Golf ball dispenser, separate front waterfall panel and / or blower assembly

Abstract

The present application provides a golf ball dispenser, a separate front waterfall panel, and / or a blower assembly. The golf ball dispenser includes a receptacle configured to hold a plurality of golf balls, a passageway connecting an outlet of the golf dispenser with the receptacle, a doorway coupled between the passageway and the receptacle to restrict the plurality of golf balls from passing into the passageway, the doorway being selectively movable to allow the golf balls to pass into the passageway for delivery to a tee area, and a display device embedded in the golf ball dispenser to present at least information about a golf ball in flight after the golf ball is hit from the tee area. Further, methods, systems, and apparatuses (including media encoded computer program products) for use with such golf ball dispensers are capable of controlling the holding and dispensing of golf balls at a golf facility, such as a driving range.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 699,020, filed March 18, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of PCT / US2020 / 051607, filed September 18, 2020 and published March 25, 2021 as WO2021 / 055832. PCT / US2020 / 051607 claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 902,902, filed September 19, 2019, entitled “GOLF BALL DISPENSER WITH EMBEDDEDDISPLAY DEVICE,” which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to a device used in golf games for holding and controlling the distribution of individual golf balls. Background Technology

[0004] Over the years, numerous devices have been developed for delivering golf balls to facilitate golf play. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,129,242 by Chan describes a ball distribution device comprising: a container holding golf balls; and a gate component that allows selective control of the distribution of individual golf balls without requiring the golfer to change his or her stance before each swing or putt. U.S. Patent No. 6,607,123 by Jolliffee et al. describes a golf driving range in which an automated teeing device is used to deliver golf balls to golfers, reading a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag in the golf ball to identify it and match it with the golfer at the teeing area. Furthermore, U.S. Patent No. 9,132,326 by Caster et al. mentions a golf ball delivery device located next to the teeing area in a golf bay and including an RFID reader for identifying RFID-equipped golf balls after triggering a ball release mechanism and an LED (to alert the golfer that a golf ball is approaching) in response to the golfer swinging his or her club in front of a proximity sensor located in the golf ball delivery device. In addition, some golf driving ranges have provided display devices near the teeing area to show information about golf shots obtained from sensors that detect the golf ball in flight. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This specification describes systems and techniques related to maintaining and dispensing golf balls in a golf facility, such as a driving range. Generally, one or more aspects of the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in a golf ball dispenser including a receptacle configured to hold a plurality of golf balls, a channel connecting an outlet of the golf dispenser with the receptacle, a gateway coupled between the channel and the receptacle to restrict the plurality of golf balls from passing into the channel, the gateway being selectively movable to allow a golf ball to pass into the channel for delivery to a tee area, and a display device embedded in the golf ball dispenser to present at least information about the golf ball in flight after the golf ball is hit from the tee area. Moreover, one or more aspects of the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in the golf ball dispenser and optionally include one or more of the following features.

[0006] The golf ball dispenser can include a metal frame holding the receptacle, the channel, and the gateway, wherein the metal frame defines at least one recess in a sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser, the at least one recess being configured to receive the display device, a grommet above the display device in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser, and an impact shield above the grommet and above the display device in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser.

[0007] The golf ball dispenser can include a front panel and a rear panel, each of the front panel and the rear panel including a first sheet having a reinforcing rib and having a first strength at least partially derived from the reinforcing rib, the first sheet being configured to attach with the metal frame, a second sheet configured to cover the first sheet and attach with the first sheet, the second sheet having a second strength less than the first strength, and the second sheet including two different foam materials.

[0008] The golf ball dispenser can include a top panel, a left side panel, and a right side panel; wherein the front panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the rear panel, and the top panel include a tongue-and-groove for interlocking the panels together around the frame.

[0009] A golf ball dispenser can include a rear door comprising a metal sheet, the first sheet of the rear panel attached to the metal sheet, wherein the metal sheet is coupled with the metal frame by a quick release hinge, the quick release hinge mounted inside the golf ball dispenser such that the quick release hinge is not visible when the rear door is closed, and the metal sheet comprising wing segments; and a ramp assembly attached to the metal sheet by a piano hinge, the ramp assembly comprising rollers supporting a ramp between the wing segments of the metal sheet such that a golf ball is contained by the wing segments when falling onto the ramp.

[0010] A golf ball dispenser can include a camera integrated with the golf ball dispenser and arranged to capture a full swing of a golf club, including an impact of the golf club with a golf ball when the golf ball is struck from the tee area, for generating information for display on the display device integrated with the golf ball dispenser. Further, the golf ball dispenser can include a second camera integrated with the golf ball dispenser and arranged to capture a full swing of a second golf club, including an impact of the second golf club with a second golf ball when the second golf ball is struck from an adjacent tee area served by a second golf ball dispenser, for generating information for display on a second display device integrated with the second golf ball dispenser.

[0011] A display device in a golf ball dispenser can be a touchscreen display device that is at least forty inches in a diagonal dimension of the touchscreen display device, and the touchscreen display device and the camera can be communicatively coupled with one or more computers programmed to control operations of a golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located based on inputs to the touchscreen display device, based on facial recognition processing performed on images from the camera, or based on both.

[0012] A golf ball dispenser can include a sloped top of the golf ball dispenser comprising a protruding lip along an upper end of the sloped top of the golf ball dispenser, the protruding lip configured to redirect a golf ball traveling along the sloped top of the golf ball dispenser and toward an adjacent golf bay.

[0013] A golf ball dispenser can include at least one light source separate from the display device, the at least one light source configured to provide a full spectrum of colors, and the at least one light source coupled with at least one controller configured to adjust the color of the at least one light source in response to one or more events selected from a group consisting of: a golf ball dispensing; a golf ball dispenser service request; a current state of the golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located; and a current condition of a game being played from the tee area serviced by the golf ball dispenser. The at least one light source can be a light emitting diode (LED) strip.

[0014] The at least one light source can be a light source proximate the exit of the golf dispenser, and the at least one controller can be configured to adjust the color of the light source proximate the exit by changing the color of the light source proximate the exit from a first color to a second color in response to the gate releasing a golf ball from the receptacle into the channel, and changing the color of the light source proximate the exit from the second color to at least one third color once the released golf ball reaches the exit of the golf dispenser.

[0015] The at least one controller can include a computer programmed to change the color of the light source proximate the exit to a color corresponding to a target to be hit from a game being played from the tee area serviced by the golf ball dispenser.

[0016] The target can be a physical target on a golf practice range in front of the tee area and the golf ball dispenser. The target can be a virtual target in a game being played from a tee area serviced by the golf ball dispenser.

[0017] A golf ball dispenser can include a distance measuring device configured to detect how full the receptacle is. A gate in a golf ball dispenser can include a screw located inside a hopper below an opening in a bottom of the receptacle, and the golf ball dispenser can include a steel frame positioned around the opening and between the bottom of the receptacle and the hopper containing the screw.

[0018] The receptacle in the golf ball dispenser can include an access panel on the bottom of one side of the receptacle, the access panel configured to be opened to facilitate emptying the golf balls from the receptacle. Further, the golf ball dispenser can include a second receptacle configured to hold additional golf balls, accessible via an upper rear door of the golf ball dispenser (e.g., during a power outage), wherein the second receptacle includes two baskets configured to be connected together once removed from the golf ball dispenser.

[0019] Further, one or more aspects of the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and devices, including medium encoded computer program products, for performing operations described in this application related to a golf ball dispenser.

[0020] The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the application will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] FIG. 1A And FIG. 1B An example of a golf ball dispenser is shown, with a display device integrated into the golf ball dispenser.

[0022] FIG. 1C A metal frame of the golf ball dispenser of FIG. 1A is shown, with all other components removed.

[0023] FIG. 1D A cross-section of the golf ball dispenser of FIG. 1A is shown.

[0024] FIG. 1E A close-up view of another cross-section of the golf ball dispenser of FIG. 1A is shown.

[0025] FIG. 1F An additional cross-section of the golf ball dispenser of FIG. 1A is shown.

[0026] FIG. 2A is a rear perspective view showing the golf ball dispenser in exploded form.

[0027] FIG. 2B is a cross-section of an example of a front panel from the golf ball dispenser of FIG. 2A .

[0028] FIG. 2C is an exploded perspective view of individual pieces of the front panel from FIG. 2B .

[0029] FIG. 2D is another cross-section of an example of a front panel from a golf dispenser from FIG. 2A showing an example of a light source for an exit of a golf dispenser.

[0030] FIG. 2E is a cross-section of a golf dispenser showing an example of a gate for golf release.

[0031] FIG. 2F shows an example of an access panel that can be used to empty a golf receptacle.

[0032] FIG. 3A is a cross-section of a golf dispenser.

[0033] FIG. 3B is a perspective view showing a ramp assembly.

[0034] FIG. 3C and FIG. 3D is a perspective view showing various parts of a back gate assembly.

[0035] FIG. 4A shows an example of a basket of golf balls stored in a golf dispenser for emergency use.

[0036] FIG. 4B to FIG. 4E shows an example of a back gate and ramp assembly in use.

[0037] FIG. 5A shows an example of a system that can be used in conjunction with the golf dispenser of the present application.

[0038] FIG. 5B shows an example of a golf bay layout as can be used in the system of FIG. 5A .

[0039] FIG. 5C shows an example of a camera system perspective as can be used in the golf bay layout of FIG. 5B .

[0040] FIG. 5D is a cross-section of a golf dispenser showing an example of a camera system as can be used with the perspective of FIG. 5C .

[0041] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a data processing system.

[0042] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a process that can be implemented in conjunction with the golf dispenser of the present application.

[0043] FIG. 8A Another example of a golf ball dispenser is shown having a hinged top that allows the top of the golf ball dispenser to be flipped up.

[0044] FIG. 8B An example of a hinge for a top panel of a ball dispenser is shown. FIG. 8A

[0045] FIG. 8C An example of an internal latching structure for a top panel of a ball dispenser is shown. FIG. 8A

[0046] FIG. 8D to FIG. 8J Examples of various structures that can be included in any of the ball dispensers described in this application are shown.

[0047] Like reference numbers and designations in the various figures indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] FIG. 1A An example of a golf ball dispenser 100 is shown having a display device 102 integrated into the golf ball dispenser 100, and FIG. 1B is FIG. 1A A partial exploded view of the golf ball dispenser 100. In this example, the display device 102 is embedded in the golf ball dispenser 100, meaning that the display device 102 is completely enclosed in the golf ball dispenser, protected from golf ball impact (e.g., wayward golf shots), and forms an integral part of the golf ball dispenser. The display device can be at least forty inches on the diagonal, and / or can be a touch screen display device. The display device 102 can be an LCD (liquid crystal display), OLED (organic light emitting diode), or other type of display device, and the display device 102 is configured to be connected (wired, wirelessly, or both) to a computer system that is programmed to present information on the display device 102 for viewing by a user of the golf ball dispenser 100. For example, the presented information can include information about a golf ball in flight after it has been hit from a tee area served by the golf ball dispenser 100, such as displaying an animation of the golf ball flying in a virtual world (ball flight characteristics determined from sensor data of the actual flight of the ball in the real world) and / or other dynamically determined content or other content such as a television program or other video data, static images, branding elements, and / or interactive user interface screens for a game being played by a golfer using the golf ball dispenser 100, etc.

[0049] ​​The golf ball dispenser 100 includes an outlet 104 that is connected to a channel 106 through which golf balls are delivered to a tee area served by the golf ball dispenser 100. The golf ball dispenser 100 can also include a metal frame 108 to which other components of the golf ball dispenser 100 are attached, for example, by screws, bolts, and / or tabs. In some embodiments, the frame is constructed of sheet metal to reduce the cost of manufacturing. Other components include a top panel 110, a front panel 120, a right side panel 122R, a left side panel 122L, and a rear door 124. The metal frame 108 can be made of steel (e.g., powder coated steel), and the panels 110, 120, 122R, 122L can be made of one or more types of plastic or similar materials (e.g., high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material) that can have varying degrees of thickness and can be designed to withstand extreme temperatures as well as impacts from objects such as balls, clubs, other devices, etc.

[0050] As shown, the upper portion of the golf ball dispenser 100 is tilted. Note that making the display device 102 more vertical helps the golfer view the information presented on the display device 102 and reduces the risk of being hit by a ball from an adjacent bay, but also increases the risk that a wayward golf ball that hits the display portion of the golf ball dispenser 100 will bounce back and hit the golfer directly. Thus, the tilted orientation of the display device 102 facilitates viewing while also reducing the risk of injury. In some embodiments, the angle is between forty and fifty degrees relative to horizontal. In some embodiments, the angle is between forty-two point five and forty-seven point five degrees relative to horizontal. In some embodiments, the angle is between forty-four and forty-six degrees relative to horizontal. In some embodiments, the angle is forty-four point five degrees, forty-five degrees, or forty-five point five degrees relative to horizontal.

[0051] Furthermore, because the golf ball dispenser 100 is often used to serve a tee area that has an adjacent tee area, a golf ball that travels up and along the top of the golf ball dispenser 100 at the same angle can hit a golfer in the adjacent tee area. Thus, in some embodiments, the top panel 110 that forms the tilted top of the golf ball dispenser 100 includes a protruding lip 112 (e.g., a molded plastic protrusion) along the upper end of the tilted top of the golf ball dispenser. When a golf ball hits the protruding lip 112, the shape of the structure 112 will re-orient a golf ball that is traveling along the tilted top of the golf ball dispenser 100 and toward the adjacent golf bay, thereby providing additional protection for the golfer in the adjacent tee area. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the protruding lip 112 includes an extension 112A to house a camera system, as described in further detail below.

[0052] FIG. 1C A camera system is shown in FIG. 2. The camera system includes a camera 202 that is mounted to a camera housing 204. The camera housing 204 is mounted to the extension 112A of the protruding lip 112. The camera 202 is mounted to the camera housing 204 in a manner that allows the camera 202 to rotate about an axis that is parallel to the extension 112A of the protruding lip 112.FIG. 1A the metal frame 108 of the golf ball dispenser 100 with all other components removed. As shown, the metal frame 108 defines a recess 108A in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser 100 that receives the display device 102. In some embodiments, the metal frame 108 defines another recess to receive the impact shield 115. In other embodiments, the top panel 110 defines a recess to receive the impact shield 115, as shown in FIG. 6, which illustrates a cross-section of the golf ball dispenser 100. FIG. 1D

[0053] In FIG. 5, a portion of the metal frame 108 is shown below and supporting the receptacle 130, which can hold a plurality of golf balls (e.g., one thousand four hundred fifty to two thousand golf balls), and the channel 106 connects an outlet (not shown) of the golf ball dispenser with the receptacle 130. In addition, the recessed portion 108A of the metal frame 108 holds the display device 102 in place in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser 100. FIG. 1D FIG. 1E A close-up view of another cross-section of the golf ball dispenser 100 is shown. As shown, the left side panel 122L is attached to the metal frame 108, the display device 102 rests in the recessed portion 108A of the metal frame 108, and the top panel 110 is attached to the left side panel 122L and / or the metal frame 108. The top panel 110 includes a recess shaped to receive the impact shield 115, and the recess further defines an opening through which the display device 102 can be viewed.

[0054] A gasket 117 (e.g., a foam gasket) is positioned above the display device 102 in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser (around the perimeter of the display device 102 and adjacent to the opening in the top panel 110), and the impact shield 115 is positioned above the recessed portion of the top panel 110, above the gasket 117, and above the display device 102 in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser. Thus, the impact shield 115 protects the display device 102. In addition, as shown, the method of installing the shield 115 using the gasket 117 is capable of providing environmental protection from dust, dirt, and sand, as well as general water protection, such as an ingress protection rating (IP) of up to IP54.

[0055] ​​In some embodiments, the impact shield 115 is an acrylic shield that is advantageous for shatter resistance. In some embodiments, the acrylic shield 115 has a polycarbonate film that protects the acrylic material from scratches and abrasions. In some embodiments, a texture is applied to the acrylic resin to reduce glare and conceal aesthetic imperfections. Other materials or combinations of materials are also possible, such as material layers designed to improve impact performance and durability. In any case, the impact shield 115 is used to embed in the angled top of the golf ball dispenser and protect the display device 102 below.

[0056] In addition, in some embodiments, the various external panels connected to the metal frame 108 are modular and employ an independent interlocking panel design, for example, using tenons to securely lock these panels together around the metal frame 108. FIG. 1F It shows FIG. 1A An additional cross-section of the golf ball dispenser. A first mortise and tenon connector 170 is used to interlock the top panel 110 with the right side panel 122R. Note that a mirror image of the mortise and tenon connector 170 is used for the left side panel 122L. A second mortise and tenon connector 172 is used to interlock the top panel 110 with the front panel 120. An alignment portion 174 is used to mate the front panel 120 with the right side panel 122R. Note that a mirror image of the first alignment portion 174 is used for the left side panel 122L. A first mortise and tenon alignment portion 176 is used to mate the rear panel 124 with the right side panel 122R. Note that a mirror image of the mortise and tenon alignment portion 176 is used for the left side panel 122L. A second mortise and tenon alignment portion 178 is used to mate the upper rear door 128 with the top panel 110.

[0057] Therefore, the golf dispenser can be constructed as follows: attaching all internal components, including the display device 102, to the frame 108; attaching side panels 122R, 122L to the frame 108; attaching the front panel 120 to the frame 108; attaching the top panel 110 to the frame; inserting washers 117 into openings in the top panel 110 around the periphery of the display device 102; inserting impact shields 115 into recesses defined by the top panel 110; and attaching the rear door assembly to the frame. The dispenser's plastic panel may include threaded inserts molded into the plastic, and screws may be inserted through holes in the frame 108 and / or any metal plate accessing the door (e.g., the rear door assembly, and optionally the front door assembly attached to the front panel 120) and then screwed into the threaded inserts to attach the panel to the frame / metal plate. Weatherproofing can be achieved through an interlocking panel design and the use of washer material around the door or removable panel.

[0058] FIG. 2Ais a rear perspective view showing the golf ball dispenser 200 in exploded form. The golf ball dispenser 200 can be the golf ball dispenser 100 with an embedded display device, or the golf ball dispenser 200 can be a golf ball dispenser that does not include a display device. The golf ball dispenser 200 includes a front panel 220, a right side panel 222R, a left side panel 222L, a rear door 224, an acceptor 230, and a frame 208 (e.g., the front panel 120, the right side panel 122R, the left side panel 122L, the rear door 124, the acceptor 130, and the metal frame 108 of the golf ball dispenser 100). In addition, the golf ball dispenser 200 includes a rear panel 226 and an upper door 228, and the acceptor 230 can include a rear access panel 232.

[0059] In some embodiments, the upper door 228 provides access to another acceptor (positioned above the acceptor 230) that holds additional golf balls and is accessible via the upper door 228 on the back of the golf ball dispenser 200 during a power outage. The additional acceptor can be a set of one or more baskets pre-filled with golf balls and can be locked and stored within the dispenser 200. FIG. 4A An example of a basket of golf balls 410 stored in the golf ball dispenser 200 for emergency use is shown. In an emergency situation (e.g., a game stoppage, etc.), an employee is able to unlock the rear door and remove two baskets 405 (e.g., two pieces due to size constraints within the dispenser 200), connect the two baskets 405 together so as to create a “single” basket 410, and drop the basket 410 for use by guests as an “emergency ball” while the game system is repaired to return to an online state.

[0060] FIG. 2B is a cross-section of an example of the front panel 220 of the golf ball dispenser 200 from FIG. 2A The front panel 220 can be constructed of separate pieces that are attached to each other. The first piece 202 has reinforcing ribs 202A, 202B that increase the strength of the first piece 202 above and beyond the strength of the material (e.g., plastic) itself. The first piece 202 is configured to attach with the metal frame 208, e.g., using screws, bolts, and / or tabs, and the first piece 202 can be made of a HDPE material. The second piece covers and attaches with the first piece 202 and forms a cushion that reduces the speed of a golf ball that hits the cushion. The second piece can itself be constructed of two or more pieces of different materials. In some embodiments, the second piece includes a base piece 204 that has a strength that is less than the strength of the first piece 202. For example, the base piece 204 can be made of a polyethylene (PE) material. In addition, the second piece can include a gasket piece 206 that is attached with the second piece 204. For example, the gasket piece 206 can be made of one or more foam materials.

[0061] In some embodiments, the cushioning tiles 206 include PE foam 206A and memory foam 206B, and both of these tiles 206A, 206B are attached with the PE board 204. For example, a fabric material 206C can be used as an outer covering that attaches the tiles 204, 206A, 206B together forming a single mat that can then be attached to any panel facing the tee area (e.g., front panel 220). FIG. 2C is an exploded perspective view of the individual tiles of the cushioning tiles 205 on the front panel from FIG. 2B is an exploded perspective view of the individual tiles of the cushioning tiles 205 on the front panel from

[0062] This layered design for the cushioning on the panels provides strength to withstand off-line balls and club hits, but also facilitates replacement of damaged tiles. The outermost tile 206 helps to reduce the speed of golf balls bouncing back from the dispenser 200, thereby reducing injury, and the individual tiles forming the panels can be replaced individually when they are damaged. Note that other exterior surfaces of the golf ball dispenser 200 can also employ this three-layer design, particularly those that generally face the tee area. Thus, the back door 224 and the back panel 226 can also use the same multi-tile structure.

[0063] FIG. 2D is another cross-section of an example of a front panel from the golf ball dispenser 200, showing an example of a light source 240 for the exit of the golf ball dispenser 200. In this example, the light source 240 is a light emitting diode (LED) strip, but other types of light sources are also possible, such as a flexible strip or a custom printed circuit board. In any case, the light source 240 provides a full spectrum of colors in response to signals from a controller. The controller can be included in or separate from the golf ball dispenser 200; the controller can be connected to the light source 240 by wire, wirelessly, or both. The controller can be configured (by circuitry and / or program code) to adjust the color and / or intensity of the light source 240 in response to one or more events, including: a golf ball dispensing; a golf ball dispenser service request; a current state of the golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located; and a current condition of a game being played from the tee area serviced by the golf ball dispenser.

[0064] Furthermore, the golf ball dispenser 200 may include more than one light source, which can be used to indicate the same or different events associated with the golf ball dispenser 200 and / or the teeing ground or golf bay served by the golf ball dispenser 200. For example, the golf ball dispenser may include four light sources: a first light source (i.e., the aforementioned light source 240), which is located near the exit (e.g., FIG. 1A The system includes: an outlet 104; a second light source for illuminating the text 140 or other symbols on the front of the golf ball dispenser; a third light source for illuminating the right-side sign 242R or other symbols on the right side of the golf ball dispenser; and a fourth light source for illuminating the left-side sign 242L or other symbols on the left side of the golf ball dispenser. Note the symbols 242R, 242L, and text 140. This image is a registered trademark of Topgolf International, Inc. The control system of the golf ball dispenser 200 can independently control the four light-emitting elements on the dispenser 200. For example, each light source can be proprietaryly controlled by a controller that sends an RGB (red / green / blue) profile indicating what color to change the corresponding light to.

[0065] Other light elements can also be controllable, including intensity and special effects such as pulsation and gradation. Furthermore, other light sources / elements are possible, such as the light source on top of distributor 200, and lighting control can be synchronized across multiple golf ball distributors located at the golf facility. In some embodiments, each light on the multiple distributors can be systematically controlled using software and / or manually controlled via an application programming interface (API) of the provided lighting control interface program.

[0066] FIG. 2E This is a cross-section of a golf ball dispenser 200, showing an example of a gate 250 for golf ball release. The gate 250 is coupled between a receiver 230 and a channel 260 to restrict the passage of multiple golf balls (not shown) held in the receiver 230 into the channel 260. The gate 250 is selectively movable to allow golf balls to enter the channel 260 from the receiver 230 for delivery to the tee box. The gate 250 can employ various drive systems. For example, as shown, the gate 250 may include a screw 252 located within a hopper 254 below an opening in the bottom of the receiver 230. A motor 256 is configured (via circuitry and / or program code) to controllably release a single ball based on a given input signal, for example, in response to a sensor positioned near the outlet of the golf ball dispenser 200 detecting that a club has passed in front of the outlet.

[0067] Other drive systems are possible. Also, in some embodiments, the golf ball dispenser 200 includes a steel frame 258 positioned around the opening and between the bottom of the receptacle 230 and the hopper 254 containing the screw 252. The steel frame 258 helps to bear additional pressure from the golf balls, thereby reducing the chance that the ball screw 252 will jam due to pressure when the receptacle 230 is completely full. In some embodiments, the receptacle 230 is made of steel (e.g., powder coated steel).

[0068] In some embodiments, the golf ball dispenser 200 includes a sensor 270 within the receptacle 230. The sensor 270 can be a distance measuring device, such as an infrared proximity sensor, where the number of golf balls in the receptacle 230 can be estimated based on the distance to the golf balls in the receptacle 230. The sensor 270 detects the level of fullness of the receptacle 230 and sends a signal when the golf ball dispenser 200 needs to be refilled. This signal can be sent to a central computer system of the golf facility and / or to the lighting controller of the golf ball dispenser. For example, such signals from multiple sensors 270 in multiple golf ball dispensers 200 can be sent to a central computer to give a real-time view of the ball count on all dispensers in the golf facility, thereby providing the ability to proactively monitor and refill dispensers. As another example, in response to a signal that the golf ball dispenser 200 needs to be refilled, the color and / or intensity of the light source for one or more of the symbols 140, 242R, 242L can change.

[0069] As described above, various different events can trigger different lighting effects. Additional details regarding the lighting effects are provided below, but reference is now made to FIG. 2D and FIG. 2E An example is given. In this example, the controller is configured to adjust the color and / or intensity of the light source 240 around the exit by changing the color and / or intensity of the light source 240 from a first color and / or intensity to a second color and / or intensity in response to the doorway 250 releasing a golf ball from the receptacle 230 into the channel 260, and changing the color and / or intensity of the light source 240 from the second color and / or intensity to at least one third color and / or intensity once the released golf ball reaches the exit of the golf dispenser 200. For example, when the ball release signal is received, the light source 240 changes to a different color, and then the light source 240 changes color gradient during the time it takes for the golf ball to be pushed by the screw 252 into the channel 260 and then roll through the channel 260 to the exit. Thus, immediate feedback is provided to the golfer regarding the ball release, and continuous feedback is provided to the golfer regarding the progress of the ball to the exit.

[0070] FIG. 2FAn example of an access panel 232 that can be used to empty the golf ball receptacle 230 is shown. In the example shown, the access panel 232 slides in and out of two flanges 230A that hold the access panel 232 in place on the bottom of the back of the receptacle 230. In some embodiments, the access panel 232 is hinged at an appropriate height to allow the golf balls to flow naturally down the hinged door (which becomes a ramp) out of the dispenser 200 and into the portable storage container.

[0071] FIG. 3A is a cross-section of a golf ball dispenser 300. The golf ball dispenser 300 can be the golf ball dispenser 100 and / or the golf ball dispenser 200. The golf ball dispenser 300 includes a front panel 302, a back door 304, and a receptacle 306 (e.g., the front panel 120, 220, the back door 124, 224, and the receptacle 130, 230 of the golf ball dispenser 100, 200). In addition, the golf ball dispenser 300 includes a ramp assembly 310.

[0072] FIG. 3B is a perspective view showing the ramp assembly 310. The ramp assembly 310 is a sliding carriage that uses rollers (e.g., casters) 312 that roll along a track 314 within the dispenser (e.g., along the top of a support and crossbar 314 attached to the top of the receptacle 306). The ramp assembly 310 includes piano hinges 316, e.g., galvanized piano hinges, that are used to attach the ramp 318 to the metal plate 324 of the back door 304. As shown, when the back door 304 is closed, the ramp 318 covers the receptacle 306, and when the back door 304 is open, the ramp 318 extends out of the back of the dispenser 300 to allow easy refilling of the golf balls, and then when the back door 304 is closed, the ramp 318 returns to its resting position within the golf ball dispenser 300.

[0073] FIG. 3C and FIG. 3D is a perspective view showing various parts of the back door assembly 320. The back door assembly 320 includes the back door 304 and a back panel 330 underneath the back door 304. As with the back door 224 and the back panel 226 of the golf ball dispenser 200, the back door 304 and the back panel 330 can also use the same multi-piece construction with a foam cushion. Thus, the back panel 330 can be composed of HDPE pieces 334 and a three-layer cushion 332 that includes memory foam with fabric on the cushion 332.

[0074] The back door 304 is attached to a metal plate 324, for example using screws, bolts, and / or tabs. The back panel 330 is attached to a metal plate 326, for example using screws, bolts, and / or tabs. In some embodiments, the metal plate 326 is part of the metal frame of the golf ball dispenser 300. Further, the metal plate 324 is attached with one or more hinges to the metal plate 326, which allows the back door 304 to open and close. In some embodiments, two quick release hinges 340 are installed within the golf ball dispenser 300 (as shown in FIG. 3D FIG. 2), so that the quick release hinges 340 are not visible when the back door 304 is closed. Using quick release hinges facilitates the complete removal of the back door when the golf ball dispenser 300 needs to be serviced.

[0075] Further, in some embodiments, the front panel 302 (e.g., front panel 120, 220) is implemented as a front door in the manner described for the back door 304, with quick release hinges that are not visible when the front door is closed. This also facilitates the complete removal of the front door, and allows for easy servicing from either side of the golf ball dispenser. Enabling servicing of the golf ball dispenser from either side minimizes the disruption to patrons in the tee area who are not provided balls by the dispenser being serviced by the technician.

[0076] Further, the back door assembly 320 can include wings 322, which can be made of metal, for example, the wings 322 can be curved side portions of the metal plate 324. In some embodiments, the wings 322 and the metal sheets 324, 326 are made of steel (e.g., powder coated steel). The wings 322 serve to keep the golf balls on the ramp 318 during loading of the receptacle 306. FIG. 4B to FIG. 4E An example of the back door and ramp assembly in use is shown. In FIG. 4B the back door is initially closed 420, then partially opened 422, and then fully opened 424 to reveal the wings 322 on either side of the ramp 318. As FIG. 4C shown, as the back door moves from the closed position 420 to the fully open position 424, the casters (e.g., wheels) 312 run along the tracks 314 from their storage position 426 to their fully open position 428. In the fully open position 424, the golf ball dispenser is ready to be refilled.

[0077] As FIG. 4D shown, the receptacle 306 can be refilled by pouring balls 440 onto the ramp 318. Gravity will naturally pull the balls down the ramp 318 and into the receptacle 306; note that the tracks 314 are narrow enough that the balls are unlikely to balance and rest on the tracks 314. During this process, the wings 322 help keep the balls on their intended course as they enter the receptacle 306. As another example, FIG. 4EA movable golf ball delivery device 460 is shown, which is used to deliver a golf ball 462 to a receiver 306 by guiding the golf ball 462 onto a ramp 318. Similarly, gravity will naturally pull the ball down the ramp 318, over the track 314 and into the receiver 306, while the wing 322 will prevent the golf ball 462 from falling off the ramp 318.

[0078] When refilling is complete, the rear door 304 closes, and the ramps 318 and wings 322 return to their storage positions within the golf ball dispenser. Thus, the roller system of the ramp assembly 310 facilitates refilling the golf ball dispenser 300 by maximizing golf ball storage space and minimizing the risk of spillage, impacts to electronics, etc., by enabling refilling of the dispenser 300 at the highest point of the receiver 306. The dispenser 300 can be refilled from the rear rather than the top, while also ensuring that balls are loaded from a point higher than the top of the receiver 306, thereby maximizing the number of balls that can be stored during a single refill.

[0079] FIG. 5A An example of a system 500 that can be used in conjunction with the golf ball dispenser of this application is shown. In this example, system 500 is part of a golf facility including a target 520 on a golf driving range 510 and a building 515 including a golf bay 530. The golf bay 530 may include the golf ball dispenser of this application. FIG. 5A In the diagram, building 515 is shown as rectangular, but note that a typical embodiment would have a curved portion of the building facing the golf driving range 510, thus forming a crescent shape for the golf bay 530. The golf ball dispensers and targets 520 of this application may include radio frequency identification (RFID) tag interrogators that read RFID-equipped golf balls struck from the golf bay 530 located on more than one floor of building 515. The RFID tag interrogator in each golf ball dispenser may be positioned along a path from the ball receiver to the ball exit. Furthermore, one or more targets 520 may include a net of discrete segments for collecting golf balls into corresponding RFID reader boxes associated with different segments. However, in some embodiments, such RFID tags and RFID tag interrogators are not required.

[0080] The system 500 includes one or more computers 551 communicatively coupled (e.g., by wire, wirelessly, or both) to the golf ball dispensers in the bay 530 to control operation of the golf ball dispensers. For example, the computers 551 can be programmed to (1) present information on the embedded display device 102 for viewing by a user of the golf ball dispenser 100 (e.g., dynamically determined content or other content such as television programming or other video data, static images, branding elements, interactive user interface screens for a game being played by the golfer using the golf ball dispenser 100, etc.), (2) use the sensor 270 to detect a fill level of the receptacle 230 in order to trigger a refill of the golf ball dispenser 200 when needed (e.g., trigger a lighting change on the golf ball dispenser 200 to alert staff that the dispenser 200 should be refilled). The one or more computers 551 can include a central computer system for the golf facility, dispenser controllers, and / or game system computers.

[0081] In some embodiments, at least one golf ball sensor 540 (e.g., one or more stereo camera sensors) is included in the system 500 and the computers 551 use the golf ball sensor 540 to track golf balls in flight (after being released from a golf ball dispenser and struck from the golf bay 530) and identify where the golf balls land on the golf practice range 510, whether or not an RFID system is used. Thus, the computers 551 and the sensor 540 can form a golf ball sensor system that performs flight 3D tracking of golf balls through the three-dimensional space of the golf practice range 510. The golf practice range 510 can be flat or include small hills or one or more slopes, and can also include hazards such as water traps and sand traps. Note that such hazards need not include actual water and sand, but can simply be colored to look like water and sand. The golf practice range 510 can be composed of real grass or artificial turf. Further, the targets can be grouped into categories that generally indicate their distance from the building 515, and the targets can have various shapes (e.g., circular shape for the primary targets and rectangular shape for the trench targets at the end of the range 510), and can have a separate color for each target 520 or group of targets 520. Other shapes and sizes of targets 520 and a different number of targets 520 than shown are also possible.

[0082] A golf ball sensor system can be used to identify which golf bay 530 a golf ball has been hit from, and then present information about the golf ball hit from the given bay 530 on an embedded display device in the golf ball dispenser in that bay, such as golf statistics related to the current shot in the current game, and / or show an animation of the golf ball flight in a computer generated representation of the physical world of the golf range 510 and / or a virtual world corresponding to the game in progress. The golf ball sensor system includes at least one golf ball sensor 540 and at least one computer 551 communicatively coupled with the golf ball sensor 540. The golf ball sensor 540 can be one or more sensors of one or more different types. For example, the golf ball sensor 540 can be an optical sensor (e.g., a stereo camera, or two cameras operating together to provide stereo vision of a golf ball in flight), a radar sensor, or a combination of these. In some embodiments, two or more stereo cameras 540 are used to track a golf ball in flight in three-dimensional space.

[0083] The golf ball sensor 540 is communicatively coupled with one or more computers 551. In some embodiments, at least one computer 551 is connected with or integrated with each of the two or more sensors 540 to create discrete sensor systems that independently / separately detect and track a golf ball in three-dimensional space, thereby providing different trajectory predictions based on different observations of the same golf ball traveling through three-dimensional space. Such discrete golf ball sensor systems can also be communicatively coupled with a central computer system (e.g., one or more server computer systems) that coordinates the trajectory predictions received from the discrete golf ball sensor systems and ultimately determines which golf bay 530 and which golf ball dispenser should be identified and reported as the point of origin for a particular golf ball being tracked. Note that the central computer can be part of a computer system (e.g., for a golf facility) that manages a golf game and sends information about golf shots (e.g., simulated golf shot animations in a virtual golf game and / or ball tracking overlays in an augmented reality golf shot viewer) to display devices associated with or embedded in golf ball dispensers in golf bays 530. In any case, the computer 551 includes at least one hardware processor and at least one memory device coupled with the at least one hardware processor that has been constructed and / or programmed to perform the operations detailed in this disclosure.

[0084] FIG. 5B It is shown as can be able to be in FIG. 5AAn example of a layout of a golf bay 540A, 540B used in the system of FIG. 5. The golf bay 540A, 540B can include furniture 545, such as sofas and tables, to facilitate dining and conversation during play. As will be appreciated, many layouts of furniture 545 are possible, and the layout of furniture 545 and golf bay 540A, 540B can be designed to provide flexibility in how the golf bay 540A, 540B is allocated to one or more groups of people to play games together or individually.

[0085] Each of the golf bays 540A, 540B can include two tee positions, with each tee position including a tee area 550 and a golf ball dispenser 555. Each golf ball dispenser 555 can include any suitable combination of the features described herein for a golf ball dispenser. For example, golf balls can be collected from a central location of the building 515 and manually dropped into the receptacle 306 in the golf ball dispenser 555 using the ramp assembly 310 described above. But in some embodiments, the ramp assembly 310 is not used, and each golf ball dispenser 555 is directly connected with a pneumatic tube system, such that golf balls can be automatically retrieved from the targets and fed back to the players without human intervention. In either case, each golf ball dispenser 555 can include embedded display devices, modular interlocking panels, multi-layered padding, and / or other golf ball dispenser features described in this application. In embodiments where embedded display devices are used in each golf ball dispenser 555, each display device can include a touchscreen device connected with the central computer system of the building 515 that provides direct control to the players of their games, including selecting the type of game to play and the current player.

[0086] In any case, one or more players can step into the respective tee box 550, obtain a golf ball from the respective dispenser 555, and then hit their respective ball. In some embodiments, the computer 551 uses video data obtained by a respective camera system in each of the golf ball dispensers 555. For example, the camera system in the golf ball dispenser 555A can provide video of both the served tee box 550A and the adjacent tee box 550B. The golf sensor system can use this video data to help locate the initial tee position of the golf ball for 3D ball flight reconstruction, and to help identify the embedded display device on which to display information about the golf shot, such as displaying golf shot statistics and / or a rendering or animation of the golf shot in a virtual golf game, which can include representations of the golf course or other virtual game functionality. In some embodiments, the computer 551 can use this video data to provide swing analysis information to the player, such as a real-time replay of the swing on the embedded display device and computer-generated tips on how to improve the golf swing, whether or not there is ball flight tracking.

[0087] FIG. 5C An example of the view angle of the camera system in the golf ball dispenser 555A is shown. FIG. 5C The golf ball dispenser 555A is shown from the perspective looking back from the golf practice range 510 toward the golf bay 530. Thus, the tee box 550A served by the golf ball dispenser 555A is now on the right, and the adjacent tee box 550B is now on the left. The camera system in the golf ball dispenser 555A provides a field of view that includes a view angle 560A directly to the tee box 550A, and a field of view that includes a view angle 560B directly to the adjacent tee box 550B. As will be appreciated, the camera system in the golf ball dispenser 555A will thus have a clear view of the club swing of a right-handed golfer in the tee box 550A, and will also have a clear view of the club swing of a left-handed golfer in the tee box 550B. FIG. 5D is a cross-section of the golf ball dispenser 555A showing an example of the camera system providing the view angles 560A, 560B.

[0088] A camera system is integrated into the golf ball dispenser 555A and includes a controller 570 coupled with a first camera 572 directed at tee area 550A and a second camera 574 directed at tee area 550B. Each camera 572, 574 can be a wide angle camera positioned to capture a full swing of a golf club, including the impact of the golf club with a golf ball when hitting the golf ball from the tee area, for example, to generate information for display on a display device integrated with the golf ball dispenser 555A or to any other third party monitor / video playback device, including over the Internet. In some embodiments, the camera system 570, 572 and / or 570, 574 includes a video recording housing, a detachable wide angle lens, a video capture device to process the video, and a computer programmed with software to process the video and relay feedback.

[0089] Note that the placement and angle of the cameras 572, 574 within the golf ball dispenser 555A and the size and position of the golf ball dispenser 555A relative to the tee areas 550A, 550B provide a clear view through the holes in the top panel and upper rear door that allows for simultaneous video capture of two golf swings (left and right) in adjacent golf bays / tee areas. Further, the spacing of the front camera 572 and the rear camera 574 to the tee areas 550A, 550B can be set to allow for video capture to work for left-handed golfers without having to change the software for differences in viewing distance. Also, each of the cameras 572, 574 can have a sufficient aperture to capture the impact of the club on the ball in the tee area and the full range of swings of the club, regardless of whether the golfer is left-handed or right-handed.

[0090] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a data processing system including a data processing device 650 that can be used to control one or more golf ball dispensers as described in this application. The data processing device 650 can be connected with one or more computers 690, display devices 690, or both, through a network 680. While only one computer is shown in FIG. 6 as the data processing device 650, multiple computers can be used.

[0091] The data processing device 650 can include various software modules that can be distributed between the application layer and the operating system. These can include executable and / or interpretable software programs or libraries, which can include programs 670 to operate one or more golf ball dispensers. The number of software modules used can vary from embodiment to embodiment, and the software modules can be distributed across one or more data processing devices connected through one or more computer networks or other suitable communication networks. Moreover, in some cases, the described functionality (in part or in whole) is implemented in firmware and / or hardware of the data processing device 650 to improve operational speed. Thus, the programs and / or circuitry 670 can be used to implement the golf ball dispenser control operations described in this application.

[0092] The data processing device 650 can include hardware or firmware means, including one or more hardware processors 652, one or more additional means 654, computer-readable media 656, a communication interface 658, and one or more user interface means 660. Each processor 652 is capable of processing instructions for execution within the data processing device 650. In some embodiments, the processor 652 is a single-threaded or multi-threaded processor. Each processor 652 is capable of processing instructions stored in the computer-readable media 656 or instructions stored in one of the storage devices, such as one of the additional means 654. The data processing device 650, using its communication interface 658, is capable of communicating with one or more computer / display devices 690, such as through the network 680. Thus, in various embodiments, the described processes can run in parallel or in series, on single or multi-core computer machines, and / or on computer clusters / clouds, etc.

[0093] Examples of the user interface means 660 include display devices, touch screen display devices, cameras, speakers, microphones, tactile feedback devices, keyboards, and mice. The data processing device 650 can store instructions that implement the operations detailed in this disclosure in, for example, the computer-readable media 656 or on one or more additional means 654, such as one or more of a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, a tape device, and a solid-state storage device. Generally, the computer-readable media 656 and the one or more additional means 654 that store the instructions are examples of at least one memory device that encodes the instructions that are structured to cause at least one hardware processor to perform the operations as detailed in this disclosure.

[0094] The additional apparatus 654 can also include one or more sensors 540. The one or more sensors 540 can also be located remotely from the data processing device 650, and data from such sensors 540 can be obtained using one or more communication interfaces 658, such as interfaces for wired or wireless technologies. Such communication interfaces 658 can also be used to transmit information to a display apparatus embedded in a golf ball dispenser; and / or to transmit control signals to a light source in a golf ball dispenser; and / or to transmit other data to another computer system. For example, two or more data processing devices 650 can be discrete golf ball sensor systems that independently track golf balls in three-dimensional physical space, report their results to another data processing device 650 that decides which result to use and which tee area to identify as the origin of a golf shot, thereby deciding which information about a golf shot in a game being played to send to which golf display apparatus in which golf ball dispenser.

[0095] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a process that can be implemented using the computer system described above in connection with the golf ball dispenser of the present application. Input data is obtained 700 from a golf ball dispenser. For example, the input data can include fill level signals from sensors 270, input signals from a touch screen display apparatus 102, and / or video data from cameras 572, 574. A check 710 can be made to determine whether the input data is relevant to control of the golf ball dispenser. If so, the input data is processed and an output is sent 712 to effect a change in the dispenser. For example, if the input signal is a detection by a proximity sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) that a golf club is being swung in front of the exit 104, the input signal can be processed to trigger a ball release by the gate 250 and to trigger a change in color and / or intensity of the light source 240. Further, control of the dispenser can be tied into a game, such as when the final color of the light source 240 (or the final flash color of the light source 240) is selected to indicate a target to be hit with a dispensed golf ball (e.g., a physical target on a golf practice range in front of the tee area and golf ball dispenser, or a virtual target in a game being played from the tee area served by the golf ball dispenser). As another example, if the input signal is a fill level signal from sensors 270, the input signal can be processed to determine whether the dispenser 100 needs to be refilled, and if so, to send a signal to change the color of the right side sign 242R.

[0096] In addition, a check 720 can be made to determine whether the input data relates to control of a game or golf bay. If so, the input data is processed and an output is sent 722 to effect a change in the game of the golf bay. For example, the input data can be a new game selection detected on the touchscreen display device 102, a new game gesture detected with the camera 572, or a face of a golfer detected by facial recognition software (recently assigned to the golf bay), and the output can be output to a game control computer that starts a new game accordingly and updates the display device 102. As another example, the input data can be a food or beverage order request detected on the touchscreen display device 102, or a food or beverage order gesture detected with the camera 572, and the output can be output to a caddy management computer that sends a signal to a mobile device held by a person responsible for the golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located.

[0097] In addition, a check 730 can be made to determine whether the input data relates to game action. If so, the input data is processed and an output is sent 732 to represent game action. For example, the input can be sensor data received by a golf ball sensor system, which can process the sensor data to detect and track a 3D trajectory of a golf ball hit from a tee area served by a golf ball dispenser, and the output can be a visualization on a display device embedded in the golf ball dispenser that shows the flight of the ball in a representation of the physical world (e.g., the golf practice facility 510 or a real-world golf course) or a virtual world (e.g., a game world with 3D space registered to the golf practice facility 510).

[0098] In addition, as described above, lighting controls can be synchronized across multiple golf ball dispensers located at a golf facility. In some embodiments, each lighting controller can have a local time base, and the local time bases of all dispensers can be synchronized via a network synchronization protocol such as NTP (Network Time Protocol). The controllers can execute lighting effect scripts, which the controllers determine the colors and intensities of the lighting devices and how they vary over time. Lighting effect scripts can be sent to the controllers for execution by an external entity such as a central server or a personal computer. Multiple lighting effect scripts can be stored on each controller and scheduled for execution by the external entity.

[0099] The external entity can change the schedule of script execution at any time. A currently executing lighting effect script can be preempted by a local event (from within the distributor) or a remote event; preemption causes the running script to stop and be immediately replaced by a backup script; normal operation can resume when the backup script is complete; the preempted script resumes at the point it was preempted, not the point it stopped, to maintain synchronization with other controllers or distributors. Scripts can consist primarily of state transition instructions; each instruction includes an initial state (optionally derived automatically from the end of the previous transition), a final state, a transition duration, and a transition function (linear is the most basic example). Scripts can include control instructions for repeating portions of the script.

[0100] Scripts can also include instructions that define how to handle transitions between them and other scripts when they are preempted. Scripts can be configured to execute only once or to automatically restart. Scripts synchronize their starting point to a modulus of the time base with an offset; the base time modulus is the repeat period of the script. Scripts set to run only once can be asynchronous to the time base, or synchronized to an absolute time marker reference in the time base. Script preemption events can be synchronized between controllers and distributors by scheduling a transition from the currently running script to a new script at an absolute or relative (relative to the script execution repeat period) marker reference in the time base; the script to transition to can be transmitted to the controller in advance.

[0101] FIG. 8A Another example 800 of a golf ball dispenser is shown. The golf ball dispenser 800 can include any combination of the features described above for the golf ball dispensers 100, 200, 300. The ball dispenser 800 includes a tilting top portion 810 that is attached to the rest of the ball dispenser 800 by a hinge. Thus, the tilting top portion 810 of the ball dispenser 800 can be lifted 812 (upwardly cocked) to a fully open position 814, providing ready access 816 (from the top) to the interior of the ball dispenser 800. For example, the top portion 810 of the ball dispenser 800 can be lifted to provide easy access for cleaning the back of the display device inside the ball dispenser 800 and the impact shield 115 held by the top portion 810. In addition, lifting the top portion 810 can facilitate repairing or replacing the display device inside the ball dispenser 800. In some embodiments, once in the open position 814, the top portion 810 can be lifted away and, in some embodiments, the hinge holds the top portion 810 in place so that it can be allowed to rest in the open position 814 while any cleaning or maintenance is performed.

[0102] In some embodiments, the angled top 810 includes a top panel, such as the top panel 110 described above. In some embodiments, the top of the ball dispenser 800 includes two distinct outer pieces, a top panel 810 that can receive the impact shield 115 as just as the top panel 110 defines a recess (see FIG. 1D ) in the top panel 810, and a curved (“waterfall”) panel 830 that sits between the top panel 810 and the front panel 820. The top panel 810 can be coupled with the curved panel 830 or with the metal frame 108 by a hinge that allows the top panel to be flipped up along with the impact shield 115, providing access to the display device 102.

[0103] FIG. 8B An example of a hinge for the top panel 810 of the ball dispenser 800 is shown. The hinge in this example consists of at least one tab 812, included as part of the top panel 810, and at least one slot 832, included as part of the curved panel 830. The slot 832 is constructed and arranged to receive the tab 812 and allow the top panel 810 to be flipped up along with the impact shield 115, providing access to the display device. Other hinge structures are possible, such as a swivel or a pivot; note that rotation about a central axis is not required. Furthermore, the use of a tab and slot hinge (or similar tongue and groove structure) is advantageous in that the top panel 810 can be flipped up (without being removed) to facilitate cleaning and maintenance, e.g., repair or replacement of the display device 102, and the top panel 810 is also easily removable (without the use of tools). Moreover, the overlapping tab and slot (or tongue and groove) design keeps the top of the ball dispenser waterproof, e.g., to IP54.

[0104] Furthermore, to keep the top panel 810 in place during normal operation, at least one rear door 124, 128, 224, 228, 304 of the ball dispenser 800 can include a door latch that is configured to hold the top panel 810 closed. For example, FIG. 8C An example of a latch structure 840 for the top panel 810 of the ball dispenser 800 is shown. In this example, the upper rear door 228 includes a tab 842 that is constructed and arranged to interact with and lock against (by friction) a tab 844 that is coupled with the top panel 810. The tabs 842, 844 together form a door latch 840 such that when the upper rear door 228 is closed, the tab 842 prevents the tab 844 (and thus the top panel 810) from being lifted up on the hinge, but when the upper rear door 228 is open, the tab 844 (and thus the top panel 810) is free to be lifted. Various other latch structures can be used as the door latch, including various types of spring latches, hooks, snaps, clasp, or fasteners.

[0105] In addition, a folded weather barrier strip 811 can be included to prevent water from entering the ball dispenser 800 (e.g., from rain, snow, or other precipitation) through a gap extending between the top of the upper rear door 228 and the top panel 810, thereby helping to maintain an ingress protection rating of up to IP54. In addition, in addition to handling water, the ball dispenser 800 can also be designed to handle hot environments, e.g., environments from direct sun exposure. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the ball dispenser 800 includes a blower or fan located inside the exterior panel of the golf ball dispenser 800.

[0106] FIG. 8D and FIG. 8E An example of a blower assembly 850 (i.e., a blower / fan assembly 850) for the ball dispenser 800 is shown. FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view showing the blower assembly 850 in place within the exterior panel of the golf ball dispenser 800, where the blower assembly 850 is structured and arranged to direct air at the display device 102. FIG. 8E is a perspective view of the blower assembly 850. As shown, the blower / fan assembly 850 can include a blower / fan 852 and a surface 854 (e.g., a metal structure or a plastic structure) structured and arranged to shape the air into an air curtain by forcing the air into an enclosed space that extends along a majority of the width of the ball dispenser 800 (e.g., at least as wide as the display device 102), where the only exit of the enclosed space is an opening 856 that can also be long enough to extend across a majority of the width of the ball dispenser 800 (e.g., at least as wide as the display device 102). After passing through the opening 856, the air is directed by a surface 858 to the space between the display device 102 and the back side of the top panel 810 and the shroud 115.

[0107] Note that gasket 117 is not included in these embodiments, and thus the air curtain passes between display device 102 and impact shield 115. Nonetheless, a similar gasket can be included between shield 115 and top panel 810 (e.g., around the perimeter of impact shield 115), as desired. In some embodiments, the thickness of impact shield 115 and / or the size of the recess in top panel 810 that receives impact shield 115 is made to ensure that sufficient air will pass in front of display device 102 to keep display device 102 sufficiently cooled during operation. In some embodiments, the recess in top panel 810 includes two or more cutout portions (or recessed portions) that ensure that sufficient space exists between top panel 810 and display device 102 (i.e., sufficient clearance exists at one or more places where the recess defines an opening through which display device 102 can be viewed) for air to enter and exit the space between top panel 810 and impact shield 115.

[0108] For example, FIG. 8F The underside of top panel 810 is shown. In this example, top panel 810 includes a recessed portion 818A at the bottom, where this recessed portion 818A provides an opening for at least a portion of the air curtain that exits blower assembly 850 opening 856 and travels along surface 858 to flow between the edge of top panel 810 that holds impact shield 115 in place over display device 102 and the edge of display device 102, and thereby over display device 102. Likewise, top panel 810 includes a recessed portion 818B at the top side of panel 810, where this recessed portion 818B provides an opening for the air curtain that passes over display device 102 to flow around the edge of display device 102 and back into the main interior of ball dispenser 800.

[0109] Because a large portion of the heat generated inside ball dispenser 800 comes from display device 102 (e.g., the light emitting diodes (LEDs) of the display device) and the solar radiation received by display device 102 through shield 115, cooling the front of display device 102 (e.g., cooling the LEDs) in addition to (or instead of) cooling the back of display device 102 facilitates long-term operation of ball dispenser 800 without risking significant damage to display device 102 or other components of ball dispenser 800.

[0110] Note that active cooling of the air is not required to achieve a cooling effect, but it may be preferable to ensure that fresh air is available for cooling rather than simply circulating air within the ball distributor 800. Therefore, in some embodiments, one or more outflow vents 860 are included near the top of the ball distributor 800 to allow hot air to escape. One or more inflow vents may also be included in the ball distributor 800. However, in some embodiments, designated inflow vents are not required because gaps may exist between the outer panels of the ball distributor 800 and / or at the bottom of the ball distributor 800 (where the front, rear, and side panels are close to but not in contact with the ground) to provide sufficient air intake.

[0111] On the top panel 810 (e.g.) FIG. 8F As shown in the diagram, and / or in one or more other external panels of the ball dispenser 800, an outflow vent 860 may be included. Preferably, the outflow vent 860 is located near the top of the ball dispenser 800 to facilitate natural convection and release of heated air from within the dispenser 800. Furthermore, the outflow vent 860 may include a waterproof and breathable fabric (e.g., PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or other similar materials) that ensures the maintenance of desired waterproofing, such as an inlet protection rating of up to IP54, thereby protecting the internal components of the ball dispenser 800 (e.g., electronics). FIG. 8G The upper rear door 228 (which includes an outflow vent 860) is shown along with a waterproof and breathable fabric 862 that allows air to pass through the vent 860 but prevents water from passing through the vent 860 and entering the interior of the distributor 800.

[0112] Furthermore, as described above, the top of the ball dispenser 800 may include two distinct external components: a top panel 810 and a curved panel 830. The curved panel 830 may be attached (e.g., bolted) to the metal frame 108, and the top panel 810 may be attached to the curved panel 830 (e.g., by inserting a tab 812 into a slot 832). By using separate parts 830, 810 instead of a single part 110, these parts 830, 810 can be repaired or replaced separately, which can save costs over time for the operation of the ball dispenser 800. Furthermore, these parts 830, 810 can easily be made of different materials, such as metal for the core of the curved panel 830 and plastic for the top panel 810.

[0113] The vast majority of ball impacts on the dispenser (i.e., when a golfer hits the ball poorly and then the ball hits the dispenser) strike the front side, which includes the front panel 820 and the curved panel 830. The front panel 820 can be constructed of separate parts attached to each other, as described above for the front panel 220. Similarly, the curved panel 830 can also be constructed of separate parts attached to each other, thus helping to prevent breakage and / or damage to the curved panel 830.

[0114] FIG. 8H An example of a curved (“waterfall”) panel 830 of a ball dispenser 800 is shown. The curved panel 830 comprises a metal plate 836 (e.g., steel) and a rubber-treated cover 834 that slows the incoming golf ball and prevents strong bounces. The metal plate 836 can be attached to a metal frame 108 using a bracket 838. The combination of the metal plate 836 and the rubber-treated cover 834 in the curved panel 830 reduces the impact of the ball and decreases the chance of damage or breakage. Similar decorative elements can also be added to the front of the ball dispenser 800.

[0115] FIG. 8I The front of the ball dispenser 800 is shown, with a trim piece 870 positioned between the curved panel 830 and the front panel 820. In some embodiments, the trim piece 870 is attached to the front panel 820, such as... FIG. 8J As shown, the FIG. 8J This is a cross-sectional view. The trim piece 870 can be made by combining a metal plate 874 with a rubber-treated cover 872. Furthermore, the trim piece 870 can be magnetically attached to the front panel 820. For example, the trim piece 870 may include one or more magnets 876 positioned to interact with one or more magnets 822 included in the front panel 820.

[0116] The trim piece 870 serves to protect the locks that hold the front panel 820 to the metal frame 108, and potentially protects some other exposed edges of the front panel 820. Similar to the curved panel 830, the trim piece 870 provides this protection via a steel core 874 and a molded, rubber-treated outer cover 872, which slows incoming golf balls and prevents strong bounces. Furthermore, the use of magnetic coupling facilitates easy maintenance, as the locks holding the front panel 820 to the metal frame 108 can be easily accessed, even though they are also protected from ball impacts by the trim piece 870. Magnets 876 and 822 can be made strong enough to hold the trim piece 870 against the front panel 820, but weak enough to allow the trim piece 870 to be easily pulled away, thus exposing the locks holding the front panel 820 to the metal frame 108.

[0117] Embodiments of the subject matter and the functional operations described in this specification can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in combinations of one or more of them. Embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented using one or more modules of computer program instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus. The computer-readable medium can be a manufactured product, such as a hard drive in a computer system or an optical disc sold through retail channels, or can be an embedded system. The computer-readable medium can be separately obtained and subsequently encoded with the one or more modules of computer program instructions, for example, by transmitting the one or more modules of computer program instructions over a wired or wireless network. The computer-readable medium can be a machine-readable storage, a machine-readable storage substrate, a storage, or a combination of one or more of them.

[0118] The term“data processing apparatus” encompasses all apparatus, devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple processors or computers. The apparatus can also include, in addition to hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, a runtime environment, or a combination of one or more of them. The apparatus can also be at least one of a variety of distributed computing architectures, such as a network service, distributed computing, and grid computing infrastructures.

[0119] A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any suitable form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it can be deployed in any suitable form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and are interconnected by a communication network.

[0120] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit).

[0121] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. Moreover, a computer can be embedded in another device, e.g., a mobile telephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio or video player, a game console, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, or a portable storage device (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) flash drive), as non-limiting examples. Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0122] To provide for interaction with a user, embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a LCD (liquid crystal display), OLED (organic light emitting diode), or other monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

[0123] The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other. Embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back end component, e.g., as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or that includes a front end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification, or any combination of one or more such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), an inter-network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., ad hoc peer-to-peer networks).

[0124] While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the application or of what can be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that can be specific to particular embodiments of the application. Certain features described in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features can be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination and the claimed combination can be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, or unless required by the context, any feature as described above can be out of any combination with any other features that are described.

[0125] Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such order, nor that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and / or parallel processing can be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0126] Therefore, particular embodiments of the application have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. Moreover, the operations described with reference to the figures can be implemented with different order and still achieve desirable results.

Claims

1. A golf ball dispenser having maintenance convenience, the golf ball dispenser comprising: a receptacle configured to hold a plurality of golf balls; a passageway connecting an outlet of the golf ball dispenser with the receptacle; a gateway coupled between the passageway and the receptacle to restrict the plurality of golf balls from passing into the passageway, the gateway being selectively movable to allow a golf ball to pass into the passageway for delivery to a tee area; a display device embedded in the golf ball dispenser to present at least information about the golf ball in flight after the golf ball is struck from the tee area; a metal frame holding the receptacle, the passageway and the gateway, wherein the metal frame defines at least one recess in a sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser, the at least one recess being configured to receive the display device; an impact shield located above the display device in the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser; and an exterior panel connected with the metal frame; wherein the exterior panel comprises: a front panel; a top panel forming the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser; and a curved panel between the front panel and the top panel; wherein the top panel is coupled with the curved panel or with the metal frame by a hinge that allows the top panel to be flipped up together with the impact shield to provide access to the display device, and wherein the golf ball dispenser includes a trim piece between the curved panel and the front panel, wherein the front panel includes at least one first magnet and the trim piece includes at least one second magnet positioned to interact with the at least one first magnet to hold the trim piece in place.

2. The golf ball dispenser of claim 1, wherein the curved panel comprises a metal plate having a rubberized covering.

3. The golf ball dispenser of claim 1, including at least one back door for the golf ball dispenser, and the at least one back door includes a door latch configured to hold the top panel closed.

4. The golf ball dispenser of claim 1, wherein the trim piece comprises a metal plate having a rubberized covering.

5. The golf ball dispenser of claim 1, wherein the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser includes a protruding lip along an upper end of the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser, the protruding lip being configured to redirect a golf ball traveling along the sloped top portion of the golf ball dispenser and toward an adjacent golf bay.

6. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, including a grommet included between the impact shield and the top panel. ​ 7. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the exterior panels include a back panel, and each of the front panel and the back panel includes: a first sheet having a reinforcing rib and having a first strength at least partially derived from the reinforcing rib, the first sheet configured to be attached with the metal frame; and a second sheet configured to cover and be attached with the first sheet, the second sheet having a second strength less than the first strength, and the second sheet including two different foam materials.

8. The golf ball dispenser of claim 7, wherein the exterior panels include a left side panel and a right side panel; and the front panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the back panel, and the top panel include a tongue and groove for interlocking the panels together about the frame.

9. The golf ball dispenser of claim 7, including: a back door including a metal sheet, the first sheet of the back panel attached to the metal sheet, wherein the metal sheet is coupled with the metal frame by a quick release hinge, the quick release hinge mounted inside the golf ball dispenser such that the quick release hinge is not visible when the back door is closed, and the metal sheet includes a wing segment; and a ramp assembly attached to the metal sheet by a piano hinge, the ramp assembly including rollers that support a ramp between the wing segments of the metal sheet such that a golf ball is contained by the wing segments when falling onto the ramp.

10. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, including a camera integrated with the golf ball dispenser and arranged to capture a full swing of a golf club, including an impact of the golf club with a golf ball when the golf ball is struck from the tee area, for generating information for display on the display device integrated with the golf ball dispenser.

11. The golf ball dispenser of claim 10, including a second camera integrated with the golf ball dispenser and arranged to capture a full swing of a second golf club, including an impact of the second golf club with a second golf ball when the second golf ball is struck from an adjacent tee area served by a second golf ball dispenser, for generating information for display on a second display device integrated with the second golf ball dispenser.

12. The golf ball dispenser of claim 10, wherein the display device comprises a touchscreen display device that is at least forty inches on a diagonal dimension of the touchscreen display device, and the touchscreen display device and the camera are communicatively coupled with one or more computers programmed to control operation of a golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located based on input to the touchscreen display device, based on facial recognition processing performed on images from the camera, or based on both.

13. The golf ball dispenser of claim 10, comprising at least one light source separate from the display device, the at least one light source configured to provide a full spectrum of colors, and the at least one light source coupled with at least one controller, the at least one controller configured to adjust the color of the at least one light source in response to one or more events selected from a group comprising: Golf ball dispensing; Golf ball dispenser service request; Current status of a golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located; and current conditions of a game being played from the tee area served by the golf ball dispenser.

14. The golf ball dispenser of claim 13, wherein the at least one light source comprises a strip of light emitting diodes.

15. The golf ball dispenser of claim 13, wherein the at least one light source comprises a light source proximate the exit of the golf ball dispenser, and the at least one controller is configured to adjust a color of the light source proximate the exit by changing a color of the light source proximate the exit from a first color to a second color in response to the portal releasing a golf ball from the receptacle into the passageway, and changing the color of the light source proximate the exit from the second color to at least one third color once the released golf ball reaches the exit of the golf ball dispenser.

16. The golf ball dispenser of claim 13, wherein the at least one controller comprises a computer programmed to change a color of the light source proximate the exit to a color corresponding to a target to be hit in accordance with a game being played from the tee area served by the golf ball dispenser.

17. The golf ball dispenser of claim 16, wherein the target is a physical target on a golf practice range in front of the tee area and the golf ball dispenser, or the target is a virtual target in a game being played from a tee area served by the golf ball dispenser.

18. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a distance measuring device configured to detect how full the receptacle is.

19. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the portal comprises a screw located inside a hopper below an opening in a bottom of the receptacle, and the golf ball dispenser comprises a steel frame positioned around the opening and between the bottom of the receptacle and the hopper containing the screw.

20. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a second receptacle configured to hold additional golf balls, the second receptacle accessible via an upper rear door of the golf ball dispenser, wherein the second receptacle comprises two baskets.

21. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the receptacle comprises an access panel on a bottom of one side of the receptacle, the access panel configured to be opened to facilitate emptying the golf balls from the receptacle.

22. The golf ball dispenser of claim 1, wherein the golf ball dispenser has cooling convenience, and the golf ball dispenser comprises a blower assembly located inside the exterior panels of the golf ball dispenser, the blower assembly configured and arranged to direct air at the display device.

23. The golf ball dispenser of claim 22, wherein the blower assembly comprises a surface configured and arranged to shape the air into an air curtain that passes between the display device and the impact shield.

24. The golf ball dispenser of claim 23, comprising: at least one rear door for the golf ball dispenser; and at least one outflow vent located in at least one of the exterior panels or in the at least one rear door, wherein each of the at least one outflow vents comprises a waterproof, air-permeable fabric.

25. The golf ball dispenser of claim 22, wherein the sloped top of the golf ball dispenser comprises a protruding lip along an upper end of the sloped top of the golf ball dispenser, the protruding lip configured to redirect golf balls traveling along the sloped top of the golf ball dispenser and toward an adjacent golf bay.

26. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, comprising a grommet included between the impact shield and a top panel of the exterior panels.

27. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the exterior panels comprise a front panel and a rear panel, and each of the front panel and the rear panel comprises: a first sheet having a reinforcing rib and having a first strength at least partially derived from the reinforcing rib, the first sheet configured to be attached with the metal frame; and a second sheet configured to cover and be attached with the first sheet, the second sheet having a second strength that is less than the first strength, and the second sheet comprising two different foam materials.

28. The golf ball dispenser of claim 27, wherein the exterior panels comprise a top panel, a left side panel, and a right side panel; and the front panel, the left side panel, the right side panel, the rear panel, and the top panel comprise a tongue and groove for interlocking the panels together around the frame. ​ 29. The golf ball dispenser of claim 27, comprising: a rear door comprising a sheet of metal, the first sheet of the rear panel attached to the sheet of metal, wherein the sheet of metal is coupled to the metal frame by a quick release hinge mounted inside the golf ball dispenser such that the quick release hinge is not visible when the rear door is closed, and the sheet of metal comprises wing segments; and a ramp assembly attached to the sheet of metal by piano hinges, the ramp assembly comprising rollers that support a ramp between the wing segments of the sheet of metal such that a golf ball is contained by the wing segments when falling onto the ramp.

30. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, comprising a camera integrated with the golf ball dispenser and arranged to capture a full swing of a golf club, including an impact of the golf club with a golf ball when the golf ball is struck from the tee area, for generating information for display on the display device integrated with the golf ball dispenser.

31. The golf ball dispenser of claim 30, comprising a second camera integrated with the golf ball dispenser and arranged to capture a full swing of a second golf club, including an impact of the second golf club with a second golf ball when the second golf ball is struck from an adjacent tee area served by a second golf ball dispenser, for generating information for display on a second display device integrated with the second golf ball dispenser.

32. The golf ball dispenser of claim 30, wherein the display device comprises a touchscreen display device that is at least forty inches on a diagonal dimension of the touchscreen display device, and the touchscreen display device and the camera are communicatively coupled with one or more computers programmed to control operations of a golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located based on inputs to the touchscreen display device, based on facial recognition processing performed on images from the camera, or based on both.

33. The golf ball dispenser of claim 30, comprising at least one light source separate from the display device, the at least one light source configured to provide a full spectrum of colors, and the at least one light source coupled with at least one controller, the at least one controller configured to adjust the color of the at least one light source in response to one or more events selected from a group comprising: golf ball dispensing; golf ball dispenser service requests; current status of a golf bay in which the golf ball dispenser is located; and current conditions of a game in progress from the tee area served by the golf ball dispenser.

34. The golf ball dispenser of claim 33, wherein the at least one light source comprises a strip of light emitting diodes.

35. The golf ball dispenser of claim 33, wherein the at least one light source comprises a light source proximate to the exit of the golf ball dispenser, and the at least one controller is configured to adjust the color of the light source proximate to the exit by changing the color of the light source proximate to the exit from a first color to a second color in response to the gate releasing a golf ball from the receptacle into the channel, and changing the color of the light source proximate to the exit from the second color to at least one third color once the released golf ball reaches the exit of the golf ball dispenser.

36. The golf ball dispenser of claim 33, wherein the at least one controller comprises a computer programmed to change the color of the light source proximate to the exit to a color corresponding to a target to be hit in accordance with a game being played from the tee area served by the golf ball dispenser.

37. The golf ball dispenser of claim 36, wherein the target is a physical target on a golf practice range in front of the tee area and the golf ball dispenser, or the target is a virtual target in a game being played from a tee area served by the golf ball dispenser.

38. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, comprising a distance measuring device configured to detect how full the receptacle is.

39. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the gate comprises a screw located inside a hopper below an opening in a bottom of the receptacle, and the golf ball dispenser comprises a steel frame positioned around the opening and between the bottom of the receptacle and the hopper containing the screw.

40. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, comprising a second receptacle configured to hold additional golf balls, the second receptacle being accessible via an upper rear door of the golf ball dispenser, wherein the second receptacle comprises two baskets.

41. The golf ball dispenser of any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the receptacle comprises an access panel located on a bottom of one side of the receptacle, the access panel being configured to be opened to facilitate emptying the golf balls from the receptacle.

Images