Independent multi-game mini golf structure

Abstract

Provided is an independent multi-game type mini golf structure. An apparatus and method for a standalone multi-gaming mini golf structure is disclosed. A structure includes a digital display screen positioned vertically aligned with a rear end of a pushrod surface and a sensor positioned below the digital display screen. The sensor is configured to detect a lateral position of the ball across the rear end. The structure includes, for each shot of a plurality of mini-golf games, a processor configured to: send a command signal to a digital display screen to display a putter target; identifying, via a sensor, a lateral position of the golf ball across the rear end of the putter surface; determining whether the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any one of the putter targets; and generating a score for the shot based on the lateral position of the golf ball relative to the putter target.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 590,217 filed on October 13, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 537,702 filed on September 11, 2023; the entire contents of both applications are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to miniature golf and, more particularly, to a stand-alone multi-game miniature golf structure. Background Art

[0004] Mini golf (also known as "miniature golf" or "putt-putt") is a game typically played on a miniature golf course with a series of holes. Each player putts a respective ball into each hole in the series of holes. Typically, each hole in a miniature golf course includes one or more man-made obstacles and / or unusual geometric arrangements to make putting the ball into the hole more difficult and interesting. Example hazards may include slopes, pipes, curved or angled walls, windmills, etc.

[0005] Many mini golf courses include a large number of holes, such as 18 holes, so that each player may be challenged by many different obstacles and hole configurations throughout the course. Such holes are spread out and spaced apart from each other to allow different players to maneuver around the course without interfering with each other. In order to accommodate such hole arrangements, many mini golf courses have a considerable floor space, which is often expensive to pay for and maintain.

[0006] In addition, many mini golf obstacles are large objects that are fixed in place relative to one or more of the holes in the mini golf course. For example, a windmill or other rotating structure can be placed between the tee and the corresponding hole. Pipe holes can transport golf balls horizontally from one putting surface to another putting surface level to form multiple layers of mini golf holes. Although these hole configurations are initially interesting to players, many repeat players of mini golf courses may get tired of facing the same obstacles again and again. Therefore, it may be advantageous for the operator of a mini golf course to change the obstacle and hole configuration of the entire course from time to time. However, operators generally do not do this because it is often expensive and may require a lot of downtime to replace obstacles and / or reconfigure the holes of the mini golf course. Summary of the invention

[0007] The appended claims define the present application. This document discloses aspects of the embodiments and should not be used to limit the claims. Other embodiments are contemplated based on the techniques described herein, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description, and these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the present application.

[0008] An example embodiment for a stand-alone, multi-game miniature golf structure is shown. An example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes a putting surface including a front end and a rear end. The stand-alone miniature golf structure includes one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end. The stand-alone miniature golf structure includes: a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory storing instructions for a plurality of miniature golf games; and one or more processors. For each shot in the plurality of miniature golf games, the one or more processors are configured to: send a command signal to the digital display to display one or more putting targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end of the putting surface; determine whether the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any of the one or more putting targets; and generate a score for the shot based on the lateral position of the golf ball relative to the one or more putting targets.

[0009] Another example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; a plurality of ball detection channels extending proximate to and perpendicular to the rear end of the putting surface; one or more sensors configured to detect into which of the plurality of ball detection channels a golf ball is struck; a digital display positioned proximate to and above the rear end to be vertically aligned with the plurality of ball detection channels; a memory for storing instructions for a plurality of miniature golf games; and one or more processors. For each shot in the plurality of miniature golf games, the one or more processors are configured to: send a command signal to the digital display to display one or more putting targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; identify a putting channel in the plurality of ball detection channels into which a golf ball has been struck via the one or more sensors; determine whether the putting channel is vertically aligned with any of the one or more putting targets; and generate a score for the shot based on the position of the putting channel relative to the one or more putting targets.

[0010] An example putter structure disclosed herein includes a putter surface including a front end and a rear end. The putter structure includes a tee surface proximate to the front end of the putter surface, a ball return surface located below the putter surface, and a sensor assembly proximate to the rear end of the putter surface. The sensor assembly includes a sensor box having one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end. The sensor assembly is configured to guide a golf ball from the rear end of the putter surface to the ball return surface to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent putt.

[0011] An example sensor box for a putter structure is disclosed herein. The sensor box includes a body including a top panel defining an upper surface along which a golf ball travels. The upper surface includes a rear edge and a front edge. The sensor box includes a plurality of walls protruding upward from the upper surface of the body. The plurality of walls extend between the rear edge and the front edge of the upper surface. The plurality of walls are parallel to each other and spaced apart to define a plurality of ball detection channels for a golf ball, the plurality of ball detection channels extending perpendicular to the front edge of the upper surface. The sensor box includes a plurality of sensors, each of the plurality of sensors corresponding to a corresponding ball detection channel in the plurality of ball detection channels. Each of the plurality of sensors is configured to detect when a golf ball travels through the corresponding ball detection channel.

[0012] Another example sensor cartridge for a putter structure is disclosed herein. The sensor cartridge includes a body including a top panel defining an upper surface along which a golf ball travels. The upper surface includes a rear edge, a front edge, and two opposite ends. Each of the rear edge and the front edge extends between the two opposite ends. The sensor cartridge includes a sensor positioned proximate one of the two opposite ends and configured to detect a lateral position of a golf ball traveling along the upper surface toward the front edge.

[0013] Another example putter structure disclosed herein includes: a putter surface including a front end and a rear end; a tee surface adjacent to the front end of the putter surface; a ball return surface located below the putter surface; a body defining a cartridge chamber located adjacent to the rear end of the putter surface and the ball return surface; and a sensor cartridge configured to be securely received in the cartridge chamber and removable from the cartridge chamber. The sensor cartridge includes one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a golf ball at which the golf ball passes the rear end of the putter surface. The sensor cartridge is configured to guide the golf ball from the rear end to the ball return surface to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent putt.

[0014] An example ball dispensing assembly for a putter structure is disclosed herein. The ball dispensing assembly includes a track along which a golf ball is configured to roll. The track extends between an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is located downstream of a putter surface of the putter structure. The outlet is positioned to dispense a golf ball onto a tee surface. The ball dispensing assembly includes a frame proximate at least a portion of the track, and an actuator including an actuator body and an actuator arm. The actuator body is mounted to the frame. The actuator arm is configured to switch between an extended position and a retracted position. The ball dispensing assembly includes a pivot arm operably connected to the actuator arm and configured to switch between a closed position and an open position. The pivot arm is configured to be in a closed position when the actuator arm is in an extended position to prevent dispensing of a golf ball. The pivot arm is configured to be in an open position when the actuator arm is in a retracted position to allow dispensing of a golf ball.

[0015] Another example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes over the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. For each shot of the miniature golf game, the one or more processors are configured to: select a primary target based on the instructions stored in the memory; generate an interface to include the primary target; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position at which a golf ball passes over the rear end of the putting surface; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with the primary target, award a first point value associated with the primary target to a corresponding player.

[0016] Another example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes over the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. For each shot of the miniature golf game, the one or more processors are configured to generate an interface with a target based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify a lateral position via the one or more sensors at which a golf ball passes over the rear end of the putting surface; in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with the target, award a predefined point value associated with the target; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is not vertically aligned with the target, reduce the number of remaining chances for the corresponding player by one.

[0017] Another example free-standing miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes over the rear end; a digital display screen located above the one or more sensors and adjacent to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface having a plurality of targets and a vertical centerline of the plurality of targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display screen to display the interface; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position at which a golf ball passes over the rear end of the putting surface; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any of the plurality of targets, laterally move the centerline and the plurality of targets on the interface.

[0018] Another example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes over the rear end; a digital display screen located above the one or more sensors and adjacent to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface based on the instructions stored in the memory to include moving targets arranged in a row; send a command signal to the digital display screen to display the interface; identify a lateral position via the one or more sensors at which a golf ball passes over the rear end of the putting surface; when detecting that the golf ball has passed over the rear end of the putting surface, determine the position of the moving targets of the interface; and, in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with a first moving target in the moving targets, award a first point value associated with the first moving target in the moving targets to the current player.

[0019] Another example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes over the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface based on the instructions stored in the memory to include targets arranged in a row; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position at which a golf ball passes over the rear end of the putting surface; and, in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with a first target in the targets, award a first point value associated with a first target in the targets to a current player.

[0020] Another example stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes over the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface based on the instructions stored in the memory to include an oscillating target; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify a lateral position via the one or more sensors at which a golf ball passes over the rear end of the putting surface; when detecting that the golf ball has passed over the rear end of the putting surface, determine a position of an oscillating target of the interface; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with the position of the oscillating target, award a point value of the oscillating target to the player. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference may be made to the embodiments shown in the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and related elements may be omitted, or in some cases, the proportions may be exaggerated in order to emphasize and clearly illustrate the novel features described herein. In addition, as is known in the art, the system components may be arranged differently. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals represent corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0022] Figure 1 to Figure 2 An example freestanding miniature golf structure according to the teachings herein is depicted.

[0023] Figure 3 Describes what might happen in Figure 1 An example of a freestanding mini golf structure with various shots on the putting surface.

[0024] Figure 4 Depicted Figure 1 A freestanding miniature golf structure, in which the Figure 3 of putting surfaces to depict an example interior portion of a freestanding miniature golf structure.

[0025] Figure 5 Depicted Figure 3 of putting surfaces, sample ball return surfaces, and Figure 1 Example sensor assembly for a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0026] Figure 6 Depicts golf ball entering Figure 5 Example path for the sensor component.

[0027] Figure 7 Depicts golf ball leaving Figure 5 Example path for the sensor component.

[0028] Figures 8 to 9 Depicted Figure 5 sensor components.

[0029] Figures 10 to 12 Depicted Figure 5 An example sensor cartridge for a sensor assembly.

[0030] Fig.13 Depicted by Fig.10 The sensor box detects various shots.

[0031] Fig.14 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of an example deflector tray of a sensor assembly.

[0032] Fig.15 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of an example illumination housing of a sensor assembly.

[0033] Fig.16 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of another example sensor cartridge of a sensor assembly.

[0034] Fig.17 Depicted by Fig.16 The sensor box detects various shots.

[0035] Fig.18 Depicted Figure 1 A freestanding miniature golf structure with various access panels removed.

[0036] Fig.19 Describes the Figure 1 An example of a freestanding mini golf structure with a sensor chamber Figure 5 The sensor assembly of the sensor chamber is accessed by removing the access panel.

[0037] Figure 20 to Figure 21 Further describing Fig.19 sensor chamber.

[0038] Figure 22 to Figure 24 Depicted Figure 1 An example ball dispensing assembly for a freestanding miniature golf structure.

[0039] Figure 25 to Figure 28 Depicted Figure 22 to Figure 24 The ball distribution component Figure 1 A freestanding miniature golf structure where players distribute golf balls in order.

[0040] Fig.29yes Figure 1 A block diagram of an example electronic components of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0041] Fig.30 Describes the Figure 1 A display of a freestanding mini golf structure for a game showing an example background and an example status bar of an interface.

[0042] Fig.31 Depicted Fig.30 The background digital channel is Figure 5 Vertical alignment between the ball detection channels of the sensor assembly.

[0043] Fig.32 Further describing Fig.30 status bar.

[0044] Fig.33 According to the teachings of this article Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method of operation of a freestanding miniature golf structure.

[0045] Fig.34 yes Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method of performing a first game on a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0046] Fig.35 yes Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method for executing a second game on a stand-alone miniature golf structure.

[0047] Fig.36 yes Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method of executing a third game on a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0048] FIG. 37A to FIG. 37B yes Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method of executing a fourth game on a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0049] Fig.38 yes Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method of performing a fifth game on a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0050] Fig.39 yes Figure 1 A flowchart of an example method of performing a sixth game of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0051] Fig.40 yes Figure 1 A flow chart of an example method for a stand-alone mini-golf structure to detect and score a player's shots.

[0052] Fig.41 Describes the Fig.34The first game Figure 1 An example first interface displayed on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0053] Fig.42 Describes the Fig.34 The first game Figure 1 An example second interface displayed on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0054] Fig.43 yes Fig.41 Schematic diagram of the first interface.

[0055] Fig.44 yes Fig.34 Schematic diagram of the third interface of the first game.

[0056] Fig.45 yes Fig.42 Schematic diagram of the second interface.

[0057] Fig.46 yes Fig.34 A schematic diagram of the fourth interface of the first game.

[0058] Fig.47 Describes the Fig.35 The second game Figure 1 An example interface shown on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0059] Fig.48 yes Fig.47 Schematic diagram of the interface.

[0060] Figures 49 to 51 Depicted Fig.35 Schematic diagram of other example interfaces of the second game.

[0061] Figure 52 to Figure 57 Describes the Fig.36 The third game Figure 1 An example interface shown on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0062] Figure 58 to Figure 61 Describes the FIG. 37A to FIG. 37B The fourth game Figure 1 An example interface shown on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0063] Figure 62 to Figure 65 Describes the Fig.38 The fifth game Figure 1 An example interface shown on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure.

[0064] Figure 66 to Figure 69 Describes the Fig.39 The sixth game Figure 1 An example interface shown on a display of a freestanding mini golf structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] While the present invention may be embodied in various forms, some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments are shown in the drawings and will be described below, it being understood that this disclosure is to be considered as exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments shown.

[0066] The stand-alone miniature golf structure disclosed herein is configured to conduct various interactive multi-player games (e.g., conduct various interactive multi-player games for 2 to 6 players) wherein targets change in real time as shots are made and / or based on previous events. The multi-player games are user selectable and can be specifically customized to multiple user selectable gameplay modes, such as individual modes or team modes. In turn, the stand-alone miniature golf structure enables players to have an unlimited number of non-repetitive game experiences so that repeat players do not tire of playing games on the stand-alone miniature golf structure. New games can be easily uploaded to the stand-alone miniature golf structure and / or updated over time to further diversify the game experience for repeat players.

[0067] The freestanding mini golf structure disclosed herein includes a single tee and putting surface, so that the freestanding mini golf structure occupies a relatively small footprint compared to a mini golf course with multiple holes. The small footprint enables the freestanding mini golf structure to be easily installed in an arcade, bar, beer arcade, casino venue, and / or other gaming facility.

[0068] The example independent mini golf structure includes a tee surface, a digital display screen, and a putter surface extending from the tee surface toward the digital display screen. The player will putt a golf ball from the tee surface and along the putter surface in the direction toward the digital display screen. The digital display screen is positioned above the rear end of the putter surface. The digital display screen is configured to show one or more putter targets to the player. In addition, the digital display screen is vertically aligned with the rear end of the putter surface. For example, if the putter target is in the center of the digital display screen, the putter target is aligned with the center of the rear end of the putter surface, and the player will putt the golf ball to the center of the rear end. If the putter target is on the left hand side of the digital display screen, the putter target is aligned with the left hand side of the rear end of the putter surface, and the player will putt the golf ball to the left hand side of the rear end. Similarly, if the putter target is on the right side of the digital display screen, the putter target is aligned with the right hand side of the rear end of the putter surface, and the player will putt the golf ball to the right hand side of the rear end.

[0069] An example stand-alone miniature golf structure includes one or more sensors (e.g., fork sensors, proximity switches, lidar sensors, etc.) positioned proximate to a putting surface. The sensors are configured to detect a lateral position of a golf ball as the golf ball passes over a rear end of the putting surface. That is, the sensors enable detection of whether a player has putted a golf ball to a lateral position along the rear end that is vertically aligned with a putting target displayed on a digital display screen.

[0070] The freestanding mini golf structure may include a channel that facilitates alignment between a target of the digital display and the rear end of the putting surface. For example, some freestanding mini golf structures include walls and / or dividers that define multiple ball detection channels proximate to the rear end of the putting surface. The ball detection channels facilitate the sensor to accurately detect the lateral position at which the golf ball passes the rear end of the putting surface. In addition, the digital display may display a digital channel that is vertically aligned with the ball detection channel proximate to the putting surface. The digital channel facilitates the player to identify the position of the target and / or the corresponding lateral position along the rear end of the putting surface.

[0071] The freestanding mini golf structure may include a sensor box mounted in a box chamber. The sensor box is configured to be easily installed in and / or removed from the box chamber to facilitate an operator to easily service the sensor and / or other components of the sensor box. The box chamber may include one or more roller conveyors to facilitate installation and / or removal of the sensor box. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor box may be formed from multiple bodies (e.g., a first body and a second body) that are individually removable. Such a configuration of the sensor box enables the freestanding mini golf structure to be installed in a relatively more compact space with a smaller gap adjacent to the box chamber.

[0072] The example independent mini golf structure also includes a memory and one or more processors, which realize a constantly changing game experience. The memory is configured to store instructions for multiple mini golf games so that a player can play any of the multiple games at any given time. The processor is configured to control what is displayed on the digital display screen for each shot in each mini golf game. For example, the processor is configured to select (e.g., randomly select) the number of targets, the size of each target, the position of each target, the score corresponding to each target, etc. The processor sends a command signal to the digital display screen so that the selected target is displayed in a selected manner. The processor is also configured to detect a lateral position based on data collected via a sensor, at which the golf ball crosses the rear end of the putter surface. The processor is then configured to determine whether the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any of the targets displayed on the digital display screen, and generate a score for the corresponding shot based on the comparison. For example, if the lateral position of the shot is vertically aligned with the target on the digital display screen, the processor is configured to award a predefined number of points associated with the target to the corresponding player.

[0073] An example freestanding miniature golf structure may also include a ball dispensing assembly configured to dispense golf balls onto a tee surface for subsequent strokes. An example ball dispensing assembly includes: a track along which a golf ball is configured to roll; an actuator including an actuator arm; and a pivot arm. The pivot arm is operably connected to the actuator arm. The pivot arm is configured to be in a closed position to prevent the dispensing of a golf ball and to be in an open position to allow the dispensing of a golf ball. In some examples, the ball dispensing assembly is configured to release the golf ball a predetermined duration (e.g., 1 second, 2 seconds, etc.) after the sensor has detected a previous stroke to keep the miniature golf game progressing in a timely and organized manner.

[0074] Go to the attached picture, Figures 1 to 3 An example freestanding miniature golf structure 10 according to the teachings herein is shown. The freestanding miniature golf structure 10 is a putting structure, for example, on which one or more players putt golf balls to complete one or more miniature golf games. The freestanding miniature golf structure 10 (also referred to as a "miniature golf structure," "golf structure," "freestanding golf structure," "putting structure," and "freestanding putter structure") includes a tee surface 110, a putting surface 120, a digital display screen 200, and a sensor assembly 300.

[0075] The putter surface 120 includes a front end and a rear end ( Figures 5 and 6The front end of the putting surface 120 is adjacent to and extends from the tee surface 110. The sensor assembly 300 is adjacent to the rear end 125 of the putting surface 120. The digital display screen 200 is positioned above the sensor assembly 300 and / or the rear end 125 of the putting surface 120. Additionally, the digital display screen 200 is vertically aligned with the sensor assembly 300 and / or the rear end 125 of the putting surface 120. The digital display screen 200 is configured to display one or more putting targets and / or obstacles. The player is to putt a golf ball from the tee surface 110 and along the putting surface 120 in a direction toward the putting target. The sensor assembly 300 is configured to detect whether the golf ball is putted along the rear end 125 of the putting surface 120 to a lateral position aligned with any one of the one or more putting targets and / or obstacles displayed via the digital display screen 200. As disclosed in more detail below, the sensor assembly 300 includes one or more sensors, and the one or more sensors are configured to detect the lateral position of the golf ball being putted. If the detected lateral position of the shot is aligned with the putting target, a predefined number of points associated with the putting target may be awarded to the player. If the detected lateral position of the shot is aligned with an obstacle, a predefined number of points associated with the obstacle may be deducted from the player. In some examples, the putting target and / or obstacle displayed via the digital display screen 200 changes (e.g., randomly) for each shot, each round, and / or each player.

[0076] The freestanding miniature golf structure 10 also includes a body 15 to which the putting surface 120, the digital display screen 200, and the sensor assembly 300 are mounted. The body 15 of the illustrated example includes a ramp portion and a rear portion.

[0077] The putter surface 120 is fixed to the ramp portion of the body 15. The ramp portion includes side panels 40, wherein each side panel 40 extends along a corresponding side of the putter surface 120. For example, one side panel 40 extends along the left side of the putter surface 120, and another side panel 40 extends along the right side of the putter surface 120. Figure 3 As shown, off-target shots 140 may bounce off side panels 40 and return to tee surface 110 to allow the player to retry the putt.

[0078] return Figure 1 The slope portion of the body 15 further includes a side cover 50, which is coupled to and covers the corresponding side panel 40. For example, one side cover 50 is coupled to and covers one side panel 40, and another side cover 50 is coupled to and covers another side panel 40. In addition, the body 15 includes one or more ball retaining rails 64 and one or more ball retaining fences 66 ( Figure 5). Each ball retaining rail 66 is coupled to a corresponding ball retaining rail 64, and the ball retaining rails 64 and ball retaining rails 66 are arranged to retain golf balls on the freestanding mini golf structure 10. For example, each set of ball retaining rails 64 and ball retaining rails 66 are located along the putter surface 120 proximate to the rear portion of the body 15. One set of ball retaining rails 64 and ball retaining rails 66 are coupled to the side cover 50 on the left hand side, and another set of ball retaining rails 64 and ball retaining rails 66 are coupled to the side cover 50 on the right hand side.

[0079] As disclosed in more detail below, the ball dispensing assembly 800 ( Figure 7 and Fig. 22 ) is housed within a cavity formed by the corresponding side panel 40 and the side cover 50. In the example shown, the ball dispensing assembly 800 is housed within the right side panel 40 and the side cover 50. The ball dispensing assembly 800 includes a ramp 890 extending from the corresponding side panel 40 to the tee surface 110 to enable the ball dispensing assembly 800 to return the golf ball to the tee surface 110 for a subsequent shot.

[0080] In addition, the tee surface 110 extends from the front end of the sloped portion of the body 15. In the illustrated example, the tee surface 110 abuts and connects to the putter surface 120, wherein the tee surface extends horizontally along the ground and the putter surface is inclined toward the sensor assembly 300. In other examples, the tee surface 110 may be integrally and monolithically formed with the putter surface 120.

[0081] One or more ball holding rails 62 and fences extend around a portion of the tee surface 110 to hold golf balls on the freestanding mini-golf structure 10. Additionally, one or more entry points 60 are located along the tee surface 110 for entering onto and exiting the tee surface 110. That is, each entry point 60 enables a player to enter and exit the tee surface 110 of the freestanding mini-golf structure 10. In the illustrated example, the tee surface 110 and the entry points 60 are configured to enable a person with a health condition or disability to enter the tee surface 110 and play on the freestanding mini-golf structure 10. For example, the tee surface 110 and the entry points 60 are configured to comply with corresponding government regulations (e.g., government regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act). For example, each entry point 60 has a relatively small height, and the tee surface 110 is large enough to accommodate such a player's mobility aid.

[0082] In the example shown, the freestanding miniature golf structure 10 includes a check-in station 70 proximate to the tee surface 110. The check-in station includes a user interface 250, such as a touch screen, to enable one or more players to select game information. For example, the user interface 250 is configured to enable the player to identify the number of players in the group, provide a name for each player, select a game from a plurality of games to play, select a game play for the selected game, determine whether any player in the group has a medical condition or disability, etc. Additionally, the check-in station 70 includes a card reader 260, which is configured to enable one or more players to pay for use of the freestanding miniature golf structure 10.

[0083] like Figure 1 As shown, the digital display screen 200 and the sensor assembly 300 are mounted to the rear portion of the body 15. The digital display screen 200 is mounted to the rear portion of the body 15 to be positioned above and vertically aligned with the sensor assembly 300 and the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. In the example shown, the signs 80, 85 and the lighting members 280 (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs)) are mounted to the rear portion of the body around the digital display screen 200. Additionally, a camera 290 is mounted to the rear portion above the digital display screen 200. The camera 290 is configured to capture images and / or videos of players and / or shots during a game played on the freestanding miniature golf structure 10. In some examples, the captured images and / or videos are then displayed via a display (such as the digital display screen 200) for replay of the gameplay.

[0084] In the illustrated example, one or more access panels 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are removably coupled to the side and / or rear surfaces of the body 15. The access panels 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 are configured to be removed from the body 15 to allow an operator to access the interior components of the freestanding mini-golf structure 10. Additionally, another access panel 122 is positioned along the putting surface 120 to access the interior components of the freestanding mini-golf structure 10.

[0085] Figure 4 The freestanding mini-golf structure 10 is shown with the putting surface 120 removed to depict the components otherwise contained beneath the putting surface 120. In the example shown, the freestanding mini-golf structure 10 includes one or more supports 105 upon which the putting surface 120 rests. Additionally, the freestanding mini-golf structure 10 includes a ball return surface configured to transport a golf ball that has been placed into the sensor assembly 300 to the ball dispensing assembly 800 ( Figure 7 and Fig. 22 ).

[0086] Figure 5Further depicted are the putting surface 120, the ball return surface 150, and the sensor assembly 300. The front end of the putting surface 120 is adjacent to the tee surface 110 ( Figures 1 to 3 ), from which the player is to putt a golf ball. The rear end of the putting surface 120 is proximate to the sensor assembly 300. The putting surface 120 also includes a rear end 125 at the rear end. The rear end 125 extends transversely between opposite sides of the putting surface 120. In the example shown, the rear end 125 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the putting surface 120.

[0087] Go to Figure 6 , the sensor assembly 300 is positioned proximate to and extends along the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. The sensor assembly 300 is positioned relative to the putter surface 120 in such a manner as to detect the lateral position of the impact ball 130. That is, the sensor assembly 300 is positioned to detect the lateral position of the golf ball when putted by the player, at which lateral position the golf ball passes the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. In the illustrated example, the sensor assembly defines a plurality of ball detection channels 450 arranged in a side-by-side manner along the width of the sensor assembly 300. Each of the ball detection channels 450 is aligned with and corresponds to a respective lateral position along the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120, so that the sensor assembly 300 detects the lateral position of the golf ball passing the rear end 125. In the illustrated example, each of the ball detection channels 450 is proximate to and extends perpendicular to the rear end of the putter surface 120.

[0088] Back to Figure 5 The ball return surface 150 is positioned below the putting surface 120 to facilitate the subsequent return of the golf ball to the tee surface 110 ( Figures 1 to 3 ) to make another shot. Figure 7 As shown, the ball return surface 150 extends between the sensor assembly 300 and the ball dispensing assembly 800. In particular, the ball return surface of the example shown extends from the front edge of the sensor box of the sensor assembly 300 (e.g., Fig.10 The front edge 436 of the sensor box, Fig.16 The front edge 636 of the sensor box of the ball distribution assembly 800 is arranged to the ball distribution assembly 800. The putting surface 120, the sensor assembly 300 and the ball return surface 150 are arranged relative to each other so that when the golf ball enters the ball detection channel 450 ( Figure 6 ) after which the golf ball falls onto the upper surface of the sensor box (e.g., Fig.10 The upper surface 435 of the sensor box, Fig.16 , the upper surface 635 of the sensor box, etc.), and then travels along the ball return surface 150 toward the ball dispensing assembly 800. Figure 7An example of a return path 135 for a golf ball is depicted. That is, the sensor assembly 300 is configured to guide the golf ball from the rear end 125 of the putting surface 120 to the ball return surface 150 and the ball dispensing assembly 800 to return the golf ball to the tee surface 110 for a subsequent putt.

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, the ball return surface 150 is oriented to be inclined from the sensor assembly 300 toward the ball dispensing assembly 800 so that gravity can assist the golf ball in returning toward the tee surface 110. Figure 5 The putter surface 120 is inclined at an angle from its front end to its rear end. The putter surface 120 is inclined so that the ball return surface 150 can be positioned below the putter surface 120 when descending.

[0090] Figures 8 to 9 An example of a sensor assembly 300 including a sensor cartridge 400, a deflector tray 500, and an illumination housing 550 is depicted. The deflector tray 500 is positioned above the sensor cartridge 400, and the illumination housing 550 is positioned behind the deflector tray 500. In the illustrated example, the sensor cartridge 400 and / or the deflector tray 500 define each of the ball detection channels 450. That is, in some examples, the sensor cartridge 400 defines the ball detection channels 450. In other examples, the deflector tray 500 defines the ball detection channels 450. In other examples, the combination of the sensor cartridge 400 and the deflector tray 500 defines the ball detection channels 450.

[0091] Figures 10 to 12 An example sensor cartridge 400 of the sensor assembly 300 is further depicted. The sensor cartridge 400 includes a plurality of sensors 470 (also referred to as “first sensors” and “channel detection sensors”) configured to detect a lateral position at which a golf ball passes the trailing end 125 of the putter surface 120. For example, each of the sensors 470 is configured to monitor a predefined lateral position along the trailing end 125 of the putter surface 120 to detect when a golf ball traverses the corresponding predefined lateral position. In the example shown, each of the sensors 470 corresponds to one of the ball detection channels 450 and is configured to detect when a golf ball travels through the corresponding ball detection channel 450.

[0092] The sensor assembly 300 includes a body 405. The body 405 includes an upper panel 430 that defines an upper surface 435 along which a golf ball is to travel (e.g., between the putter surface 120 and the ball return surface 150). In the example shown, the body 405 also includes a plurality of side panels 410, a front panel 420, a rear panel 425, and a bottom panel 440. The front panel 420, the rear panel 425, and the bottom panel 440 extend laterally between two side panels 410. In the example shown, each of the side panels 410, the front panel 420, and the rear panel 425 defines an opening to provide access to one or more components (such as the sensor 470) housed below the upper panel 430 of the sensor cartridge 400. Additionally or alternatively, each of the side panels 410, the front panel 420, the rear panel 425, the upper panel 430, and / or the bottom panel 440 can be separated from other components of the body 405 to provide access to components housed below the upper panel 430.

[0093] The upper surface 435 includes a front edge 436 and a rear edge. The upper surface 435 is angled downward from the rear edge and to the front edge 436 to guide a golf ball to the front edge 436. For example, as disclosed in more detail below, the front edge 436 of the sensor cartridge 400 is positioned adjacent to and flush with the ball return surface 150. The upper surface 435 is angled downward toward the front edge 436 to guide a golf ball from the upper surface 435 of the sensor cartridge 400 onto the ball return surface 150.

[0094] Additionally, the illustrated example sensor box 400 includes a plurality of walls 460 (also referred to as "channel walls") that protrude upward from the upper surface 435. Each wall 460 extends between a rear edge and a front edge 436 of the upper surface 435. The walls 460 are parallel to each other and spaced apart to at least partially define a ball detection channel 450. In the illustrated example, the walls 460 are perpendicular to the front edge 436 of the upper surface 435 of the sensor box 400, such that each ball detection channel 450 extends parallel to the putting surface 120 of the freestanding mini-golf structure 10. Each of the ball detection channels 450 includes an outlet located proximate to the front edge 436 of the upper surface 435. With the upper surface 435 angled downward from the rear edge and to the front edge 436, any golf ball that falls onto the upper surface 435 is directed through the outlet of one of the ball detection channels 450.

[0095] In the example shown, each sensor 470 is a fork-shaped sensor, wherein each fork-shaped sensor includes two opposing prongs. Fig.11As shown, each fork sensor includes a body (also referred to as a "sensor body") located below the upper panel 430. Each prong of the fork sensor extends upward from the corresponding sensor body and enters the opening defined by the wall 460. Each prong of the fork sensor extends into the corresponding opening of the adjacent wall 460 so that the fork sensor can monitor the ball detection channel 450 located between the adjacent walls 460.

[0096] Furthermore, in the example shown, the sensors 470 are arranged such that each of the ball detection channels 450 is monitored by two sensors 470. Fig.11 As shown, the sensor 470 includes a plurality of front sensors 472 and a plurality of rear sensors 474. In the example shown, each of the front sensors 472 and the rear sensors 474 is a fork-shaped sensor. Each ball detection channel 450 is monitored by a corresponding front sensor 472 and a corresponding rear sensor 474 to ensure that a golf ball entering the corresponding ball detection channel 450 is detected. Fig.10 As shown, each wall 460 defines a front opening 462 and a rear opening 464 that faces the immediately adjacent ball detection channel 450. The front opening 462 is configured to receive a prong 476 of a corresponding front sensor 472, and the rear opening 464 is configured to receive a prong 478 of a corresponding rear sensor 474. Furthermore, in the example shown, each front sensor 472 is displaced from an immediately adjacent front sensor 472, and each rear sensor 474 is displaced from an immediately adjacent rear sensor 474. The two sensors 470 for each ball detection channel 450 are staggered relative to the two sensors 470 of an adjacent ball detection channel 450 so that each sensor 470 can fit in a relatively compact area along the sensor box 400.

[0097] The sensor cartridge 400 of the illustrated example also includes one or more sensors 480 (also referred to as "second sensors" and "ball detection sensors") configured to detect when a golf ball passes over the front edge 436 of the sensor cartridge 400. The sensors 480 are positioned near the front edge 436 to detect when a golf ball passes over the front edge 436. The sensors 480 may include a proximity sensor, such as a contactless proximity sensor. The sensors 480 may include a photoelectric sensor, such as a photoelectric beam sensor. In the illustrated example, each sensor 480 includes an emitter 482 and a receiver 484 spaced apart and facing each other. The sensors 480 are configured to detect when a golf ball passes over any portion along the front edge 436 between the emitter 482 and the receiver 484. As disclosed in more detail below, the time at which a golf ball passes over the front edge 436 is used to control when the ball dispensing assembly 800 dispenses another golf ball for a subsequent shot.

[0098] Go to Fig.13, which depicts the sensor box 400 detecting two shots landing at different locations on the upper surface 435. Fig.13 Two lines with shots are included, wherein each of these shots depicts the path of the golf ball for the respective shot. The horizontal lines depict the detection beams of each of the front sensor 472 and the rear sensor 474 of the sensor 470. The other horizontal lines depict the detection beams of the sensor 480.

[0099] In the example shown, the leftmost shot lands near the rear edge of the upper surface 435. The front sensor 472 and rear sensor 474 of the corresponding ball detection channel 450 are both configured to detect that the golf ball has traveled through the ball detection channel 450. Additionally, the sensor 480 is configured to detect when the golf ball has passed the front edge 436 and has exited the sensor cartridge 400. The correct shot lands near the middle of one of the ball detection channels 450. Thus, the front sensor 472 of the ball detection channel 450 is configured to detect that the golf ball has traveled through the ball detection channel 450. The sensor 480 is also configured to detect when the golf ball has passed the front edge 436 and has exited the sensor cartridge 400.

[0100] return Figure 10 to Figure 11 , the bottom panel 440 defines one or more grooves 415 extending laterally along the bottom panel 440. As described below with respect to Figure 20 to Figure 21 Disclosed in greater detail, each of the recesses 415 is configured to receive a respective roller conveyor 720, 730 of a cartridge chamber 700 in which the sensor cartridge 400 is housed to facilitate insertion and removal of the sensor cartridge into and from the cartridge chamber 700, respectively.

[0101] In some examples, the sensor cartridge 400 is formed of a plurality of cartridges coupled together. In the illustrated example, the sensor cartridge 400 is formed of a cartridge 402 (also referred to as a "first body" and a "first cartridge") and a cartridge 404 (also referred to as a "second body" and a "second cartridge"). The cartridge 402 forms a first half of the sensor cartridge 400, and the cartridge 404 forms a second half of the sensor cartridge 400.

[0102] Each box body 402, 404 includes a side panel 410, a front panel 420, a rear panel 425, an upper panel 430, and a bottom panel 440. The side panels 410 of the box bodies 402, 404 are combined to form the side panels 410 of the sensor box 400. The front panels 420 of the box bodies 402, 404 are combined to form the front panel 420 of the sensor box 400. The rear panels 425 of the box bodies 402, 404 are combined to form the rear panel 425 of the sensor box 400. The upper panels 430 of the box bodies 402, 404 are combined to form the upper panel 430 of the sensor box 400. The bottom panels 440 of the box bodies 402, 404 are combined to form the bottom panel 440 of the sensor box 400. Additionally, the upper surface 435 and the front edge 436 of the box bodies 402, 404 are combined to form the upper surface 435 and the front edge 436 of the sensor box 400, respectively. Each of the boxes 402, 404 includes a portion of the wall 460, the sensor 470, and the sensor 480. For example, each of the boxes 402, 404 includes half of the wall 460, the sensor 470, and the sensor 480.

[0103] like Fig.12 As shown, the sensor cartridge 400 includes a latch assembly 490 configured to couple cartridges 402, 404 together to form the sensor cartridge 400. The latch assembly 490 includes a latch 492 and a slot 494. The latch 492 is securely fastened to one of the cartridges 402, 404. The slot 494 is coupled to the other of the cartridges 402, 404. To couple the cartridges 402, 404 together, the latch 492 is inserted into the slot defined by the slot 494. To decouple the cartridges 402, 404 from each other, the latch 492 is removed from the slot of the slot 494.

[0104] The sensor cartridge 400 is formed of cartridge bodies 402, 404 to enable the freestanding mini golf structure 10 to be installed in a more compact space. For example, when the sensor cartridge 400 is formed of a single body that cannot be separated, an operator will need clearance of at least the length of the sensor cartridge 400 along the side of the body 15 of the freestanding mini golf structure 10 to remove the sensor cartridge 400 from the cartridge chamber 700, for example, for maintenance purposes. Where the sensor cartridge 400 of the illustrated example is formed of cartridge bodies 402, 404 that can be decoupled from one another, the required clearance can be reduced by half. For example, to remove the sensor cartridge 400 from the cartridge chamber 700, the operator can pull one of the cartridge bodies 402, 404 from the cartridge chamber 700; decouple the cartridge bodies 402, 404 from one another; place the first of the cartridge bodies 402, 404 to the side; and then remove the other cartridge body 402, 404 from the cartridge chamber 700.

[0105] Go to Fig.14, further depicting an example deflector tray 500 of the sensor assembly 300. In the example shown, the deflector tray 500 includes opposing side walls 510 and a top plate 520 extending between and connected to the side walls 510. The top plate 520 is angled upward from the rear to the front of the deflector tray 500. The top plate is angled upward to reflect light emitted by the illumination housing 550 ( Fig.15 ) emits light to illuminate one or more of the ball detection channels 450 associated with the target and / or the putt being performed.

[0106] The deflector tray 500 of the illustrated example includes a plurality of deflectors 525. The deflectors 525 are spaced apart from one another and arranged in a side-by-side manner between opposing side walls 510 to at least partially define a ball detection channel 450. The deflectors 525 extend from the rear and toward the front of the deflector tray 500 such that each of the ball detection channels 450 extends perpendicular to the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. Additionally, each of the deflectors 525 includes opposing deflection surfaces 530. For example, each deflector 525 includes a left deflection surface 530 and a right deflection surface 530. The left deflection surface 530 is configured to guide a golf ball into the ball detection channel 450 to the left of the corresponding deflector 525, and the right deflection surface 530 is configured to guide a golf ball into the ball detection channel 450 to the right of the corresponding deflector 525.

[0107] Fig.15 An example lighting housing 550 of the sensor assembly 300 is further depicted. In the example shown, the lighting housing 550 includes a rear panel 555 and a plurality of walls 560. The walls 560 extend forward from the rear panel 555. In the example shown, each of the walls 560 is perpendicular to the rear panel 555. The walls 560 are spaced apart from each other and arranged in a side-by-side manner to define a lighting channel 565 extending forward from the rear panel 555. The lighting housing 550 further includes a plurality of canopy panels 570, wherein each canopy panel 570 extends over a front end of a corresponding one of the lighting channels 565.

[0108] The lighting housing 550 also includes a plurality of lights 575 (e.g., LEDs). Within each lighting channel 565, a corresponding light 575 is coupled to the rear panel 555 and faces forward. Additionally, each lighting channel 565 is configured to be laterally aligned with a corresponding one of the ball detection channels 450. The lights 575 of each lighting channel 565 are configured to illuminate the corresponding ball detection channel 450, for example, to indicate to a player that the ball detection channel 450 corresponds to a target and / or to indicate to the player that they have just putted a golf ball into the ball detection channel 450. Each light 575 is oriented and positioned relative to the canopy panel 570 of the corresponding lighting channel 565 and / or the rear surface of the top cover 520 of the deflector tray 500 to direct light emitted by the lights 575 onto a surface corresponding to the corresponding ball detection channel 450.

[0109] Fig.16 Another example sensor cartridge 600 of the sensor assembly 300 is depicted. For example, the sensor assembly 300 may include the sensor cartridge 600, the deflector tray 500, and the illumination housing 550, wherein the deflector tray 500 is positioned above the sensor cartridge 600 and the illumination housing 550 is positioned behind the deflector tray 500.

[0110] The sensor cartridge 600 includes a sensor 680 (also referred to as a “first sensor”) that is configured to detect a lateral position at which a golf ball passes the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120 . Fig.17 Sensor 680 of sensor cartridge 600 is depicted detecting two golf ball hits that land at different locations on sensor cartridge 600. In the example shown, sensor 680 is a lidar sensor and / or any other sensor capable of detecting the lateral position of a golf ball.

[0111] return Fig.17 , the sensor cartridge 600 includes a body 605. The body 605 includes an upper panel 630 that defines an upper surface 635 along which a golf ball travels (e.g., between the putter surface 120 and the ball return surface 150). In the example shown, the body 605 also includes a plurality of side panels 610, a front panel 620, a rear panel 625, and a bottom panel 640. The front panel 620, the rear panel 625, and the bottom panel 640 extend laterally between two side panels 610. In the example shown, each of the side panels 610, the front panel 620, and the rear panel 625 defines an opening to provide access to one or more components housed below the upper panel 630 of the sensor cartridge 600. Additionally or alternatively, each of the side panels 610, the front panel 620, the rear panel 625, the upper panel 630, and / or the bottom panel 640 can be decoupled from other components of the body 605 to provide access to components housed below the upper panel 630.

[0112] The upper surface 635 includes a front edge 636 and a rear edge. The upper surface 635 is angled downward from the rear edge and to the front edge 636 to guide a golf ball at the front edge 636. For example, as disclosed in more detail below, the front edge 636 of the sensor cartridge 600 is positioned adjacent to and flush with the ball return surface 150. The upper surface 635 is angled downward toward the front edge 636 to guide a golf ball from the upper surface 635 of the sensor cartridge 600 onto the ball return surface 150.

[0113] In some examples, the sensor cartridge 600 includes one or more second sensors configured to further detect when a golf ball passes over the front edge 636 of the sensor cartridge 600. The second sensor can be positioned near the front edge 636 to detect when a golf ball passes over the front edge 636. The second sensor can include a proximity sensor, a contactless proximity sensor, a photoelectric beam sensor, etc. As disclosed in more detail below, the time when a golf ball passes over the front edge 636 is used to control when the ball dispensing assembly 800 dispenses another golf ball for a subsequent shot.

[0114] The bottom panel 640 defines one or more grooves 615 extending laterally along the bottom panel 640. Figure 20 to Figure 21 Disclosed in greater detail, each of the recesses 615 is configured to receive a respective roller conveyor 720 , 730 of a cartridge chamber 700 in which the sensor cartridge 600 is housed to facilitate insertion and removal of the sensor cartridge into and from the cartridge chamber 700 , respectively.

[0115] In some examples, the sensor cartridge 600 is formed of a plurality of cartridges coupled together. In the illustrated example, the sensor cartridge 600 is formed of a cartridge 602 (also referred to as a "first body" and a "first cartridge") and a cartridge 604 (also referred to as a "second body" and a "second cartridge"). The cartridge 602 forms a first half of the sensor cartridge 600, and the cartridge 604 forms a second half of the sensor cartridge 600.

[0116] Each box body 602, 604 includes a side panel 610, a front panel 620, a rear panel 625, an upper panel 630, and a bottom panel 640. The side panels 610 of the box bodies 602, 604 are combined to form the side panels 610 of the sensor box 600. The front panels 620 of the box bodies 602, 604 are combined to form the front panel 620 of the sensor box 600. The rear panels 625 of the box bodies 602, 604 are combined to form the rear panel 625 of the sensor box 600. The upper panels 630 of the box bodies 602, 604 are combined to form the upper panel 630 of the sensor box 600. The bottom panels 640 of the box bodies 602, 604 are combined to form the bottom panel 640 of the sensor box 600. Additionally, the upper surface 635 and the front edge 636 of the box bodies 602, 604 are combined to form the upper surface 635 and the front edge 636 of the sensor box 600, respectively. In the example shown, the sensor 680 is coupled to the cassette 604. In other examples, the sensor 680 is coupled to the cassette 602. Furthermore, in other examples, each cassette 602, 604 can include a corresponding sensor 680 configured to monitor the upper surface 635 of the corresponding cassette 602, 604.

[0117] Additionally, the sensor cartridge 400 can include a latch assembly configured to couple the cartridges 602, 604 together to form the sensor cartridge 600. In such an example, the latch assembly includes a latch and a slot. The latch is securely fastened to one of the cartridges 602, 604. The slot is coupled to the other of the cartridges 602, 604. To couple the cartridges 602, 604 together, the latch is inserted into a slot defined by the slot. To decouple the cartridges 602, 604 from each other, the latch is removed from the slot of the slot.

[0118] The sensor cartridge 600 is formed of cartridge bodies 602, 604 to enable the freestanding mini golf structure 10 to be installed in a more compact space. For example, when the sensor cartridge 600 is formed of a single body that cannot be separated, an operator will need clearance of at least the length of the sensor cartridge 600 along the side of the body 15 of the freestanding mini golf structure 10 to remove the sensor cartridge 600 from the cartridge chamber 700, for example, for maintenance purposes. Where the sensor cartridge 600 of the illustrated example is formed of cartridge bodies 602, 604 that can be decoupled from one another, the required clearance can be reduced by half. For example, to remove the sensor cartridge 600 from the cartridge chamber 700, the operator can pull one of the cartridge bodies 602, 604 from the cartridge chamber 700; decouple the cartridge bodies 602, 604 from one another; place the first of the cartridge bodies 602, 604 to the side; and then remove the other cartridge body 602, 604 from the cartridge chamber 700.

[0119] Fig.18A freestanding mini golf structure 10 is depicted wherein the access panels 23, 24, 25 are removed from the body 15. The access panel 25 is separated from the body 15 to provide access to the box chamber 700. The body 15 of the freestanding mini golf structure 10 defines the box chamber 700. Fig.19 As shown, the sensor cartridges 400, 600 of the sensor assembly 300 are received in the cartridge chamber 700. The cartridge chamber 700 is located proximate to the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120 and the ball return surface 150 so that the sensor cartridges 400, 600 can be securely received in place near the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120 and the ball return surface 150.

[0120] Go to Fig.21 , the freestanding mini golf structure 10 includes two access panels 25 that are configured to be removed from the body 15 to access the cartridge chamber 700. For example, the two access panels 25 are configured to be located on opposite ends of the cartridge chamber 700. One access panel 25 is configured to be located on the left side of the body 15, and the other access panel 25 is configured to be located on the right side of the body 15. In the example shown, the access panel 25 on the left side remains coupled to the body 15, and the access panel 25 on the right side has been removed to provide access to the cartridge chamber 700.

[0121] The sensor cartridge 400, 600 is configured to be securely contained within the cartridge chamber 700 during operation of the freestanding mini golf structure 10 and to be removable from the cartridge chamber 700 for maintenance purposes. Fig.19 A cartridge chamber 700 is depicted, wherein the sensor cartridges 400 , 600 are accommodated in the cartridge chamber 700 . Figure 20 to Figure 21 The cartridge chamber 700 is depicted with the sensor cartridge 400 , 600 removed from the cartridge chamber 700 .

[0122] like Figure 20 to Figure 21 As shown, the freestanding mini golf structure 10 includes a bottom plate 710 of a box chamber 700 .

[0123] The freestanding mini golf structure 10 includes one or more roller conveyors 720, 730 extending along the floor 710 of the cartridge chamber 700. The roller conveyors 720, 730 extend along the length of the cartridge chamber 700. In the example shown, the roller conveyors 720, 730 are between two entry points to the cartridge chamber 700. The roller conveyors 720, 730 are configured to facilitate sliding the sensor cartridges 400, 600 into and out of the cartridge chamber 700. The roller conveyors 720 are located proximate to the right entry point to facilitate insertion and removal of the sensor cartridges 400, 600 into and out of the cartridge chamber 700 via the right entry point. The roller conveyors 730 are located proximate to the left entry point to facilitate insertion and removal of the sensor cartridges 400, 600 into and out of the cartridge chamber 700 via the left entry point.

[0124] The freestanding mini golf structure 10 includes one or more stops 740, 750 for the cartridge chamber 700. When the sensor cartridge 400, 600 is placed in the cartridge chamber 700, as shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown, the stop blocks 740, 750 are configured to engage the sensor cartridge 400, 600 to fix the sensor cartridge 400, 600 in place. In the example shown, the stop block 740 is configured to engage the side panel 410, 610 of the sensor cartridge 400, 600, and the side panel 410, 610 is located adjacent to the right entry point. The stop block 760 is configured to engage the side panel 410, 610 of the sensor cartridge 400, 600, and the side panel 410, 610 is located adjacent to the left entry point. In some examples, when the sensor cartridge 400, 600 is in the cartridge chamber 700, the stop blocks 740, 750 are positioned in corresponding cutouts along the bottom plate 710 to keep the stop blocks 740, 750 in place. Additionally or alternatively, the stop blocks 740, 750 can be fixed in place on the bottom plate 710 via fasteners.

[0125] Go to Fig. 22 , depicts an example of a ball dispensing assembly 800. The ball dispensing assembly 800 includes a track 810 along which a golf ball is configured to roll. In the example shown, the track 810 includes and is at least partially formed by two rails extending parallel to each other. In addition, the track includes a curved portion 870. The two rails are proximate to the inlet 805, and the curved portion 870 is proximate to the outlet 875.

[0126] Track 810 extends between inlet 805 and outlet 875 of ball dispensing assembly 800. Figure 7 , inlet 805 is positioned downstream of ball return surface 150, sensor assembly 300, and putter surface 120. Outlet 875 is positioned to dispense golf balls onto tee surface 110. In the example shown, ball dispense assembly 800 includes a ramp 890 extending from outlet 875 onto tee surface 110 to deliver golf balls onto tee surface 110 in a controlled manner.

[0127] return Fig. 22 , the ball dispensing assembly 800 includes a frame 820 proximate to at least a portion of the track 810. The ball dispensing assembly 800 also includes an actuator 835 and a pivot arm 860. Figure 23 to Figure 24 Portions of the frame 820, actuator 835, and pivot arm 860 are further shown. Other portions of the ball dispensing assembly 800 are not shown. Figure 23 to Figure 24 835 , and pivot arm 860 to more clearly depict the features of frame 820 , actuator 835 , and pivot arm 860 .

[0128] like Fig.24 As shown, the frame 820 includes a side portion 822 and a lower portion 824 extending laterally from the side portion 822 and below the guide rail of the track 810. The frame 820 also includes support flanges 826, 828. The sensor 880 ( Fig. 22 ) is configured to be mounted to support flange 826. Side portion 822 also defines an opening 825 that enables sensor 880 to detect when ball dispensing assembly 800 has received one of the golf balls. Bracket 830 is configured to be mounted to support flange 828. Actuator body 840 is coupled to bracket 830, and bracket 830 is coupled to support flange 828 to mount actuator 835 to frame 820.

[0129] Go to Fig.23 , the actuator 835 includes an actuator body 840 and an actuator arm 845 extending from the actuator body 840. The actuator body 840 is mounted to the frame 820. The actuator arm 845 is configured to actuate between an extended position and a retracted position. In the example shown, the actuator 835 is a solenoid. In other examples, the actuator can be any other type of actuating device capable of controlling the operation of the ball dispensing assembly 800.

[0130] The pivot arm 860 is operably connected to the actuator arm 845. The pivot arm 860 is configured to transition between a closed position and an open position. The pivot arm 860 is configured to be in its closed position when the actuator arm 845 is in its extended position, and the pivot arm 860 is configured to be in its open position when the actuator arm is in its retracted position. Figure 25 to Figure 28 Disclosed in greater detail, pivot arm 860 is configured to block golf balls from being dispensed by ball dispensing assembly 800 when pivot arm 860 is in its closed position. Pivot arm 860 is configured to allow golf balls to be dispensed by ball dispensing assembly 800 when pivot arm 860 is in its open position.

[0131] The pivot arm 860 is pivotally mounted to the frame 820 to rotate between its open position and its closed position. In the example shown, the pivot arm 860 is pivotally mounted to the frame 820 via a pin 864 and a bracket 830. The pivot arm 860 also includes a proximal end 862 and a distal end 866. The proximal end 862 is hingedly coupled to the actuator arm 845 so that the pivot arm 845 pivots about the pin 864 when the actuator arm 860 transitions between its extended position and its retracted position. The distal end 866 is configured to engage one of the golf balls when the pivot arm 860 is in its closed position, and is configured to decouple from the golf ball when the pivot arm 860 is in its open position.

[0132] Figure 25 to Figure 28 Depicts the sequence in which the ball dispensing assembly 800 dispenses golf balls onto the tee surface 110 ( Figures 1 to 3 ). Initially, if Fig.25 As shown, the actuator arm 845 of the actuator 835 is in its extended position to position the pivot arm 860 in its closed position. The distal end 866 of the pivot arm 860 engages the guide golf ball to hold the two golf balls along the track 810. Fig.26 , the actuator arm 845 has been actuated to its retracted position to maintain the pivot arm 860 in its open position. The distal end 866 of the pivot arm 860 is released from the leading golf ball to allow the golf ball to roll further along the track 810 toward the outlet 875. Fig. 27 In the embodiment, the actuator arm 845 is maintained in its retracted position to maintain the pivot arm 860 in its open position. This allows the golf ball to be guided along the track 810 and subsequently delivered onto the tee surface 110. Fig.28 In the embodiment of the present invention, the actuator arm 845 has been actuated back to its extended position to return the pivot arm 860 to its closed position. The distal end 866 of the pivot arm 860 engages the remaining golf ball to temporarily prevent it from being dispensed onto the tee surface 110.

[0133] Briefly return to Fig. 22 , the ball dispensing assembly 800 includes one or more sensors 880, 885. Sensor 880 (also referred to as a "first sensor" and a "ball receiving sensor") is positioned toward the inlet 805 and is configured to detect when the ball dispensing assembly 800 has received a golf ball from the ball return surface 150. Sensor 885 (also referred to as a "second sensor" and a "ball release sensor") is positioned toward the outlet 875 and is configured to detect when the ball dispensing assembly 800 has dispensed a golf ball onto the tee surface 110. In the example shown, each of the sensors 880, 885 is a fork-shaped sensor. In other examples, the sensor 880 and / or the sensor 885 may be any other sensor capable of detecting the respective receipt and dispensing of a golf ball.

[0134] Go to Fig.29 , depicts a block diagram of the electronic components 900 of the freestanding mini golf structure 10. In the example shown, the electronic components 900 include one or more processors 905, memory 910, input devices, output devices, and a communication module 970.

[0135] The processor 905 can be any suitable processing device or a group of processing devices, such as but not limited to a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integrated circuit, etc. The memory 910 may include one or more of a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a read-only memory, etc. In some examples, the memory 910 may include a combination of multiple memories (such as volatile memory and non-volatile memory). The memory 910 is a computer-readable medium on which one or more groups of instructions, such as software for operating the method of the present disclosure, can be embedded. The instruction may embody one or more methods or logics in the method or logic of this article. For example, during the execution of the instruction, the instruction resides completely or at least partially in any one or more of the memory 910, the computer-readable medium, and / or the processor 905.

[0136] The terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. In addition, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include media that can store, encode, or carry a set of instructions for execution by a processor or causing a system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein. As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" is expressly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or storage disk, and excludes propagating signals.

[0137] The communication module 970 is configured to implement wired or wireless communication with other electronic devices. As used herein, the term "module" refers to hardware having circuits configured to perform one or more functions. A "module" may also include firmware that is executed on the circuit to enable the execution of one or more functions.

[0138] The communication module 970 includes a wired or wireless network interface to enable communication with a network and / or computing device. The communication module 970 also includes hardware (e.g., a processor, memory, storage device, antenna, etc.) and software to control the wired or wireless network interface. For example, the communication module 970 includes a In such an example, the communication module 970 can be paired with another nearby computing device. Additionally or alternatively, the communication module 970 includes hardware, software, and network interfaces to communicate via a cellular network (such as Long Term Evolution (LTE)), a wireless local area network (WLAN) (such as ) for wireless communication, etc.

[0139] For example, the communication module 970 can be configured to communicate with a player's mobile device (e.g., smart phone, smart watch, tablet, etc.) via a WPAN or WLAN to receive user selections from the player. The communication module 970 can be configured to communicate with a mobile device, an operator, and / or a remote server to receive updates for one or more games.

[0140] The input devices of the freestanding mini golf structure 10 include the user interface 250 and the card reader 260 of the check-in station 70. In some examples, the user interface 250 of the check-in station 70 is a touch screen and / or other device that operates as both an input device and an output device. Additionally or alternatively, other input devices of the electronic component 900 may also operate output devices.

[0141] The input device 900 of the electronic components also includes one or more shot sensors 920. The shot sensors 920 are configured to detect the lateral position at which the golf ball has been putted by the player. Example shot sensors 920 include sensor 470 of sensor cartridge 400 and sensor 680 of sensor cartridge 600. The shot sensors 920 may also include sensors configured to detect when a golf ball has rolled off of sensor cartridges 400, 600, such as sensor 480.

[0142] Other example input devices 900 of the electronic components include a sensor 880 configured to detect when the ball dispensing assembly 800 has received a golf ball, a sensor 885 configured to detect when the ball dispensing assembly 800 has released a golf ball for dispensing, a camera 290 mounted to a rear portion of the body 15, and / or a clock 930. The clock 930 may be used to monitor how long a party has occupied the freestanding mini golf structure 10. Additionally or alternatively, the clock 930 may be used to determine when a golf ball is released from the ball dispensing assembly 800 after the golf ball has rolled off the sensor pod 400, 600.

[0143] The electronics 900 of the freestanding miniature golf structure 10 also include a plurality of output devices. The output devices include a digital display screen 200 configured to display a plurality of interfaces for available games for the freestanding miniature golf structure 10. As discussed in further detail below, the digital display screen 200 is configured to display a game interface that includes targets, hazards, digital channels aligned with ball detection channels (e.g., Figure 30 to Figure 31 2010), status bar (for example, Fig.30 and Fig.32 status bar 2050), animations, and / or other information associated with the game being played.

[0144] In the example shown, the output device also includes one or more speakers 940 configured to provide audible signals to the player, a light 950, and a controller 960. The light 950 includes a lighting device mounted to the rear portion of the body 15, the light 575 of the sensor assembly 300, and / or other light sources. The controller 960 is configured to control the actuation of the actuator arm 245 of the actuator 235. The controller 960 may include a processor and / or a memory and is configured to control the actuation of the actuator arm 245 based on a control signal received by the processor 905.

[0145] The processor 905 is configured to control the operation of the freestanding mini golf structure 10, for example, based on instructions stored in the memory 910. For example, the memory 910 is configured to store instructions for each game that can be played on the freestanding mini golf structure 10. In some examples, the instructions 910 stored in the memory enable one or more of the games to be played by a range of numbers of players and / or a plurality of different game plays. For example, the instructions enable a game to be played by 2 to 6 players based on a user selection. The instructions enable a game to be played in an individual game or a team game based on a user selection. For an individual game, each player competes against other players in a group. In a team game, two or more players are grouped together to compete against other teams in a party.

[0146] The processor 905 is configured to send a command signal to the digital display screen 200 to display the interface of the game based on the instructions stored in the memory 910. For example, the digital display screen 200 is configured to display one or more putting targets and / or one or more obstacles based on the instructions sent by the processor 905. The processor 905 is configured to select a lateral position, width, and point value for each of the putting targets and / or obstacles displayed by the digital display screen 200 based on the instructions stored in the memory 910. In some examples, the processor 905 is configured to randomly select the lateral position, width, and point value of each putting target and / or obstacle. As disclosed in more detail below, the processor 905 can be configured to change the putting target and / or obstacle for each shot in the game displayed by the digital display screen 200, for example, to keep repeat players enjoying entertainment over time.

[0147] In some examples, the digital display screen 200 is configured to present digital lanes in the background of each interface of the game based on instructions received by the processor 905. Fig.30 An example interface 2000 is depicted with such a background. Fig.30In the example, the background includes a plurality of digital channels 2010 vertically aligned with predefined lateral positions along the rear end 125 of the putting surface 120. The digital channels 2010 are configured to facilitate a player to putt a golf ball in a direction toward a putting target displayed on a portion of one or more of the digital channels 2010 in the background. Fig.31 As shown, each of the digital channels 2010 is vertically aligned with a corresponding ball detection channel 450 of the sensor box 400 of the sensor assembly 300 to further facilitate the player to putt the golf ball in the direction toward the putting target. For example, if the putting target is laterally located in the third digital lane from the left edge 2010, the player will be able to easily identify that they should putt the golf ball in the third ball detection channel 450 from the left.

[0148] Briefly return to Fig.30 The digital display screen 200 is configured to display a status bar at the top of each interface of the game based on the instructions received by the processor 905. Fig.32 As shown, the status bar 2050 is configured to identify the names of the players of the ongoing game, the current round of the ongoing game, the current shot in the current round, the number of players, the names of each player, the current score of each player, which player is currently putting, and the game play mode of the game (e.g., individual mode or team mode). The processor 905 is configured to send instructions that cause the digital display screen 200 to update the status bar 2050 in real time while the game is being played.

[0149] Additionally, the processor 905 is configured to detect when the player completes a putt based on data collected by one or more of the sensors 470, 480, 680 of the sensor assembly 300. For each putt, the processor 905 is configured to detect, via the sensors 470, 680, the lateral position at which the golf ball passes the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. For example, the processor 905 is configured to identify, via the sensor 470, which of the ball detection channels 450 the golf ball has been struck into.

[0150] The processor 905 is then configured to determine whether the lateral position of the putter of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any of the putting targets and / or obstacles presented to the player via the digital display screen 200. The processor 905 is configured to generate a score for the shot based on the lateral position of the putter relative to the lateral position of each of the putting targets and / or obstacles. For example, if the lateral position of the putter is aligned with the lateral position of the putting target, the processor 905 assigns a predefined point value to the corresponding player. If the lateral position of the putter is aligned with the lateral position of the obstacle, the processor 905 deducts the predefined point value from the corresponding player.

[0151] After a stroke has been detected, the processor 905 is configured to control the operation of the ball dispensing assembly 800. For example, the processor 905 is configured to instruct the ball dispensing assembly 800 to release another golf ball onto the tee surface 110 a predefined time after the sensor 480, 680 has detected that the putted golf ball has passed the front edge 436, 636 of the sensor housing 400, 600 and rolled onto the ball return surface 150. The memory 910 is configured to store a respective predefined time for each game that can be played on the freestanding miniature golf structure 10. In some examples, the predefined time is relatively short for games that are intended to be played quickly. In other examples, the predefined time is relatively long for games that can be played at a slower pace.

[0152] Fig.33 is a flow chart of an example method 1000 for conducting a session for a small group of players using a freestanding miniature golf structure 10 . Fig.33 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs that are executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905 of the embodiment of the present invention, the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to play one or more games for a small group of players. Fig.33 The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1000. In addition, because method 1000 is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0153] Initially, at block 1010, the processor 905 identifies the number of players in a party. For example, the user interface 250 of the check-in station 70 receives a user selection of the number of players from one of the players, and the processor 905 collects the user selected number of players from the user interface 250. At block 1020, the processor 905 identifies the name of each party. For example, the user interface 250 receives a user selection of the names of the players, and the processor 905 collects the user selected names from the user interface 250. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 905 identifies, via the user selections collected by the user interface 250, whether any of the players have a medical condition or disability to enter another gaming mode (e.g., "ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mode"), in which the order in which one or more games can be played is altered to facilitate participation by these players.

[0154] At block 1030, the processor 905 identifies the game to be played by the players of the party. In some examples, the processor 905 randomly selects the game to be played from a plurality of games uploaded to the freestanding mini golf structure 10 (e.g., by executing instructions stored in the memory 910). In other examples, the user interface 250 receives a user selection of a game from one of the players, and the processor 905 collects the user-selected game from the user interface 250. At block 1040, the processor 905 identifies the gameplay of the selected game. For example, the selected game can be played in an individual mode or a team mode. In some examples, the processor 905 automatically selects the gameplay of the selected game based on the number of players selected by the user. For example, if there are two players in the party, the processor 905 automatically selects the individual mode for the selected game. In other examples, the gameplay is user-selected. For example, the user interface 250 receives a user selection from one of the players, and the processor 905 collects the user selection from the user interface 250.

[0155] At block 1050, processor 905 plays the selected game based on instructions stored in memory 910. The method of playing an example game is disclosed in more detail below. For example, Fig.34 Depicting an example method 1050A for playing a first game, Fig.35 Depicting an example method 1050B for playing a second game, Fig.36 Depicting an example method 1050C for playing a third game, FIG. 37A to FIG. 37B Depicting an example method 1050D for playing a fourth game, Fig.38 An example method 1050E for playing a fifth game is depicted, and Fig.39 An example method 1050F of playing a sixth game is depicted.

[0156] At block 1060, the processor 905 determines whether the party wants to play another game in the session. In some examples, the session is time-based, such that the processor 905 determines to play another game if at least a predefined amount of time remains in the session. In some examples, the processor 905 determines whether to play another game based on a user selection received by the user interface 250. In response to the processor 905 determining to play another game, the method 1000 returns to block 1030 to play the game. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining not to play another game, the method 1000 proceeds to block 1060.

[0157] At block 1070, processor 905 determines the total score for each player and / or team in the party. A display such as digital display screen 200 displays the total score to the party. Additionally or alternatively, the processor determines and the display displays the winning player and / or team of the session.

[0158] Fig.34 is used to play the first game (also called "Pinpoint" and "Pinpoint Game") to perform Fig.33 Flowchart of example method 1050A of block 1050 . Fig.34 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905, the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to play a first game for a group of players. Fig.34 The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the execution order of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1050A. In addition, because method 1050A is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0159] For the first game, the goal is to score as many points as possible by hitting putting targets and avoiding obstacles. The game is divided into multiple rounds (e.g., 3 rounds, 4 rounds, etc.). In each round, the players in the party take turns hitting a predefined number of shots (e.g., 3 shots). In some examples, when a party has identified that it includes players with a medical condition or disability, each player will putt in sequence (e.g., in "ADA mode") to reduce the number of times each player is required to enter and exit the tee surface 110.

[0160] For each shot, different targets and / or obstacles are displayed via the digital display screen 200. For example, the processor 905 can generate an interface for the game to include a primary target, a secondary target, a tertiary target, an obstacle, etc. If the lateral position of the golf ball being putted is vertically aligned with the primary putting target, the first point value associated with the primary putting target is awarded to the player. Similarly, if the lateral position of the golf ball being putted is vertically aligned with the second putting target or the third putting target, the second point value associated with the second putting target or the third point value associated with the third putting target is awarded to the player, respectively. Conversely, if the lateral position of the golf shot is vertically aligned with an obstacle, the obstacle point value associated with the obstacle is deducted from the player's total point value.

[0161] The position, width and / or point value of the target and / or obstacle may change due to each shot. For example, the processor 905 changes the position, width and / or point value of the target and / or obstacle based on the instruction stored in the memory 910. In some examples, the position, width and / or point value of each target and / or obstacle is randomly selected. In some examples, for example, by introducing obstacles, reducing the width of the target and / or increasing the width of the obstacle, each shot of the player becomes gradually more difficult. In some examples, no lateral position can be repeatedly selected as the center point of the main putter target for each player. Additionally or alternatively, the center point of a shot can be no less than a predetermined distance (for example, two ball detection channels 450) from the previous shot.

[0162] Figure 41 to Figure 42 Depicted are example interfaces 2110, 2120 for hitting a ball, and Figure 43 to Figure 46 Depicted are 2130 , 2140 , 2150 , 2160 in example schematic diagrams for respective interfaces.

[0163] return Fig.34 , method 1050A begins at block 1105, where processor 905 determines the number of rounds for the game. For example, processor 905 determines the number of rounds based on the number of players selected by the user. Processor 905 may select fewer rounds for parties with more players and / or more rounds for parties with fewer players. At block 1110, processor 905 determines the number of hits per round in the game. For example, processor 905 determines the number of hits per round based on the number of players selected by the user and / or the number of rounds selected for the game. Processor 905 may select fewer hits per round for games with more rounds and / or parties with more players. Processor 905 may select more hits per round for games with fewer rounds and / or parties with fewer players.

[0164] At block 1115, the processor 905 starts a round of the game. At block 1120, the processor 905 selects one of the players to make the next shot in the round.

[0165] At block 1125, the processor 905 selects a primary putting target for the shot. The primary putting target corresponds to the maximum point value that the player can obtain for the shot. When selecting the primary putting target, the processor 905 selects the lateral position, width, and / or point value of the primary putting target. Figure 41 to Figure 46Each of the diagrams depicts a primary putting target. In some examples, the processor 905 randomly selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value associated with the primary putting target. In each of the interfaces 2110, 2120 and the diagrams 2130, 2140, 2150, 2160, the primary putting target corresponds to the highest value target.

[0166] At block 1130, the processor 905 selects any other putting targets (e.g., secondary targets, tertiary targets, etc.) for the shot. Each of the other putting targets corresponds to a corresponding point value that is less than the point value of the primary putting target. When selecting the other putting targets, the processor 905 selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value for each of the other putting targets. Figure 41 to Figure 46 Each diagram in the figure depicts a secondary putting target, and Fig.42 and Fig.45 Each of the figures depicts a tertiary putting target. In some examples, the other putting targets are selected by the processor 905 to be adjacent to the primary putting target. For example, each secondary putting target is located next to the primary putting target, and each tertiary putting target is located next to the corresponding tertiary putting target. In some examples, the processor 905 randomly selects the lateral position, width, and / or point value associated with the other putting targets.

[0167] At block 1135, the processor 905 selects any obstacles for the shot. Each obstacle in the obstacles corresponds to a corresponding negative point value. When selecting obstacles, the processor 905 selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value for each obstacle in the obstacles. Fig.42 as well as Figures 44 to 46 Each of the figures in FIG. 9 depicts an obstacle. In some examples, the obstacles are selected by processor 905 to be adjacent to the putting target. For example, each obstacle is located adjacent to the primary putting target, the corresponding secondary putting target ( Fig.44 and Fig.46 ) or the third putting target ( Fig.42 and Fig.45 In some examples, processor 905 randomly selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value associated with an obstacle.

[0168] At block 1900, processor 905 detects the player's shots and scores them. Fig.40 An example method 1900 for detecting and scoring a player's shots is disclosed in greater detail. At block 1140, the processor 905 updates the total score of the player and / or the player's team based on the most recently completed shot. For example, if the shot corresponds to a putting target, the processor 905 adds to the total score, or if the shot corresponds to an obstacle, subtracts from the total score.

[0169] At block 1145, the processor 905 determines whether there is another shot for the current player in the current round. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another shot, the method 1050A returns to block 1125 to make another shot for the current player. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is not another shot, the method 1050A proceeds to block 1150.

[0170] At block 1150, the processor 905 determines whether there is another player to putt in the current round. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another player in the current round, the method 1050A returns to block 1120 to make one or more strokes for the other player. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no other player in the current round, the method 1050A proceeds to block 1155.

[0171] At block 1155, the processor 905 determines whether there is another round to be played for the game. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another round, the method 1050A returns to block 1115 to play another round. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no another round, the method 1050A proceeds to block 1160, where the processor 905 determines the total score and / or winning player and / or team of the game. Additionally, the digital display screen 200 displays the total score and / or winning player and / or team. Upon completion of block 1160, the method 1050A ends.

[0172] Fig.35 is used to play the second game (also called "Survival" and "Survival Game") to perform Fig.33 Flowchart of example method 1050B of block 1050 . Fig.35 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905, the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to play a second game for a group of players. Fig.35 The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the execution order of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1050B. In addition, because method 1050B is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0173] For the second game, the goal is to survive each round. The game is divided into multiple rounds (e.g., 6 rounds, 8 rounds, etc.). Each player will putt once per round. Each player starts with a predefined number of lives (e.g., 2, 3, 4, etc.) at the beginning of the game (also referred to as "chances"). That is, the processor 905 is configured to allocate a predetermined number of lives to each player at the beginning of the game based on instructions stored in the memory 910. Each player will perform a shot per round. In some examples, when a party has identified that it includes players with a health condition or disability, each player will continuously putt all of their shots (e.g., in "ADA mode") to reduce the number of times each player is required to enter and exit the tee surface 110.

[0174] For each shot, a target is displayed via the digital display screen 200. If the lateral position of the shot matches the lateral position of the target, a predetermined point value is assigned to the player. If the player does not hit the target (e.g., the lateral position of the shot does not match the lateral position of the target), no point value is assigned to the player, and one life is eliminated from the player. If the player has no lives remaining, the player is eliminated from the game. If the player survives all rounds of the game, bonus points are awarded to the player.

[0175] The location and / or width of each round and / or shot varies. In some examples, the location and / or width of the target is randomly selected. In some examples, each subsequent round becomes progressively more difficult, for example, by reducing the width of the target for each subsequent shot. In some examples, no lateral position may be repeatedly selected as the center point of the target for each player. Additionally or alternatively, the center point of a shot may be no closer than a predetermined distance (e.g., two ball detection channels 450) from a previous shot.

[0176] Fig.47 An example interface 2210 depicting a shot of a game, and Figures 48 to 51 2220, 2230, 2240, 2250 in the example schematic diagram depicting various interfaces of the game.

[0177] return Fig.35 , method 1050B begins with processor 905 identifying the maximum number of rounds to be played in the game. At block 1205, processor 905 starts a round of the game. At block 1210, processor 905 selects one of the players for the next shot in the round.

[0178] At block 1215, the processor 905 selects a putting target for the shot. In selecting a putting target, the processor 905 selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value for the primary putting target. Figures 47 to 51Each of the figures in the Figures depicts an example putting target. In some examples, the processor 905 randomly selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value associated with a primary putting target. Additionally, in some examples, the processor 905 reduces the width of each subsequent shot to increase difficulty for the player over time.

[0179] At block 1900, processor 905 detects the player's shots and scores them. Fig.40 An example method 1900 for detecting and scoring a player's shots is disclosed in greater detail. At block 1220, the processor 905 updates the total score of the player and / or the player's team based on the most recently completed shot. For example, if the shot corresponds to a putting target, the processor 905 adds (a score) to the total score, or if the shot corresponds to an obstacle, subtracts (a score) from the total score. At block 1225, the processor 905 determines whether the player's putt missed the putting target.

[0180] In response to the processor 905 determining that the putt target was not hit, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1230, where the processor 905 deducts one life from the player's remaining lives. At block 1235, the processor 905 determines whether the current player has any lives remaining. In response to the processor 905 determining that the current player does not have any lives remaining, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1240, where the processor 905 eliminates the player from the game. Upon completion of block 1240, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1245. Returning to block 1235, in response to the processor 905 determining that the current player has at least one life remaining, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1245.

[0181] At block 1245, the processor 905 determines whether there is another player in the current round of the game. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another player in the current round, the method 1050B returns to block 1210 to perform the other player's shot. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no other player in the current round, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1250.

[0182] At block 1250, the processor 905 determines whether there is another round to be played for the game. For example, if the preselected maximum number of rounds has been completed, the processor 905 recognizes that there are no more rounds to be played. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is a round to be played, the method 1050B returns to block 1205 to start another round. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is not another round to be played, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1255.

[0183] At block 1255, the processor 905 determines whether there are any players with at least one life remaining after the last round has been completed. In response to the processor determining that there are no remaining players, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1260, where the processor 905 determines the total score and / or winning player and / or team of the game. Additionally, the digital display screen 200 displays the total score and / or winning player and / or team. Returning to block 1255, in response to the processor determining that there are remaining players, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1265, where the processor 905 awards a predetermined bonus point value to each remaining player. Upon completion of block 1265, the method 1050B proceeds to block 1260. Upon completion of block 1260, the method 1050B ends.

[0184] Fig.36 is used to play the third game (also called "Tug-of-War" and "Tug-of-War") to perform Fig.33 Flowchart of example method 1050C of block 1050. Fig.36 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905), the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to play a third game for a group of players. Fig.36 The flowchart shown describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1050C. In addition, because method 1050C is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0185] For the third game, the goal is to make the center line of a set of putt targets cross the finish line. The game is played by two or more players / teams. Each player / team includes one player or a team of players for individual mode or team mode, respectively. The game is played through a series of matches. If there are two participating players / teams, the two players / teams play against each other in each match. If there are more than two participating players / teams, the players / teams participating in each match are rotated, for example, in a round-robin manner.

[0186] For each game, several rounds of hitting are completed until one of the players / teams reaches the respective finish line to complete the game. For each round, one player of each player / team hits the ball. For each shot, the center line and a set of putting targets are displayed via the digital display screen 200. Each player / team has a set of putting targets dedicated to it. The putting targets of one player / team are located on one side of the center line, and the putting targets of the other player / team are located on the other side of the center line.

[0187] Figure 52 to Figure 57 Depicted are corresponding example interfaces 2310, 2320, 2330, 2340, 2350, 2360 depicting a game of the game. For example, Fig.52 Depicting the start of the game, Fig.57 depicts the end of the game, and Figure 53 to Figure 56 Portions of the game in between are depicted. In the example interface, three objectives are assigned to each player / team, where a primary objective extends from a centerline, a secondary objective extends from the primary objective, and a tertiary objective extends from the secondary objective. Primary objectives are more valuable than secondary objectives, and secondary objectives are more valuable than tertiary objectives. In other examples, each set of objectives may include more or fewer objectives and / or the objectives may be arranged in another manner.

[0188] If a player hits one of their targets with a shot, the center line and target are moved laterally in the direction toward their finish line. In addition, the player is awarded a corresponding point value. Conversely, if a player hits another player / team's target, the center line and target are moved laterally in the direction toward the finish line of the other player / team. In addition, the player is deducted a corresponding point value. In some examples, the lateral distance of the shift is constant for each target. In other examples, the lateral distance of the shift depends on which target is hit. For example, hitting a primary target results in a greater shift than hitting a secondary target, and hitting a secondary target results in a greater shift than hitting a tertiary target. Each game is played until the center line crosses the finish line of one of the teams / players.

[0189] return Fig.35 , method 1050C starts at block 1305, where processor 905 identifies the match number of the game. At block 1310, processor 905 starts the next match of the game. At block 1315, processor 905 starts the next round of the current match.

[0190] At block 1320, the processor 905 determines the location of the centerline and each putt target. For example, the targets include a left target to the left of the centerline and a right target to the right of the centerline. In some examples, the left target and the right target are adjacent to each other and / or mirrored relative to each other. At block 1325, the processor 905 selects a player for the next shot. At block 1900, the processor 905 detects the player's shot and scores it. Fig.40 An example method 1900 for detecting and scoring a player's shots is disclosed in greater detail.

[0191] At frame 1330, processor 905 updates the total score of the player and / or the player's team based on the most recently completed shot. For example, if the shot is aligned vertically with the putter target, processor 905 adds (score) to the total score. At frame 1335, if the shot is aligned vertically with one of the putter targets, processor 905 moves the position of the centerline and the putter target laterally on the game interface. For example, processor 905 moves the position of the centerline and the putter target laterally by a predefined amount or amplitude and the predefined direction specified for hitting the putter target. Processor 905 moves the centerline and the target to the right in response to determining that the shot is aligned vertically with one of the right side targets, and / or moves the centerline and the target to the left in response to determining that the shot is aligned vertically with one of the left side targets. At frame 1340, processor 905 determines whether the centerline has reached any one of the finish line (i.e., right finish line or left finish line).

[0192] In response to the processor 905 determining that the center line has not reached the finish line, the method 1050C proceeds to block 1345. At block 1345, the processor 905 determines whether there is another player to hit the ball for this round. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another player for this round, the method 1050C returns to block 1325. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no other player for this round, the method 1050C returns to block 1315 to start another round of the current game.

[0193] Returning to block 1340, in response to the processor 905 determining that the center line has reached the finish line, the method 1050C proceeds to block 1345 where the processor 905 awards a predetermined point value to the winning team and / or player.

[0194] At block 1355, the processor 905 determines whether there is another match for the game. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another match, the method 1050C returns to block 1310 to start the next match. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no another match, the method 1050C proceeds to block 1360, where the processor 905 determines the total score and / or winning player and / or team for the game. Additionally, the digital display screen 200 displays the total score and / or winning player and / or team. Upon completion of block 1360, the method 1050C ends.

[0195] FIG. 37A to FIG. 37B is used to play the fourth game (also called "Sitting Duck" and "Target Game") to perform Fig.33 Flowchart of example method 1050D of block 1050. FIG. 37A to FIG. 37B The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905), the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to conduct a fourth game for a group of players. FIG. 37A to FIG. 37B The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the execution order of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1050D. In addition, because method 1050D is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0196] For the fourth game, the goal is to get as many points as possible within a predefined duration (e.g., 1 minute). Each player hits the ball as much as possible within their respective duration. That is, the processor enables the player to fire an unlimited number of hits within the predefined duration. When the processor 905 detects a hit via the sensor, the ball distribution assembly 800 quickly distributes another ball to enable the player to quickly make another hit.

[0197] The game interface displayed via the digital display screen 200 includes moving targets arranged in one or more rows. Figure 58 to Figure 61In each of the corresponding example interfaces 2410, 2420, 2430, 2440, there are three rows of targets, wherein each row has a different order than the other rows, and its moving targets and / or obstacles move along the order interface. That is, one or more rows may include obstacles. The order of the first row (e.g., the bottom row) includes a mixture of 5-point targets, 10-point targets, and 5-point obstacles. The order of the second row (e.g., the middle row) includes a mixture of 15-point targets, 20-point targets, and 10-point obstacles. The order of the third row (e.g., the upper row) includes a mixture of 25-point targets, 50-point targets, and 15-point obstacles. The rows can move in different directions and / or at different speeds. In the example shown, the targets and obstacles of the first and third rows move to the right, and the targets and obstacles of the second row move to the left. The moving targets and obstacles of the second row move faster than the first row, and the moving targets and obstacles of the third row move faster than the second row. That is, for each row, the processor 905 selects a series of point values, travel directions, and travel speeds for the corresponding moving objects and / or obstacles.

[0198] In some cases, two or more moving targets and / or obstacles may be in the same lateral position as the detected shot (e.g., may be vertically aligned with each other). In such a case, the lowest target aligned with the shot is selected as the "hit" target. In turn, targets in higher rows are more valuable, but more difficult to hit.

[0199] return Fig.37A , method 1050D begins at block 1405, where processor 905 selects the next player to play the game. At block 1410, processor 905 selects a corresponding order for each row of moving objects. Figure 58 to Figure 61 In the example shown, there are three rows of objects, wherein each row has a different order of moving objects and / or obstacles compared to the other rows. The processor 905 has selected the order for the first row (e.g., the bottom row), the second row (e.g., the middle row), and the third row (e.g., the top row). In addition, the processor 905 selects the corresponding direction and travel speed of each row of moving objects.

[0200] At block 1415, ball dispensing assembly 800 dispenses another golf ball onto tee surface 110 for the current player's next shot based on instructions from processor 905. At block 1420, processor 905 generates and digital display screen 200 displays an interface with rows of moving targets and / or obstacles.

[0201] At block 1425, the processor 905 determines whether the current player has completed the stroke. For example, the processor 905 determines that the player has completed the stroke in response to any sensor 470, 480, 680 detecting the presence of a golf ball on the sensor assembly 300. In response to the processor 905 determining that the player has not completed the stroke, the method 1050D proceeds to block 1430.

[0202] At block 1430, the processor 905 determines whether any of the rows has reached its last target and / or obstacle in the corresponding previously selected order. In response to the processor 905 determining that no row has reached its last corresponding target and / or obstacle, the method 1050D returns to block 1420 to continue generating and displaying the interface of the game. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that one or more of the rows has reached its last corresponding target and / or obstacle, the method 1050D proceeds to block 1435, where the processor 905 reselects a new corresponding order for the row and / or each row that has reached its last target. Upon completion of block 1435, the method 1050D returns to block 1420.

[0203] Returning to block 1425, in response to processor 905 determining that the player has completed the stroke, method 1050D proceeds to Fig.37B Frame 1440.

[0204] At block 1440, the processor 905 determines whether the shot detected at block 1435 is the first shot of the current player. In response to the processor 905 determining that the most recently detected shot is not the first shot of the current player, the method 1050D proceeds to block 1450. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that the detected shot is the first shot of the current player, the method 1050D proceeds to block 1445, where the processor 905 starts a timer for the current player for a predefined duration. Upon completion of block 1445, the method 1050D proceeds to block 1450.

[0205] At block 1450, the processor 905 detects the lateral position of the golf ball struck by the player. In some examples, the processor 905 detects the lateral position by identifying which ball detection channel 450 the golf ball has traveled through while passing through the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. In examples where the sensor assembly 300 includes a sensor cartridge 400, the processor 905 determines the lateral position of the shot by (1) identifying which sensors 470 detected the presence of the golf ball and (2) then identifying which ball detection channels 450 correspond to those sensors 470. In examples where the sensor assembly 300 includes a sensor cartridge 600, the processor 905 determines the lateral position of the shot based on the detected lateral distance between the sensor 680 and the golf ball.

[0206] At box 1455, processor 905 determines the position of the mobile target at the time point when the sensor detects the shot. At box 1460, processor 905 determines whether the processor 905 detects the shot position corresponding to the target and / or obstacle. For target games, when the current player's shot is detected, two or more mobile targets and / or obstacles can be in the same lateral position (e.g., can be vertically aligned with each other). Then, the shot position can be aligned with multiple mobile targets and / or obstacles. For example, the shot position can be aligned with the first target of the first row, the second target of the second row, and the third target of the third row. In such an example, processor 905 selects the target and / or obstacle of the row of the lowest position as shown on the game interface as the target and / or obstacle "hit" by the player's shot. In response to processor 905 determining that the shot position does not match the target and / or obstacle (e.g., vertically aligned), method 1050D proceeds to box 1470.

[0207] Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that the shot location does match the target and / or obstacle (e.g., vertically aligned), the method 1050D proceeds to block 1465, where the processor 905 awards points to or deducts points from the user for the shot. For example, in response to the processor 905 determining that the player's shot is aligned with the target, the processor 905 awards the point value associated with the target to the current player. In response to the processor 905 determining that the current player's shot is aligned with the obstacle, the processor 905 deducts the point value associated with the obstacle from the current player's total score.

[0208] In the example where the shot position is aligned with two or more targets and / or obstacles, the processor 905 selects the lowest positioned target and / or obstacle as displayed on the game interface as the target and / or obstacle "hit" by the player's shot, and then awards or deducts the corresponding point value to or from the player. That is, in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf shot is vertically aligned with both the first moving target in the lower row and the second moving target in the upper row, the processor 905 awards the point value associated with the first moving target in the lower row to the current player.

[0209] After completing block 1465, method 1050D proceeds to block 1470 where processor 905 determines whether the predefined duration of the current player's timer has expired. In response to processor 905 determining that the predefined duration of the current player has not expired, method 1050D returns to Fig.37A 1415 for another shot by the current player. Otherwise, in response to processor 905 determining that the predefined duration for the current player has ended, method 1050D proceeds to block 1475.

[0210] At block 1475, the processor 905 determines whether there is another player who wants to putt. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another player, the method 1050D returns to Fig.37A 1405 to select another player. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no other player, the method 1050D proceeds to block 1480, where the processor 905 determines the total score and / or the winning player and / or team of the game. Additionally, the digital display screen 200 displays the total score and / or the winning player and / or team. Upon completion of block 1480, the method 1050D ends.

[0211] Fig.38 is used to play the fifth game (also known as "Blockbreaker" and "Blockbreaker") to perform Fig.33 Flowchart of example method 1050E of block 1050. Fig.38 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905, the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to conduct a fifth game for a group of players. Fig.38 The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1050E. In addition, because method 1050E is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0212] For the fifth game, the goal is to get as many points as possible in multiple rounds. Each player has to putt one or more shots (e.g., 1, 2, 3, etc.) in each round of the game. That is, the processor 905 is configured to perform multiple rounds and perform one or more shots for each of the players in each round of the round. Players are awarded points for hitting targets and are deducted points for hitting hazards.

[0213] like Figure 62 to Figure 65 As shown, the game interface initially includes targets and obstacles arranged in a row. The digital display screen 200 is configured to display the same interface during the duration of the game, wherein the interface is updated each time the ball hits a target or obstacle. Figure 62 to Figure 65 2510, 2520, 2530, 2540 of example screenshots depicting the evolution of a game interface over time.

[0214] Each target and / or obstacle can have the same width (e.g., 2 channels of a 20-channel board). For example, the rows are arranged so that the targets and obstacles form a continuous block at the start of the game. When a shot "hit" a target or obstacle, the target or obstacle will be removed from the interface. Then, the targets and / or obstacles in the higher rows become exposed to be hit by subsequent shots in the game. That is, in response to determining that the shot has hit the target, the processor 905 removes the hit target from the interface for subsequent shots in the game.

[0215] In the illustrated example, the targets and obstacles are arranged so that the longer the game player's time is, the higher the point value becomes available. For example, the first row (e.g., the lowest row) of targets has the lowest point value (e.g., 5 points), the second row (e.g., the second lowest row) has the second lowest point value (e.g., 10 points), etc. That is, based on the instructions stored in the memory 910, the processor 905 assigns different point values ​​to each of the targets in the first row compared to the point value of each target in the second row. Similarly, the point values ​​associated with obstacles increase from the first row to the second row, from the second row to the third row, etc.

[0216] return Fig.38 , method 1050E begins at block 1505, where processor 905 determines the number of rounds for the game. For example, processor 905 determines the number of rounds based on the number of players selected by the user. Processor 905 may select fewer rounds for parties with more players, and / or more rounds for parties with fewer players. At block 1510, processor 905 determines the number of shots per round in the game (e.g., 2, 3, 4, etc.).

[0217] At block 1515, the processor 905 selects targets and / or obstacles for one or more rows. For example, the processor 905 selects a lateral position, width, and / or point value for each of the targets and obstacles. At block 1520, the processor 905 starts a round of the game. At block 1525, the processor 905 selects one of the players to make the next shot in the round.

[0218] At block 1900, processor 905 detects and scores the current player's shots. Fig.40 An example method 1900 for detecting and scoring a player's shots is disclosed in greater detail. Fig.40 Disclosed in greater detail, method 1900 includes, at block 1960, processor 905 detecting whether the shot position corresponds to a target and / or an obstacle. Fig.38In the brick-breaking game, the targets and / or obstacles are stacked together in layers of rows. In turn, the player's hitting position can be aligned with multiple targets and / or obstacles. For example, the hitting position can be aligned with the first target in the first row, the second target in the second row, the third target in the third row, etc. In such an example, the processor 905 selects the lowest positioned target and / or obstacle as displayed on the game interface as the target and / or obstacle "hit" by the player's hitting. That is, in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with both the first target in the lower row and the second target in the higher row, the processor 905 awards the point value associated with the first target in the lower row to the current player.

[0219] At block 1530, the processor 905 identifies whether the current player's shot is detected to have hit a target or obstacle. In response to the processor 905 determining that the current player's shot did not hit a target or obstacle, the method 1050E proceeds to block 1540. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that the current player's shot did hit a target or obstacle, the method 1050E proceeds to block 1535, where the processor removes the hit target or obstacle for subsequent shots in the Blockbuster game. For example, if Figure 63 to Figure 64 As shown, when hit by the ball, a block of 5 dots is removed from the game interface. Fig.65 Depicts the game interface after removing other hit targets and obstacles.

[0220] At block 1540, the processor 905 determines whether there is another shot for the current player in the current round. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another shot, the method 1050E returns to block 1900 to make another shot for the current player. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no another shot for the current player, the method 1050A proceeds to block 1545.

[0221] At block 1545, the processor 905 determines whether there is another player to putt in the current round. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another player in the current round, the method 1050E returns to block 1525 to determine the other player in the current round. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no other player in the current round, the method 1050E proceeds to block 1550.

[0222] At block 1550, the processor 905 determines whether there is another round to be played for the game. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another round, the method 1050E returns to block 1510 to start the next round. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no another round, the method 1050E proceeds to block 1555, where the processor 905 determines the total score and / or winning player and / or team of the game. Additionally, the digital display screen 200 displays the total score and / or winning player and / or team. Upon completion of block 1555, the method 1050E ends.

[0223] Fig.39 is used to play the sixth game (also known as "Oscillator" and "Oscillator Game") to perform Fig.33 Flowchart of example method 1050F of block 1050. Fig.39 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905, the independent miniature golf structure 10 is used to conduct a sixth game for a group of players. Fig.39 The flowchart shown describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1050F. In addition, because method 1050F is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0224] For the sixth game, the goal is to score as many points as possible within a predefined duration (e.g., 1 minute). Each player hits the ball as much as possible within their respective duration. That is, the processor enables the player to fire an unlimited number of hits within the predefined duration. When the processor 905 detects a hit via the sensor, the ball distribution assembly 800 quickly distributes another ball to enable the player to quickly make another hit.

[0225] Respectively Figure 66 to Figure 69As shown in example interfaces 2610, 2620, 2630, 2640 of the present invention, the game interface displayed via the digital display screen 200 includes a target that oscillates laterally across the interface displayed via the digital display screen 200. The target oscillates laterally across the interface for a predefined duration for the current player. Based on instructions stored in the memory 910, the width of the oscillating target gradually decreases over time, and the point value of the oscillating target gradually increases over time. For example, as the amount of time remaining in the predefined duration decreases, the width decreases and the point value increases. In some examples, as the target oscillates across the interface, the target travels at a constant speed.

[0226] return Fig.39 , method 1050F begins at block 1605, where processor 905 selects the next player to play the game. In addition, ball distribution component 800 distributes golf balls onto tee surfaces 110 to the selected players based on instructions from processor 905. At block 1610, processor 905 starts a timer for a predefined duration (e.g., 60 seconds). The player is allowed to hit as many shots as possible within the predetermined duration. At block 1615, processor 905 identifies the remaining time of the predefined duration.

[0227] At block 1620 , the processor 905 determines whether there is any time remaining on the timer for the current player. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is time remaining on the current player, the method proceeds to block 1625 .

[0228] At block 1625, the processor 905 selects the width and point value of the target based on instructions for the game stored in the memory 910. For example, as the amount of time remaining in the predefined duration decreases, the width decreases and the point value increases. Examples of target widths and point values ​​for various amounts of time remaining are provided below in Table 1.

[0229]

[0230] Table 1

[0231] In some examples, the target width is continuously reduced until a predefined minimum target width (e.g., 1 lane) is reached and / or the point value of the target is continuously increased until a predefined maximum point value (e.g., 50 points) is reached. In the example shown, the minimum target width and maximum point value are reached when the current player has 10 seconds remaining. In other examples, the target width is reduced at predefined intervals (e.g., every 5 seconds) and the point value is increased by a predefined amount until the minimum target width and maximum point value are reached, respectively.

[0232] At block 1630, the processor 905 generates and the digital display screen 200 displays an interface with an oscillating target. The oscillating target will continue to oscillate laterally across the interface for a predefined duration of the current player. In some examples, the processor 905 causes the oscillating target to travel at a constant predetermined speed (e.g., 1.25 channels per second).

[0233] At block 1635, the processor 905 determines whether the player has completed the stroke. For example, the processor 905 determines that the player has completed the stroke in response to any sensor 470, 480, 680 detecting the presence of a golf ball on the sensor assembly 300. In response to the processor 905 determining that the player has not completed the stroke, the method 1050F returns at block 1615. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that the player has completed the stroke, the method 1050F proceeds to block 1640.

[0234] At block 1640, the processor 905 detects the lateral position at which the player hit the golf ball. In some examples, the processor 905 detects the lateral position by identifying which ball detection channel 450 the golf ball has traveled through when passing over the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. In examples where the sensor assembly 300 includes a sensor cartridge 400, the processor 905 determines the lateral position of the shot by (1) identifying which sensors 470 detected the presence of the golf ball and (2) subsequently identifying which ball detection channels 450 correspond to those sensors 470. In examples where the sensor assembly 300 includes a sensor cartridge 600, the processor 905 determines the lateral position of the shot based on the lateral distance detected between the sensor 680 and the golf ball. Additionally, at block 1640, the ball dispensing assembly 800 dispenses another golf ball onto the tee surface 110 for the next shot by the current player based on instructions from the processor 905.

[0235] At block 1645, the processor 905 determines the position of the oscillation target at the point in time when the sensor detected the hit. At block 1650, the processor 905 determines whether the position of the hit corresponds to the oscillation target at the time the hit was detected. For example, the processor 905 determines whether the lateral position of the detected hit matches (e.g., is vertically aligned with) the lateral position of the oscillation target at the time the hit was detected.

[0236] In response to the processor 905 determining that the lateral position of the shot does not correspond to the lateral position of the oscillating target, the method 1050F returns to block 1615. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that the lateral position of the shot does correspond to the lateral position of the oscillating target, the method 1050F proceeds to block 1655, where the processor 905 awards the user the points associated with the then-current oscillating target for hitting the oscillating target with the shot.

[0237] Returning to block 1620 , in response to processor 905 determining that the current player has no time remaining, the method proceeds to block 1660 .

[0238] At block 1660, the processor 905 determines whether there is another player to putt in the current game. In response to the processor 905 determining that there is another player of the game, the method 1050F returns to block 1605 to select the next player of the game. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that there is no another player, the method 1050F proceeds to block 1665, where the processor 905 determines the total score and / or the winning player and / or team of the game. Additionally, the digital display 200 displays the total score and / or the winning player and / or team. Upon completion of block 1665, the method 1050E ends.

[0239] Fig.40 is used to detect and score the player's shots during the game to perform Figure 34 to Figure 39 Flowchart of example method 1900 of block 1900 . Fig.40 The flowchart represents the data stored in the memory (such as Fig.29 910) and includes machine-readable instructions for one or more programs, which when executed by one or more processors (e.g. Fig.29 When executed by the processor 905 of the embodiment, the independent mini golf structure 10 detects and scores the player's shots on the independent mini golf structure 10. Fig.40 The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform method 1900. In addition, because method 1900 is combined with Figures 1 to 32 The components are disclosed, so some functions of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0240] At block 1910, the processor 905 assigns a lateral position of the interface of the digital display screen 200 to each of the selected putting targets and / or obstacles for the current shot. Additionally, the processor 905 assigns a width and a point value of the interface of the digital display screen 200 to each of the selected putting targets and / or obstacles. In an example where the sensor assembly 300 includes a ball detection channel 450 and the interface of the digital display screen 200 includes a digital channel 2010, the processor 905 assigns a lateral position to each of the putting targets and / or obstacles for the current shot by assigning each putting target and / or obstacle to one or more of the digital channels 2010 and the corresponding ball detection channels 450. For example, the processor 905 can assign the putting targets to one or more consecutive digital channels 2010 and the corresponding one or more ball detection channels 450 that are vertically aligned with the consecutive digital channels 2010.

[0241] At block 1920, processor 905 generates and digital display screen 200 displays an interface for the shot. The interface indicates the location, width, and point value of each putting target and / or obstacle selected for the shot.

[0242] At block 1930, the ball dispensing assembly 800 dispenses a golf ball onto the tee surface 110 for use by the player. The processor 905 controls the operation of the ball dispensing assembly 800. In some examples, the processor 905 instructs the ball dispensing assembly 800 to release another golf ball onto the tee surface 110 a predefined time after the sensor 480, 680 has detected that the golf ball used for the previous shot has passed the front edge 436, 636 of the sensor box 400, 600 and has rolled onto the ball return surface 150. The memory 910 stores a respective predefined time for each game that can be played on the freestanding miniature golf structure 10. In some examples, the predefined time is relatively short for games that are intended to be played quickly. In other examples, the predefined time is relatively long for games that can be played at a slower pace.

[0243] At block 1940, processor 905 determines whether the player has completed the stroke. For example, the processor determines that the player has completed the stroke in response to any sensor 470, 480, 680 detecting that a golf ball is present on sensor assembly 300. In response to processor 905 determining that the player has not completed the stroke, method 1900 remains at block 1940. Otherwise, in response to processor 905 determining that the player has completed the stroke, method 1900 proceeds to block 1950.

[0244] At block 1950, the processor 905 detects the lateral position at which the player hits the golf ball. In some examples, the processor 905 detects the lateral position by identifying which ball detection channel 450 the golf ball has traveled through while passing through the rear end 125 of the putter surface 120. In examples where the sensor assembly 300 includes a sensor cartridge 400, the processor 905 determines the lateral position of the shot by (1) identifying which sensors 470 detected the presence of the golf ball and (2) then identifying which ball detection channels 450 correspond to those sensors 470. In examples where the sensor assembly 300 includes a sensor cartridge 600, the processor 905 determines the lateral position of the shot based on the detected lateral distance between the sensor 680 and the golf ball.

[0245] At block 1960, the processor 905 determines whether the shot position corresponds to any of the putter targets and / or obstacles displayed by the digital display screen 200 for the shot. For example, the processor 905 determines whether the detected lateral position of the shot matches (e.g., vertically aligned) the assigned lateral position of any target and / or obstacle. If the player's shot does not hit each of the putter targets and / or obstacles, the processor 905 determines that the shot position does not correspond to any putter target and / or obstacle. In response to the processor 905 determining that the lateral position of the shot does not correspond to the lateral position of any putter target and / or obstacle, the method 1900 ends. Otherwise, in response to the processor 905 determining that the lateral position of the shot does correspond to the lateral position of the putter target or obstacle, the method 1900 proceeds to block 1970.

[0246] At block 1970, processor 905 awards points to or deducts points from the user for the shot. For example, in response to processor 905 determining that the player's shot corresponds to a putting target, processor 905 awards the player a point value associated with the putting target. In response to processor 905 determining that the player's shot corresponds to an obstacle, processor 905 deducts the point value associated with the shot obstacle from the player's total score. Method 1900 ends when block 1970 is completed.

[0247] In some examples, the game (e.g., target game, brick breaking game, etc.) includes multiple rows of targets stacked on top of the game interface. In this case, when the sensor detects the player's shot, the player's shot position can be aligned with multiple targets and / or obstacles, each target and / or obstacle is vertically aligned with each other. For example, the shot position can be aligned with the first target of the first row, the second target of the second row, the third target of the third row, etc. In such an example, the processor 905 selects the target and / or obstacle of the lowest position row as displayed on the game interface as the target and / or obstacle "hit" by the player's shot. In turn, the processor 905 awards or deducts the point value of the lowest positioned target or obstacle aligned with the lateral position of the shot, or deducts the corresponding point value from the player.

[0248] Exemplary embodiments according to the teachings herein are disclosed below.

[0249] Embodiment 1. A freestanding miniature golf structure includes a putting surface having a front end and a rear end. The freestanding miniature golf structure includes one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a ball passes through the rear end. The freestanding miniature golf structure includes: a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a plurality of miniature golf games; and one or more processors. For each shot in the plurality of miniature golf games, the one or more processors are configured to: send a command signal to the digital display to display one or more putting targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position at which a golf ball passes through the rear end of the putting surface; determine whether the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any one of the one or more putting targets; and generate a score for the shot based on the lateral position of the golf ball relative to the one or more putting targets.

[0250] Embodiment 2. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to embodiment 1, wherein the instructions stored by the memory enable any one of a plurality of mini-golf games to be played by a range of numbers of players and for a variety of game play styles.

[0251] Embodiment 3. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 2, wherein the plurality of game modes include individual game modes and team game modes.

[0252] Embodiment 4. The freestanding mini-golf structure of embodiment 1, further comprising a check-in station having a user interface configured to receive a user selection of one or more of a mini-golf game, a gameplay, and a number of players.

[0253] Embodiment 5. The stand-alone mini-golf structure of any of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the one or more processors are configured to change one or more putting targets for each shot in a plurality of mini-golf games.

[0254] Embodiment 6. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the one or more processors are configured to randomly select a lateral position, width, and point value for each of the one or more putting targets for each shot in a plurality of mini-golf games.

[0255] Embodiment 7. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to any of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the one or more processors are configured to display one or more obstacles and one or more putting targets for one or more shots in a plurality of mini-golf games.

[0256] Embodiment 8. The freestanding miniature golf structure of any of embodiments 1 to 7, further comprising a sensor assembly comprising one or more sensors. The sensor assembly is positioned proximate to the rear end of the putter surface.

[0257] Embodiment 9. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, further comprising a tee surface and a ball dispensing assembly, wherein the tee surface is adjacent to the front end of the putting surface, and the ball dispensing assembly is configured to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent shot.

[0258] Embodiment 10. A self-contained miniature golf structure according to embodiment 9, further comprising a ball return surface extending between the one or more sensors and the ball dispensing assembly to direct a golf ball that has been putted by a player to the ball dispensing assembly.

[0259] Example 11. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Example 9 or 10, wherein the one or more processors are configured to instruct the ball dispensing assembly to release another golf ball onto the tee surface at a predefined time after the one or more sensors detect that the golf ball has rolled onto the ball return surface.

[0260] Embodiment 12. A stand-alone miniature golf structure includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; a plurality of ball detection channels extending proximate to and perpendicular to the rear end of the putting surface; one or more sensors configured to detect into which of the plurality of ball detection channels a golf ball is struck; a digital display positioned proximate to and above the rear end to be vertically aligned with the plurality of ball detection channels; a memory for storing instructions for a plurality of miniature golf games; and one or more processors. For each shot in the plurality of miniature golf games, the one or more processors are configured to: send a command signal to the digital display to display one or more putting targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; identify, via the one or more sensors, a putting channel in the plurality of ball detection channels into which a golf ball has been struck; determine whether the putting channel is vertically aligned with any of the one or more putting targets; and generate a score for the shot based on the position of the putting channel relative to the one or more putting targets.

[0261] Embodiment 13. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to embodiment 12, wherein the instructions stored by the memory enable any one of a plurality of mini-golf games to be played by a range of numbers of players and for a variety of game play styles.

[0262] Embodiment 14. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 13, wherein the plurality of game modes include individual game modes and team game modes.

[0263] Embodiment 15. The freestanding mini-golf structure of embodiment 12, further comprising a check-in station having a user interface configured to receive a user selection of one or more of a mini-golf game, a gameplay, and a plurality of players.

[0264] Embodiment 16. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to any of embodiments 12 to 15, wherein the one or more processors are configured to change one or more putting targets for each shot in a plurality of mini-golf games.

[0265] Embodiment 17. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to any of embodiments 12 to 16, wherein the one or more processors are configured to randomly select a lateral position, width, and point value for each of the one or more putting targets for each shot of a plurality of mini-golf games.

[0266] Embodiment 18. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any of embodiments 12 to 17, wherein the one or more processors are configured to display one or more obstacles and one or more putting targets for one or more shots in a plurality of miniature golf games.

[0267] Example 19. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Examples 12 to 18, wherein the digital display screen is configured to display a plurality of digital channels, each of the plurality of digital channels being vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of ball detection channels to facilitate a player putting a golf ball in a direction toward one or more putting targets.

[0268] Embodiment 20. The freestanding miniature golf structure of any of Embodiments 12 to 19, further comprising a sensor assembly comprising a plurality of ball detection channels and one or more sensors.

[0269] Embodiment 21. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of embodiments 12 to 20, further comprising a tee surface and a ball dispensing assembly, wherein the tee surface is adjacent to the front end of the putting surface, and the ball dispensing assembly is configured to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent shot.

[0270] Embodiment 22. A self-contained miniature golf structure according to embodiment 21, further comprising a ball return surface extending between the one or more sensors and the ball dispensing assembly to direct a golf ball that has been putted by a player to the ball dispensing assembly.

[0271] Example 23. A freestanding mini golf structure according to Example 21 or 22, wherein one or more processors are configured to instruct the ball dispensing assembly to release another golf ball onto the tee surface a predefined duration after one or more sensors detect that the golf ball has entered one of the multiple ball detection channels.

[0272] Embodiment 24. A putter structure includes a putter surface having a front end and a rear end. The putter structure includes a tee surface proximate the front end of the putter surface, a ball return surface located below the putter surface, and a sensor assembly proximate the rear end of the putter surface. The sensor assembly includes a sensor box having one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a golf ball passes the rear end. The sensor assembly is configured to guide a golf ball from the rear end of the putter surface to the ball return surface to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent putt.

[0273] Embodiment 25. A putter structure according to embodiment 24, wherein the sensor housing defines an upper surface along which a golf ball travels between the putter surface and the ball return surface.

[0274] Embodiment 26. A putter structure according to embodiment 24 or 25, wherein the sensor housing defines a front edge of the upper surface, the front edge being located proximate to the ball return surface. The upper surface slopes downwardly toward the front edge to guide the golf ball to the ball return surface.

[0275] Example 27. A putter structure according to Example 26, wherein the sensor box further includes one or more second sensors, the one or more second sensors being configured to detect when a golf ball passes over a front edge of the sensor box.

[0276] Embodiment 28. A putter structure according to any one of embodiments 24 to 27, wherein the one or more sensors include a plurality of fork sensors, each of the plurality of fork sensors being configured to monitor a golf ball traversing a corresponding predefined lateral position along the rear end of the putter surface.

[0277] Example 29. A putter structure according to any one of Examples 24 to 27, wherein the one or more sensors include a lidar sensor configured to detect a lateral position at which the golf ball passes the rear end of the putter surface.

[0278] Embodiment 30. The push rod structure of any one of Embodiments 24 to 29, wherein the sensor assembly further comprises a deflector tray positioned above the sensor box.

[0279] Embodiment 31. The putter structure of embodiment 30, wherein the deflector tray includes a plurality of deflectors configured to define a plurality of ball detection channels extending proximate and perpendicular to the rear end of the putter surface, the plurality of channels being arranged such that a golf ball is to travel through one of the plurality of channels in order to detect a lateral position of the golf ball at which it is putted.

[0280] Embodiment 32. A push rod structure according to embodiment 30 or 31, wherein the sensor assembly further comprises an illumination housing positioned behind the deflector tray.

[0281] Embodiment 33. A putter structure according to embodiment 32, wherein the lighting housing includes a plurality of lights arranged in a side-by-side manner. Each light in the plurality of lights is configured to illuminate a corresponding portion along the rear end of the putter surface, the corresponding portion being associated with at least one of a putting target or a lateral position at which a golf ball is putted.

[0282] Embodiment 34. A sensor box for a putter structure includes a body, the body including a top panel, the top panel defining an upper surface along which a golf ball travels. The upper surface includes a rear edge and a front edge. The sensor box includes a plurality of walls protruding upward from the upper surface of the body. The plurality of walls extend between the rear edge and the front edge of the upper surface. The plurality of walls are parallel to each other and spaced apart to define a plurality of ball detection channels for golf balls, the plurality of ball detection channels extending perpendicular to the front edge of the upper surface. The sensor box includes a plurality of sensors, each of the plurality of sensors corresponding to a corresponding ball detection channel of the plurality of ball detection channels. Each of the plurality of sensors is configured to detect when a golf ball travels through the corresponding ball detection channel.

[0283] Embodiment 35. A sensor cartridge according to Embodiment 34, wherein each of the plurality of ball detection channels comprises an outlet proximate to a front edge of the upper surface.

[0284] Embodiment 36. The sensor cartridge of Embodiment 35, wherein the upper surface is angled downward from the rear edge and toward the front edge to guide a golf ball past an exit of a corresponding one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0285] Embodiment 37. A sensor cartridge according to any one of Embodiments 34 to 36, wherein the plurality of sensors are arranged such that each ball detection channel of the plurality of ball detection channels is monitored by two corresponding sensors of the plurality of sensors.

[0286] Embodiment 38. A sensor cartridge according to Embodiment 37, wherein two corresponding sensors of one ball detection channel of the plurality of ball detection channels are staggered relative to two corresponding sensors of an adjacent one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0287] Embodiment 39. The sensor cartridge of any one of Embodiments 34 to 38, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises a plurality of fork-shaped sensors, each fork-shaped sensor of the plurality of fork-shaped sensors comprising two prongs.

[0288] Example 40. A sensor box according to Example 39, wherein each of the multiple walls defines an opening, and one of the two forks of a corresponding one of the multiple fork sensors extends into the opening to enable the corresponding one of the multiple fork sensors to monitor an adjacent one of the multiple ball detection channels.

[0289] Embodiment 41. A sensor cartridge according to Embodiment 39 or 40, wherein each of the plurality of fork sensors comprises a sensor body positioned below the top panel.

[0290] Embodiment 42. The sensor cartridge of any one of Embodiments 34 to 41, further comprising one or more second sensors configured to detect when a golf ball passes over a leading edge of the upper surface.

[0291] Embodiment 43. The sensor cartridge of any one of Embodiments 34 to 42, wherein the body comprises a first body and a second body configured to be coupled together in a side-by-side manner.

[0292] Embodiment 44 The sensor cartridge of Embodiment 43, further comprising a latch configured to enable an operator to selectively couple and decouple the first body and the second body.

[0293] Embodiment 45. A sensor box according to any one of embodiments 34 to 44, further comprising a bottom panel defining one or more grooves, each of the one or more grooves being configured to receive a portion of a corresponding roller conveyor to facilitate installation in and removal from the box chamber.

[0294] Embodiment 46. A sensor cartridge for a putter structure includes a body including a top panel defining an upper surface along which a golf ball travels. The upper surface includes a rear edge, a front edge, and two opposing ends. Each of the rear edge and the front edge extends between the two opposing ends. The sensor cartridge includes a sensor positioned proximate one of the two opposing ends and configured to detect a lateral position of a golf ball traveling along the upper surface toward the front edge.

[0295] Embodiment 47. The sensor cartridge of Embodiment 46, wherein the upper surface is angled downward from the rear edge and toward the front edge to direct the golf ball toward the front edge.

[0296] Embodiment 48. A sensor box according to embodiment 46 or 47, wherein the sensor includes a lidar sensor.

[0297] Embodiment 49. The sensor cartridge of any one of Embodiments 46 to 48, further comprising one or more second sensors configured to detect when a golf ball passes over a leading edge of the upper surface.

[0298] Embodiment 50 The sensor cartridge of any one of Embodiments 46 to 49, wherein the body comprises a first body and a second body configured to be coupled together in a side-by-side manner.

[0299] Embodiment 51. The sensor cartridge of Embodiment 50, further comprising a latch configured to enable an operator to selectively couple and decouple the first body and the second body.

[0300] Embodiment 52. A sensor box according to any one of embodiments 46 to 51, further comprising a bottom panel defining one or more grooves, each of the one or more grooves being configured to receive a portion of a corresponding roller conveyor to facilitate installation in and removal from the box chamber.

[0301] Embodiment 53. A putter structure includes a putter surface having a front end and a rear end. The putter structure includes: a tee surface proximate to the front end of the putter surface; a ball return surface located below the putter surface; a body defining a cartridge chamber proximate to the rear end of the putter surface and the ball return surface; and a sensor cartridge configured to be securely received in and removable from the cartridge chamber. The sensor cartridge includes one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position at which a golf ball passes the rear end of the putter surface. The sensor cartridge is configured to guide a golf ball from the rear end to the ball return surface to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent putt.

[0302] Embodiment 54. The push rod structure according to embodiment 53, further comprising one or more access panels, the one or more access panels being configured to be removed from the body to access the cartridge chamber.

[0303] Embodiment 55. The push rod structure of Embodiment 54, wherein the one or more access panels include access panels located on opposite ends of the cartridge chamber.

[0304] Embodiment 56. The push rod structure according to any one of embodiments 53 to 55, wherein the body comprises a bottom plate of the cartridge chamber.

[0305] Embodiment 57. The push rod structure of embodiment 56, further comprising one or more roller conveyors along the floor of the cartridge chamber. The one or more roller conveyors are configured to facilitate sliding the sensor cartridge into and out of the cartridge chamber.

[0306] Embodiment 58. A push rod structure according to Embodiment 57, wherein the sensor box includes a bottom panel defining one or more grooves, each of the one or more grooves being configured to receive a portion of a corresponding one of the one or more roller conveyors to guide the sensor box to be installed into or removed from the box chamber.

[0307] Embodiment 59. The push rod structure of any one of embodiments 53 to 57, further comprising one or more stop blocks. When the sensor cartridge is in the cartridge chamber, the one or more stop blocks are configured to engage an end of the sensor cartridge and be secured in place to securely position the sensor cartridge in place.

[0308] Embodiment 60 The push rod structure of any one of Embodiments 53 to 59, wherein the sensor box includes a first body and a second body configured to be coupled together in a side-by-side manner.

[0309] Embodiment 61. The push rod structure according to embodiment 60, further comprising a latch configured to enable an operator to selectively couple and decouple the first body and the second body.

[0310] Embodiment 62. The push rod structure of embodiment 61, wherein the latch is configured to enable the first body and the second body to be together when in the cartridge chamber. The latch is configured to enable the first body and the second body to be decoupled from each other when the sensor cartridge is being removed from the cartridge chamber.

[0311] Embodiment 63. A ball dispensing assembly for a putter structure includes a track along which a golf ball is configured to roll. The track extends between an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is located downstream of a putter surface of the putter structure. The outlet is positioned to dispense a golf ball onto a tee surface. The ball dispensing assembly includes a frame proximate to at least a portion of the track and an actuator including an actuator body and an actuator arm. The actuator body is mounted to the frame. The actuator arm is configured to transition between an extended position and a retracted position. The ball dispensing assembly includes a pivot arm operably connected to the actuator arm and configured to transition between a closed position and an open position. The pivot arm is configured to be in a closed position when the actuator arm is in an extended position to prevent dispensing of a golf ball. The pivot arm is configured to be in an open position when the actuator arm is in a retracted position to allow dispensing of a golf ball.

[0312] Embodiment 64. A ball dispensing assembly according to Embodiment 63, wherein the track includes two guide rails extending parallel to each other.

[0313] Embodiment 65. The ball dispensing assembly of Embodiment 63 or 64, wherein the track is configured to retain one or more of the golf balls when the pivot arm is in the closed position.

[0314] Embodiment 66. A ball dispensing assembly according to any one of Embodiments 63 to 65, when the pivot arm is pivotally coupled to the frame.

[0315] Embodiment 67. A ball dispensing assembly according to any of Embodiments 63 to 66, wherein the pivot arm includes a proximal end hingedly coupled to the actuator arm such that the pivot arm is to pivot when the actuator arm transitions between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0316] Embodiment 68. The ball dispensing assembly of any of Embodiments 63-67, wherein the pivot arm includes a distal end configured to engage one of the golf balls in the closed position and to decouple from the golf ball in the open position.

[0317] Embodiment 69. The ball dispensing assembly of Embodiment 68, wherein the distal end is configured to rotate downward when the pivot arm transitions to the closed position and to rotate upward when the pivot arm transitions to the open position.

[0318] Example 70 The ball dispensing assembly of any of Examples 63-69, further comprising a first sensor configured to detect when the ball dispensing assembly has received one of the golf balls.

[0319] Embodiment 71. The ball dispensing assembly of Embodiment 70, wherein the first sensor is a fork-shaped sensor positioned proximate to the inlet.

[0320] Embodiment 72. The ball dispensing assembly of any of Embodiments 63-71, further comprising a second sensor configured to detect when the ball dispensing assembly has dispensed one of the golf balls.

[0321] Embodiment 73. The ball dispensing assembly of Embodiment 72, wherein the second sensor is a fork-shaped sensor positioned proximate the outlet.

[0322] Embodiment 74. The ball dispensing assembly of any of Embodiments 63 to 73, further comprising a ramp extending from the outlet to the tee surface to deliver one or more of the golf balls onto the tee surface when the pivot arm is in the open position.

[0323] Embodiment 75. A stand-alone miniature golf structure includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and positioned proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. For each shot of the miniature golf game, the one or more processors are configured to: select a primary target based on the instructions stored in the memory; generate an interface to include the primary target; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end of the putting surface; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with the primary target, award a first point value associated with the primary target to a corresponding player.

[0324] Embodiment 76. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 75, wherein the one or more processors are configured to change the location of the primary target for each shot by the player.

[0325] Embodiment 77. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to embodiment 75 or 76, wherein, for each shot, the one or more processors are configured to randomly select a location, width, and first point value of the primary target.

[0326] Example 78. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Examples 75 to 77, wherein, for each shot, one or more processors are configured to determine whether to include a secondary target based on the instructions, in response to determining that the secondary target is included, select the secondary target based on the instructions, generate an interface to further include the secondary target, and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with one of the secondary targets, award a second point value associated with the secondary target to the corresponding player.

[0327] Embodiment 79. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 78, wherein the secondary target is adjacent to the primary target.

[0328] Example 80. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to Example 78 or 79, wherein, for each shot, one or more processors are configured to determine whether an obstacle is included based on the instructions, in response to determining that an obstacle is included, select the obstacle based on the instructions, generate an interface to further include a secondary target, and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with one of the obstacles, award a third point value associated with the obstacle to the corresponding player.

[0329] Embodiment 81. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 80, wherein the obstacle is adjacent to the secondary target and the primary target.

[0330] Embodiment 82. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of embodiments 75 to 81, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to conduct a plurality of rounds for a miniature golf game and to make a plurality of shots in each of the plurality of rounds.

[0331] Example 83. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any of Examples 75 to 82, wherein, based on instructions stored in a memory, one or more processors are configured to increase the difficulty for a player throughout the miniature golf game by changing the target location, reducing the target width, and / or reducing at least one of the target widths, or introducing obstacles for each subsequent shot by the player.

[0332] Embodiment 84. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 75 to 83, wherein the miniature golf game includes individual gameplay and team gameplay based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0333] Embodiment 85. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 75 to 84, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned proximate to the rear end of the putting surface.

[0334] Embodiment 86. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 75 to 85, further comprising a sensor assembly defining a plurality of ball detection channels. The digital display screen is configured to display the plurality of digital channels, each digital channel in the plurality of digital channels being vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0335] Embodiment 87. A stand-alone miniature golf structure includes: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and positioned proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. For each shot of the miniature golf game, the one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface with a target based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end of the putting surface; in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with the target, award a predefined point value associated with the target; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is not vertically aligned with the target, reduce the number of remaining chances for the corresponding player by one.

[0336] Embodiment 88. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 87, wherein the one or more processors are configured to allocate a predefined number of chances to each player at the start of the miniature golf game.

[0337] Embodiment 89. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 87 or 88, wherein the one or more processors are configured to play up to a maximum number of rounds based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0338] Embodiment 90. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 89, wherein the one or more processors are configured to award a bonus point value to each player having at least one remaining opportunity upon completion of a maximum number of rounds.

[0339] Embodiment 91. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 87 to 90, wherein for each round of the miniature golf game, the one or more processors are configured to perform each remaining player's shot.

[0340] Embodiment 92. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 87 to 91, wherein the one or more processors are configured to change a target position of the target for each round of the miniature golf game.

[0341] Embodiment 93. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 87 to 92, wherein the one or more processors are configured to reduce the target position of the target for each subsequent round of the miniature golf game.

[0342] Embodiment 94. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 87 to 92, wherein the one or more processors are configured to eliminate a player in response to determining that the player has no remaining chances.

[0343] Embodiment 95. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 87 to 94, wherein the miniature golf game includes individual gameplay and team gameplay based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0344] Embodiment 96. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 87 to 95, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned proximate to the rear end of the putting surface.

[0345] Embodiment 97. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of embodiments 87 to 96, further comprising a sensor assembly defining a plurality of ball detection channels. The digital display screen is configured to display the plurality of digital channels, each digital channel in the plurality of digital channels being vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0346] Embodiment 98. A stand-alone miniature golf structure comprises: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display positioned above the one or more sensors and positioned proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface having a plurality of targets and a vertical centerline of the plurality of targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display to display the interface; identify a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end of the putting surface via the one or more sensors; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any one of the plurality of targets, laterally move the centerline and the plurality of targets on the interface.

[0347] Embodiment 99. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 98, wherein the plurality of targets includes one or more left targets to the left of the centerline and one or more right targets to the right of the centerline.

[0348] Example 100. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Example 99, wherein one or more processors are configured to move the centerline and multiple targets to the right in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with one of the one or more right targets, and to move the centerline and multiple targets to the left in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with one of the one or more left targets.

[0349] Embodiment 101. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 99 or 100, wherein the one or more left targets and the one or more right targets are mirror images relative to each other.

[0350] Embodiment 102. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 98 to 101, wherein the plurality of targets are adjacent to one another.

[0351] Embodiment 103. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 98 to 102, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to further include a right finish line and a left finish line in the interface.

[0352] Embodiment 104. A stand-alone mini-golf structure according to embodiment 103, wherein the one or more processors are configured to end play of the mini-golf game when the center line has crossed the left finish line or the right finish line.

[0353] Embodiment 105. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Claims 98 to 104, wherein the one or more processors, based on instructions stored in the memory, are configured to designate each of the plurality of targets using a corresponding combination of magnitude and direction of movement.

[0354] Embodiment 106. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 98 to 105, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to designate each of the plurality of targets by a corresponding point value.

[0355] Embodiment 107. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 98 to 106, wherein the miniature golf game includes individual gameplay and team gameplay based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0356] Embodiment 108. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 98 to 107, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned proximate to the rear end of the putting surface.

[0357] Embodiment 109. The freestanding miniature golf structure of any of Embodiments 98 to 108, further comprising a sensor assembly defining a plurality of ball detection channels. The digital display is configured to display the plurality of digital channels, each digital channel being vertically aligned with a respective one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0358] Embodiment 110. A stand-alone miniature golf structure comprising: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display screen located above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface to include moving targets arranged in a row based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display screen to display the interface; identify via the one or more sensors, when detecting that a golf ball has passed the rear end of the putting surface, determine the position of the moving targets of the interface; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with a first one of the moving targets, award a first point value associated with the first one of the moving targets to a current player.

[0359] Embodiment 111. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 110, wherein one or more processors are configured to include obstacles in at least one of the rows based on instructions stored in memory, and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is associated with a first of the obstacles, deduct an obstacle point value associated with the first obstacle from the current player.

[0360] Example 112. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Example 110 or 111, wherein, in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with both a first of the moving targets in a lower row of multiple rows and a second of the moving targets in a higher row of multiple rows, one or more processors are configured to award a first point value associated with the first moving target in the lower row to the current player.

[0361] Embodiment 113. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 110 to 112, wherein, for each of the rows, the one or more processors are configured to select a series of point values, travel directions, and travel speeds for the corresponding moving target.

[0362] Embodiment 114. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 110 to 113, wherein, for each of the rows, the one or more processors are configured to select an order in which the corresponding moving objects are to travel on the interface.

[0363] Embodiment 115. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to embodiment 114, wherein, in response to determining that a last one of the moving targets in a sequence of a row has been reached, the one or more processors are configured to reselect the order in which the corresponding moving targets will travel on the interface.

[0364] Embodiment 116. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 110 to 115, wherein the one or more processors are configured to enable a current player to take an unlimited number of shots during a predefined duration.

[0365] Embodiment 117. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 116, wherein the one or more processors are configured to start the predefined duration in response to detecting a first shot by a current player via the one or more sensors.

[0366] Embodiment 118. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of embodiments 110 to 117, further comprising a ball dispensing assembly configured to dispense a second golf ball for a subsequent shot by a current player in response to one or more processors detecting a first golf ball for a previous shot via one or more sensors.

[0367] Embodiment 119. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 110 to 118, wherein the miniature golf game includes individual gameplay and team gameplay based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0368] Embodiment 120. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 110 to 119, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned proximate to the rear end of the putting surface.

[0369] Embodiment 121. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 110 to 120, further comprising a sensor assembly defining a plurality of ball detection channels. The digital display is configured to display the plurality of digital channels, each digital channel being vertically aligned with a respective one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0370] Embodiment 122. A stand-alone miniature golf structure comprising: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display screen located above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface to include targets arranged in a row based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display screen to display the interface; identify a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end of the putting surface via the one or more sensors; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with a first target in the targets, award a first point value associated with a first target in the targets to a current player.

[0371] Embodiment 123. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 122, wherein the digital display screen is configured to display the interface for the duration of the miniature golf game.

[0372] Embodiment 124. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to embodiment 122 or 123, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, one or more processors are configured to conduct a plurality of rounds and conduct a shot by each of a plurality of players in each of the plurality of rounds.

[0373] Embodiment 125. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 122 to 124, wherein in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with a first target in the targets, one or more processors are configured to remove the first target in the targets from the interface for a subsequent shot in the miniature golf game.

[0374] Example 126. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Examples 122 to 125, wherein, in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with both a first target in a lower row of targets in a plurality of rows and a second target in an upper row of targets in a plurality of rows, one or more processors are configured to award a first point value associated with the first target in the lower row to the current player.

[0375] Embodiment 127. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 122 to 126, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to initially generate the interface to arrange the rows of targets in contiguous blocks.

[0376] Embodiment 128. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 122 to 127, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to include obstacles in one or more of the rows.

[0377] Embodiment 129. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 122 to 128, wherein each target has a same width based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0378] Embodiment 130. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 122 to 129, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to assign a different point value to each target in the first row compared to the point value of each target in the second row.

[0379] Embodiment 131. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 122 to 130, wherein the miniature golf game includes individual gameplay and team gameplay based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0380] Embodiment 132. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 122 to 131, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned proximate to the rear end of the putting surface.

[0381] Embodiment 133. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 122 to 132, further comprising a sensor assembly defining a plurality of ball detection channels. The digital display is configured to display the plurality of digital channels, each digital channel being vertically aligned with a respective one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0382] Embodiment 134. A stand-alone miniature golf structure comprising: a putting surface including a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display screen located above the one or more sensors and proximate to the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putting surface; a memory for storing instructions for a miniature golf game; and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to: generate an interface to include an oscillating target based on the instructions stored in the memory; send a command signal to the digital display screen to display the interface; identify via the one or more sensors, when detecting that a golf ball has passed the rear end of the putting surface, determine a position of the oscillating target of the interface; and in response to determining that the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with the position of the oscillating target, award a point value of the oscillating target to the player.

[0383] Embodiment 135. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Embodiment 134, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to cause the oscillating target to oscillate laterally on the interface.

[0384] Embodiment 136. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to Claim 134 or Claim 135, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to gradually reduce the width of the oscillating target over time.

[0385] Embodiment 137. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 134 to 136, wherein, based on instructions stored in the memory, the one or more processors are configured to gradually increase the point value associated with the oscillating target over time.

[0386] Embodiment 138. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 134 to 137, wherein the one or more processors are configured to enable a player to take an unlimited number of shots during a predefined duration.

[0387] Example 139. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Examples 134 to 138, further comprising a ball dispensing assembly configured to dispense a second golf ball for a subsequent shot by a current player in response to one or more processors detecting a first golf ball for a previous shot via one or more sensors.

[0388] Embodiment 140. A stand-alone miniature golf structure according to any one of Embodiments 134 to 139, wherein the miniature golf game includes individual gameplay and team gameplay based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0389] Embodiment 141. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 134 to 140, wherein the one or more sensors are positioned proximate to the rear end of the putting surface.

[0390] Embodiment 142. A freestanding miniature golf structure according to any of Embodiments 134 to 141, further comprising a sensor assembly defining a plurality of ball detection channels. The digital display is configured to display the plurality of digital channels, each digital channel being vertically aligned with a respective one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

[0391] The above-described embodiments, particularly any "preferred" embodiments, are possible embodiments and are set forth only for a clear understanding of the principles of the present invention. Many changes and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the technology described herein. All modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and to be protected by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A freestanding miniature golf structure comprising: a putter surface, the putter surface comprising a front end and a rear end; one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a ball past the rear end; a digital display screen positioned above the one or more sensors and proximate the rear end to be vertically aligned with the rear end of the putter surface; A memory for storing instructions for a plurality of mini golf games; as well as One or more processors, for each shot in the plurality of mini golf games, the one or more processors configured to: sending a command signal to the digital display screen to display one or more putting targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; identifying, via the one or more sensors, a lateral position of a golf ball past the trailing end of the putter surface; determining whether the lateral position of the golf ball is vertically aligned with any of the one or more putting targets; as well as A score is generated for the shot based on a lateral position of the golf ball relative to the one or more putting targets.

2. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1, wherein: The instructions stored by the memory enable any one of the plurality of mini golf games to be played by a range of numbers of players and for a variety of game play styles.

3. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 2, wherein: The multiple game modes include individual game modes and team game modes.

4. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1 , further comprising a check-in station having a user interface configured to receive a user selection of one or more of the miniature golf game, gameplay, and number of players.

5. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to change the one or more putting targets for each shot in the plurality of mini golf games.

6. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to randomly select a lateral position, a width, and a point value for each of the one or more putting targets for each shot in the plurality of mini golf games.

7. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to display one or more obstacles and the one or more putting targets for one or more shots in the plurality of mini golf games.

8. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1, further comprising a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising the one or more sensors, wherein: The sensor assembly is positioned proximate the rearward end of the putter surface.

9. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 1 , further comprising a tee surface proximate to the front end of the putting surface and a ball dispensing assembly configured to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent shot.

10. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 9, further comprising a ball return surface extending between the one or more sensors and the ball dispensing assembly to direct the golf ball that has been putted by the player to the ball dispensing assembly.

11. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 10, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to instruct the ball dispensing assembly to release another golf ball onto the tee surface a predefined time after the one or more sensors detect that the golf ball has rolled onto the ball return surface.

12. A freestanding miniature golf structure comprising: a putter surface, the putter surface comprising a front end and a rear end; a plurality of ball detection channels extending proximate to and perpendicular to the rear end of the putter surface; one or more sensors configured to detect into which of the plurality of ball detection channels a golf ball is struck; a digital display screen positioned proximate to and above the rear end to be vertically aligned with the plurality of ball detection channels; A memory for storing instructions for a plurality of mini golf games; as well as One or more processors, for each shot in the plurality of mini golf games, the one or more processors configured to: sending a command signal to the digital display screen to display one or more putting targets based on the instructions stored in the memory; identifying, via the one or more sensors, a putting lane among the plurality of ball detection lanes into which a golf ball has been hit; determining whether the putting tunnel is vertically aligned with any of the one or more putting targets; as well as A score for the shot is generated based on a position of the putting tunnel relative to the one or more putting targets.

13. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, wherein: The instructions stored by the memory enable any one of the plurality of mini golf games to be played by a range of numbers of players and for a variety of game play styles.

14. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to change the one or more putting targets for each shot in the plurality of mini golf games.

15. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to randomly select a lateral position, a width, and a point value for each of the one or more putting targets for each shot in the plurality of mini golf games.

16. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to display one or more obstacles and the one or more putting targets for one or more shots in the plurality of mini golf games.

17. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, wherein: The digital display screen is configured to display a plurality of digital channels, each of the plurality of digital channels being vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the plurality of ball detection channels to facilitate a player putting the golf ball in a direction toward the one or more putting targets.

18. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, further comprising a sensor assembly including the plurality of ball detection channels and the one or more sensors.

19. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 12, further comprising a tee surface proximate to the front end of the putting surface and a ball dispensing assembly configured to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent shot.

20. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 19, further comprising a ball return surface extending between the one or more sensors and the ball dispensing assembly to direct the golf ball that has been putted by the player to the ball dispensing assembly.

21. The freestanding miniature golf structure of claim 20, wherein: The one or more processors are configured to instruct the ball dispensing assembly to release another golf ball onto the tee surface a predefined duration after the one or more sensors detect the golf ball entering one of the plurality of ball detection channels.

22. A push rod structure, comprising: a putter surface, the putter surface comprising a front end and a rear end; a tee surface, the tee surface being proximate to the front end of the putter surface; a ball return surface, said ball return surface being located below said putter surface; a sensor assembly proximate the rear end of the putting surface, wherein the sensor assembly includes a sensor cartridge having one or more sensors configured to detect a lateral position of a golf ball past the rear end, wherein the sensor assembly is configured to guide the golf ball from the rear end of the putting surface to the ball return surface to return the golf ball to the tee surface for a subsequent putt.

23. The push rod structure according to claim 22, wherein: The sensor cartridge defines an upper surface along which the golf ball travels between the putter surface and the ball return surface.

24. The push rod structure according to claim 22, wherein: The sensor housing defines a front edge of an upper surface that is positioned proximate to the ball return surface, wherein the upper surface slopes downwardly toward the front edge to guide the golf ball to the ball return surface.

25. The push rod structure according to claim 24, wherein: The sensor cartridge further includes one or more second sensors configured to detect when the golf ball passes over the leading edge of the sensor cartridge.

26. The putter structure according to claim 22, wherein: The one or more sensors include a plurality of fork-shaped sensors, wherein each fork-shaped sensor of the plurality of fork-shaped sensors is configured to monitor a traversal of the golf ball along the trailing end of the putter surface across a corresponding predefined lateral position.

27. The putter structure according to claim 22, wherein: The one or more sensors include a lidar sensor configured to detect a lateral position of the golf ball across the rear end of the putter surface.

28. The putter structure according to claim 22, wherein: The sensor assembly further includes a deflector tray positioned above the sensor cartridge.

29. The putter structure according to claim 28, wherein: The deflector tray includes a plurality of deflectors configured to define a plurality of ball detection channels extending proximate and perpendicular to the rear end of the putter surface, wherein the plurality of channels are arranged so that the golf ball will travel through one of the plurality of channels to facilitate detecting a lateral position at which the golf ball is putted.

30. The putter structure according to claim 29, wherein: The sensor assembly further includes an illumination housing positioned rearward of the deflector tray, wherein the illumination housing includes a plurality of lights arranged in a side-by-side manner, wherein each of the plurality of lights is configured to illuminate a corresponding portion along the rear end of the putter surface, the corresponding portion being associated with at least one of a putting target or a lateral position at which the golf ball is putted.

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