Staggered Artificial Grass Bunker Facing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Golf course bunkers require extensive and costly maintenance due to erosion, damage from weather and usage, with existing solutions being unsustainable and ineffective, particularly for steep-faced bunkers.
Innovation Solution
A golf bunker constructed with multiple layers of artificial grass arranged in a staggered horizontal pattern, providing a durable and low-maintenance facing that complements the aesthetic of a golf course, using synthetic grass fibers on a backing material with granular infill for stability and anchored together for structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional natural materials (timber, railway sleepers) are used for bunker facing, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but structural stability and durability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining artificial grass (synthetic material) with natural-looking soil and sand particles embedded in it. This creates a material that has the durability and stability of synthetic materials while maintaining the natural aesthetic appearance of traditional bunker faces. The artificial grass provides structural integrity while the embedded natural particles provide the desired visual appearance.
2Reliability
If revetted faces are constructed for steep bunkers, then structural stability is improved, but maintenance frequency and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial grass facing is designed to be self-maintaining and self-stabilizing. The granular infill material locks the artificial grass in place, creating a self-anchoring system that requires no additional maintenance for structural stability. The facing resists erosion and weathering without requiring regular rebuilding or stabilization treatments, eliminating the need for frequent maintenance interventions.
3Reliability
If water sprinkler systems are installed to stabilise bunker faces, then structural stability is improved, but environmental sustainability and cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the hydraulic/mechanical water sprinkler stabilization system with a passive structural solution using artificial grass and granular infill. The stability is achieved through the mechanical interlocking of the infill material with the artificial grass backing and the inherent erosion resistance of the synthetic material, eliminating the need for active water application systems and their associated environmental and cost issues.
4Ease of manufacture
If single layer artificial grass is used, then installation simplicity is improved, but durability and aesthetic quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial grass facing is divided into multiple layers with different functions. The first layer provides the primary facing and aesthetic appearance, while the second layer provides additional structural support and stability. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system durability and performance.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A golf course bunker (10) comprising a plurality of substantially horizontal and staggered layers (11)of artificial grass turf is disclosed. The layers (11) may each be pre-impregnated with sand. The layers of artificial grass define an exterior surface of the bunker and the interior (5) of the bunker may be formed of different material. A method of construction is also disclosed which may include steps of excavating a bunker and laying artificial grass in horizontal layers (11) to face the exterior surface of the excavation.