilient member 55 has one of its ends secured to the sides 39 and 40 of the frame structure by any suitable means, as by screws 56 and lies on top of some of the resilient straps 53. Resilient member 55 has a tongue 5? formed integrally therewith, said tongue having a cut out portion 58 therein through which tee 552 projects. Another resilient member 60 lies over the remaining resilient strips 53 and has one of its ends secured to brace ll of the frame structure by any suitable means, as by metallic anchor l strips 6f, 62 and 53, which are held in gripping relation to the resilient member 60 by a plurality of threadedv elements 54 that are threaded into cross member 4!. The other end of the resilient member if has a substantial portion thereof cut out, thus forming arms 65 and 66 which lie upon the edges of tongue 51 and cover a portion of the cut out portion 53, but leaving a sufficient opening therein through which tee 55 may intermittently oscillate. The foregoing construction is deemed important and necessary to the proper operation of the golf apparatus herein since the area adjacent tee 59 must be able to withstand terriffic abuse caused by the intermittent application of force thereto. The above construction not only provides a bed around the tee, which avoids the possibility of injury to the club, balls 'ortee, but also allows a drive to go through therefore relatively quickly worn out, there is provided a resilient flap 6'! that has one of its ends anchored to the cross member 4! by metallic anchor strips 62. There is alsoprovided resilient flaps 68 and 69, which have one of their ends anchored to cross brace 4| by metallic anchor strips 6| and 63 respectively. The other ends of the resilient flaps 68 and 69 have resilient straps 10 and 1| respectively attached thereto. In order to insure that resilient straps 10 and 1| are held in a relatively taut position with respect to the resilient members 55 and 60, their free ends 12 and 13 are placed within cut out portions 5| and 52 respectively formed within member 45 and held securely against member 45 by metallic strip 46. Resilient flap 61 is normally subjected to a greater amount of abuse than other portions of the resilient bed structure and consequently is worn out more quickly; therefore, to insure quick renewal of the worn out parts of resilient flap 51, its end 31 extends downwards over the cross member 4| and is held by anchor strip 62 as shown at 38. The end 31 has a plurality of openings 31A therein, which are aligned with the openings in the metallic anchor 62. Whenever end 61A is worn out, the resilient flap 61 is moved up, and the worn out portion is cut off. From the foregoing, it becomes apparent that the driving mat assembly, constructed as described, offers a bed surrounding the tee 59 which is capable of receiving an extraordinary amount of shock and punishment from the club and the ball as it is driven from the tee without in any way injuring the ball, club and the tee assembly. The foregoing construction also permits the quick re placement of any portion of the driving mat assembly which is damaged by use. Resilient straps 14 and 15 are secured to the top of platform secticn i5 so that they are adjacent the resilient flaps 68 and 69 respectively.

The tee actuating mechanism is located within casing 16 which is secured to cross bar 8 in any desirable manner, as by hinges 11. In order to permit the use of different types of clubs and to take a divot, the height of the tee is adjustable with respect to the driving mat assembly. To accomplish this, there is provided a shaft 18 that has one of its ends disposed in journal 19 secured to cross brace I I. The shaft passes through journals 80 and BI secured to cross braces I and 9 respectively. A pair of sheaves 82 and 83 are fixedly secured to the shaft 18 in spaced relationship with each other. A pair of flexible members 85 and 80 have one of their ends fixedly secured to sheaves 82 and 83 respectively in any well known manner, and the other of their ends secured to the under side of the casing 16 in any well known manner.

A pair of brackets 81 and 88 are secured to cross bar 9 in any well known manner. These brackets have quadrant 89 secured thereto in any well known manner, as by bolts 90. Lever 9| is pivotally secured to the quardant 89 on stub shaft 92. A pawl 93 is movably secured to the end 94 of lever 9|. A push rod 95 passes through the major portion of the lever 9| and connects with pawl 93. Pawl 93 is in registerable alignment with teeth 96 of the quadrant 89. An arm 91 is removably but rigidly secured to the end of shaft 18 and a link 98 has one of its ends secured to end 94 of lever 9| and the other end secured to the end of arm 91. It will be seen from the foregoing description that, by moving the lever on its pivot, shaft 18 will be rotated and thereby cause the flexible members 85 and 86 to be wound around sheaves 82 and 83 respectively. When this action occurs, the casing 16 is raised, thus causing tee 59 to be raised to the height desired.

An electrical control box 99 is secured to cross bar I0. A plurality of conductors I00 are connected to visible signals IOI and I02, toaudible signal I03 and to number registering mechanism I04.

There is provided, in connection with the tee actuating mechanism, a golf ball escapement assembly, illustrated graphically in Figures 2 and 4, which consists of a receiving well I that surrounds tee 59; an escapement conduit I06 communicating with receiving well I05 and secured to cross bar 6 in any well known manner, said conduit I06 being in registerable alignment with opening I01 disposed through cross bar 6; and a receiving pocket I08 extending outwardly from and secured to cross bar 6 immediately below opening I01. Contacts I09 and H0 are disposed immediately below receiving pocket I08 and are of sufiicient flexibility for the weight of a ball to cause these contacts to come together as shown at I I I and complete a circuit connected to visible signal I02.

The fairway, generally designated by reference character E, extends on an inclined plane to any desired distance from theplatform A along the line of play and consists of a plurality of sections or panels II 2. Each of the panels H2 is covered with a specially processed paint impregnated resilient material, such as rubber as illustrated in Figure 11 at I31, in order to eliminate the noise caused by the balls as they roll toward the ball well assembly, hereinafter to be more specifically described, and to simulate the natural color of grass on a golf links. These sections or panels are positioned upon and secured to a plurality of supports H3 to H9 inclusive which extend in spaced relationship with each other transversely of the frame skeleton, hereinafter to be more fully described. The height of each of these supports II3 to H9 inclusive increases slightly, as graphically shown in Figure 12, thus providing a bed for the fairway panels I 2 that lies in a plane inclining rearwardly from the horizontal plane of the platform assembly designated by reference character A. A plurality of dowel pins |2I extend upwardly from supports II3 to H9 inclusive in spaced relationship with each other. Recesses, equal in number to the number of dowel pins I2I are disposed within the lower face of each of the panels 2 and are disposed in spaced relationship so that, when the panels are placed upon supports H3 to H9 inclusive, the recesses'are in registerable alignment with andv are engaged by dowel pins I2 I. Each of the panels! I2, positioned centrally of the fairway assembly E, have a pair of dowel pins I 20 extendmg outwardly from their ends, and the other panels I|2 have a pair of recesses within their ends that lie adjacent the ends of the intermediate panels that have dowel pins I20 therein, said recesses being in registerable alignment with and engagedby dowel pins I20. Thepanels II2, which be adjacent the sides of the frame hereinafter to be more specifically described, have a plurality of brackets I22 secured to the lower face and extending from the inner side I23 thereof. The panels I I2, which lie between the groups of panels adjacent the sides of the frame also have a plurality of brackets I22 secured to the lower face of and extending from the inner sides I24 and 24A thereof. Brackets i22 are adapted to sunport the panels I I2, lying in the center of the fairway, and brackets I22 secured to sides I24 and I 24A are adapted to support the panels lying on each side thereof. Each of the panels, which lie adjacent the sides of the frame, also have a U- shaped bracket I25, which is secured to and extends downwardly from the lower face thereof, said bracket I25 being adapted to engage with the ends of each of the supports I I3 to I I9 inclusive. This construction is graphically illustrated in Figure 22. From the foregoing, it becomes obvious that the panels are interlocked with each other and with the supports sothat a rigid fairway is provided which may easily be disassembled without alfecting the rigidity of the whole assembly.

Disposed between the platform, designated by reference character A, and the fairway, designated by reference character E, is a ball Well assembly, designated generally by reference character F, the construction of which is graphically shown in Figures 10 and 11. This assembly consists of end supports I29 and I21 and center support I23 held in spaced relationship with each other and reenforced by cross bars I29 and I39 which are secured to the respective supports in any well known manner. Supports I29 and I21 are of a height greater than the heighth of support I28 so that, by placing parallel tracks I 3| and I32 with their lower faces on support I26 and on the edge of support I 28, and parallel tracks I33 and I34 with their lower faces on sup-- port I21 and on the edge of support I28, there is provided two inclined planes, meeting at a common parallel plane provided by that portion of the support I28 which is not covered by parallel tracks I3II32 and I33I34. Secured t0 tracks I3! and I32 are metallic runways I3IA and I32A, and secured to tracks I33 and I34 are metallic runways I33A and I34A. These runways have their upper side placed evenly with the resilient covering I31 and run throughout the length of the tracks. It is upon these runways that the balls finally land after they leave the runway. A pair of inclined parallel rods I35 are disposed upon that portion of support I28 not covered by the parallel tracks and these rods lead the retrieved balls into the tee actuating mechanism. Tracks I3I and I33 are slightly shorter than tracks I32 and I34 sothat the ball well assembly F may be placed against the platform assembly A as shown at I39 in Figure 2. Tracks I3I to I34 inclusive have a resilient covering thereon, such as rubber I31, which is impregnated with a color that simulates the greensward of a golf course and offers a surface which eliminates noise. It should be noted that the greatest heighth of the ball well assembly is slightly less than the heighth of the ends of the panels lying adjacent to it. By this arrangement, a driven ball is forced by gravity to traveldown the fairway and reach the lowest point of the ball Well assembly with the least amount of efiort and with a minimum of noise.

The platform, fairway and ball well assembly are surrounded on three sides by a frame, designated generally by reference character G and graphically illustrated in Figures 12 and 13. The frame is supported on bases I38 and I39, which extend in spaced parallel relationship with each other throughout the length of the frame. These bases I38 and I39 have disposed therebetween at their extreme ends cross member I39A. A pluraiity of uprights or standards I49, I 4| I42 and I43 extend upwardly in .spaced parallel relation-- ship to each other from and are secured to base I33 in any desirable manner, as by being fitted into feet I44- A similar number of uprights or standards (not all shown) are secured to base I 39 and extend upwardly therefrom in direct alignment with uprights I49 to I43 inclusive.

Post I45 is disposed between and secured to the upper ends of uprights I49 and MI by T-connection I49 and bracket I41; post I 48 is disposed between and secured to uprights MI and I42 by T-connections I49 and I49; and post I59 is disposed between and secured to uprights I42 and I43 by T-connection I49 and elbow II. Similar posts directly in line with posts I45, I48 and I59 are disposed between and secured to the ends of the corresponding uprights extending upwardly from base I39 and are joined to these uprights by T-connections and elbows identical to those used in joining the posts I45, I49 and I59 to uprights I49, I4I, I42 and I43.

Upright I43, extending upwardly from base I39 and the corresponding upright extending upwardly from base I39, in direct alignment with upright I43 are joined together by post I52. The extreme end of post I45 and the extreme end of the corresponding post secured between the uprights extending upwardly from base I39 in line with uprights I49 and III respectively are joined together by post I53. Railing I 89 is secured to upright I49 by clamping bracket I8I. Upright I82, extending upwardly from and secured to base I39, is joined to railing I89 by elbow I83. A corresponding railing I99 and upright I82 is secured to the upright corresponding to upright I49 and to base I39 respectively. In order to reenforce and make the frame more rigid, there is provided brace rods I54 and I51, which are secured to post I53 by clamping brackets I59 and I59 respectively, and to post I45 and its corresponding post on the opposite side of the frame structure by clamping brackets I55 and I53 respectively. A similar pair of brace rods I69 and I93 are secured to post I52 by clamping brackets I62 and I55 respectively, and to post I59 and its corresponding post on the opposite side of the frame structure by clamping brackets I III and I64respectively. Reenforcement is also provided between the uprights I42 and I43 and the corresponding uprights on the opposite side of the frame structure. This reenforcement is deemed essential since that portion of the frame structure contains the objectives or targets, which intermittently receive a tremendous amount of shock from the golf balls driven from the platform by a player. This reenforcement is accomplished by a pair of brace rods I36 and I69 that are secured to post I59 by clamping brackets I61 and I19 respectively and to uprights I42 and I43 by clamping brackets I98 and III respectively. A similar pair of brace rods are secured in the same manner to the corresponding uprights and post on the opposite side of the frame structure. Still another brace rod I12, which also acts as an anchor for the ballet curtains to be described forthwith, is secured to uprights I42 and I43 by clamping brackets I13 and I14 respectively. A similar brace rod used for the same purpose is secured to the corresponding uprights disposed upon the opposite side of the frame structure. From the foregoing, it will be seen that the frame structure is rigidly contained within itself and does not require guy wires or any other external supports or anchors.

A plurality of turnbuckles I15 are anchored to brace rod I12 in spaced relationship with each other, and an equal number of turnbuckles of the same design are anchored to the corresponding brace rod disposed on the opposite side of the frame structure. A plurality of ballet curtains I16 are suspended from a plurality of cables I11 and extend transversely and adjacent the ceiling of the frame structure. The ends I18 of cables I11 are secured to the eyes I19 of the turnbuckles I15 that are disposed on both sides of the frame structure. By this arrangement, the ballet curtains may be tensioned as desired and may be quickly and easily removed for repair or for any other purpose. It is clear from the foregoing that the ballet curtains prevent balls, traveling at a high trajectory, from damaging the bridge work and other structure, lying behind the ballet curtains. There is also little likelihood of the balls being damaged by hitting sharp and rigid elements that form a part of the superstructure and related elements.

Side wall curtain I84 is mounted on the elongated rods I85 and I86, and side wall curtain I81 is mounted on rods I85 and I86 respectively. Each of these curtains contains a portion of a scene which forms a part of a colored landscape, the purpose of which is to eliminate the unnatural effect of plain white canvas and to fix in a players mind the same surroundings and perspective during indoor practice as he would obtain on a golf links. The rod I85. is removably clamped and held against the posts I45, I48 and I50 by a plurality of clamping members I88, spaced apart throughout the length of the rod I85, and rod I85 is also removably clamped and held against the posts on the opposite side of the frame structure which correspond to and are aligned with posts I45, I48 and I50 by clamps I88. Rod I86 is removably secured to base I38 by a plurality of metallic strips I89, extending outwardly therefrom in spaced relationship with each other; and rod I86 is also removably secured to base I39 by a plurality of metallic strips I89. By this arrangement, the side curtains I84 and I81 are tautly held against the sides of the frame structure. A similar means of attachment is provided for that portion of the curtains that extend to the railings I80 and I80.

A pair of cross beams I94 and I95 are disposed transversely of the top, of the frame structure and are secured to post I50 and to the corresponding post on the opposite side of the frame in any desirable manner. A plurality of turnbuckles I96 are anchored tocross beam I94 and are disposed in spaced relationship to each other throughout the length of the cross beam I94. The rear wall curtain I is mounted on rods I9I and I92. Rod I92 is removably clamped and held against uprights I43 and against the upright on theopposite side of the framecorresponding to upright I43 by clamping members I93. The clamping members I91 of turnbuckles I96 connect with rod I9I as shown at I98. By this arrangement, the rear wall curtain I90 is held in taut condition against the frame. In order to completely inclose the field of play and prevent the possibility of golf balls escaping from the field of play when they are propelled in the direction of the rear wall and to provide greater tautness between the side wall curtains and rear wall curtain, they are laced together at their meeting ends as shown at I98A,

A ceiling curtain I99 is mounted upon posts I45, I48 and I50 and also upon the posts disposed opposite the side of the frame corresponding to posts I45, I48 and I50. The rearend of the ceiling curtain I99 is mounted upon post I52 and the front end of ceiling curtain I99 has rod 200. disposed transversely thereof. A plurality of turnbuckles 20I are clamped upon rod 200 by clamps 202 in spaced relationship with each other and are anchored against post I53 in any well known manner. By this arrangement, it is possible to adjust the ceiling curtain I99 and maintain the same in taut condition.

The objective or target assembly, still to be described, is situated in the rear portion of the frame immediately in front of the rear wall curtain I90. A rod 203 is rigidly secured to and transversely of and depending from cross beam I by a plurality of threaded bolts 204 disposed in spaced relationship with each other throughout the entire length of cross beam I95 and rod 203. Another rod 205 is rigidly secured to and transversely of and depending from cross beam I94 by a plurality of bolts 206 in spaced relationship with each other throughout the entire length of cross beam I94 and rod 205. Rods 203 and 205 are disposed in the same plane in parallel alignment with each other. A plurality of target baffle curtains 201 are adjustably secured with respect to rod 203 by having the reinforced end 208 of each of said target baflle curtains secured to a pair of chains 209 and 2I0. These chains are mounted upon rod 203 and have their free ends removably secured to their own links, as shown at 2I I. The target baffle curtains 201 hang over rod .205 and extend downwardly therefrom, By this arrangement, it is possible to raise or lower each of the target baffie curtains whenever it becomes ncessary since the material, from which the target bafile curtains are constructed, is subject to expansion or contraction resulting from temperature, moisture or other causes. The lower end 2I2 of each of the target bafile curtains 201l1as a sleeve 2I3.formed therein in which a heavy flexible element 2I4 is disposed in order to weight each target baflle curtain and to provide a substantial anchorage for theflexible connecting members 2 I 5 and 2 I 6 which depend therefrom. This construction also avoids the possibility of the canvas adjacent the sleeve 2i3 being cut or frayed by either the impact of balls thereon or by frictional engagement with portions of the apparatus. The flexible connecting members 2I5 and 2I6 are secured to the heavy flexible element 2I4 in any well known manner. Each one of the target baflle curtains 201 has a portion of a scene thereon which blends into the other portions of the scene on the other baflle curtains and on the side walls I84 and I81. By this arrangement, a landscape incorporating the natural surrounding of a golf links is provided, which gives depth, color and naturalness to the playing field and target. This is very beneficial to the player using the golf apparatus and desirable for teaching golf since no unnatural distractions are present. Because no paint applied to the canvas material, from which the target baffle curtains and the side Walls are constructed, could stand up under the constant impact of balls, it is necessary to impregnate the canvas with a specially prepared mixture that gives the desired result.

In order to avoid the rebounding of the balls propelled against the target baffle curtains 201 and to avoid the fraying and otherwise damaging the said target baille curtains, there is provided a pair of shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms for each of the target baflle curtains 201 to be described forthwith. A plurality of anchoring members 2I1, 2I1A and 2I1B are disposed transversely of the frame structure 75 inspaced relationship with cross member 39A and with each other. These anchoring members are held in fixed relationship to each other by cross braces H8 and 218A. The shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms, referred to above, are fixedly secured to anchoring member 2 1. As stated before, there are a pair of such mechanisms for each tarket baffle curtain 291, as shown at 2!9 and 220. Each shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanism consists of a channel bracket 22! that is secured in a proper manner to anchoring member 2l1. A shaft 222 is journaled within channel bracket 22!. Secured to and extending outwardly from shaft 222 is an arm 223. A reacting element anchor 224 is secured to and extends outwardly from the base of channel bracket 22!. A reacting element, such as coil spring 225, is secured to arm 223, as shown at 226, and to the extreme end of anchor 22:3. A yoke member 221 is pivotally connected to the extreme end of arm 223. A pin 229 is disposed through the yoke member 221 in order to prevent the yoke from making an excessive pivot with respect to the arm 223. A reacting element, such as a spring 228, is secured to the yoke member 221 and to flexible connecting members M5 and 2I9.

Attention is called to the fact that each of the shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms contains the same elements heretofore described, and that each pair of shock compensating, nisms, as shown at 2!9 and 220, is connected to each target baiile curtain 201 by identical flexible connecting members 2I5 and 2!6 and operates in the same manner. By this arrangement, it will be seen that, when a ball strikes a target baffle curtain 201, the force of the blow will cause the target baffle curtain to give in a rearward direc tion against the reaction of coil spring 228, causing the arms 223 of the pair of shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms 2! 9 and 229 or either of them, to be raised against the reaction of coil spring 225. Consequently, the blow on the target baiiie curtains 201 is absorbed and dissipated by the compensating action of the shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms connected to each of the target bafiie curtains 201.

There is shown in Figure 18 a shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanism which has incorporated therein all of the elements heretofore described and shown in Figures 14 and 17, but which have additional structure therein for the purpose of effecting an electrical connection, when the centrally located target baflie curtain 292, to which a pair of these modified shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms is attached, is struck by a ball. It will be seen that there is secured to side 241 of channel bracket 22!, an insulated plate 248. A pair of insulating members 250 extend outwardly from insulated plate 248 and have contact brushes 25! extending therethrough. An insulated drum 252 is disposed about shaft 222 adjacent insulated plate 243. A pair of semicircular metallic members 253 are disposed in spaced relationship upon the periphery of the drum 252. Contact brushes 25! normally ride on the members 253, since the contact brushes are under spring tension. The terminals of the contact brushes 25! have a plurality of conductors 254 secured thereto. The terminals of both of the shock compensating, absorbing and dissipating mechanisms, connected to the centrally located target baffie curtains 201,

absorbing and dissipating mechaas heretofore described, are interconnected, as shown at 238 in Figure 1'1, and lead to an audible signal !03, shown in Figure 2. Since all players seek to make a straight drive, it pleases a player to learn when he does make such a drive. Con sequently, the audible signal serves the purpose of notifying the player when he has made a proper drive, whether or not his eyes follow the ball through. In fact, by the use of the apparatus herein described, it is not necessary that the eyes of the player shall follow the ball after each stroke in orderto learn its direction, since the direction may be learned when the ball comes out of the compartments after its speed has been spent.

A plurality of rods 230 are disposed at right angles and are securely anchored to rods 203 and 205 by bolts 294 and 206 and extend to the rear wall curtain I90 and are equally spaced and positioned to lie between target baffle curtains 201. From each of the rods 239, a pair of compartmerit curtains 23! and 232 are suspended. Secured to anchoring member 2|1A, in registerable alignment with the lower end of each of the compartment curtains 23 is a pulley 234 through which cord 235 passes. Cord 235 is connected to the lower end of each of the compartment curtains 23! and to a reacting element, such as a coil spring 236, which, in turn, is secured to anchoring member. 2 i 1B, as shown at 231 in Figures 14 and 17. There is secured to anchoring member 2l1A, in registerable alignment with the lower end of each of the compartment curtains 232, a pulley 239 through which cord 240 passes. Cord 249 is secured to the lower end of each of the compartment curtains 232, as shown at 24!; and the other end of the cord is secured to spring 242, which, in turn, is secured to a common anchoring point as shown at 243 in Figures 14 and 17. In order to maintain the compartment curtains 232 in relatively tensioned condition, flexible members 244 and 245 extend from the lower end of each of the compartment curtains 232 and are secured to anchoring member 2!1, as shown at 246. It should be noted that each of the compartment curtains 23! and 232 are secured to the anchoring members 2! 1, 2I1A and 2 !1B in the manner heretofore described. This construction lends flexibility to the compartment curtains 23! and 232, so that, when a ball strikes the ends of any of the compartment curtains 23!, the material will not be thrown out of line nor will the ball rebound toward the player.

A plurality of drums 255, graphically illustrated in Figures 23 and 24, are disposed between the compartment curtains 23! and 232 and immediately below the target baffle curtains 201. These drums 255 are positioned upon support 259 extending transversely of the frame structure adjacent cross member !39A and are removably secured to support H9 by dowel pins 251, as shown in Figure 14. Each of the drums 255 consists of a frame 258 over which a fabric 259 is stretched andheld in relatively taut condition in any well known manner. A panel 260 is disposed in spaced relationship to the fabric 259, thus forming an air well 26! therebetween. This air well deadens the noises and prevents the balls, when striking the fabric 259, from rebounding. The inclination of the air spaced drums 255, when in position, is materially greater than the inclination of the fairway E, so that balls are speeded toward the ball well assembly F. Strips 252 are secured on both sides of the air spaced drums, so that neither fabric 259 nor flexible connecting members 2! 5,

and 2 I6 may be quickly worn out by frictional engagement with each other. A fioodlight 263 is secured to post I53, as shown in Figure l, and lights the playing field and platform without casting shadows or throwing light rays into the eyes of players.

In Figures 25 to 30 inclusive is illustrated a modified type of playing field to be used solely for the purpose of teaching, learning and practicing the art of directing a golf ball toward targets, lying in different directions from the platform and at different distances. While the playing field disclosed in Figures 25 to 30 inclusive is materially different in appearance from that illustrated in Figures 1 to 24 inclusive and heretofore described, still the principles underlying the construction and design of this golf apparatus are substantially the same.

There is provided a quadrangular inclosure, designated generally by reference character H, which is formed of side walls 264 and 265 and rear wall 266. The side Walls 264 and 265 and the rear wall 266 are removably joined together in any well known manner, as by angle brackets 261. A plurality of cross members 268 extend transversely of the side walls 264 and 265 in spaced relationship with each other Brackets 269 are secured to each end of each cross member 268 and extend upwardly at right angles to the cross member. Each bracket 269 has a slot 219 therein. and extend inwardly from side walls 264 and 265 and are disposed in spaced relationship with each other. Cross members 268 are removably secured to side walls 264 and 265 by having the brackets 269, through slots 210, engage with pins 21I. These cross members materially assist in holding the side walls 264 and 265 and rear Wall 266 in rigid fixed relationship with each other.

An elongated support 212 is secured to side wall 264. A similar elongated support (not shown) is secured to side wall 265 and is directly aligned with elongated support 212. Each of these sup. ports is slightly offset from the side walls 264 and 265 as shown at 213. Support 212 and its corresponding support on the opposite side wall 265 are inclined downwardly from the rear wall 236 throughout their length. Support 214 is secured to and disposed transversely of end wall 266, and its ends lie against the ends of elongated support 212 secured to side wall 264 and to the elongated support secured to side wall 265;

The floor or base of the inclosure, designated generally by reference character H, is divided into a plurality of sections 215, 216 and 211. Section 215 has cross brace 218 secured to the underside thereof adjacent one end and cross brace 219 secured to the underside thereof adjacent the other end; section 216 has cross brace 29!! secured to the underside thereof adjacent one end and cross brace 28I secured to the underside thereof adjacent the other end; and section 211 has cross brace 282 secured to the underside thereof adjacent one end and cross brace 283 secured to the underside thereof adjacent the other end. Each of these cross braces 218 to 283 inclusive have an angle bracket 284, such as is shown in Figure 27, secured to each of their ends. When sections 215, 216 and 211 are in position, these angle brackets 284 engage with the elongated support 212 and the corresponding elongated support secured to side wall 265 so that the engaging end of each bracket intimately hooks upon the top of the supports, as shown, at 285 in Figure 27. By this arrangement, the sections A plurality of pins 21! are secured to 215, 216 and 211 are not only braced within themselves but are securely held against the side walls 264 and 265. In order to more securely hold the sections against the side walls, end wall and against each other, cross brace 218 is removably held against support 214 by a plurality of dowel pins 286 which extend inwardly from the support and are engaged within recesses (not shown) disposed within the side of the cross brace; cross braces 219 and 280 are held together by a plurality of dowel pins 281 which are disposed within recesses within said cross braces; and cross braces 28I and 282 are engaged with each other in similar fashion by dowel pins 288. Sections 215, 216 and 211 are covered with a paint impregnated resilient material, such as rubber 289, shown in Figure 2'7, which not only deadens noises, but also simulates the appearance of the greensward on a golf links. Since the elongated support 212 and its corresponding support secured to the side wall 265 are inclined downwardly from the rear wall 266, the floor or base composed of sections 215, 216 and 211 will also lie in an inclined plane.

A ball well assembly lies adjacent the end of floor section 211 next to cross brace 283. The ball well assembly is constructed in substantially the same manner as that illustrated in Figures 10 and 11 of the drawings. End supports 290 and center support 29l have pairs of tracks 292 and 293 inclined toward each other and disposed upon center support 29I. In the center of the support 29I, are a pair of runners 294 which lead directlyto the ball reservoir in casing 16, which holds the tee actuating mechanism.

The frame of the platform, generally designated by reference character K, is graphically illustrated in Figure 29 wherein there is shown a plurality of supports 295, 296, 291 and 298. Brace 299 is secured to supports 295 and 296; brace 360 is secured to supports 296 and 291; and brace 30! is secured to supports 291 and 298. Members 302 and 303 are secured to and extend parallelly from brace 300 in spaced relationship with each other. The extreme ends of members 362 and 303 are secured to braces 304 and 305, respectively. Brace 304 is also secured to support 295, and brace 305 is also secured to support 298. By this manner of construction, a support of substantial rigidity is provided for the platform to be shortly described.

Between members 302 and 363 and passing under brace 390, is casing 16 in which the tee actuating mechanism is disposed. An electrical control box 09 is secured to the casing 16. A plurality of conductors I 00 are connected to visible signals IOI and I02. There is also provided, in connection with the tee actuating mechanism, a ball escapement assembly which consists of a receiving well I05 that surrounds the tee 59; an escapement conduit I06 which communicates with receiving well I05 and is secured to brace 30I in any well known manner, so that it is in registerable alignment with an opening disposed through said brace; and a receiving pocket I08 is secured to and extends outwardly from brace 30I immediately below the said opening. The said receiving pocket is in direct alignment with electric contacts of sufficient flexibility that the weight of a ball causes them to come together and complete an electric circuit in order to illuminate visible signal I02.

A platform 306 is disposed upon the support, shown in Figure 29. The platform has a substantial portion thereof cut out, as shown at 301.

A semi-circular out out portion, as shown at 308, is also formed within the platform. A platform segment 309, having finger 3l0 extending therefrom, fits snugly into. the cut out portion of the platform 300, shown at 301. Platform segment 309 has a semi-circular cut out, as shown at 3| I, which joins with cut out, as shown at 308 to form an opening through which tee 59 may project. Platform 306 and platform segment 309 are removably secured to each other by dowels 3 I 2 engaging with recesses in the meeting edges of the platform and end platform segment. The

end 313 of platform segment 309 is semi-circular,

and a plurality of pairs of brackets 3M are secured to the underside of the platform segment and extend outwardly from end 3l3 thereof. A plurality of fingers or putting strips 3L5, 3H5 and 3|! are removably secured to pairs of brackets 3M, as shown at 3H! and 3l9. It will be seen that these fingers extend radially from the platform segment 309 and have the opening formed by cut cuts 308 and 3H as a common starting point. Each finger 3H1, 3H5, 3M and 3H are of different lengths and are supported upon the floor sections 215, 216 and 211 within the inclosure, designated by reference character H, by pairs of legs 320 and 32!, shown in Figure 30 of the drawings. These legs are adjustable in order to vary the pitch of the fingers with respect to the inclination of the floor assembly. The platform segment 309 and each of the fingers are covered by a paint impregnated fabric 322, such as linen, in order to simulate the putting green on a golf links and to present a playing surface which will possess as nearly as is possible the qualities of a putting green.

The ball Well assembly is placed between supports 296 and 29'! adjacent the end of floor section 211 and the platform assembly, designated by reference character K, is removably secured to side walls 234 and 265 by brackets 323 and 324, as shown in Figure 25.

The invention has been described in connection with a specific illustrative embodiment disclosing a definite arrangement of parts. However, it will be understood that many variants thereof are possible to those skilled in the art, and the invention, in its broader aspect, is not limited to the specific construction herein described and shown, as changes in the size, proportions, configurations, arrangements, assemblage, materials, juxtaposition and mechanical relations, as well as additions, omissions, substitutions, combinations, interrelations and alterations of forms, parts, members and features, may be made without departing from the broad spirit of this invention.

Having thus disclosed my invention, what I claim as new and upon which I desire to secure Letters Patent is:

1. A target assembly to be used with apparatus of the class described comprising, a pair of cross beams disposed in spaced relationship with each other, a pair of elongated rods depending therefrom in horizontal relationship with said cross beams and with each other, a plurality of rods disposed in spaced relationship with each other transversely of the elongated rods, a pair of compartment curtains secured to and depending from each of the transverse rods, means for maintaining said compartment curtains under tension, a plurality of target portions disposed over and depending from one of the elongated rods and adjustably secured to the other of the elongated rods, each target portion being disposed between a pair of compartment curtains, and means secured to the lower end of each of the target portions for compensating, absorbing and dissipating the blows received thereby.

2. Apparatus characterize-d as in claim 1, wherein the means for compensating, absorbing and dissipating the blows received by the target portions comprises a pair of brackets for each of the target portions, an arm movably disposed on each of said brackets, an anchor arm fixedly secured to each of said brackets, a resilient element connecting the arm on each bracket to the anchor arm on each bracket, a yoke pivotally disposed at the extreme end of each of the arms, a flexible member disposed within the end of each portion of the target, a pair of flexible connecting elements secured to each of the flexible members, and a resilient element secured to each of the flexible connecting elements and to each of the yokes.

3. In golf apparatus of the class described, a pair of cross beams disposed in spaced relationship with each other, a pair of rods depending therefrom in horizontal relationship with each other and with said cross beams, a target disposed o-ver and depending from one of said rods and adjustably secured to the other of said rods, means secured to the lower end of the target for compensating, absorbing and dissipating the blows received from golf balls, a plurality of pairs of curtains disposed in spaced relationship with each other at right angles to the target and adapted for dividing the target into compartments, means for suspending said pairs of curtains adjacent said target and means for maintaining said pairs of curtains under yielding tension, said means including a plurality of flexible members secured to the lower end of the rear portion of each compartment curtain, a pulley anchored with respect to the frame and having one of said flexible members passing therearound, a resilient element secured to the end of said flexible member and anchored with respect to the frame, the other flexible members being fixedly secured with respect to the frame, a flexible member secured to the lower end of the front portion of each compartment curtain, a pulley anchored with respect to the frame and having said flexible member passing therearound, and a resilient element secured to the end of said fiexible member and anchored with respect to the frame.

JOSEPH LOEB.

Images