Miniature golf hole with spinning wheel

Abstract

A miniature golf hole with a spin wheel is disclosed. The exemplary miniature golf hole includes a spin wheel defining cavities arranged circumferentially around the periphery. The cavity surface of each of the cavities defines one or more cavity openings through which a golf ball can pass upon entering the respective cavity. The one or more cavity openings of each of the cavities are positioned at a different radial distance along the spin wheel than the one or more cavity openings of the other cavities. A transfer panel is stationary and positioned below the spin wheel. The transfer panel includes concentric rings, each of which is vertically aligned with the one or more cavity openings of a respective one of the cavities to receive a golf ball from the respective cavity.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a PCT application claiming priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 082,493, entitled "MINIATURE GOLF HOLE WITH SPINNING WHEEL," filed December 15, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference. [Technical Field]

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to miniature golf, and more particularly to a miniature golf hole with a spin wheel. [Background technology]

[0003] Miniature golf (also known as "minigolf" or "putt-putt") is a game typically played on a course consisting of a series of holes. Each player puts their ball into each of the series of holes. Each hole on a miniature golf course often includes one or more artificial obstacles and / or unique geometric configurations to make putting the ball into the hole more challenging and enjoyable. Known exemplary obstacles include ramps, tubes, curved or angled walls, windmills, etc. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Miniature golf has been found everywhere across many continents for generations, and many people are familiar with the more common configurations and obstacles associated with miniature golf courses. Additionally, many experienced golf players occasionally play a round of miniature golf. These experienced golf players may have honed skills that help them avoid and / or dodge the obstacles and configurations of miniature golf holes. Some less experienced players may become frustrated when competing against more experienced players. Meanwhile, many operators of miniature golf facilities have sought new ways to engage, challenge, and entertain miniature golf players of all skill levels. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The appended claims define the present application. This document discloses aspects of embodiments and should not be used to limit the scope of the claims. As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following figures and detailed description, other implementations are contemplated in accordance with the technology described herein, and these implementations are intended to be within the scope of the present application.

[0006] An exemplary embodiment is shown of a miniature golf hole with a spin wheel. The exemplary miniature golf hole includes a tee surface on which a golf ball is set for an initial stroke, a hole surface, one or more putting cups positioned along the hole surface, and a spin wheel defining cavities arranged circumferentially around the periphery. Each of the cavities is partially defined by a respective cavity surface, along which a golf ball can travel upon entering the respective cavity. The cavity surface of each of the cavities defines one or more cavity openings through which a golf ball can pass upon entering the respective cavity. The one or more cavity openings of each of the cavities are positioned at a different radial distance along the spin wheel than the one or more cavity openings of the other cavities. The miniature golf hole further includes a ramp positioned between the tee surface and the spin wheel to direct the golf ball onto the spin wheel. The miniature golf hole further includes a stationary transfer panel positioned below the spin wheel. The transfer panel includes concentric rings, each of which is vertically aligned with one or more cavity openings of the respective cavities to receive golf balls from the respective cavities. The miniature golf hole further includes a sensor configured to detect which cavity the golf ball has passed through, and a first channel configured to transfer the golf ball from the transfer panel onto the hole face.

[0007] In some examples, the spin wheel and the transfer panel are each positioned in a non-vertical and non-horizontal orientation. In some such examples, the spin wheel includes radial walls separating the cavities from one another. The radial walls are arranged in a spoked configuration so that each of the cavities is substantially wedge-shaped. Furthermore, in some such examples, each of the radial walls defines a portion of the top surface of the spin wheel. The spin wheel defines a central opening at the central axis of the spin wheel. The spin wheel is configured to allow a golf ball to move over the top surface, travel along one of the radial walls, and enter the central opening. Some such examples further include a second channel configured to transfer the golf ball from the central opening into one of the one or more putting cups.

[0008] Some examples further include a sensor assembly positioned below the transfer panel that includes sensors, each positioned adjacent to a respective one of the concentric rings of the transfer panel, configured to detect which cavity the golf ball has passed through.

[0009] An exemplary assembly for a rotating surface of a miniature golf hole includes a spin wheel defining recessed cavities arranged circumferentially around its periphery. Each recessed cavity is partially defined by a respective concave surface along which a golf ball can travel upon entering the respective recessed cavity. Each concave surface of the recessed cavities defines one or more recessed openings through which a golf ball can pass upon entering the respective recessed cavity. The one or more recessed openings of each recessed cavity are positioned at a different radial distance along the spin wheel than the one or more recessed openings of the other recessed cavities. The assembly further includes a motor configured to drive rotation of the spin wheel and a stationary transfer panel positioned below the spin wheel. The transfer panel includes concentric rings, each vertically aligned with the one or more cavity openings of the respective recessed cavities to receive a golf ball from the respective recessed cavity. The assembly further includes a sensor configured to detect which recessed cavity the golf ball passes through, and a first channel configured to transport the golf ball from the transfer panel onto the putting surface.

[0010] In some examples, for each of the one or more recessed cavities, the spin wheel includes one or more angled inserts positioned along the concave surface to guide the golf ball into one of the one or more recessed openings as the spin wheel rotates.

[0011] In some examples, the spin wheel includes radial walls separating the recessed cavities from one another. The radial walls are arranged in a spoke pattern so that each recessed cavity is substantially wedge-shaped. In some such examples, each of the radial walls defines a portion of the top surface of the spin wheel. The spin wheel defines a central opening at the central axis of the spin wheel. The spin wheel is configured to allow a golf ball to travel onto the top surface, travel along one of the radial walls, and enter the central opening.

[0012] In some examples, the transfer panel is positioned in a non-horizontal and non-vertical orientation. Each of the concentric rings defines a ring opening through which a golf ball can pass to advance to the first channel. Some such examples further include a sensor assembly including sensors and defining sensor openings for the golf balls, positioned below the transfer panel. Each of the sensors is positioned adjacent to each of the transfer openings. The first channel is positioned below each of the sensor openings to receive the golf ball. Furthermore, in some such examples, each of the concentric rings is vertically aligned with each of the recessed cavities, and each of the sensor openings is vertically aligned with each of the recessed cavities, such that the sensors are configured to detect which recessed cavity the golf ball has passed through. Furthermore, some such examples further include a housing to which the sensor assembly is secured such that none of the sensors are positioned on the spin wheel.

[0013] In some examples, for each of the recessed cavities, the one or more recessed openings include sets of holes positioned on opposite sides of the respective recessed cavity.

[0014] In some examples, each of the recessed cavities is defined by a respective concave surface, a respective radially inner surface, a respective radially outer surface, and a respective opposing side surface of the spin wheel.

[0015] In some such examples, the recessed cavity includes a first recessed cavity having one or more recessed openings positioned along a radially outer surface of the first recessed cavity.

[0016] In some such examples, the recessed cavity includes a second recessed cavity having one or more recessed openings positioned along a radially inner surface of the second recessed cavity, the concave surface of the second recessed cavity being an inclined surface sloping downward from the radially outer surface toward the radially inner surface to guide a golf ball into one of the one or more recessed openings as the spin wheel rotates.

[0017] In some such examples, the recessed cavity includes a third recessed cavity having one or more recessed openings radially positioned between a radially inner surface and a radially outer surface of the third recessed cavity, and the concave surface of the third recessed cavity includes an angled insert that slopes downwardly from the outer radial surface into the one or more recessed openings to guide a golf ball into one of the one or more recessed openings as the spin wheel rotates.

[0018] In some such examples, the recessed cavity includes a fourth recessed cavity having one or more recessed openings radially positioned between a radially inner surface and a radially outer surface of the fourth recessed cavity, and the concave surface of the fourth recessed cavity includes a plurality of angled inserts each sloping downward from a respective outer radial corner of the recessed cavity into a respective one of the one or more recessed openings to guide a golf ball into one of the one or more recessed openings as the spin wheel rotates.

[0019] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference may be made to the embodiments illustrated in the following drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and related elements may be omitted, or in some instances, proportions may be exaggerated to emphasize and clearly show novel features described herein. Furthermore, system components may be arranged in various ways, as is known in the art. Also, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary miniature golf hole in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B illustrate possible putting paths of a golf ball along the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the miniature golf course of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 shows the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1 with some components removed to more clearly show other components. [Figure 5] 2 is a diagram showing a portion of the wheel assembly of the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1 with some components removed to more clearly show other components. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates the wheel assembly of FIG. 5 with additional components removed to more clearly show the other components. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 shows a wheel body of the wheel assembly of FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a further view of the wheel body of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 shows a concave cavity in the wheel body of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] 8 shows another concave cavity in the wheel body of FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 11] 8 shows another concave cavity in the wheel body of FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 12]8 shows another concave cavity in the wheel body of FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 13] 8 shows another concave cavity in the wheel body of FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 14] 6 shows the arrangement of the wheels, sensor assemblies, and channels of the wheel assembly of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 15] 6A and 6B further illustrate the arrangement of the wheel assembly of FIG. 5. [Figure 16] FIG. 6 shows the arrangement of the transfer panels and channels of FIG. 5. [Figure 17] 15A and 15B are further views of the wheel of FIG. 14. [Figure 18] 15A and 15B further illustrate the transfer panel of FIG. 14. [Figure 19] 15A and 15B further illustrate the sensor assembly of FIG. 14. [Figure 20] 2 illustrates the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1 with another exemplary wheel in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 21] 21A and 21B are further views of the wheel of FIG. 20. [Figure 22] 21 illustrates another exemplary transfer panel in accordance with the teachings herein for use with the wheel of FIG. 20. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the electronic components of the miniature golf course of FIG. 1. [Figure 24] 2 is a flowchart for operating the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 25] 2 is a flowchart for an exemplary game play of the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings herein. [Figure 26] 2 is a flowchart for another exemplary game play of the miniature golf hole of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] While the invention may be embodied in various forms, certain illustrative, non-limiting embodiments are shown in the drawings and described below, with the understanding that this disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiments shown.

[0022] The exemplary miniature golf hole disclosed herein includes a spin where the player putts the golf ball. The spinning nature of the wheel makes it engaging, challenging, and entertaining for players of all skill levels.

[0023] For example, the spin wheels disclosed herein define cavities (e.g., recessed cavities) arranged circumferentially side by side around the spin wheel. Each of the cavities includes one or more recessed openings through which a golf ball can pass. The recessed opening(s) of each cavity are positioned at a different radial distance along the spin wheel than the recessed opening(s) of the other cavities.

[0024] In some examples, a sloped insert is positioned in each of the cavities. Each of the sloped inserts includes a surface that slopes toward the respective recessed opening(s) to guide the golf ball into one of the recessed opening(s) as the golf ball enters the respective cavity as the spin wheel rotates. Additionally, in some examples, the spin wheel includes a central opening at the central axis of the spin wheel. For a more difficult challenge, a player can attempt to place the golf ball in the central opening rather than one of the cavities.

[0025] The transfer panel is stationary and positioned below the spin wheel. The transfer panel includes concentric rings, each of which is vertically aligned with a respective concave opening(s) of the cavities. Each of the concentric rings defines a ring opening through which a golf ball can pass. The sensor assembly includes multiple sensors and is positioned below the transfer panel. Each of the concentric rings is vertically aligned with a respective one of the cavities, and each of the sensors is vertically aligned with a respective one of the cavities. The sensors are then configured to detect which cavity the golf ball has passed through.

[0026] The spinning wheel, transfer panel, and sensor are positioned such that the sensor can detect where on the spinning wheel the golf ball is putted without running electrical wiring through the spinning wheel, and such an arrangement avoids interfering with the rotation of the spinning wheel.

[0027] Turning to the drawings, FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary miniature golf hole 100 in accordance with the teachings herein. In the illustrated example, the miniature golf hole 100 includes a tee 210, one or more cups 311, 312 (also referred to as "putting cups," "golf cups," or "golf hole cups"), a ramp 410, and a wheel 600 (also referred to as a "spinning wheel" and a "spinning wheel"). The miniature golf hole 100 is configured so that a player putts a golf ball from the tee 210 onto the ramp 410. The ramp 410 is configured to launch the golf ball onto the wheel 600, which spins while the player putts the golf ball to increase the level of complexity and / or uncertainty when playing on the miniature golf hole 100. In some examples, the wheel 600 spins at a constant rotational speed. In other examples, the rotational speed of the wheel 600 may vary. For example, wheel 600 may rotate faster for an experienced player and slower for a less experienced player. As the golf ball travels toward and through wheel 600, it is directed onto hole face 320 and / or directly into one of cups 311, 312.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2 , miniature golf hole 100 is configured to provide two possible paths 105, 110 for a golf ball. When a player putts a golf ball along path 105 (also referred to as the “direct path”), the golf ball is sent up slope 410 and enters central opening 604 of wheel 600. The golf ball is then directed toward exit 505 and onto track 330. The golf ball rolls down track 330 onto hole face 320 and directly into cup 311. That is, track 330 is shaped, positioned, oriented, and / or otherwise configured to direct the golf ball into cup 311 without requiring an additional putting stroke from the player.

[0029] If instead the player putts the golf ball along path 110 (also called the "indirect path"), the golf ball is sent up slope 410 and into one of multiple cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 of wheel 600. In the illustrated example, each of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 is a concave cavity recessed from top surface 616 of wheel 600. The golf ball is then directed to another outlet 510, which delivers the golf ball onto hole surface 320. Once the golf ball comes to rest on hole surface 320, the player can perform one or more additional putting strokes until the golf ball enters one of cups 311, 312. In the illustrated example, the miniature golf hole 100 includes one or more obstacles 340 located along the hole face 320 to make it more difficult for a player to putt a golf ball onto one of the holes 311, 312.

[0030] In some examples, electronic components are located inside the golf ball. These electronic components (e.g., antennas, microprocessors, memory, etc.) cause the golf ball to be tracked along the miniature golf hole 100 and / or other holes on the miniature golf course. Returning to FIG. 1 , the miniature golf hole 100 includes electronic components positioned below the tee 210. These electronic components (e.g., antennas, microprocessors, memory, etc.) are configured to communicate with the golf ball's electronic components to detect the presence of a golf ball, to detect which golf ball has been placed on the tee 210, to collect information stored in the golf ball's memory, to identify a player associated with the golf ball, etc. For example, a tee sensor 215 ( FIG. 23 ) is positioned below the tee 210 to detect the presence of and / or collect information from the golf ball. In some examples, the electronic components positioned below the tee 210 are communicatively connected to one or more processors 595 of the miniature golf hole 100 and / or a remote server associated with the miniature golf course.

[0031] Additionally, the miniature golf hole 100 in the illustrated example includes a display 130 and / or a speaker 135 ( FIG. 23 ) configured to provide information to the player while playing the miniature golf hole 100. As disclosed in more detail below, the display 130 and / or the speaker 135 are configured to present information to the player that allows the player to select which of the cups 311, 312 to target. In the illustrated example, the cup sensors 313, 314 are positioned adjacent to the cups 311, 312 to detect whether the player putts the golf ball into the cup 311, 312. For example, the cup sensor 313 is adjacent to the cup 311, and the cup sensor 314 is adjacent to the cup 312.

[0032] An exemplary miniature golf hole 100 is formed by connecting multiple segments or assemblies. As shown in Figure 3, the miniature golf hole 100 includes a tee assembly 200, a hole assembly 300, a ramp assembly 400, and a wheel assembly 500 that are securely connected to form the miniature golf hole 100.

[0033] Tee assembly 200 includes tee 210 (not shown in FIG. 3 ), tee sensor 215 (not shown in FIG. 3 ), tee face 230 along which a golf ball travels, and a portion of bumper wall 120. Tee assembly 200 further includes an access panel 240 that forms a portion of tee face 230. As shown in FIG. 4 , access panel 240 is removable to allow a technician to access electrical wiring and / or other components housed below tee face 230. Tee 210 is removable from tee face 230 to, for example, provide further access to the portion of tee assembly 200 below tee face 230.

[0034] Returning to FIG. 3, the hole assembly 300 includes a ball receiving segment 360 and a cup segment 365 joined to form the hole assembly 300 .

[0035] The ball-receiving segment 360 includes a portion of the hole face 320, a portion of the bumper wall 120, a track 330, and one or more access panels 370. The access panel 370 forms a portion of the hole face 320. As shown in FIG. 4, the access panel 370 is removable to allow a technician to access electrical wiring and / or other components housed below the hole face 320. Returning to FIG. 3, the track 330 is formed from a fixed portion 331 and a removable portion 332. The fixed portion 331 is fixed to and extends substantially along a portion of the bumper wall 120. As shown in FIG. 4, when the miniature golf hole 100 is fully assembled, a first end of the fixed portion 331 is positioned adjacent to the outlet 505, and a second end of the fixed portion 331 is positioned adjacent to the cup segment 365. The removable portion 332 of the track 330 is coupled to the second end of the fixed portion 331 and extends partially over the cup segment 365.

[0036] Returning to Figure 3, cup segment 365 includes cups 311, 312 (not shown in Figure 3), cup sensors 313, 314 (not shown in Figure 3), a portion of hole face 320, and a portion of bumper wall 120. Cups 311, 312 are removable from hole face 320, for example, to provide access to the portion of cup segment 365 below hole face 320. Slope assembly 400 includes a portion of bumper wall 120, slope 410, and slope face 420 defined by slope 410.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1 , wheel assembly 500 includes wheel 600 and housing 515 that houses wheel 600. Cage 520 is coupled to the top surface of housing 515. Cage 520 extends around a portion of wheel 600 (e.g., along the sides and top edge) to prevent golf balls from bouncing off the playing area. Cage 520 may include one or more side panels and / or netting to prevent golf balls from leaving the playing area. Wheel assembly 500 includes one or more trip sensors 525 positioned forward of wheel 600, toward the front end of wheel assembly 500. In the illustrated example, trip sensors 525 are coupled to cage 520. Trip sensors 525 are positioned to detect when an object other than a golf ball (e.g., a putter, a player's arm, etc.) enters the area between cage 520 and wheel 600. For example, trip sensors 525 are positioned above slope 410 to prevent trip sensors 525 from unintentionally detecting a golf ball. When one or more trip sensors 525 detect the presence of an object, movement of wheel 600 is stopped.

[0038] Returning to FIG. 3 , wheel assembly 500 is shown with cage 520 removed from housing 515. Additionally, wheel 600 has been removed to expose pillar 530 and transfer panel 670. Wheel 600 is driven to spin by motor 564 ( FIG. 15 ). Transfer panel 670 is positioned below wheel 600. As disclosed in further detail below, transfer panel 670 is configured to receive golf balls from one of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 of wheel 600 and then deliver the golf balls to outlet 510.

[0039] In the illustrated example, the wheel assembly 500 includes one or more access panels 540, 541, 542 located along the housing 515. The access panels 540, 541, 542 are removable from the housing 515, allowing a technician to access the motor 564, sensors, and / or other components housed within the housing 515. For example, the access panel 540 is removable from the housing 515 to provide access to the motor 564. In some examples, the wheel assembly 500 includes a panel sensor 543 configured to detect whether the access panel 540 is securely coupled to the housing 515 in the closed position. When the panel sensor 543 detects that the access panel 540 is open, operation of the motor 564 is prevented. The access panels 541, 542 are removable from the housing 515 to provide access to smaller components, such as sensors. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the other access panels 240, 370, 541, 542 may also include a panel sensor.

[0040] 5-6 show wheel assembly 500 in more detail, with portions of cage 520 and wheel 600 removed to reveal other components of wheel assembly 500. As shown in FIGS. 5-6, wheel assembly 500 includes one or more fasteners 545 positioned along the front end of housing 515 and configured to securely connect wheel assembly 500 to ramp assembly 400. Wheel assembly 500 includes another fastener 546 positioned on a side of housing 515 and configured to securely connect wheel assembly 500 to haul assembly 300.

[0041] 5 , the pillars 530 extend upward and through a central opening in the transfer panel 670 such that one end of the pillars 530 extends beyond the transfer panel 670. The center cap 602 of the wheel 600 is coupled to an end of the pillars 530 above the transfer panel 670 and the support panel 550. In the illustrated example, the center cap 602 is fixedly coupled to the pillars 530 such that the center cap 602 is stationary. As disclosed in more detail below, the wheel body 610 of the wheel 600 is configured to rotate about the center cap 602. In other examples, the center cap 602 is fixed to the wheel body 610 such that the center cap 602 rotates with the wheel body 610. The center cap 602 of the wheel 600 defines a central opening 604 through which a golf ball can pass.

[0042] In the illustrated example, wheel assembly 500 further includes a light emitting diode (LED) ring 551 configured to illuminate a portion of wheel 600 while a game is being played. In FIG. 5 , LED ring 551 is an outer LED ring coupled to the outer frame structure of housing 515. Additionally or alternatively, wheel assembly 500 may include an inner LED ring positioned around a portion of pillar 530 between center cap 602 and transfer panel 670.

[0043] In some examples, the LED ring 551 is configured to emit a different color and / or pattern onto each of the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 of the wheel 600. The wheel assembly 500 includes a rotation sensor 552 configured to monitor the rotation of the wheel 600. The processor(s) 595 of the wheel assembly 500 rotates the light emitted by the LED ring 551 based on the rotational speed detected by the rotation sensor 552 to synchronize the rotation of the different colors and / or patterns with the rotation of the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 of the wheel 600. In the illustrated example, the rotation sensor 552 is fixed to the housing 515 adjacent to the wheel 600. A sticker or tag is fixed to the wheel 600 such that the rotation sensor 552 is configured to detect the tag with each rotation of the wheel 600. The rotation sensor 552 and tag are positioned so that the rotation sensor 552 is stationary and no electronic wiring extends to the wheel 600 .

[0044] 6 shows wheel assembly 500 with transfer panel 670 also removed to show additional components of wheel assembly 500. Pillar 530 defines opening 531 through which golf balls can pass to travel from central opening 605 to exit 505. Housing 515 includes shelf 516 upon which transfer panel 670 rests securely in place. For example, transfer panel 670 is coupled to shelf 516 such that transfer panel 670 is stationary. In the illustrated example, wheel assembly 500 includes support panel 560.

[0045] As shown most clearly in FIG. 15 , the support panel 560 includes a fixed panel 561 and a rotating panel 562. The fixed panel 561 is fixedly secured to the housing 515 and is stationary. The rotating panel 562 is attached to an upper surface of the fixed panel 561 and configured to rotate relative to the fixed panel 561. The wheel assembly 500 includes a plurality of support posts 563 extending between and connecting the rotating panel 562 and the wheel 600. The support posts 563 and the support panel 560 are configured to support the wheel 600. Further, the support posts 563 are connected to the wheel body 610 of the wheel 600 and operably connected to a motor 564. In the illustrated example, the motor 564 is fixedly secured to the fixed panel 561. The motor 564 is configured to drive a belt extending around a groove 565 in the rotating panel 562. The motor 564 rotates the rotating panel 562 via the belt. Rotation of rotating panel 562 rotates support posts 563, which in turn rotate wheel body 610 of wheel 600. Support posts 563 are positioned around pillars 530 at intervals such that stationary pillars 530 do not interfere with the rotation of support posts 563. Additionally, electronic components of wheel assembly 500, such as wires and sensors, are securely attached to a stationary structure, such as frame 571 of sensor assembly 570. As a result, wheel 600 can rotate without wires tangling with the wiring of the electronic components.

[0046] 7-13, features of an exemplary wheel 600 are shown. In particular, FIGS. 7-8 show the wheel body 610 of wheel 600, and FIGS. 9-13 show each of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, and 660, respectively. In the illustrated example, wheel 600 defines five cavities into which a player can putt a golf ball. In other examples, wheel 600 may include fewer or more cavities.

[0047] As shown in Figure 7, the wheel body 610 of the wheel 600 defines a central aperture 612 that extends along the central axis of the wheel body 610. As shown in Figure 14, the central cap 602 is received within the central aperture 612 such that the central cap 602 is concentric with the wheel body 610. The central cap 602 is fixedly coupled to the pillar 530 such that the wheel body 610 rotates about the central cap 602. In the illustrated example, the central opening 604 extends along the central axis of the wheel body 610 such that the central opening 604 is concentric with the central aperture 612.

[0048] Returning to Figure 7, the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, and 660 are arranged circumferentially side by side around the central aperture 612. The wheel body 610 includes radial walls 615 extending radially between the central aperture 612 and the outer periphery of the wheel body 610. The radial walls 615 are arranged in a spoke configuration to separate the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, and 660 from one another. In the illustrated example, the wheel body 610 includes five radial walls 615 such that each of the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, and 660 is substantially wedge-shaped. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the radial walls 615 have equal widths and are spaced equidistant from one another. In other examples, the radial walls 615 may have different thicknesses and / or may not be spaced equidistant from one another, resulting in different sized cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660. To make the game more interesting for ambitious players, smaller cavities may be worth more points and larger cavities may be worth fewer points.

[0049] Wheel 600 includes a top surface 616 along which a ball may roll into central opening 604. In the illustrated example, top surface 616 is defined by center cap 602, as well as outer rim 617, inner rim 618, and radial walls 615 of wheel body 610. A player may putt a golf ball into central opening 604 of wheel 600 by directing the golf ball onto top surface 616, along one of radial walls 615, and into central opening 604. Due to the precision required to do so, putting a golf ball into central opening 604 may be worth more points than putting a golf ball into any of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660.

[0050] 7-8 , each of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 includes one or more openings through which a golf ball can pass. Cavity 620 includes one or more openings 621, cavity 630 includes one or more openings 631, cavity 640 includes one or more openings 641, cavity 650 includes one or more openings 651, and cavity 660 includes one or more openings 661. In the illustrated example, the opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 (also referred to as a "recessed opening" and a "cavity opening") for each of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 includes two holes on opposite sides of each cavity 620, 630, 640, 650, 660. That is, opening(s) 621 are sets of two opposing holes, opening(s) 631 are sets of two opposing holes, opening(s) 641 are sets of two opposing holes, opening(s) 651 are sets of two opposing holes, and opening(s) 661 are sets of two opposing holes. Alternatively, each of opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 may be an arcuate slot extending the width of the respective cavity 620, 630, 640, 650, 660.

[0051] 8 , opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, and 661 are positioned at different radial distances from the central axis relative to one another. For example, opening(s) 621 are positioned at radial distance 622 from the central axis, opening(s) 631 are positioned at radial distance 632 from the central axis, opening(s) 641 are positioned at radial distance 642 from the central axis, opening(s) 651 are positioned at radial distance 652 from the central axis, and opening(s) 661 are positioned at radial distance 662 from the central axis. Radial distance 622 of opening(s) 621 is greater than radial distance 632 of opening(s) 631. Radial distance 632 of opening(s) 631 is greater than radial distance 642 of opening(s) 641. Radial distance 642 of opening(s) 641 is greater than radial distance 652 of opening(s) 651. Radial distance 652 of opening(s) 651 is greater than radial distance 652 of opening(s) 651.

[0052] As disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figures 17-18, each of the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 of the wheel 600 corresponds to a respective one of the concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684 of the transfer panel 670. The opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 of the cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 are at different respective radial positions such that the opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 are vertically aligned with the respective concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684.

[0053] 9 to 13 show a portion of wheel 600. More specifically, Fig. 9 shows cavity 630, Fig. 10 shows cavity 620, Fig. 11 shows cavity 650, Fig. 12 shows cavity 640, and Fig. 13 shows cavity 660.

[0054] 9 , cavity 630 is formed or defined by a cavity surface 633, a radially outer surface 634, a radially inner surface 635, and opposing side surfaces 636. Cavity surface 633 (also referred to as the “concave surface”) is parallel to top surface 616 of wheel 600. Radially outer surface 634 is defined by outer rim 617, and radially inner surface 635 is defined by inner rim 618. Each of side surfaces 636 is defined by a respective one of radial walls 615. Opening(s) 631 are positioned radially between and spaced apart from radially outer surface 634 and radially inner surface 635.

[0055] In the illustrated example, wheel 600 includes an angled insert 637 positioned within cavity 630 on a portion of cavity surface 633. The angled insert 637 (also referred to as an "angled inlay") is configured to cause a golf ball to overcome the centripetal force created by the rotation of wheel 600 and roll into one of opening(s) 631. That is, angled insert 637 is configured to guide the golf ball into one of opening(s) 631. The angled insert 637 in the illustrated example is positioned along radially outer surface 634. The angled insert 637 includes an angled upper surface that slopes downward from radially outer surface 634 into opening(s) 631 to guide the golf ball into one of opening(s) 631.

[0056] 10 , the cavity 620 is formed or defined by a cavity face 623, a radially outer side face 624, a radially inner side face 625, and opposing side faces 626. The cavity face 623 (also referred to as the "concave face") is parallel to the top surface 616 of the wheel 600. The radially outer side face 624 is defined by an outer rim 617, and the radially inner side face 625 is defined by an inner rim 618. Each of the side faces 626 is defined by a respective one of the radial walls 615. The opening(s) 621 are positioned along the radially outer side face 624.

[0057] 11 , cavity 650 is formed or defined by a cavity surface 653, a radially outer surface 654, a radially inner surface 655, and opposing side surfaces 656. Cavity surface 653 (also referred to as the "concave surface") is parallel to top surface 616 of wheel 600. Radially outer surface 654 is defined by outer rim 617, and radially inner surface 655 is defined by inner rim 618. Each of side surfaces 656 is defined by a respective one of radial walls 615. Opening(s) 651 are positioned radially between and spaced apart from radially outer surface 654 and radially inner surface 655.

[0058] In the illustrated example, the wheel 600 includes a set of angled inserts 657. The angled inserts 657 (also referred to as "angled inlays") are positioned within the cavity 650 on a portion of the cavity surface 653. Each of the angled inserts 657 is positioned at a respective radially outer corner formed by the radially outer surface 654 and one of the side surfaces 656. The angled inserts 657 are configured to cause a golf ball to overcome the centripetal force generated by the rotation of the wheel 600 and roll into one of the openings 651. That is, the angled inserts 657 are configured to guide the golf ball into one of the openings 651. Each of the angled inserts 657 includes an angled upper surface that slopes downward from a respective radially outer corner into one of the openings 651 to guide the golf ball into one of the openings 651.

[0059] 12 , cavity 640 is formed or defined by a cavity surface 643, a radially outer surface 644, a radially inner surface 645, and opposing side surfaces 646. Cavity surface 643 (also referred to as the “concave surface”) is parallel to top surface 616 of wheel 600. Radially outer surface 644 is defined by outer rim 617, and radially inner surface 645 is defined by inner rim 618. Each of side surfaces 646 is defined by a respective one of radial walls 615. Opening(s) 641 are positioned radially between and spaced apart from radially outer surface 644 and radially inner surface 645.

[0060] In the illustrated example, wheel 600 includes a set of angled inserts 647. The angled inserts 647 (also referred to as "angled inlays") are positioned within cavity 640 on a portion of cavity surface 643. Each of angled inserts 647 is positioned at a respective radially outer corner formed by radially outer surface 644 and one of side surfaces 646. The angled inserts 647 are configured to cause a golf ball to overcome the centripetal force generated by rotation of wheel 600 and roll into one of opening(s) 641. That is, the angled inserts 647 are configured to guide the golf ball into one of opening(s) 641. Each of angled inserts 647 includes an angled upper surface that slopes downward from a respective radially outer corner into one of opening(s) 641 to guide the golf ball into one of opening(s) 641.

[0061] 13, cavity 660 is formed or defined by a cavity face 663, a radially outer side surface 664, a radially inner side surface 665, and opposing side surfaces 666. Radially outer side surface 664 is defined by outer rim 617, and radially inner side surface 665 is defined by inner rim 618. Each of side surfaces 666 is defined by a respective one of radial walls 615. Opening(s) 661 are positioned along radially inner side surface 665.

[0062] In the illustrated example, wheel 600 includes a sloped surface that slopes downward from radially outer surface 664 to radially inner surface 665. The sloped surface is configured to cause a golf ball to overcome centripetal force caused by rotation of wheel 600 and roll into one of opening(s) 661. That is, the sloped surface is configured to guide the golf ball into one of opening(s) 661. In some examples, cavity surface 663 (also referred to as a "concave surface") is a sloped surface. In other examples, cavity surface 663 is parallel to top surface 616 of wheel 600, and a sloped insert (also referred to as a "slope inlay") defining the sloped surface is positioned above cavity surface 663.

[0063] Additionally, in the illustrated example, wheel 600 further includes a guide post 668 positioned between opening(s) 661 along radially inner surface 665. Guide post 668 has a substantially triangular shape and is configured to direct a golf ball into one of opening(s) 661 upon approaching radially inner surface 665.

[0064] Figures 14-19 show the components of wheel assembly 500 that define various possible paths for a golf ball. More specifically, Figures 14-19 show the arrangement of wheel 600, transfer panel 670, sensor assembly 570, channel 590, and additional channel 594. More specifically, Figures 14-15 show the components of wheel assembly 500 without transfer panel 670 to more clearly show the other components. Figure 16 shows transfer panel 670 and channels 590, 594. Figure 17 shows wheel 600, Figure 18 shows transfer panel 670, and Figure 19 shows sensor assembly 570 and channel 590, with these components shown vertically aligned.

[0065] 14-15 , wheel 600 is positioned in a non-vertical and non-horizontal orientation. Wheel 600 is in the non-vertical orientation to ensure that when a golf ball is putted onto wheel 600, it enters central opening 604 and / or one of openings 621, 631, 641, 651, 661. Wheel 600 is in the non-horizontal orientation so that a player can more easily see the features of wheel 600 and / or so that gravity can help guide the golf ball into one of openings 621, 631, 641, 651, 661.

[0066] The transfer panel 670 in the illustrated example is also positioned in a non-vertical and non-horizontal orientation. For example, the transfer panel 670 is parallel to and positioned below the wheel 600. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 18 , the transfer panel 670 is in a non-horizontal orientation so that the player can more easily view the features of the wheel 600 and / or so that gravity can guide the golf ball as it travels outward from the transfer panel 670. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 19 , the sensor assembly 570 is positioned below the transfer panel 670, and the channel 590 is positioned below the sensor assembly 570. Wheel 600, transfer panel 670, sensor assembly 570, and channel 590 are vertically aligned so that a golf ball can pass through one of openings 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 in wheel 600, through respective openings 690, 691, 692, 693, 694 in transfer panel 670 (FIG. 18), through respective openings 580, 581, 582, 583, 584 in sensor assembly 570 (FIG. 19), out outlet 510 of channel 590, and onto hole surface 320 (FIGS. 1-2).

[0067] In the illustrated example, channel 590 includes a floor surface 591 along which the golf ball rolls. Channel 590 further includes opposing sides 592 that prevent the golf ball from rolling off one side of floor surface 591. Channel 590 includes checks 593 located along floor surface 591 that are configured to limit the velocity of the golf ball as it rolls from outlet 510 onto hole face 320. Additionally, channel 594 is configured to transport the golf ball from central aperture 604 of wheel 600 out of outlet 505 of channel 594. In the illustrated example, channel 594 is in the form of a tube.

[0068] 17 shows a portion of wheel assembly 500, specifically a top view of wheel 600. The wheel includes cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 having respective opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661. Each set of opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 is positioned at a different radial distance relative to the other opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661. Additionally, wheel 600 defines a central opening 604 through which a golf ball can pass. In the illustrated example, a slot sensor 696 (e.g., a fork sensor) is positioned between central opening 604 and the entrance to channel 594. Slot sensor 696 is configured to detect when a golf ball is putted into central opening 604 by a player.

[0069] 18 shows the same portion of wheel assembly 500 with wheel 600 removed to reveal transfer panel 670. That is, transfer panel 670 is positioned below and aligned with wheel 600. Transfer panel 670 is securely fastened to shelf 516 of housing 515 so that transfer panel 670 is stationary.

[0070] The transfer panel 670 includes a floor 671 and a plurality of concentric walls 672, 673, 674, 675, 676, 677 extending upwardly from the floor 671 to define respective concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684. Each of the concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684 is positioned below and vertically aligned with a respective one of the opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661 to receive golf balls dropped through the respective one of the opening(s) 621, 631, 641, 651, 661.

[0071] 18 , the floor 671 of the transfer panel 670 defines a respective opening 690, 691, 692, 693, 694 for each of the concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684. Each of the openings 690, 691, 692, 693, 694 (also referred to as “transfer openings”) is positioned toward the lowest vertical point of a respective concentric ring 680, 681, 682, 683, 684 such that gravity can guide a golf ball into and through one of the openings 690, 691, 692, 693, 694 when the golf ball lands on a respective one of the concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684.

[0072] 19 shows the same portion of wheel assembly 500 with wheel 600 and transfer panel 670 removed to show sensor assembly 570 and channel 590. That is, sensor assembly 570 is positioned below and aligned with openings 690, 691, 692, 693, 694 in transfer panel 670.

[0073] Sensor assembly 570 includes frame 571, which is stationarily fixed to housing 515. Frame 571 defines openings 580, 581, 582, 583, 584 (also referred to as "sensor openings") through which golf balls can pass to travel from transfer panel 670 to channel 594. Sensor assembly 570 further includes sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589, which are stationarily attached to frame 571.

[0074] Each of the sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589 (e.g., fork sensors) is positioned adjacent to a respective one of the openings 580, 581, 582, 583, 584 such that the sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589 are configured to detect when a golf ball passes through a respective opening 580, 581, 582, 583, 584. Additionally, each of the openings 580, 581, 582, 583, 584 is positioned below and vertically aligned with a respective one of the openings 690, 691, 692, 693, 694 in the concentric rings 680, 681, 682, 683, 684 of the transfer panel 670.

[0075] A golf ball putted into cavity 620 of wheel 600 then passes through opening(s) 621 in cavity 620, into concentric rings 684, through opening 694, through opening 584 and onto channel 590. Sensor 589 is configured to detect when a golf ball has been putted into cavity 620 of wheel 600 by detecting when the golf ball passes through opening 580.

[0076] A golf ball putted into cavity 630 of wheel 600 passes through opening(s) 631 in cavity 630, into concentric rings 683, through opening 693, through opening 583 and onto channel 590. Sensor 588 is configured to detect when the golf ball has been putted into cavity 630 of wheel 600 by detecting when the golf ball passes through opening 581.

[0077] A golf ball putted into cavity 640 of wheel 600 passes through opening(s) 641 in cavity 640, into concentric rings 682, through opening 692, through opening 582 and onto channel 590. Sensor 587 is configured to detect when a golf ball has been putted into cavity 640 of wheel 600 by detecting when the golf ball passes through opening 582.

[0078] A golf ball putted into cavity 650 of wheel 600 passes through opening(s) 651 in cavity 650, into concentric rings 681, through opening 691, through opening 581 and onto channel 590. Sensor 586 is configured to detect when a golf ball has been putted into cavity 650 of wheel 600 by detecting when the golf ball passes through opening 581.

[0079] A golf ball putted into cavity 660 of wheel 600 passes through opening(s) 661 in cavity 660, into concentric rings 680, through opening 690, through opening 580 and onto channel 590. Sensor 585 is configured to detect when a golf ball has been putted into cavity 660 of wheel 600 by detecting when the golf ball passes through opening 580.

[0080] In the example shown, sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589 are fixed to frame 571 which is fixed in place rather than to rotating wheel 600 so that the electrical wiring for sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589 does not get tangled and does not interfere with the rotation of wheel 600.

[0081] Figure 20 illustrates a miniature golf hole 100 having another exemplary wheel 900. As shown in Figure 20, the miniature golf hole 100 includes a tee assembly 200, a hole assembly 300, and a slope assembly 400. Because these components have been described in detail in connection with Figures 1-4, the features of these components will not be described in further detail below with respect to Figure 20.

[0082] Miniature golf course 100 further includes wheel assembly 500. Wheel assembly 500 of FIGS. 20-22 includes components that are identical and / or substantially similar to those described in FIGS. 5-19 (e.g., outlets 505, 510, housing 515, shelf 516, trip sensor 525, pillar 530, access panels 540, 541, 542, sensor assembly 570, and channels 590, 594). Unless otherwise disclosed below, the components of wheel assembly 500 include features as described with respect to FIGS. 5-19. As shown in FIGS. 21-22, wheel assembly 500 includes an exemplary wheel 900 and another exemplary transfer panel 970 in accordance with the teachings herein.

[0083] 21 shows a top view of the wheel 900. The wheel 900 includes a center cap 902 and a wheel body 910. The wheel 900 defines a plurality of cavities 920, 930, 940, and 950. In the illustrated example, the cavities 920, 930, 940, and 950 are strips extending between the front and rear ends of the wheel 900. In the illustrated example, the wheel 900 defines four cavities through which a player can putt a golf ball. In other examples, the wheel 900 may include fewer or more cavities.

[0084] In the illustrated example, the wheel 900 is stationary and does not rotate about a central axis. For example, the wheel body 910 is fixed in position relative to the housing 515 of the wheel assembly 500. The center cap 902 is fixedly coupled to the pillar 530.

[0085] The cavities 920, 930, 940, and 950 are arranged side by side along the wheel 900. The wheel body 910 includes a partition wall 914 extending between the front and rear ends of the wheel body 910. The wheel body 910 further includes a running wall 913 extending from the front end to the center cap 902. The partition wall 914 is positioned to separate the cavities 920, 930, 940, and 950 from one another. In the illustrated example, the wheel body 910 includes three partition walls 914. Further, in the illustrated example, the partition walls 914 have equal widths and are spaced equidistant from one another. In other examples, the partition walls 914 may have different thicknesses and / or may not be spaced equidistant from one another, resulting in cavities 920, 930, 940, and 950 of different sizes.

[0086] The wheel 900 includes a top surface 916 along which a ball can roll into a central opening 904 of the wheel 900, which is defined by the center cap 902. In the illustrated example, the top surface 916 is defined by the center cap 902, as well as an outer rim 917, an inner rim 918, and a running wall 913 of the wheel body 910. A player can putt a golf ball into the central opening 904 of the wheel 900 by directing the golf ball onto the top surface 916, along the running wall 913, and into the central opening 904. A slot sensor 996 (e.g., a fork sensor) is positioned between the central opening 904 and the entrance to the channel 594 of the wheel assembly 500. The slot sensor 996 is configured to detect when a golf ball has been putted into the central opening 904 by a player.

[0087] Each of the cavities 920, 930, 940, 950 includes one or more respective openings (also referred to as "recessed openings" and "cavity openings") through which a golf ball can pass. In the illustrated example, cavity 920 includes opening 921, cavity 930 includes opening 931, cavity 940 includes opening 941, and cavity 950 includes opening 951. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 22 , each of the cavities 920, 930, 940, 950 of the wheel 900 corresponds to a respective opening 991, 992, 993, 994 of the transfer panel 970.

[0088] In the illustrated example, the cavity 920 is formed or defined by a cavity face 923, a front face, a rear face, and opposing sides defined by each one of the bulkheads 914. The cavity face 923 (also referred to as the "concave face") is parallel to the top surface 916 of the wheel 900. The opening 921 is positioned toward the front of the cavity 920. The wheel 900 further includes a sloped surface 927 (formed, for example, by a sloped insert or inlay) between the front end of the cavity 920 and the opening 921 to facilitate the ball rolling into the opening 921.

[0089] Similarly, cavity 930 is formed or defined by a cavity face 933, a front face, a rear face, and opposing sides defined by each one of bulkheads 914. Cavity face 933 (also referred to as the "concave face") is parallel to top surface 916 of wheel 900. Opening 931 is positioned toward the front of cavity 930. Wheel 900 further includes a sloped surface 937 (formed, for example, by a sloped insert or inlay) between the front end of cavity 930 and opening 931 to facilitate the ball rolling into opening 931.

[0090] The cavity 940 is formed or defined by a cavity face 943, a front face, a rear face, and opposing sides defined by each one of the bulkheads 914. The cavity face 943 (also referred to as the "concave face") is parallel to the top surface 916 of the wheel 900. The opening 941 is positioned toward the front of the cavity 940. The wheel 900 further includes a sloped surface 947 (formed, for example, by a sloped insert or inlay) between the front end of the cavity 940 and the opening 941 to facilitate the ball rolling into the opening 941.

[0091] The cavity 950 is formed or defined by a cavity face 953, a front face, a rear face, and opposing sides defined by each one of the bulkheads 914. The cavity face 953 (also referred to as the "concave face") is parallel to the top surface 916 of the wheel 900. The opening 951 is positioned toward the front of the cavity 950. The wheel 900 further includes a sloped surface 957 (formed, for example, by a sloped insert or inlay) between the front end of the cavity 950 and the opening 951 to facilitate the ball rolling into the opening 951.

[0092] 22 shows a transfer panel 970 positioned below and aligned with the wheel 900. The transfer panel 970 is securely fastened to the shelf 516 of the housing 515 so that the transfer panel 970 is stationary. The transfer panel 970 includes a floor surface 971 along which the golf balls can roll. The transfer panel 970 defines a plurality of openings 991, 992, 993, 994 toward the front end of the floor surface 971.

[0093] In the illustrated example, transfer panel 970 defines channels connecting openings 921, 931, 941, 951 to respective openings 991, 992, 993, 994 in transfer panel 970. For example, transfer panel 970 includes tube 975 defining a first channel through which golf balls travel from opening 921 to opening 994. Transfer panel 970 includes tube 974 defining a second channel through which golf balls travel from opening 931 to opening 993. Transfer panel 970 includes tube 973 defining a third channel through which golf balls travel from opening 941 to opening 992. Transfer panel 970 includes tube 972 defining a fourth channel through which golf balls travel from opening 951 to opening 991.

[0094] Sensor assembly 570 is positioned below and aligned with transfer panel 970. A golf ball putted into cavity 920 of wheel 900 passes through opening 921, through the channel defined by tube 975, through opening 994 in transfer panel 970, through opening 584 in sensor assembly 570, and onto channel 590. Sensor 589 is configured to detect when a golf ball is putted into cavity 920 of wheel 900. Similarly, a golf ball putted into cavity 930 of wheel 900 passes through opening 931 and the respective channel, openings 993 and 583, and onto channel 590. Sensor 588 is configured to detect when a golf ball is putted into cavity 930 of wheel 900. A golf ball putted into cavity 940 of wheel 900 passes through opening 941, the respective channel, openings 992, 582, and onto channel 590. Sensor 587 is configured to detect when a golf ball is putted into cavity 940 of wheel 900. A golf ball putted into cavity 950 of wheel 900 passes through opening 951, the respective channel, openings 991, 581, and onto channel 590. Sensor 586 is configured to detect when a golf ball is putted into cavity 950 of wheel 900.

[0095] 23 shows electronic components 800 of miniature golf course 100. Electronic components 800 include one or more processors 595, memory 596, motor 564, LED ring 551, one or more sensors, communication device 598, and one or more output devices. In the illustrated example, the sensors include tee sensor 215, cup sensors 313, 314, trip sensor 525, panel sensor 543, LED ring 551, rotation sensor 552, and slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589, 696, 996. Output devices include display 130 and speaker 135. In the illustrated example, wheel assembly 500 includes processor(s) 595, memory 596, motor 564, communication device 598, trip sensor 525, panel sensor 543, rotation sensor 552, and slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589, 696, 996. In other examples, wheel assembly 500 may include more or fewer electronic components 800.

[0096] Processor(s) 595 may include any processing device or set of processing devices, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integrated circuit, etc. Processor(s) 595 are configured to control the operation of miniature golf hole 100. Additionally, sensors may be positioned on and / or around miniature golf hole 100 to monitor characteristics of miniature golf hole 100, the golf ball being putted along miniature golf hole 100, and / or the player putting the golf ball along miniature golf hole 100.

[0097] For example, processor(s) 595 are configured to command motor 564 to operate, in turn, rotating wheel 600, in response to determining that (1) none of trip sensors 525 detects an object and (2) panel sensor 543 detects that access panel 540 is closed. Processor(s) 595 are configured to control the speed at which motor 564 rotates wheel 600 based on data collected by tee sensor 215 and / or the rotational speed of wheel 600 detected by rotation sensor 552. Processor(s) 595 are configured to control the light emitted by LED ring 551 based on the rotational speed of wheel 600 detected by rotation sensor 552. Processor(s) 595 are configured to determine information to be presented to the player via display 130 and / or speaker 135 based on data collected by the one or more sensors. For example, display 130 and / or speaker 135 are configured to identify a player based on information collected by tee sensor 215. Display 130 and / or speaker 135 are configured to present a question and possible answers to the player based on which of slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589, 696, 996 detected the golf ball. Processor(s) 595 are configured to assign a respective answer to each of cups 311, 312 and then assign a score to the player based on which of cup sensors 313, 314 detected the presence of a golf ball.

[0098] Memory 596 may include volatile memory, non-volatile memory, non-tamperable memory, read-only memory, etc. In some examples, memory 596 includes multiple types of memory, particularly volatile and non-volatile memory. Memory 596 is a computer-readable medium on which one or more sets of instructions, such as software, for operating the methods of the present disclosure may be embedded. The instructions may embody one or more of the methods or logic described herein. For example, the instructions reside, completely or at least partially, in memory 596, any one or more of the computer-readable media, and / or within processor(s) 595 during execution of the instructions.

[0099] 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. Furthermore, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include any tangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by a processor or that causes 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 to exclude propagating signals.

[0100] The communication device 598 includes a wired or wireless network interface to enable communication with an external network and / or other devices, such as the display 130 and / or the speaker 135. The external network(s) may be a public network such as the Internet, a private network such as an intranet, or a combination thereof, and may utilize various network protocols. The communication device 598 further includes hardware (e.g., a processor, memory, storage, antenna, etc.) and software for controlling the wired or wireless network interface. For example, the communication device 598 includes hardware, software, and network interfaces for a cellular network(s) such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), a wireless local area network (WLAN) such as Wi-Fi®, a wireless personal area network (WPAN) such as Bluetooth® and / or Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), etc.

[0101] FIG. 24 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 1000 for operating the miniature golf hole 100. The flowchart of FIG. 24 represents machine-readable instructions comprising one or more programs that, when stored in a memory (such as memory 596 of FIG. 23) and executed by one or more processors (such as processor(s) 595 of FIG. 23), control the operation of the miniature golf hole 100. Although the exemplary program is described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 24, many other methods can alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to implement the method 1000. Furthermore, because the method 1000 is disclosed with respect to the components of FIGS. 1-20, the functions of some of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0102] Initially, in block 1005, processor(s) 595 determine whether any of trip sensors 525 and / or panel sensors 543 have been activated. In response to processor(s) 595 determining that one or more of trip sensors 525 and / or panel sensors 543 have been activated, method 1000 proceeds to block 1010, where processor(s) 595 transmit a signal to stop motor 564 from rotating wheels 600. In addition, processor(s) 595 transmit a signal to activate an alarm via display 130 and / or speaker 135. Otherwise, in response to processor(s) 595 determining that none of trip sensors 525 and / or panel sensors 543 have been activated, method 1000 proceeds to block 1015.

[0103] In block 1015, processor(s) 595 send a signal instructing motor 564 to rotate wheel 600. In block 1020, processor(s) 595 detect the speed at which wheel 600 is rotating based on data collected by rotation sensor 552. In block 1025, processor(s) 595 causes LED ring 551 to emit light synchronized with the rotation of wheel 600. That is, LED ring 551 is controlled to emit light that matches the rotational speed of wheel 600, such that as wheel 600 rotates, each of cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 is illuminated with a respective color and / or pattern.

[0104] At block 1030, processor(s) 595 detect whether a golf ball has been placed on tee 210 via tee sensor 215. In response to processor(s) 595 determining that a golf ball has not been placed on tee 210, method 1000 returns to block 1005. Otherwise, in response to processor 595 determining that a golf ball is on tee 210, method 1000 proceeds to block 1035, where processor(s) 595 collect information from the golf ball via tee sensor 215 and / or other electronic devices adjacent to tee 210. Upon completion of block 1030, method 1000 ends and a method of game play (e.g., method 1100 of FIG. 25, method 1160 of FIG. 26, etc.) is initiated.

[0105] FIG. 25 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 1100 for playing a game on the miniature golf hall 100. The flowchart of FIG. 25 represents machine-readable instructions comprising one or more programs that, when stored in a memory (such as memory 596 of FIG. 23) and executed by one or more processors (such as processor(s) 595 of FIG. 23), cause the miniature golf hall 100 to perform game play. Although the exemplary program is described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 25, many other methods can alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to implement the method 1100. Furthermore, because the method 1100 is disclosed with respect to the components of FIGS. 1-23, the functions of some of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0106] Initially, at block 1005, processor(s) 595 determine, via a slot sensor (e.g., slot sensor 696 of FIG. 17 , slot sensor 996 of FIG. 21 ), whether a player putted a golf ball into a central opening (e.g., central opening 604 of FIG. 17 , central opening 904 of FIG. 21 ) of a wheel (e.g., wheel 600 of FIG. 17 , wheel 900 of FIG. 21 ). In response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was putted into the central opening, method 1100 proceeds to block 1110, where processor(s) 595 assigns the player a first predetermined number of points associated with the central opening. Upon completion of block 1110, method 1100 terminates for the player. Otherwise, in response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was not putted into the central opening, method 1100 proceeds to block 1115.

[0107] At block 1115, processor(s) 595 determine whether the player putted the golf ball into one of the wheel's cavities (e.g., cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 in FIG. 17 ; cavities 920, 930, 940, 950 in FIG. 21 ). For example, processor(s) 595 determine whether the golf ball was putted into one of the cavities via slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589. In response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was not putted into any of the cavities, method 1100 returns to block 1105. Otherwise, in response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was putted into one of the cavities, the method proceeds to block 1120.

[0108] At block 1120, processor(s) 595 identify which cavity the player putted the ball into via slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589. At block 1125, processor(s) 595 identify the trivia category associated with the cavity into which the player putted the ball. For example, one cavity may be associated with a first category (e.g., history), another cavity may be associated with a second category (e.g., current events), another cavity may be associated with a third category (e.g., sports), another cavity may be associated with a fourth category (e.g., movies), and another cavity may be associated with a fifth category (e.g., music).

[0109] In block 1130, the processor(s) 595 select a question for the identified category from memory 596. The processor(s) 595 also retrieve possible answers from memory 596 and assign each answer to each of the cups 311, 312. For the example miniature golf hole 100, the processor(s) 595 assigns a correct answer to one of the cups 311, 312 and an incorrect answer to the other of the cups 311, 312. In block 1135, the display 130 and / or speaker 135 present the question and possible answers to the player. The display 130 and / or speaker 135 also identify which of the cups 311, 312 is associated with each of the answers, allowing the player to putt the golf ball toward the cup 311, 312 that the player believes is associated with the correct answer.

[0110] At block 1140, the processor(s) 595 determine, via the cup sensors 313, 314, whether the golf ball has been putted into one of the cups 311, 312. In response to the processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball has not been putted into one of the cups 311, 312, the method 1100 returns to block 1135. Otherwise, in response to the processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball has been putted into one of the cups 311, 312, the method 1100 proceeds to block 1045.

[0111] At block 1145, the processor(s) 595 determine whether the cups 311, 312 into which the golf ball was putted correspond to the correct answer. In response to the processor(s) 595 determining that the cups 311, 312 correspond to the correct answer, the method 1100 proceeds to block 1150, where the processor(s) 595 assign the player a second predetermined number of points associated with the correct answer. Alternatively, in response to the processor(s) 595 determining that the cups 311, 312 do not correspond to the correct answer, the method 1100 proceeds to block 1155, where the processor(s) 595 assign the player a third predetermined number of points associated with the incorrect answer. In some examples, the first predetermined number of points associated with the central opening 604 is greater than the second predetermined number of points associated with the correct answer, and the second predetermined number of points associated with the correct answer is greater than the third predetermined number of points associated with the incorrect answer. Upon completion of block 1150 or block 1155, the method 1100 ends for the player.

[0112] FIG. 26 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 1160 for playing another game on the miniature golf hall 100. The flowchart of FIG. 26 represents machine-readable instructions comprising one or more programs that, when stored in a memory (such as memory 596 of FIG. 23) and executed by one or more processors (such as processor(s) 595 of FIG. 23), cause the miniature golf hall 100 to perform game play. Although the exemplary program is described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 26, many other methods can alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform the method 1160. Furthermore, because the method 1160 is disclosed with respect to the components of FIGS. 1-23, the functions of some of those components will not be described in detail below.

[0113] First, at block 1165, processor(s) 595 determine, via a slot sensor (e.g., slot sensor 696 of FIG. 17 , slot sensor 996 of FIG. 21 ), whether a player putted a golf ball into a central opening (e.g., central opening 604 of FIG. 17 , central opening 904 of FIG. 21 ) of a wheel (e.g., wheel 600 of FIG. 17 , wheel 900 of FIG. 21 ). In response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was putted into the central opening, method 1160 proceeds to block 1170, where processor(s) 595 assign the player a first predetermined number of points associated with the central opening. Upon completion of block 1170, method 1160 proceeds to block 1190. Otherwise, in response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was not putted into the central opening, method 1160 proceeds to block 1175.

[0114] At block 1175, processor(s) 595 determine whether the player putted the golf ball into one of the wheel's cavities (e.g., cavities 620, 630, 640, 650, 660 in FIG. 17 ; cavities 920, 930, 940, 950 in FIG. 21 ). For example, processor(s) 595 determine whether the golf ball was putted into one of the cavities via slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589. In response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was not putted into any of the cavities, method 1160 returns to block 1165. Otherwise, in response to processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was putted into one of the cavities, the method proceeds to block 1180.

[0115] At block 1180, processor(s) 595 identify, via slot sensors 585, 586, 587, 588, 589, which cavity the player putted the ball into. At block 1185, processor(s) 595 assigns the player a predetermined number of points associated with the cavity into which the golf ball was putted. In some examples, each of the cavities is associated with a different score to encourage the player to target one or more of the cavities. Further, in some examples, the number of points associated with each of the cavities is less than the predetermined number of points associated with the central opening to encourage the player to target the central opening.

[0116] At block 1190, the processor(s) 595 determine, via the cup sensors 313, 314, whether the golf ball was putted into one of the cups 311, 312. In response to the processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was not putted into one of the cups 311, 312, the method 1160 returns to block 1190. Otherwise, in response to the processor(s) 595 determining that the golf ball was putted into one of the cups 311, 312, the method 1160 proceeds to block 1195, where the processor(s) 595 assign a predetermined number of points associated with the cup 311, 312 into which the golf ball was putted. In some examples, one of the cups 311, 312 may be worth more points than the other of the cups 311, 312. Upon completion of block 1195, the method 1160 terminates for the player.

[0117] The above-described embodiments, particularly any "preferred" embodiments, are possible examples and are merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present invention. Many variations and modifications of the above-described embodiment(s) are possible without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of the technology described herein. All modifications are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Claims

1. A miniature golf hole, a tee surface on which a golf ball is set for an initial stroke; Hall surface and one or more putting cups positioned along the hole surface; a spin wheel defining cavities arranged circumferentially side by side about its periphery, each of the cavities being defined in part by a respective cavity surface along which the golf ball may travel upon entering the respective cavity, the cavity surface of each of the cavities defining one or more cavity openings through which the golf ball may pass upon entering the respective cavity, the one or more cavity openings of each of the cavities being positioned at a different radial distance along the spin wheel than the radial distance of the one or more cavity openings of other of the cavities; a ramp positioned between the tee face and the spin wheel for directing the golf ball onto the spin wheel; a stationary transfer panel positioned below the spin wheel, the transfer panel including concentric rings, each of the concentric rings vertically aligned with the one or more cavity openings of a respective one of the cavities for receiving the golf balls from the respective cavity; a sensor configured to detect which of the cavities the golf ball has passed through; a first channel configured to transfer the golf ball from the transfer panel onto the hole surface; A miniature golf hole equipped with

2. 10. The miniature golf hole of claim 1, wherein the spin wheel and the transport panel are each positioned in a non-vertical and non-horizontal orientation.

3. 3. The miniature golf hole of claim 1, wherein the spin wheel includes radial walls separating the cavities from one another, the radial walls being arranged in a spoke formation such that each of the cavities is substantially wedge-shaped.

4. 4. The miniature golf hole of claim 3, wherein each of the radial walls defines a portion of a top surface of the spin wheel, the spin wheel defining a central opening at a central axis of the spin wheel, and the spin wheel is configured to allow the golf ball to travel onto the top surface, travel along one of the radial walls, and enter the central opening.

5. The miniature golf hole of claim 4 , further comprising a second channel configured to transport the golf ball from the central opening into one of the one or more putting cups.

6. 6. The miniature golf hole of claim 1, further comprising a sensor assembly positioned below the transfer panel and including the sensors, each of the sensors positioned adjacent to a respective one of the concentric rings of the transfer panel so as to be configured to detect which of the cavities the golf ball has passed through.

7. 1. An assembly for a rotating surface of a miniature golf hole, comprising: a spin wheel defining circumferentially arranged side-by-side recessed cavities around its periphery, each of the recessed cavities being defined in part by a respective concave surface along which the golf ball may travel upon entering the respective recessed cavity, the concave surface of each of the recessed cavities defining one or more recessed openings through which the golf ball may pass upon entering the respective recessed cavity, the one or more recessed openings of each of the recessed cavities being positioned at a different radial distance along the spin wheel than the radial distance of the one or more recessed openings of other ones of the recessed cavities; a motor configured to rotate and drive the spin wheel; a stationary transfer panel positioned below the spin wheel, the transfer panel including concentric rings, each of the concentric rings vertically aligned with the one or more recessed openings of a respective one of the recessed cavities for receiving the golf balls from the respective recessed cavities; a sensor configured to detect which of the concave cavities the golf ball has passed through; a first channel configured to transfer the golf ball from the transfer panel onto a putting surface; An assembly comprising:

8. 8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein for each of the one or more recessed cavities, the spin wheel includes one or more angled inserts positioned along the concave surface to guide the golf ball into one of the one or more recessed openings as the spin wheel rotates.

9. 9. The assembly of claim 7 or 8, wherein the spin wheel includes radial walls separating the recessed cavities from one another, the radial walls being arranged in a spoke configuration such that each of the recessed cavities is substantially wedge-shaped.

10. 10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein each of the radial walls defines a portion of a top surface of the spin wheel, the spin wheel defining a central opening at a central axis of the spin wheel, the spin wheel configured to allow the golf ball to advance onto the top surface, travel along one of the radial walls, and enter the central opening.

11. 11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the transfer panel is positioned in a non-horizontal and non-vertical orientation, and each of the concentric rings defines a ring opening through which the golf ball can pass to enter the first channel.

12. 12. The assembly of claim 11, further comprising a sensor assembly including the sensors, defining sensor openings for the golf balls, and positioned below the transfer panel, each of the sensors positioned adjacent a respective one of the transfer openings, and the first channel positioned below each of the sensor openings for receiving the golf balls.

13. 13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein each of the concentric rings is vertically aligned with a respective one of the recessed cavities and each of the sensor openings is vertically aligned with a respective one of the recessed cavities, such that the sensor is configured to detect which of the recessed cavities the golf ball has passed through.

14. 14. The assembly of claim 12 or 13, further comprising a housing to which the sensor assembly is secured such that none of the sensors are positioned on the spin wheel.

15. An assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein for each of the recessed cavities, the one or more recessed openings comprise sets of holes positioned on opposite sides of the respective recessed cavity.

16. 16. An assembly according to claim 10, wherein each of the recessed cavities is defined by the respective concave surface, a respective radially inner surface, a respective radially outer surface, and a respective opposing side surface of the spin wheel.

17. 17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the recessed cavity includes a first recessed cavity having the one or more recessed openings positioned along the radially outer surface of the first recessed cavity.

18. 18. The assembly of claim 16 or 17, wherein the concave cavity includes a second concave cavity having the one or more concave openings positioned along the radially inner surface of the second concave cavity, the concave surface of the second concave cavity being an inclined surface sloping downward from the radially outer surface toward the radially inner surface to guide the golf ball into one of the one or more concave openings as the spin wheel rotates.

19. 19. The assembly of claim 16, 17, or 18, wherein the concave cavity includes a third concave cavity having the one or more concave openings radially positioned between the radially inner surface and the radially outer surface of the third concave cavity, the concave surface of the third concave cavity including an inclined insert that slopes downward from the radially outer surface toward the one or more concave openings to guide the golf ball into one of the one or more concave openings as the spin wheel rotates.

20. 20. The assembly of claims 16-19, wherein the concave cavity includes a fourth concave cavity having the one or more concave openings radially positioned between the radially inner surface and the radially outer surface of the fourth concave cavity, the concave surface of the fourth concave cavity including angled inserts each sloping downward from a respective radially outer corner of the concave cavity toward a respective one of the one or more concave openings to guide the golf ball into one of the one or more concave openings as the spin wheel rotates.

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