Grass insertion device and method for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground therewith

Abstract

The invention relates to a hybrid grass insertion device for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground, comprising a drum, the drum comprising a plurality of clamping devices for clamping a plurality of artificial grass strand parts to be inserted in the ground, wherein the clamping devices are elongate and extend parallel to the rotation axis and are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals from each other, each clamping device comprising a first clamping element comprising a plurality of first grooves, and a second clamping element comprising a plurality of second grooves, and wherein the first and second clamping element are arranged adjacent to one another in a circumferential direction of the drum, wherein the first and second clamping element are movable relative to one another over an axial distance of the drum between a clamping position and a non-clamping position.

Description

[0001] P37020PC00 / WHA

[0002] Title: Hybrid grass insertion device and method for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground therewith

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to a hybrid grass insertion comprising a plurality of clamping devices for clamping artificial grass strand parts to be inserted into the ground. Clamping devices for clamping artificial grass strand parts to be inserted into the ground are known.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] WO2019 / 027317 discloses a device and method for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground. The device comprises a plurality of clamps configured to hold a series of artificial grass strand parts between a front clamp and a rear clamp and to cause the artificial grass strand parts to rotate with a rotary device. Each clamp comprises a single bar running parallel to a rotation axis of the rotary device. A plurality of clamping shoe pairs is provided in each bar.

[0007] Although the device of WO2019 / 027317 works well and is capable of providing a variety of strand lengths, it was recognised that a number of improvements are possible.

[0008] It was recognized that the variety of strand lengths is dependent on the locations at which strand parts may be cut from a larger strand. The device of WO2019 / 027317 is limited to cutting strand parts from a strand in between two successive clamps, with the clamps themselves taking up notable space of the circumference of the rotary device. This limits the locations at which a cutting device may cut strand parts from a strand and consequently limits the number of different lengths of grass strands that can be inserted. Since each length has an associated depth, the number of different depths at which the device of WO2019 / 027317 can insert grass strands is limited.

[0009] It was further recognized that the clamping of a strand part in devices known in the art occurs through a clamping action oriented in the direction of the strand parts. Such clamping, while generally effective, may result in slipping of the strand being unwound from a spool depending on the material of the clamping surfaces and the artificial grass strand used. DE102015112329A1 discloses a device and method for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground. This device has a drawback in that it is limited to inserting over a single depth.

[0010] EP3555355B1 discloses a device and method for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground. This device does not have a drum but uses chains (or tracks). This is a complicated system. To the best of the knowledge of the applicant, this system was never put on the market, probably due to its complexity. The device of EP3555255B1 is limited to inserting yarn over three different depths. To this end, the device has three cutting device positions P1, P2 and P3 for the cutting device. However, it was found that three lengths are insufficient for a significant number of combinations of the type of sport to be played, the type of soil under the pitch and the type of weather. In particular, the device of EP3555255B1 can only provide one length per cutting device position of the cutting device.

[0011] CN114059228A discloses a device that is similar to the device of DE102015112329A1 in the sense that it is limited to a single depth.

[0012] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a hybrid grass insertion device comprising a plurality of clamping devices for clamping artificial grass strand parts to be inserted into the ground with which a greater variety of strand insertion depths can be achieved.

[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a hybrid grass insertion device comprising a plurality of clamping devices for clamping artificial grass strand parts to be inserted into the ground which provides an improved clamping grip on strand parts.

[0015] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In order to achieve at least one object, a hybrid grass insertion device for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground, in particular for producing hybrid turf pitches, is provided, wherein the hybrid grass insertion device comprises a drum having a rotation axis, the drum comprising a plurality of clamping devices for clamping a plurality of artificial grass strand parts to be inserted in the ground, wherein the clamping devices are elongate and extend parallel to the rotation axis and are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals from each other, wherein each clamping device comprises: a first clamping element comprising a plurality of first grooves located in a radially outward edge of the first clamping element, and a second clamping element comprising a plurality of second grooves located in a radially outward edge of the second clamping element, and wherein the first and second clamping element are arranged adjacent to one another in a circumferential direction of the drum, wherein each first groove is associated with one of the second grooves, wherein the first and second clamping element are movable relative to one another over an axial distance of the drum between a clamping position and a non-clamping position, wherein: in the non-clamping position each second groove is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated first groove, thereby forming a channel configured to receive the at least one artificial grass strand part, and to allow the grass strand part to be removed from the channel, in the clamping position each second groove is offset relative to the associated first groove over an axial distance of the drum, thereby clamping at least one artificial grass strand part received in the first groove and the second groove, wherein the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands held by the drum at multiple blade cutting locations (88,90,92), wherein the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts in at least five different lengths (L1 , L2, L3 L4, L5) for the multiple blade cutting positions.

[0017] The capability of inserting grass strands in five different lengths makes the grass insertion device versatile. The depth over which the grass strands are inserted can be varied in five steps. Because in the machine of WO2019 / 027317 only two lengths are available, sometimes greater lengths are used than is actually necessary, resulting in a loss of material, higher costs and potential damage to the device - in case of rocks -, or to the pitch - in case of conduits for drainage, irrigation or heating. Alternatively, grass strand parts which are too short may be used. This may compromise the quality of the pitch. This disadvantage is avoided in the present invention.

[0018] In some embodiments, at least one blade cutting location is used for at least two different lengths by providing two different operating modes for the blade cutting location, wherein a stroke distance over which the drum is each time rotated is different for each operating mode. This advantageously allows multiple different lengths over a relatively short total range of lengths.

[0019] In some embodiments, there are more lengths than blade cutting locations, wherein at least two blade cutting locations are used for at least two different lengths each by providing two different operating modes for each of the two blade cutting location, wherein a stroke distance over which the drum is each time rotated is different for each operating mode of each blade cutting location, resulting in four different stroke lengths for two different cutting locations.

[0020] In some embodiments, the hybrid grass insertion device has at least a first blade cutting location, a second blade cutting location and a third blade cutting location, and wherein the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts in at least five different lengths for the three cutting positions. This was found to be a practical number which is also achievable with a practical size of the drum and a practical number of clamping devices.

[0021] In some embodiments, two adjacent first clamping elements of two adjacent clamping devices are connected through a first interconnecting element at radially inward ends of said first clamping elements, forming a first clamping beam, and wherein two adjacent second clamping elements of two adjacent clamping devices are connected through a second interconnecting element at radially inward edges of said second clamping elements, forming a second clamping beam, wherein the first clamping beam and the second clamping beam form a set of clamping beams, wherein each set of clamping beams comprises two clamping devices, The clamping elements result in a clamping device with a reduced size in the circumferential direction of the drum, in particular a reduced circumferential angle. This enables the drum to house more clamping devices. The greater number of clamping devices enables the greater number of artificial grass strand lengths and consequently a greater variety of strand insertion depths. The use of a first interconnecting element and a second interconnecting element result in more effective clamping of the artificial grass strand parts. The first and second interconnecting elements improve the stiffness of the first clamping elements and the second clamping elements respectively. The interconnecting elements also lead to greater structural simplicity and easier manufacturing of the hybrid grass insertion device.

[0022] In some embodiments: in the first mode, the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of four clamping devices and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the second blade cutting location, and the drum is each time rotated over the first length L1 , in the second mode, the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of eight clamping devices and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the first blade cutting location, and the drum is each time rotated over the second length L2, in the third mode, the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of eight clamping devices and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the third blade cutting location, and the drum is each time rotated over the third length L3, in the fourth mode, the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of twelve clamping devices and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the first blade cutting location, and the drum is each time rotated over the fourth length L4, in the fifth mode, the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of twelve clamping devices and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the second blade cutting location, and the drum is each time rotated over the fifth length L2.

[0023] This embodiment allows a compact size of the drum while maintaining the capability of five different lengths. The drum can have a diameter of about 950mm.

[0024] In some embodiments: in the first mode, the four clamping devices belong to two adjacent sets of clamping beams, in the second and third mode, the eight clamping devices belong to four adjacent sets of clamping beams, in the fourth and fifth mode, the twelve clamping devices belong to six adjacent sets of clamping beams,

[0025] In some embodiments, the largest length L5 is equal to or smaller than three times the smallest length L1. This advantageously allows five different lengths over a relatively short total range of lengths. In this way, non-practical lengths are avoided and only lengths which are actually useful are used.

[0026] In some embodiments, the second clamping beam defines a cavity, wherein an associated first clamping beam is positioned in the cavity.

[0027] The ability to position the first clamping beam in a cavity of the second clamping beam results in a more compact structure. A more compact structure allows for more clamping devices to be arranged at the circumference of the drum. In some embodiments, the clamping device comprises a third clamping element comprising a plurality of third grooves located in a radially outward edge of the third clamping element, wherein the third clamping element is arranged adjacent to the second clamping element in a circumferential direction, wherein each first groove is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated third groove in both the non-clamping position and the clamping position, and wherein each first clamping element is fixated relative to an associated third clamping element, such that an associated second clamping element located in between the first clamping element and the third clamping element is movable over an axial direction of the drum relative to both the first clamping element and the third clamping element between a clamping position and a non-clamping position, wherein: in the non-clamping position each third groove is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated first groove and an associated second groove, thereby forming part of the respective channel formed by an associated first groove and an associated second groove configured to receive the at least one artificial grass strand part in a radial direction, and to allow the grass strand part to be removed from the channel in a radial direction, in the clamping position each second groove is offset relative to an associated first groove and an associated third groove over an axial distance of the drum, thereby clamping at least one artificial grass strand part received in the first groove, the second groove and the third groove.

[0028] The use of three adjoining clamping elements to clamp a grass strand part provides improved reliability of the clamping device and improved clamping of the artificial grass strand part by the drum. The increase in reliability of the clamping device helps prevent the artificial grass strand part from being clamped incorrectly and / or insufficiently. This may occur when part of the artificial grass strand part is lodged in between two clamping elements, in the case of a clamping device comprising two clamping elements.

[0029] The third clamping element generates a second shear force together with the second element, which acts on the artificial grass strand part. A first shear force between the first clamping element and the second clamping element acting on the artificial grass strand part is mirrored by this second shear force between the first clamping element and the second clamping element. The first shear force may cause the artificial grass strand part being clamped to run askew compared to a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the clamping elements. The second shear force resulting from use of a third clamping element returns the artificial grass strand part being clamped to the perpendicular orientation it had before passing through the clamping device.

[0030] In some embodiments, two adjacent third clamping elements of two adjacent clamping devices are connected through a third interconnecting element at radially inward ends of said third clamping elements, forming a third clamping beam, wherein the set of clamping beams comprises the third clamping beam and wherein each set of clamping beams comprises two clamping devices.

[0031] The use of a third interconnecting element provides the same benefits as the use of a first interconnecting element or a second interconnecting element.

[0032] In some embodiments, the third clamping beam defines a second cavity, wherein the second clamping beam is positioned in the second cavity.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first clamping beam, second clamping beam and, if present, third clamping beam each define a substantially U-shaped beam in axial view of the drum, wherein the U-shaped first clamping beam is positioned in a cavity defined by the U- shaped second clamping beam, and the U-shaped second clamping beam is positioned in a cavity defined by the U-shaped third clamping beam.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first clamping beam, second clamping beam and, if present, third clamping beam define a cutting space configured to accommodate a blade end of a blade of a cutting device for cutting a strand part held in the first clamping beam, and / or second clamping beam, and / or third clamping beam if present.

[0035] A cutting space configured to accommodate a blade end of a blade of the cutting device of the first, second, and, if present, third clamping beam allows for a greater variety of strand lengths. The hybrid grass insertion device is not limited to only cutting in between first, second and, if present, third clamping beams, but may instead cut strands in the clamping beams as well.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first clamping element, the second clamping element and, if present, the third clamping elements are plates.

[0037] This results in a clamping device with a small circumferential angle and allows a great number of clamping devices to be arranged circumferentially in the drum. It should be noted that in the context of this application, the flanges of a beam, in particular U-shaped beams, may be considered as plates.

[0038] In some embodiments, each first groove and / or each second groove and / or each third groove comprises an undercut configured to retain an artificial grass strand part being clamped by the clamping device in the groove.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first grooves of each first clamping element comprise first clamping surfaces configured to make contact with an artificial grass strand part, the second grooves of each second clamping element comprise second clamping surfaces configured to make contact with an artificial grass strand part, if present, the third grooves of each third clamping element comprise third clamping surfaces, and wherein clamping surfaces of each groove of the first clamping element and clamping surfaces of each groove of the second clamping element, and, if present, clamping surfaces of each groove of the third clamping element do not overlap when viewed in an axial direction of the drum.

[0040] Non-overlapping clamping surfaces of the first clamping element and the second clamping element allow for relative movement of a clamping element relative to another clamping element in both axial directions. This means that both side surfaces of a groove can potentially be used to clamp strand parts in the same groove / channel. Movement in one direction utilises one side surface, movement in another direction utilises another. The side surfaces of a single groove may be configured differently for e.g. clamping different types of strands. This may be embodied in the form of different materials on these surfaces, or different shapes of these surfaces.

[0041] In some embodiments, the drum comprises a plurality of biasing members, wherein each biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force in an axial direction on a first clamping element, and / or a second clamping element, and / or, if present, a third clamping element to maintain the clamping device in the clamping position.

[0042] In some embodiments, the hybrid grass insertion device comprises a clamp actuator device configured to move at least one second clamping element relative to at least one associated first clamping elements over an axial distance of the drum to the clamping position. In some embodiments, the clamp actuator device comprises a clamp actuator device member located at the bottom and side of the drum, and in circumferential direction of the drum at one end of the lowermost point of the drum at which the artificial grass strand parts are inserted in the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is a plate and is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of multiple clamping devices, thereby moving said clamping devices in an axial direction of the drum.

[0043] In some embodiments, the drum comprises a plurality of contact elements wherein each contact element is configured to guide the rotation of an associated clamping device and to transmit a force applied by the clamp actuator device to the first clamping element or the second clamping element of the associated clamping device.

[0044] In some embodiments, the clamping devices are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals, wherein each clamping device extends over a clamping device circumferential angle of less than 1.5 degrees, in particular less than 1.2 degrees, more in particular less than 1.0 degrees.

[0045] In some embodiments, the clamping beams are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals, wherein each clamping beam extends over a circumferential angle lower than or equal to 10 degrees, in particular between and including 5-10 degrees, more in particular between and including 6-9 degrees, even more in particular between and including 7-8 degrees.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands held by the drum at at least a first blade cutting location, a second blade cutting location and a third blade cutting location wherein: the first blade cutting location is located below the second blade cutting location and the third blade cutting location, and wherein the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands in between two clamping devices of a same set of clamping beams, the second blade cutting location is located above the first blade cutting location and below the third blade cutting location, and wherein the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands in between two sets of clamping beams at the second blade cutting location, and the third blade cutting location is located above the first blade cutting location and the second blade cutting location, and wherein the cutting device is configured to each time cut artificial grass strand parts from the artificial grass strands in between two sets of clamping beams at the third blade cutting location.

[0047] In some embodiments, in a first mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having a first length of between and including 100-160mm, in particular 130 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage two sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having a first length are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in a second cutting device position in between two clamping devices of associated sets of clamping beams, in a second mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having a second length of between and including 165-225 mm, in particular 195 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage four sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having a second length are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in a first cutting device position in between two sets of clamping beams, in a third mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having a third length of between and including 230-290 mm, in particular 260 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage four sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having a third length are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in a third cutting device position in between two sets of clamping beams, in a fourth mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having a fourth length of between and including 295-355 mm, in particular 325 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage six sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having a fourth length are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in the second cutting device position, and in a fifth mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having a fifth length of between and including 360-420 mm, in particular 390 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage six sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having a fifth length are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in the first cutting device position. It was found that these lengths and the depths to which they correspond provide an advantageous versatility. The hybrid grass insertion device can be adjusted to specific requirements, like the kind of turf that needs to be made, e.g. a football pitch or a golf pitch, the characteristics of the subsurface such as the presence and depth of rocks or conduits for irrigation, draining and / or heating. For instance, if stones or conduits are present at a certain depth below the subsurface, the depth can be chosen such that the insertion pins go deep enough to insert the artificial grass strands, but stay shallow enough to avoid hitting the stones or conduits, thereby avoiding damage to the insertion pins. Also, the strength of the soil and the expected intensity of usage of the pitch can play a role. The artificial grass strands strengthen the pitch and the insertion depth determines the degree of strengthening. A pitch that is heavily used may require more strengthening and longer strands than a pitch that is only used infrequently. The weather, and in particular the total amount or rainfall and the intensity of rainfall may also be relevant. The artificial grass strands also function as vertical drainage channels and improve the draining capability of the pitch. In case heavy rain may occur, more drainage may be required. All these factors may play a role when determining a required length and insertion depth of the artificial grass strands.

[0048] The first cutting device position corresponds to the first blade cutting location. The second cutting device position corresponds to the second blade cutting location. The third cutting device position corresponds to the third blade cutting location.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first clamping beam, second clamping beam and third clamping beam together form a set of clamping beams.

[0050] In some embodiments, in the first mode the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of four clamping devices belonging to two sets of adjacent clamping beams, in the second and third mode the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of eight clamping devices belonging to four sets of adjacent clamping beams, and in the fourth and fifth mode the clamp actuator device is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of twelve clamping devices belonging to six sets of adjacent clamping beams.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sets 86 are positioned at a pitch distance (or interval) of 55-75mm, in particular 65 mm, from one another, and wherein each set (86) comprises a first and a second clamping device (10) which are positioned at a same pitch distance from one another.

[0052] In another aspect, a method for inserting artificial grass strand parts into the ground using a hybrid grass insertion device according to the invention is provided, the method comprising the cyclical steps of: inserting artificial grass strands in the channels of the drum in the non-clamping position, moving at least two clamping devices from the non-clamping position into the clamping position, rotating the drum such that the strand is rotated towards the blade of the cutting device, cutting the artificial grass strands at a location in between two clamping devices in the clamped position, thereby creating an artificial grass strand part being clamped by two associated clamping devices, rotating the drum such that the artificial grass strands are rotated towards a lower position for insertion of the cut artificial grass strand part into the ground, moving the two associated clamping devices of the artificial grass strand part from the clamping position into the non-clamping position, inserting the artificial grass strand part into the ground.

[0053] In some embodiments of the method, a clamp actuator device member is used to achieve the clamping position in at least two clamping devices.

[0054] LIST OF FIGURES

[0055] Figure 1 shows an isometric view from below of a hybrid grass insertion device for inserting grass strand parts into the ground according to the invention;

[0056] Figure 2 shows an isometric view of a drum comprising a plurality of clamping devices, a cutting device, a clamp actuator device and an insertion device of the hybrid grass insertion device;

[0057] Figure 3 shows a sectional side view of a pair of clamping devices comprising two clamping elements;

[0058] Figure 4 shows an isometric view of a pair of clamping devices comprising two clamping elements;

[0059] Figure 5 shows a close-up view of the isometric view of the clamping devices of Figure

[0060] 4; Figure 6 shows a front view of a pair of a pair of clamping devices comprising three clamping elements;

[0061] Figure 7A-B show an isometric view of a pair of clamping devices comprising three clamping elements and a close-up view of a number of artificial grass strand parts held therein;

[0062] Figure 8A-8B show a close-up view of the isometric view of the clamping devices of Figure 7 and a close-up view of the clamping devices in the non-clamping position;

[0063] Figure 9 shows a front view of a part of the drum of the hybrid grass insertion device;

[0064] Figures 10A-10B show isometric views of a number of clamping devices;

[0065] Figure 11 shows an isometric view of a number of clamping devices and a clamp actuator device member;

[0066] Figures 12A-12E show different positions of the cutting device relative to the drum.

[0067] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0068] Embodiments of the system and the method will be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

[0069] Figure 1-2 show a hybrid grass insertion device 1 for inserting grass strand parts 3 into the ground and a view of a drum 5, a cutting device 58 configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from the artificial grass strands, a clamp actuator device 64 for moving clamping devices 10 from a non-clamping position to a clamping position and an insertion device 66 configured to insert artificial grass strand parts 3 into the ground. The hybrid grass insertion device comprises a drum 5 configured to hold artificial grass strands 2. The drum 5 is rigid.

[0070] The drum 5 comprises a plurality of clamping devices 10 for clamping artificial grass strand parts 3 to be inserted into the ground. The clamping devices 10 are elongate and extend parallel to the rotation axis 6 of the drum 5. The clamping devices 10 are arranged at the circumference of the drum 5 at regular intervals from each other.

[0071] A clamp actuator 84 of the clamp actuator device 64 is configured to cause rotation of the clamp actuator device member 62 in a direction towards the drum 5. This movement is then transmitted to the guide elements 68 positioned close to the clamp actuator device member 62. The guide elements 68, in turn, transmit the movement to associated clamping devices 10. Turning to Figures 3-5, each clamping device 10 comprises a first clamping element 12 comprising a plurality of first grooves 14 located in a radially outward edge 16 of the first clamping element 12, and a second clamping element 18 comprising a plurality of second grooves 20 located in a radially outward edge 22 of the second clamping element 18. The first and second clamping element 12, 18 are arranged adjacent to one another in a circumferential direction. Each first groove 14 is associated with one of the second grooves 20. The first and second clamping element are movable relative to one another over an axial distance of the drum 5 between a clamping position and a non-clamping position.

[0072] In the non-clamping position each second groove 20 is aligned with an associated first groove 14, thereby forming a channel 21. The channel 21 is configured to receive the at least one artificial grass strand part 3, and to allow the artificial grass strand part 3 to be removed from the channel 21. The clamping device 10 is moved towards the artificial grass strands due to the rotational movement of the drum 5.

[0073] In the clamping position each second groove 20 is offset relative to the associated first groove 14 over an axial distance of the drum 5, thereby clamping at least one artificial grass strand part 3 received in the first groove 14 and the second groove 20.

[0074] Two adjacent first clamping elements 16 of two adjacent clamping devices 10 are connected through a first interconnecting element 36 at radially inward ends 38a, 38b of said first clamping elements 16, forming a first clamping beam 40. Two adjacent second clamping elements 18 of two adjacent clamping devices 10 are connected through a second interconnecting element 42 at radially inward edges 44a, 44b of said second clamping elements 18, forming a second clamping beam 46. The first clamping beam 40 and the second clamping beam 42 form a set 86 of clamping beams wherein each set of clamping beams 86 comprises two clamping devices 10.

[0075] Each second clamping beam 46 defines a cavity 70. An associated first clamping beam 40 is positioned in the cavity 70 of each second clamping beam 46. The first clamping beam 40 and the second clamping beam 46 are substantially U-shaped when viewed in the axial direction of the drum 5. The first clamping beam 40 and second clamping beam 46 define a cutting space 74 configured to accommodate a blade end 54 of a blade 56 of a cutting device 58 for cutting a strand part 3 held in the first clamping beam 40, and / or second clamping beam 46. The first clamping element 12 and the second clamping element 18 are embodied as plates.

[0076] Each second groove 20 comprises an undercut 60 configured to retain an artificial grass strand part 3 being clamped by the clamping device 10 in the groove 20. Each first groove 14 may additionally or alternatively comprise an undercut 60.

[0077] The first grooves 14 of each first clamping element 12 comprise first clamping surfaces 24a, 24b configured to make contact with an artificial grass strand part 3. The second grooves 20 of each second clamping element 18 comprise second clamping surfaces 26a, 26b configured to make contact with an artificial grass strand part 3. Clamping surfaces 24a, 24b of each first groove 14 and clamping surfaces 26a, 26b of each second groove 20 do not overlap when viewed in an axial direction of the drum 5.

[0078] The drum 5 comprises a plurality of biasing members 76. Each biasing member 76 is configured to apply a biasing force in an axial direction on two associated second clamping elements 18 to maintain the associated clamping devices 10 in the clamping position.

[0079] Turning to Figures 6-8B, an embodiment of the clamping device 10 comprising a third clamping element 28 is shown. The clamping device 10 comprises a third clamping element 28 comprising a plurality of third grooves 30 located in a radially outward edge 32 of the third clamping element 28. The third clamping element 28 is arranged adjacent to the second clamping element 18 in a circumferential direction. Each first groove 14 is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated third groove 30 in both the non-clamping position and the clamping position, and each first clamping element 12 is fixated relative to an associated third clamping element 28, such that an associated second clamping element 18 located in between the first clamping element 12 and the third clamping element 28 is movable relative to both the first clamping element 12 and the third clamping element 28 over an axial direction of the drum 5 between a clamping position and a non-clamping position.

[0080] In the non-clamping position shown in Figure 8B each third groove 30 is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated first groove 14 and an associated second groove 20, thereby forming part of the respective channel 21 formed by an associated first groove 14 and an associated second groove 20 configured to receive the at least one artificial grass strand part 3 in a radial direction, and to allow the grass strand part 3 to be removed from the channel 21 in a radial direction. In the clamping position each second groove 20 is offset relative to an associated first groove 14 and an associated third groove 30 over an axial distance of the drum 5, thereby clamping at least one artificial grass strand part 3 received in the first groove 14, the second groove 20 and the third groove 30.

[0081] The two third clamping elements 28 of two adjacent clamping devices 10 are connected through a third interconnecting element 48 at radially inward ends 50a, 50b of said third clamping elements, forming a third clamping beam 52. A set 86 of clamping beams comprises a third clamping beam 52 wherein each set 86 of clamping beams comprises two clamping devices 10.

[0082] The first clamping beam 40, second clamping beam 46 and third clamping beam 52 together form a set 86 of clamping beams.

[0083] The third clamping beam 52 defines a second cavity 72, wherein the second clamping beam 46 is positioned in the second cavity 72.

[0084] The third clamping beam 52 defines a substantially U-shaped beam in axial view of the drum 5.

[0085] The first clamping beam 40, second clamping beam 46 and third clamping beam 52 define a cutting space 74 configured to accommodate a blade end 54 of a blade 56 of a cutting device 58 for cutting a strand part 3 held in the first clamping beam 40, second clamping beam 46 and third clamping beam 52.

[0086] The third clamping elements 28 are embodied as plates.

[0087] The third grooves 30 of each third clamping element 28 comprise third clamping surfaces 34a, 34b. Clamping surfaces 24a, 24b of each groove 14 of the first clamping element 12 and clamping surfaces 26a, 26b of each groove 20 of the second clamping element 18 and clamping surfaces 34a, 34b of each groove 30 of the third clamping element 28 do not overlap when viewed in an axial direction of the drum 5.

[0088] T urning to Figures 9, 10A and 10B, a close-up side view of a lower part of the drum 5 and a clamp actuator device 64 comprising a clamp actuator device member 62, and two orientations of a number of first, second and third clamping beams 40, 46, 52 and the clamp actuator device 64 are shown. Dashed lines on the clamp actuator device member 62 in Figure 9 indicate different possible configurations of the clamp actuator device member 62. Depending on the desired artificial grass strand part length, a different number of clamping devices 10 need to be engaged. The clamp actuator device member 62 may be exchangeable, wherein there are three sizes, 62a, 62b and 62c.The clamp actuator device member 62c shown is capable of engaging six sets 86 having twelve clamping devices 10. The dashed lines indicate embodiments capable of engaging six, four or two sets 86 having in total respectively twelve, eight or four clamping devices 10. The first size 62a is the smallest size which is used for the first mode with the shortest grass strands. With the first size, two sets 86 having in total four clamping devices 10 are engaged. The second size 62b is used for the second and third mode and engages four sets 86 having eight clamping devices 10. The third size 62c is used for the fourth and fifth mode and engages six sets 86 having twelve clamping devices 10. It is noted that size 62B is larger than size 62a and includes the part indicated with 62a. Size 62c is larger than size 62b and includes the parts indicated with 62a and 62b. When the hybrid grass insertion device 1 is to be operated in a different mode, the clamp actuator device member 62 may be exchanged for one of the other two sizes.

[0089] The clamp actuator device member 62c is configured to engage six adjacent sets 86, each set 86 having two clamping devices 10. Of each set 86, the second clamping beam 46 is moved by the clamp actuator device member 62c relative to the adjacent first clamping beam 40 and third clamping beam 52 over an axial distance of the drum 5 to the nonclamping position.

[0090] The clamp actuator device member 62 is located at the bottom and side of the drum 5, and in the circumferential direction of the drum at one end of the lowermost point of the drum 5 at which the artificial grass stand parts 3 are inserted in the ground. From figs. 10A and 10B it will be understood that the smaller sizes 62a and 62b of the clamp actuator device member will engage respectively two and four sets 86.

[0091] The hybrid grass insertion device 1 can cut strand parts to five different strand lengths in the five different modes. The five different strand lengths are 130 mm, 190 mm, 260 mm, 325 mm and 390 mm. However, five different lengths are also possible. Typical lengths (or heights H) of the portion of the grass strand parts which extend above the ground are roughly between and including 5-25 mm. This length may be dependent on the specific sport application of the pitch and / or the preferred mowing heights of the natural grass of the hybrid pitch. The variation in the length of the grass strands parts 3 above the ground is less varied than the length of the grass strand parts 3 inserted in the ground. The depth D over which the grass strands are inserted is then D= (L - 2 * H) / 2. For L5, D5= (390-2*20)72.

[0092] Other clamp actuator device member 62 embodiments beyond those described for achieving different strand lengths are also possible.

[0093] The drum 5 comprises a plurality of contact elements 68. Each contact element 68 is configured to guide the rotation of an associated clamping device 10 and to transmit a force applied by the clamp actuator device 64 to the second clamping element 18 of the associated clamping device 10.

[0094] The drum 5 comprises 46 clamping beam pairs, each clamping beam pair comprising a first, second and third clamping beam 40, 46, 52. The clamping beam pairs are arranged at the circumference of the drum 5 at regular intervals of less than 8 degrees. Other numbers of clamping beam pairs arranged at different regular intervals are also possible.

[0095] The hybrid grass insertion device 1 is capable of inserting artificial grass strand parts 3 in the ground through a method with the following steps: inserting artificial grass strands in the channels 21 of the drum 5 in the non-clamping position; moving at least two clamping devices 10 from the non-clamping position into the clamping position; rotating the drum 5 such that the strand 2 is rotated towards the blade 56 of the cutting device 58; cutting the artificial grass strands 2 at a location in between two clamping devices 10 in the clamped position, thereby creating an artificial grass strand part 3 being clamped by two associated clamping devices 10; moving the drum 5 into a suitable position for insertion of the cut artificial grass strand part 3 into the ground; moving the two associated clamping devices 10 of the artificial grass strand part 3 from the clamping position into the non-clamping position; inserting the artificial grass strand part 3 into the ground.

[0096] The method additionally comprises the use of a clamp actuator device member 62 to achieve the clamping position in at least two clamping devices 10.

[0097] Figures 12A-12E show the drum 5, and the cutting device 58 in three different cutting device positions for five different modes. In the first cutting device position 78 shown in Figures 12A-12B, the blade end 54 of the blade 56 of the cutting device 58 is configured to be moved to a first blade cutting location 88 in a clamping beam 40, i.e. between two clamping devices 10 of a same set 86. The first cutting device position 78 is used for two different lengths, namely length L2 (195mm) for the second mode and length L4 (325mm) for the fourth mode. The sets 86 are spaced apart at regular distances of 65mm, called the pitch distance P1 , but this distance can vary between 55 and 75mm. The drum has 46 sets 86 evenly distributed over its circumference, when seen in side view. Each set has width of 32,5 mm between the two clamping devices 10 of the set. In other words, the width W1 of a set 86 is half the pitch distance between two consecutive sets 86. The pitch distance between the clamping devices 10 is also half the pitch distance between the sets.

[0098] In the second cutting device position 80, shown in Figures 12C-12D, the cutting device 58 is located higher than in the first cutting device position 78. The blade end 54 of the blade 56 of the cutting device 58 is configured to be moved to a second blade cutting location 90 in between two sets 86, i.e. between two clamping devices 10 which are not directly connected and which belong to different sets 86. Hence the blade end is between two sets 86. The second cutting device position 80 is used for two different lengths, namely first length L1 (130mm) for the first mode and fifth length L5 (390mm) for the fifth mode. L5 is 3 times L1.

[0099] In the third cutting device position 82, shown in Figure 12E, the cutting device 58 is located higher than in the second cutting device position 80. The blade end 54 of the blade 56 of the cutting device 58 is configured to be moved to a third blade cutting location 92 in between two clamping devices 10 which are not directly connected and which belong to different sets 86. Hence the blade end is between two sets 86. The third cutting device position 82 is used for one length, namely third length L3 (260mm) for the third mode.

[0100] The hybrid grass insertion device 1 can be operated in different five modes. In a first mode, the hybrid grass insertion device 1 is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts 3 having a first length L1 of 130 mm into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member 62 is configured to simultaneously engage two sets 86 of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts 3 having a first length L1 of 130 mm are cut from artificial grass strands 3 by the cutting device 58 in a second cutting device position 80 in between two sets 86 of clamping beams. In the first mode, the drum operates at a first stroke distance, in other words in each cycle the drum is rotated over a first stroke distance which corresponds to the first length L1.

[0101] In a second mode, the hybrid grass insertion device 1 is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts 3 having a second length L2 of 195 mm into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member 62 is configured to simultaneously engage four sets 86 of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts 3 having a second length L2 of 195 mm are cut from artificial grass strands 3 by the cutting device 58 in a first cutting device position 78 in between two clamping devices 10 of a same set 86. In the second mode, the drum operates at a second stroke distance, in other words in each cycle the drum is rotated over a second stroke distance which corresponds to the second length L2.

[0102] In a third mode, the hybrid grass insertion device 1 is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts 3 having a third length L3 of 260 mm into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member 62 is configured to simultaneously engage four sets 86 of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having a third length L3 of 260 mm are cut from artificial grass strands 3 by the cutting device 58 in a third cutting device position 82 in between two sets 86 of clamping beams. In the third mode, the drum operates at a third stroke distance which corresponds to the third length L3.

[0103] In a fourth mode, the hybrid grass insertion device 1 is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts 3 having a fourth length L4 of 325 mm into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member 62 is configured to simultaneously engage six sets 86 of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts 3 having a fourth length L4 of 325 mm are cut from artificial grass strands 3 by the cutting device 58 in the first cutting device position 78. In the fourth mode, the drum operates at a fourth stroke distance which corresponds to the fourth length L4.

[0104] In a fifth mode, the hybrid grass insertion device 1 is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts 3 having a fifth length L5 of 390 mm into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member 62 is configured to simultaneously engage six sets 86 of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand 3 having a fifth length L5 of 390 mm are cut from artificial grass strands 3 by the cutting device 58 in the second cutting device position 80. In the fifth mode, the drum operates at a fifth stroke distance which corresponds to the fifth length L5.

[0105] The clamping devices 10 are arranged at the circumference of the drum 5 at regular intervals, wherein clamping device 10 extends over a clamping device 5 circumferential angle P of less than 1 .5 degrees (see fig. 12D).

[0106] The clamping beams 40, 46, 52 are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals, wherein each clamping beam 40, 46, 52 extends over a circumferential angle a of smaller than or equal to 10 degrees, in particular between and including 5-10 degrees, more in particular between and including 6-9 degrees, even more in particular between and including 7-8 degrees. The skilled person will understand that with a slightly smaller or larger drum, these lengths will also become slightly smaller or larger.

[0107] In the first mode, five circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts 3 are held by the drum 5 prior to insertion into the ground.

[0108] In the second mode, three circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts 3 are held by the drum 5 prior to insertion into the ground.

[0109] In the third mode, three circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts 3 are held by the drum 5 prior to insertion into the ground.

[0110] In the fourth mode, two circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts 3 are held by the drum 5 prior to insertion into the ground.

[0111] In the fifth mode, two circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts 3 are held by the drum 5 prior to insertion into the ground.

[0112] The cutting device 58 is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts 3 from artificial grass strands 2 held by the drum 5 at at least a first blade cutting location 88, a second blade cutting location 90 and a third blade cutting location 92. The term “first blade cutting location” has the same meaning as the term “first cutting location” which is also used herein. The same applies for the terms “second blade cutting location” and “second cutting location” and for “third blade cutting location” and “third cutting location”

[0113] The first blade cutting location 88 is located below the second blade cutting location 90 and the third blade cutting location 92. The cutting device 58 is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts 3 from artificial grass strands 2 in between two clamping devices 10 of a same set 86 of clamping beams.

[0114] The second blade cutting location 90 is located above the first blade cutting location 88 and below the third blade cutting location 92. The cutting device 58 is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts 3 from artificial grass strands 2 in between two sets 86 of clamping beams at the second blade cutting location 90.

[0115] The third blade cutting location 92 is located above the first blade cutting location 88 and the second blade cutting location 90. The cutting device 58 is configured to each time cut artificial grass strand parts 3 from the artificial grass strands 2 in between two sets 86 of clamping beams at the third blade cutting location 88.

[0116] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention.

[0117] The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms including and / or having, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e. , open language, not excluding other elements or steps). Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention.

[0118] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

- 23 -CLAIMS1. Hybrid grass insertion device (1) for inserting artificial grass strand parts (3) in the ground, in particular for producing hybrid turf pitches, the hybrid grass insertion device comprising a drum (5) having a rotation axis (6), the drum comprising a plurality of clamping devices (10) for clamping a plurality of artificial grass strand parts (3) to be inserted in the ground, wherein the clamping devices are elongate and extend parallel to the rotation axis and are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals from each other, wherein each clamping device comprises: a first clamping element (12) comprising a plurality of first grooves (14) located in a radially outward edge (16) of the first clamping element, and a second clamping element (18) comprising a plurality of second grooves (20) located in a radially outward edge (22) of the second clamping element, and wherein the first and second clamping element are arranged adjacent to one another in a circumferential direction of the drum, wherein each first groove is associated with one of the second grooves, wherein the first and second clamping element are movable relative to one another over an axial distance of the drum between a clamping position and a non-clamping position, wherein: in the non-clamping position each second groove is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated first groove (14), thereby forming a channel (21) configured to receive the at least one artificial grass strand part, and to allow the grass strand part to be removed from the channel, in the clamping position each second groove is offset relative to the associated first groove over an axial distance of the drum, thereby clamping at least one artificial grass strand part received in the first groove and the second groove, wherein the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands held by the drum at multiple blade cutting locations (88,90,92) wherein the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts in at least five different lengths (L1 , L2, L3 L4, L5) for the multiple blade cutting positions.

2. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein there are more lengths than blade cutting locations, wherein at least one blade cutting location is used for at least two different lengths by providing two different operating modes forthe blade cutting location, wherein a stroke distance over which the drum is each time rotated is different for each operating mode.

3. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one blade cutting location is used for at least two different lengths by providing two different operating modes for the blade cutting location, wherein a stroke distance over which the drum is each time rotated is different for each operating mode.

4. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein at least two blade cutting locations are used for at least two different lengths each by providing two different operating modes for each of the two blade cutting location, wherein a stroke distance over which the drum is each time rotated is different for each operating mode of each blade cutting location, resulting in four different stroke lengths for two different cutting locations.

5. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, having at least a first blade cutting location (88), a second blade cutting location (90) and a third blade cutting location (92), and wherein the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts in at least five different lengths (L1 , L2, L3 L4, L5) for the three blade cutting locations.

6. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the largest length L5 is equal to or smaller than three times the length of the smallest length L1.

7. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein two adjacent first clamping elements of two adjacent clamping devices (10) are connected through a first interconnecting element (36) at radially inward ends (38a, 38b) of said first clamping elements, forming a first clamping beam (40), and wherein two adjacent second clamping elements of two adjacent clamping devices (10) are connected through a second interconnecting element (42) at radially inward edges (44a, 44b) of said second clamping elements, forming a second clamping beam (46), wherein the first clamping beam and the second clamping beam form a set (86) of clamping beams, wherein each set of clamping beams comprises two clamping devices (10),8. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each length corresponds to an operating mode, wherein:in the first mode, the clamp actuator device (62a) is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of four clamping devices (10), and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the second blade cutting location (90), and the drum is each time rotated over the first length L1, in the second mode, the clamp actuator device (62b) is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of eight clamping devices (10) and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the first blade cutting location (88), and the drum is each time rotated over the second length L2, in the third mode, the clamp actuator device (62b) is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of eight clamping devices (10 and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the third blade cutting location (92), and the drum is each time rotated over the third length L3, in the fourth mode, the clamp actuator device (62c) is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of twelve clamping devices (10) and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the first blade cutting location (88), and the drum is each time rotated over the fourth length L4, in the fifth mode, the clamp actuator device (62c) is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of twelve clamping devices (10) and the cutting device cuts artificial grass strand parts at the second blade cutting location (90), and the drum is each time rotated over the fifth length L2.

9. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: in the first mode, the four clamping devices (10) belong to two adjacent sets (86) of clamping beams, in the second and third mode, the eight clamping devices (10) belong to four adjacent sets (86) of clamping beams, in the fourth and fifth mode, the twelve clamping devices (10) belong to six adjacent sets (86) of clamping beams.

10. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: the first blade cutting location is located below the second blade cutting location and the third blade cutting location, and wherein the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands in between two clamping devices of a same set (86) of clamping beams, the second blade cutting location is located above the first blade cutting location and below the third blade cutting location, and wherein the cutting device is configured to cut artificial grass strand parts from artificial grass strands in between two sets (86) of clamping beams at the second blade cutting location, and- 26 - the third blade cutting location is located above the first blade cutting location and the second blade cutting location, and wherein the cutting device is configured to each time cut artificial grass strand parts from the artificial grass strands in between two sets (86) of clamping beams at the third blade cutting location.

11. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: in the first mode, the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having the first length (L1) of between and including 100- 160mm, in particular 130 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage two sets (86) of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having the first length (L1) are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in a second cutting device position (80) in between two clamping devices of associated sets of clamping beams, in the second mode, the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having the second length (L2) of between and including 165-225 mm, in particular 195 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage four sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having the second length (L2) are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in a first cutting device position (78) in between two sets of clamping beams, in the third mode, the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having the third length (L3) of between and including 230-290 mm, in particular 260 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage four sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having the third length (L3) are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in a third cutting device position (82) in between two sets of clamping beams, in the fourth mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having the fourth length (L4) of between and including 295-355 mm, in particular 325 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage six sets of clamping beams, and wherein artificial grass strand parts having the fourth length (L4) are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in the second cutting device position, and in the fifth mode the hybrid grass insertion device is configured to insert artificial grass strand parts having the fifth length (L5) of between and including 360-420 mm, in particular 390 mm, into the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is configured to simultaneously engage six sets of clamping beams, and- 27 - wherein artificial grass strand parts having the fifth length (L5) are cut from artificial grass strands by the cutting device in the first cutting device position.

12. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: in the first mode, five circumferentially axial rows of adjoining artificial grass strand parts are held by the drum prior to insertion into the ground, in the second mode, three circumferentially axial rows of adjoining artificial grass strand parts are held by the drum prior to insertion into the ground, in the third mode, three circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts are held by the drum prior to insertion into the ground, in the fourth mode, two circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts are held by the drum prior to insertion into the ground, in the fifth mode, two circumferentially adjoining axial rows of artificial grass strand parts are held by the drum prior to insertion into the ground.

13. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising exactly 46 sets (86).

14. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sets are positioned at a uniform pitch distance (P1 ) of 55-75mm, in particular 65 mm, from one another, and wherein each set (86) comprises a first and a second clamping device (10) which are positioned at a same pitch distance from one another.

15. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein each second clamping beam defines a cavity (70), wherein an associated first clamping beam is positioned in the cavity (70).

16. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping device comprises a third clamping element (28) comprising a plurality of third grooves (30) located in a radially outward edge (32) of the third clamping element, wherein the third clamping element is arranged adjacent to the second clamping element in a circumferential direction, wherein each first groove is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated third groove in both the non-clamping position and the clamping position, and wherein each first clamping element is fixated relative to an associated third clamping element, such that an associated second clamping element located in between the first clamping element and the third clamping element is movable relative to both the first clamping- 28 - element and the third clamping element over an axial direction of the drum between a clamping position and a non-clamping position, wherein: in the non-clamping position each third groove is aligned or substantially aligned with an associated first groove and an associated second groove, thereby forming part of the respective channel formed by an associated first groove and an associated second groove configured to receive the at least one artificial grass strand part in a radial direction, and to allow the grass strand part to be removed from the channel in a radial direction, in the clamping position each second groove is offset relative to an associated first groove and an associated third groove over an axial distance of the drum, thereby clamping at least one artificial grass strand part received in the first groove, the second groove and the third groove.

17. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein two adjacent third clamping elements of two adjacent clamping devices (10) are connected through a third interconnecting element (48) at radially inward ends (50a, 50b) of said third clamping elements, forming a third clamping beam (52), wherein a set (86) of clamping beams comprises a third clamping beam wherein each set of clamping beams comprises two clamping devices.

18. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein the third clamping beam defines a second cavity (72), wherein the second clamping beam is positioned in the second cavity.

19. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first clamping beam, second clamping beam and, if present, third clamping beam each define a substantially U-shaped beam in axial view of the drum, wherein the U-shaped first clamping beam is positioned in a cavity (70) defined by the U-shaped second clamping beam, and the U-shaped second clamping beam is positioned in a second cavity (72) defined by the U-shaped third clamping beam.

20. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first clamping beam, second clamping beam and, if present, third clamping beam define a cutting space (74) configured to accommodate a blade end (54) of a blade (56) of a cutting device (58) for cutting a strand part held in the first clamping beam, and / or second clamping beam, and / or third clamping beam if present.- 29 -21. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first clamping element, the second clamping element and, if present, the third clamping elements are plates.

22. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of claims 15-20, wherein each first groove and / or each second groove and / or each third groove comprises an undercut (60) configured to retain an artificial grass strand part being clamped by the clamping device in the groove.

23. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: the first grooves of each first clamping element comprise first clamping surfaces (24a, 24b) configured to make contact with an artificial grass strand part, the second grooves of each second clamping element comprise second clamping surfaces (26a, 26b) configured to make contact with an artificial grass strand part, if present, the third grooves of each third clamping element comprise third clamping surfaces (34a, 34b), and wherein clamping surfaces (24a, 24b) of each groove of the first clamping element and clamping surfaces (26a, 26b) of each groove of the second clamping element, and, if present, clamping surfaces (34a, 34b) of each groove of the third clamping element do not overlap when viewed in an axial direction of the drum.

24. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the drum comprises a plurality of biasing members (76), wherein each biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force in an axial direction on a first clamping element, and / or a second clamping element, and / or, if present, a third clamping element to maintain the clamping device in the clamping position.

25. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hybrid grass insertion device comprises a clamp actuator device (64) configured to move at least one second clamping element relative to at least one associated first clamping element over an axial distance of the drum to the clamping position.

26. Hybrid grass insertion device according to the preceding claim, wherein the clamp actuator device comprises a clamp actuator device member (62) located at the bottom and side of the drum, and in circumferential direction of the drum at one end of the lowermost point of the drum at which the artificial grass strand parts are inserted in the ground, wherein the clamp actuator device member is a plate and is configured to simultaneously engage axial ends of multiple clamping devices, thereby moving said clamping devices in an axial direction of the drum.- 30 -27. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the drum comprises a plurality of contact elements (68) wherein each contact element is configured to guide the rotation of an associated clamping device and to transmit a force applied by the clamp actuator device to the first clamping element or the second clamping element of the associated clamping device.

28. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping devices are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals, wherein each clamping device extends over a clamping device circumferential angle (P) of less than 1.5 degrees, in particular less than 1.2 degrees, more in particular less than 1.0 degrees.

29. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping beams are arranged at the circumference of the drum at regular intervals, wherein each clamping beam extends over a circumferential angle (a) smaller than or equal to 10 degrees, in particular between and including 5-10 degrees, more in particular between and including 6-9 degrees, even more in particular between and including 7-8 degrees.

30. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamp actuator device (62) is exchangeable and is available in three different sizes (62a, 62b, 62c).

31. Hybrid grass insertion device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein all five lengths are between 100mm and 420mm, in particular between 130mm and 390 mm.

32. Method for inserting artificial grass strand parts in the ground using a hybrid grass insertion device of any of the preceding claims, the method comprising the cyclical steps of: inserting artificial grass strands in the channels of the drum in the non-clamping position, moving at least two clamping devices from the non-clamping position into the clamping position, rotating the drum such that the strand is rotated towards the blade of the cutting device, cutting the artificial grass strands at a location in between two clamping devices in the clamped position, thereby creating an artificial grass strand part being clamped by two associated clamping devices,rotating the drum such that the artificial grass strands are rotated towards a lower position for insertion of the cut artificial grass strand part into the ground, moving the at least two associated clamping devices of the artificial grass strand part from the clamping position into the non-clamping position, - inserting the artificial grass strand part into the ground.

33. Method according to the preceding claim, comprising switching between any of the five available modes.

34. Method according to any of claims 31 or 32 and using a hybrid grass insertion device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamp actuator device member (62) is used to achieve the clamping position in at least two clamping devices.

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