Segmented Bunker Edging Interface for Crumble-Resistant Turf Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Golf course bunkers require constant maintenance due to crumbling edges, which is expensive and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An edging interface comprising a strip of backing divided into sections with artificial turf, anchored by a porous concrete layer, to stabilize the transition between the bunker and grass edge, reducing maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If constant maintenance is applied to bunker edges, then the longevity of bunker edges is improved, but the cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The edging interface is divided into multiple adjacent sections that can be individually installed and maintained. Each section is a discrete unit with artificial turf, backing material, and anchoring components, allowing for modular replacement without requiring maintenance of the entire bunker edge system.
Solution Approach 2:
The edging interface uses artificial turf and standardized components that can be easily replaced when worn. The design accepts that individual sections may need periodic replacement, but this is more cost-effective than maintaining natural turf edges, which require continuous labor-intensive care.
2Shape
If natural turf is used for bunker edges, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The edging interface uses artificial turf that visually replicates the appearance of natural turf at bunker edges. This copying approach provides the desired aesthetic appearance while eliminating the biological maintenance requirements of natural grass, such as mowing, fertilizing, and pest control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from natural organic material to synthetic polymer material. This parameter change maintains the visual and textural properties needed for aesthetics while fundamentally altering the maintenance characteristics to require minimal intervention.
3Shape
If steep sides are created in bunkers, then the golf course design is improved, but the susceptibility to crumbling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The edging interface combines multiple materials with complementary properties: artificial turf for surface stability, woven or nonwoven backing for structural support, and porous concrete or soil for anchoring. This composite structure resists the shearing forces and water erosion that cause crumbling in steep bunker sides.
Solution Approach 2:
The backing material acts as a flexible reinforcement layer that distributes stresses across the edging interface. This thin film structure prevents localized failures and cracking that would lead to crumbling, while still allowing the overall steep geometry of the bunker side.
Data Source
AI summary
An edging interface for a golf course bunker includes a strip of backing divided longitudinally into a first portion and a second portion. The strip of backing is also laterally divided into a plurality of adjacent sections by a plurality of cuts, where each adjacent section is joined together at the first portion, and artificial turf is secured to the first portion. The second portion of each section is configured to be anchored between the golf course bunker and a grass edge of the golf course. The edging interface can be rolled up for handling and shipping, and unrolled in place for installation. The artificial turf comprises straight and curly yarn and has a color to match natural turf stacked bunker edges. In addition, the first portion and the second portion longitudinally divide the strip of backing into substantially equal portions.