Multi-layer liner assembly for sand trap drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sand traps on golf courses require substantial maintenance due to vegetation growth and water retention issues, leading to undesirable conditions that can frustrate golfers and result in economic losses for course owners.
Innovation Solution
A liner assembly for sand traps comprising a water-permeable first layer and a substantially water-impermeable second layer, applied as a liquid, which includes a polyurea material and extends partially outside the trap's perimeter, inhibiting vegetation growth and directing water to a drainage system for quick evacuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single water-impermeable liner is used in sand traps, then water drainage is improved, but vegetation growth control is insufficient and sand integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The liner system is divided into two distinct layers: a geotextile fabric layer for vegetation control and sand stabilization, and a water-impermeable liner layer for drainage. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other objectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite liner assembly combining two different materials with complementary properties: geotextile fabric (permeable, vegetation-resistant) and water-impermeable material (impermeable, drainage-efficient). This composite structure simultaneously addresses multiple problems that a single material cannot solve.
2Ease of operation
If extensive maintenance is performed to control vegetation and drainage, then playing conditions improve, but time and economic resources are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The liner assembly is installed beforehand to prevent vegetation growth and manage water drainage proactively. This preliminary action eliminates the need for continuous maintenance interventions, saving time and resources in the long term while maintaining optimal playing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The geotextile fabric layer provides self-service by naturally preventing vegetation penetration through its structural properties, requiring no active maintenance. The layered system autonomously manages both vegetation control and water drainage functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sand traps are positioned near grasses and plantings, then aesthetic appeal improves, but vegetation spreads into the sand trap causing maintenance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The geotextile fabric layer acts as an intermediary barrier between the substrate and the sand, allowing the sand trap to be positioned near plantings for aesthetic appeal while preventing vegetation from spreading into the sand trap area.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The liner assembly effectively prevents vegetation growth, maintains sand integrity, and enhances drainage, reducing maintenance needs and improving playing conditions by ensuring quick water evacuation.
Implementation Method 1
The first layer can be formed from a water-permeable material such as a geotextile fabric
Implementation Method 2
The second layer can be formed from a substantially water-impermeable material... the second layer can include a polyurea material
Data Source
AI summary
A liner assembly (222A) for a sand trap (10) having a perimeter (12) that defines a cavity (13) and a substrate (18) within the cavity (13) includes a first layer (230A) and a second layer (232A). The first layer (230A) is positioned on the substrate (18) and can be formed from a substantially water-permeable material. The second layer (232A) can be formed from a substantially water-impermeable material and is applied to the first layer (230A). The second layer (232A) can be applied to the first layer (230A) as a liquid, such as a polyurea material. In one embodiment, at least one of the layers (230A, 232A) extends within the substrate (18) at least partially outside the perimeter (12) of the sand trap (10). The second layer (232A) can include an aggregate material that is integrally formed as part of the second layer (232A).