WO2010020764A1

WO2010020764A1 - Improved sub surface aeration system, apparatus and method for a recreational sports area

Info

Publication number: WO2010020764A1
Application number: PCT/GB2009/002002
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Coleman
Original assignee: Advanced Turf Technology Limited
Priority date: 2008-08-19
Filing date: 2009-08-14
Publication date: 2010-02-25

Abstract

A method of aerating at least one location of a recreational sports area such as a golf course (201), said method comprising the steps: establishing at least one reservoir of water (206); associating said at least one location with a pressurized water irrigation apparatus (208) for delivering a flow of water from said reservoir; using said water flow to drive a suitably configured water turbine (1002); using said water turbine to provide power to drive an air turbine (1003); and substantially returning said used water to said reservoir.

Description

IMPROVED SUB SURFACE AERATION SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A RECREATIONAL SPORTS AREA

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an improved sub surface aeration system, apparatus and method for use in relation to a recreational sports area. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to an improved sub surface aeration system, apparatus and method for use in relation to a golf course.

Background to the Invention

It is known to deliver electrical power to recreational sports areas via the mains supply derived from the national grid. Thus for example football grounds, golf courses, cricket grounds are all generally supplied with power via the national grid mains supply for a given country or part thereof. Typically if such recreational sports areas are in or near by urban areas then use of the main supply may be convenient. However whether or not given recreational sports areas to be placed in or near an urban sports area does not get away from the fact that delivering a mains supply over a substantial area can be very expensive. Such consideration is paramount in the construction of golf courses since such recreational sports areas are relatively very large compared with certain other types of recreational sports areas. Creating a mains power supply across an entire golf course can thus be very expensive. Taking the example of a golf course electrical power may be needed for a variety of reasons across the entire course. Thus for example, with many golf courses that are configured for international competitions electric power supplies frequently need to be provided across the entire course and in particular at each of the eighteen greens to aerate the greens. Laying electric cable to provide the required power supply is very costly. Electrical power may be needed across such courses for reason of powering aeration devices to aerate the soil/grass associated with various parts of the course and such power supply may be required for various other reasons such as providing power to a club house and providing power to various other facilities around the golf course (for example provision of lighting, toilets that may be distributed across the course).

By way of example Figure 1 schematically illustrates, in plan view, a prior art golf course as generally indicated at 101. The various elements indicated on golf course 101 are identified at key 102. There are eighteen greens, referenced by the numeral 103 although only certain ones on golf course 101 have been referenced accordingly. Prior art golf course 101 comprises underground electric cable 104 that is shown extending throughout golf course 101 to each green 103. Typically golf course 101 also comprises a series of golf teeing-off points 105 and golf bunkers 106. In the example illustrated prior art golf course 101 also comprises an irrigation system substantially located below the playing surface that is distributed throughout the course 101. The irrigation system comprises an irrigation pipe 107. The irrigation system is associated with an irrigation pump station 108 and one or more irrigation lakes 109 that facilitate the distribution of irrigation water around the golf course. Typically such a golf course having an irrigation system is configured such that the water used in irrigating the course is returned to the irrigation lakes 109. Such systems are thus "closed systems" since water is essentially not lost to a sewer type drainage system. However a proportion of the water will be lost through evaporation and evapotranspiration, but in the main such systems are known to be "closed" by virtue of the fact that spent water is returned to one or more irrigation lakes. For a golf course of the type indicated in fig 1 an irrigation pump station 108 is required so as to pump the water around the irrigation system. Typically the irrigation pump station 108 will be located at a position on the course that is close to a nearby mains electric power supply source so as to be able to provide electric power to station 108.

Increasingly with modern recreational sports areas and in particular golf courses it is highly desirable to reduce costs during the construction phase. One way of significantly reducing costs is to reduce the need to provide a mains power supply across the entire golf course. Thus there is a problem in that the costs associated with golf course construction are excessive and therefore there is a need to reduce the overall costs involved. In particular there is a need to eliminate or substantially eliminate the need for a mains electric power supply to be distributed across an entire golf course or other recreational sports area. Similarly, in the field of aeration of golf courses, it is frequently required to retro-fit an aeration system such that much of the course has to be dug up in order that the aeration system can be located underground, that is "sub surface". Such retro-fitting of an aeration system is hugely expensive since the power supply requirements are provided via a mains power supply with the result that much of the course has to be dug up so as to lay the required power distribution cables.

Those skilled in the art will understand that similar problems are associated with existing golf courses that actually have either no mains power supply or at least a poor distribution of power over certain locations of the course.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate various known aeration systems, apparatus and methods exist, all generally improving matters in some way, but nevertheless typically suffering from one or more of the aforementioned problems. The following are examples of such prior art aeration systems, apparatus and methods:

US patent no. 7033108 in the name of Hummert et al relating to a turf playing surface aeration and drainage system;

US patent publication no. US 2007/0237583 in the name of Corwon et al relating to a golf course turf conditioning control system and method;

US patent no. US 7172366 in the name of Bishop, Jr. relating to a golf course environmental management system and method; and -A-

US patent no. 7012394 in the name of Moore et al. Relating to a battery- powered air handling system for subsurface aeration. This patent relates to provision of subsurface aeration services when an available power source provides insufficient power.

In view of the above there is a need provide an improved subsurface aeration system, apparatus and method for recreational sports areas and in particular in relation to golf courses such as World class courses for international and national golf competitions.

Summary of the Invention

An object of the present invention is to provide an improved method of delivering electrical power to and/or throughout recreational sports areas in order to provide power for a turf aeration system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved recreational sport area having a subsurface aeration system such that a mains power supply cable network does not have to be installed throughout the sports area.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an aeration system for a sports area, such as a golf course, that may be retrofitted at reduced cost as compared with prior art systems.

Another object of the present invention is to utilize an existing irrigation system associated with a recreational sports area to provide hydroelectric power to power a turf aeration system.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an improved means of controlling airflow in a subsurface turf aeration system. According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of aerating at least one location of a recreational sports area such as a golf course, said method comprising the steps:

establishing at least one reservoir of water;

associating said at least one location with a pressurized water irrigation apparatus for delivering a flow of water from said reservoir;

using said water flow to drive a suitably configured water turbine;

using said water turbine to provide power to drive an air turbine; and

substantially returning said used water to said reservoir.

Preferably said water turbine is coupled with an electrical generator for generating electricity.

Preferably saud water turbine is coupled with a battery for generating electricity.

Preferably said generated electricity is used to power a motor to drive said air turbine.

Preferably said generated electricity is used to power at least one device from the set comprising: a lighting device, a heater and a refrigeration device.

Preferably said water turbine is directly coupled with said air turbine in order to mechanically drive said air turbine. Preferably said air turbine has at least one mode of operation from the set comprising:

a first mode providing air under pressure with air flowing in a first direction 5 and a second mode providing a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction,

wherein: o said air turbine is driven by said water turbine associated with an inlet configured to receive a flow of water and an outlet configured to discharge said water, said water turbine configured to extract kinetic energy from said received water. 5 Preferably a said turbine comprises a rotational member having a plurality of fin-like members for interacting with a received fluid.

Preferably said air turbine is connected via an axle to said water turbine.

o Preferably a gear arrangement is provided to control the rotational speed of said air turbine relative to said water turbine.

Preferably said delivered water is sprayed in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said water turbine. 5

Preferably said plurality of directions is two and said two directions provide said first and said second modes of operation.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a o recreational sports area, such as a golf course, comprising: at least one reservoir of water;

a pressurized water irrigation apparatus for delivering a flow of water from said reservoir to said at least one location of said recreational sports area;

a water turbine configured to receive and thereby use said delivered water flow;

an air turbine driven by power derived from said water turbine; and

a return pipeline for substantially returning said used water to said reservoir.

Preferably said water turbine is coupled with a battery for generating electricity.

Preferably said water turbine is directly coupled with said air turbine in order to mechanically drive said air turbine.

Preferably said air turbine has at least one mode of operation from the set comprising: a first mode providing air under pressure with air flowing in a first direction and a second mode providing a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction,

and wherein:

said air turbine is driven by said water turbine associated with an inlet configured to receive a flow of water and an outlet configured to discharge said water, said water turbine configured to extract kinetic energy from said received water.

Preferably a said turbine comprises a rotational member having a plurality of fin-like members for interacting with a received fluid.

Preferably said air turbine is connected via an axle to said water turbine.

Preferably a gear arrangement is provided to control the rotational speed of said air turbine relative to said water turbine.

Preferably said delivered water is sprayed in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said water turbine.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus adapted to control air flow in a conduit associated with a recreational sports area, said apparatus comprising:

a first turbine having at least one mode of operation from the set comprising a first mode configured to provide air flow in a first direction and a second mode configured to provide a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction; and

a second turbine configured to provide a supply of power to drive said first turbine, said second turbine associated with an inlet mechanism configured to receive a flow of water and an outlet configured to discharge said water, said second turbine configured to extract kinetic energy from said received flow of water.

Preferably said apparatus is adapted to receive said water from a land irrigation system.

Preferably a said turbine comprises a rotational member having a plurality of fin-like members for interacting with said received water.

Preferably said second turbine is coupled to an electrical generator.

Preferably said second turbine is coupled to a battery.

Preferably said electrical generator is used to provide electrical power to power said second turbine.

Preferably said battery is used to provide electrical power to said second turbine.

Preferably said second turbine is directly coupled to said first turbine, said first turbine thereby being driven directly by said extracted kinetic energy.

Preferably said coupling comprises an axle. Preferably a gear arrangement is provided to control the rotational speed of said first turbine relative to said second turbine.

Preferably said water inlet mechanism is configured to deliver said inlet water in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said second turbine.

Preferably said two directions are substantially parallel and substantially opposite to one another.

Preferably said water outlet is configured to receive said water from said second turbine via the fall of said water under gravity.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of controlling air flow in a conduit associated with a recreational sports area, said method comprising using a flow of water to drive a water turbine and using said water turbine to provide power to drive an air turbine.

Preferably said water turbine is coupled to an electrical generator to provide said power.

Preferably said water turbine is directly coupled to said air turbine to provide said power.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 schematically illustrates a prior art golf course as described in relation to the section entitled "background to the invention";

Figure 2 schematically illustrates a golf course as configured in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 3 schematically illustrates, in close up detail, a location surrounding a hole/green of a golf course as configured in accordance with the present invention, the hole/green associated with an irrigation pipe and a water turbine for generating hydroelectric power to power a subsurface turf aeration system;

Figure 4 schematically illustrates, in flow diagram form and in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the stages in generating electrical power for use in a sub surface turf aeration system;

Figure 5 schematically illustrates a water turbine and electrical generator arrangement for converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electrical power, the arrangement illustrated having an appropriate outer casing;

Figure 6 schematically illustrates the internal workings of the water turbine/electrical generator arrangement schematically illustrated in figure 5;

Figure 7 schematically illustrates a second water turbine and electrical power generating arrangement having an appropriate outer casing;

Figure 8 schematically illustrates the internal components of the water turbine/electrical generating assembly of Figure 7. Figure 9 schematically illustrates, in flow diagram form and in accordance with the best mode contemplated in realizing the present invention, the stages in generating electrical power for use in driving a subsurface turf aeration system;

Figure 10 schematically illustrates, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of an aeration turbine unit that is driven by a water turbine unit, both said units comprising an appropriate outer casing;

Figure 11 further schematically illustrates the assembly of Figure 10 with the outer casing of the water turbine having been removed so as to reveal the inner components thereof;

Figure 12 schematically illustrates, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a further preferred embodiment of an aeration turbine unit that is driven by a water turbine unit, both said units comprising an appropriate outer casing; and

Figure 13 further schematically illustrates the assembly of Figure 12 with the outer casing of the water turbine having been removed so as to reveal the inner components thereof.

Detailed Description

There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the description. Figure 2 schematically illustrates the present invention as configured in relation to a sports recreation area in the form of a golf course 201. By the term "sports recreational area" it is meant any area of land configured for playing a sport. Although the present invention is primarily suitable for use in golf type environments, such as 18 hole golf courses, those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the invention may find application in relation to other sports areas such as, for example, those for use in playing football, cricket, rugby, tennis, baseball, American football and hockey.

Golf course 201 comprises 18 holes each hole associated with a green.

Key 202, in common with key 102 shown in relation to Figure 1, schematically illustrates, in plan view, various elements associated with a golf green (203). In particular, there is a golf tee 204, a fairway 205 substantially located between golf tee 204 and golf green 203. Associated with golf course 201 are an irrigation lake 206 and an irrigation pump station 207 that may serve one or more golf greens. In accordance with the present invention there is provided an irrigation pipe network 208 forming a part of an irrigation system for distributing water to the various greens located around golf course 201. In contrast to prior art golf course 101 schematically illustrated in Figure 1 golf course 201 is not shown as comprising electric cable 104 distributed throughout the golf course. In contrast to prior art golf course 101 golf course 201 merely comprises an irrigation system substantially located underground that is associated with at least one irrigation pump station 207. The irrigation system substantially comprises irrigation pipe network 208. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art the irrigation system depicted may be associated with one or more irrigation lakes 206. Thus in accordance with the present invention golf course 201 is configured with an electric power supply derived from other means to that associated with prior art golf course 101. Golf course 201 may still comprise a mains power supply to particular locations, such as for example to the club house, but the distribution of electric power over the remainder of the golf course comprising greens and fairways is substantially derived from other means than that using the mains power supply.

Figure 3 schematically illustrates, in further detail, a typical fairway/green location 301 of golf course 201 that is configured in accordance with the present invention. Although Figure 3 illustrates an irrigation pump station 207 the skilled person in the art will realise that a given green/fairway may not require its own dedicated irrigation pump station since an irrigation pump station situated remotely from the fairway/green the question may be used to supply the required water for either the entire golf course irrigation system or several greens thereof. The fairway/green example 301 associated with golf course 201 may comprise at least one irrigation lake 206. An irrigation pump station 207 is used to pump water out of irrigation lake 206 in order to facilitate operation of the irrigation system associated with fairway 205 and green 203. Water is pumped by pump station 207 to fairway 205 and green 203 via main irrigation pipe 208 and subsidiary (branch) pipes such as those indicated at 302, 303, 304 , 305, 306 and 307. In this way irrigation water is delivered to required areas on the fairway and/or green on fairway/green location 301. As those skilled in the art will appreciate an areas of high importance as regards irrigation are the golf greens such as green 203. In world class golf courses a green 203 is typically associated with a drainage return pipe line 308 so that "spent" or "used" water may be conserved by returning the used (or spent) water to an irrigation lake 206. Such a system is said to be "closed" since the water derived from lake 206 is pumped around the irrigation system via pump 207 and returned to the lake via drainage return pipe line 308. In accordance with the present invention electrical power may be generated using the existing irrigation system on a prior art golf course. The present invention is exemplified by the example shown in Figure 3 relating to powering an air turbine 309 using irrigation water derived from irrigation pipe 208. Ultimately, in prior art golf courses and in golf course areas 201 and 301, irrigation water pumped along pipe 208 is sprinkled onto a surface of a relevant location on a golf course via an irrigation sprinkler 310. The water thereby sprinkled then drains back through the land into irrigation drainage return line 308.

An irrigation lake 206 acts as a head or reservoir of water. Those skilled in the art will understand that any appropriately configured head of water will suffice in order to practice the present invention. In this regard the term "reservoir" as used herein is thus to be construed as any appropriate body of water that may be used in conjunction with an irrigation system. Such a reservoir may for example also be provided by water held in a tank having an appropriately configured return pipe.

The inventors of the present invention have realised that providing a mains power supply to each green is not necessary for powering various electrical devices such as, for example, an air turbine 309 for use in aeration of a green. The inventors have realised that incorporation of a suitably configured water turbine 311 in irrigation pipeline 208 can be used to generate a required amount of electricity for powering a device such as an air turbine 309. In the example, air turbine 309, is associated with aeration pipe 312 that feeds into return line 308 so that air may be pumped in to or taken from green 203. Water turbine 311 is associated with an electrical generating device such that electricity may be generated in order to power the air turbine. However water turbine 311 and it's associated electrical generator may be used to power various other electrical devices around the golf course such as lighting and heating in particular buildings and to provide a ready supply of electrical power for various other devices associated with the golf course. The basic idea behind the present invention is summarised schematically in Figure 4. Figure 4 schematically illustrates, in flow diagram format, the mains steps involved in implementing the present invention in relation to powering a suitably configured air turbine 309.

At step 401 an irrigation system associated with a given golf course is configured to deliver pressurised water flow obtained from, for example, an irrigation lake 206. This may be achieved, for example using irrigation pump station 207 which may be configured to provide the required pumping action for various irrigation lakes associated with the golf course. Following step 401, at step 402 the pressurised water so obtained is passed through a suitably configured water turbine such as that indicated at 311 in Figure 3. The water powered turbine is in turn used to drive a suitably configured electrical power generator as indicated at step 403. In the case of the example of providing electrical power to an air turbine 309 generator 403 is used to power an electrical motor 404 to turn an air turbine 405 with resulting aeration or vacuum functionality being provided. Air turbine 309 operated in this way may be used to deliver air to golf green 203 or operated in reverse such that a partial vacuum is created and air is effectively drawn from a green 203 by air turbine 309. In this way the present invention thus provides hydroelectric power to various locations throughout a recreational sports area.

Although the term "turbine" has been used herein before in relation to the example or a rotational member the term "turbine" as used herein is to be construed more broadly. The term "turbine" is to be construed as including any device for converting the kinetic energy associated with a fluid flow into mechanical motion of a solid body. The term turbine as used herein before and below is thus not to be construed as limited to devices that only concern mechanical bodies that rotate in response to the effect of a fluid flow with which they are associated. Rather, for example, the term may also be construed as also including linear motion of a force receiving body.

Figure 5 schematically illustrates a suitably configured water turbine and electrical generator assembly 501 for use in implementing the best mode of hydroelectric power generation in accordance with the present invention. Assembly 501 comprises water turbine sub unit 502 that is in mechanical communication with electrical generator unit 503. Water turbine unit 502 is driven by inlet substantially horizontally flowing water 504 that passes through unit 502 and exits under the force of gravity in a vertically downward direction at exit orifice 505. The main component associated with water turbine unit 502 is located behind casing 506. Electrical power generated by electrical generator 503 is taken from generator 503 via power delivery cable 507.

Electrical energy generated by water turbines on this scale for recreational sports areas i.e. not of the scale of large hydroelectric dams, may also be termed micro hydroelectric power. A suitably configured water turbine may also be used for the charging of a battery power source. By coupling a water turbine to a battery and therefore charge the battery, an electrical system, as disclosed previously may then be connected to at least one charged battery directly via a Direct Current (DC) system or through an inverter for an Alternating Current (AC) or mixed AC/DC system. Once a battery has been charged by the water turbine, the battery may also be used to power an air turbine or a plurality thereof. A water turbine and its associated battery may be used to power various other electrical devices around the golf course such as lighting and heating and would provide for a ready supply of electrical power. A battery charged by a water turbine may be used concurrently with a primary electrical generating device, or as a standby or back up electrical power source.

Figure 6 further schematically illustrates the internal workings of water turbine/electrical generator assembly 501 such that casing 506 has been removed. Water turbine unit 502 comprises water inlet pipe 508 for receiving flowing water 504 from the irrigation pipe 208 or Figure 2. Water inlet pipe 508 is connected to irrigation pipe 208 via pipe coupling means 509. Water received along inlet pipe 508 is connected to a transversely arranged pipe assembly 510 that directs water in substantially opposite first and second directions to respective outlet end members 511 and 512. In the best mode contemplated pipe 510 is substantially configured in a 'C shape. Water outlet from respective end members 511 and 512 is directed to rotor 513. Members 511 and 512 are configured such that water is sprayed out in a jet by virtue of the outlet orifice of each of members 511 and 512 progressively narrowing in the downstream direction. Rotor 513 comprises a centrally located axle member 514 that connects to main body 515. Main body 515 comprises a series of radially disposed blade (or fin) based members 516, 517 that receive the impact of the water from outlet members 511 and 512. In this way the plurality of fin members 516, 517 turn main body member 515 which in turn rotates axle 514 to which it is affixed. Axle 514 is connected to electrical generator unit 503 so as to convert mechanical energy into electricity with the resultant electricity being directed for use elsewhere via cable 507. Used or "spent" water is, under the force of gravity, forced to leave the inner componentry of casing 506 via outlet 505 that is located substantially below water turbine main body member 515. In this way spent water is allowed to return back to drainage return line 308 and ultimately to irrigation lake 206. Those skilled in the art will realise that the usage of two outlet pipe sprayed members 511 and 512 is optional for example only one could be used or a greater number than only two could be used. However two is the preferred number.

Figure 7 schematically illustrates an alternative embodiment of suitably configured water turbine/electrical generator assembly 701 to that shown in Figure 5 and 6. Assembly 701 comprises water turbine unit 702, mechanically coupled to an electrical generator 703 that is substantially of the same type as that shown in Figures 5 and 6 at 503. Water turbine assembly 702 comprises coupling means 704 for receiving inlet water 705 from irrigation pipe 208. Received water is directed into encased water turbine mechanism that is located within outer casing 706. Electrical power generated using electrical generator 703 is delivered for subsequent use by one or more remote electrical devices via power supply cable 707. Likewise spent water is directed out of casing 706 via outlet pipe 708. In the example of Figure 7 the water turbine, in contrast to that shown in the example of Figures 5 and 6, is disposed substantially vertically. Additionally in Figure 7 inlet water is directed in a direction that is substantially the opposite to that outlet through water outlet 708. Figure 8 schematically illustrates in further detail the internal workings of water turbine unit 702 illustrated in Figure 7. Inlet water 705 is directed by coupling member 704 along inlet pipe 801 that terminates in a single jet spray head 802. Jet spray head 802 is configured to spray water in a substantially horizontal direction. Water sprayed out of jet sprayhead member 802 is directed to a vertically disposed and substantially cylindrically shaped rotor 803 that is mechanically coupled to electrical generator 703 so as to drive generator 703. Turbine 803 comprises a plurality of fin-like members 804, 805 arranged radially around the circumference of member 803 and configured for receiving water from jet number 802. In this way fin members 804, 805 cause an axle to which rotor 803 is connected to rotate and interact with the mechanism of electrical generator 703 so as to produce required electricity. Spent water is removed from casing arrangement 706 via horizontally disposed outlet pipe 708.

In accordance with the present invention a great amount of money may be saved by not having to lay electrical power supply cables under a golf course either during construction or through retro fitting. The fact that electrical power can be delivered using an existing irrigation system is greatly advantageous over existing power supply systems since the irrigation system is already present and only minor modification thereof is required. By minor modification it is meant that the irrigation pipe 208 must be coupled with a suitable water turbine/electrical generator at various locations around a given golf course. However this simply means digging a few holes around the course at various locations and inserting the required equipment including a water turbine and generator assembly in relation to the irrigation pipe system (208).

The water turbine/electrical generators installed in a given golf course or a recreational environment in accordance with the present invention can then be controlled by a suitably configured control means as appropriate. Figure 9 schematically illustrates, in flow diagram form and in accordance with the best mode contemplated in realising the present invention, the stages in generating electrical power for use in driving a sub-surface turf aeration system. This represents an alternative scheme to that shown in relation to Figure 4. Back step 901 pressurised water flow, such as that received along irrigation pipe 208, is received. Pressurised water flow received at 901 is then directed at 902 either for direct use in generating electrical power or for use in powering a water turbine. Thus following step 902 at step 903 the received water is used to generate electricity by use of a water power generator. The resultant electricity is then delivered by suitable cable to an electrical implement at step 904. The electrical implement powered at step 904 must suitably be an air turbine apparatus for aerating a turf playing surface or for removing air from such a surface if the air turbine is operated in the reverse direction.

Scheme shown in Figure 9 offers a further possibility for powering an air turbine in that the pressurised water flow received at step 901 may be directed by step 902 to drive a water powered turbine at step 903. The water powered turbine so powered may then be used directly to drive an air turbine as indicated at step 904. Thus steps 903 and 904 do not include any generation of electrical power and the efficiency of driving the air turbine is therefore greater than powering an air turbine via steps 903, 904 and similarly more efficient than a scheme illustrated in relation to Figure 4.

Figure 10 schematically illustrates, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of an aeration turbine unit that is driven by a water turbine unit in accordance with steps 901 , 902, 903 and 904 of

Figure 9. Assembly 1001 comprises water turbine unit 1002 coupled to an aeration turbine unit 1003, both such units being illustrated with an appropriate outer case so as to contain and direct the respective fluid flows as appropriate. The fluid encasement for units 1002 is indicated at 1005 and that for unit 1003 is indicated at 1006. Water 1007 received from irrigation pipe 208 is inlet into water turbine unit 1002 via pipe coupling means 1008 which suitably includes a solenoid valve to switch the aeration system on and off. Thus water 1007 enters water turbine unit 1002 drives a suitably configured turbine as was described in relation to Figure 6. The turbine rotor located within casing 1005 is configured such that it drives an air turbine rotor located within casing 1006 of air turbine unit 1003. Air turbine unit 1003 is located substantially above water turbine unit 1002 and the water turbine rotor, operated in first direction, effectively sucks air 1009 into air intake pipe 1010. Air is sucked in pipe 1010 by virtue of the water turbine rotor turning an air turbine rotor located within casing 1003 such that air is then drawn in. Inlet air passes through the turbine rotor system located within casing 1006 and is directed outwards to outflow orifice 1011 whereafter the output air can be used in a suitably configured aeration system located underground below, for example, a golf green. In common with the example of Figure 5, output water is spent through output orifice 1012 under the force of gravity. Thus in the example of Figure 10 water enters unit 1002 in a horizontal fashion and is expelled in a vertical direction to orifice 1012.

Figure 11 further schematically illustrates the assembly of Figure 10 with the outer casing 1005 of water turbine unit 1002 having been removed so as to reveal the inner components thereof. The inner workings of water turbine unit

1002 are substantially the same as described previously in relation to the assembly illustrated in Figure 5 and 6 and thus will not be further described herein.

Figure 12 schematically illustrates, in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an assembly comprising an aeration turbine unit as driven by a water turbine unit. Assembly 1201 comprises a water turbine assembly 1202 used to drive an aeration turbine assembly 1203. The water turbine assembly unit 1202 is shown as comprising an outer case 1204 to contain received water received via pipe coupling means 1205. Water is inlet through pipe coupling means 1205 wherein it passes through a water turbine located within casing 1204 and is outlet from unit 1202 via water outlet means 1206. In contrast to the arrangement shown in Figure 10 and 11 the assembly Figure 12 receives water flowing horizontally and expels water substantially horizontally throughout outlet pipe 1206. The water turbine located within casing 1205 is configured to turn an air turbine located within air turbine unit 1203. The air turbine located within unit 1203 thus creates an air flow as appropriate. If the air turbine is operated to rotate in a first direction then air 1207 is sucked in from the atmosphere via air inlet pipe 1208. The air is then directed via air outlet means 1209 to as suitably configured piped aeration system located under a golf green via air outlet means 1209. Water inlet pipe coupling arrangement 1205 suitably comprises a solenoid valve such as to switch the water turbine system on or off as appropriate.

Figure 13 further schematically illustrates the assembly of Figure 12 with the outer casing 1204 of the water turbine unit having been removed so as to reveal the inner components of the water turbine unit.

Figure 13 further schematically illustrates the inner workings of the assembly of figure 12. Water turbine rotor 1301 is configured such that it comprises a plurality of fin like members 1302, 1303. The inner workings of water turbine unit 1202 are substantially identical to the system that was described in relation to Figure 7 and 8, but with the water turbine being used to drive an air turbine unit rather than an electrical generator.

From the above it can be seen that an aeration turbine device may be configured such that it is used to aerate the turf/soil associated with a sports recreational area or to remove air therefrom. Air is removed therefrom by operating the air turbine/water turbine arrangement in reverse as compared with when aeration is required. Those skilled in the art will see from the above that aeration and /alteration of a partial (may be achieved in relation to a turf/soil area of a sports recreational area without having to result to using a mains powered system. An aeration device may be powered using electrical power derived from a water turbine/irrigation system. The formation of the water turbine may be used to generate electricity to drive the air turbine or motion of the water powered turbine may be used directly to drive an air turbine without having to transform water power into electrical power beforehand.

Those skilled in the art will realise that the term "rotor" is to be construed broadly. Another appropriate term would be "impeller".

A water turbine/aeration turbine configuration as schematically illustrated in any Figures 10 to 13 may be used to provide air to or remove air to from one or more aeration heads associated with a given turf playing area. In the best mode contemplated one such system is provided per aeration head.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the various forms of turbine apparatus illustrated hereinbefore may be associated with a gear arrangement. Thus, for example, in the embodiments wherein a water turbine is used to directly drive an air turbine without use of an electrical generator a gear arrangement may be provided to control the rotational speed of said water turbine relative to said air turbine.

The water turbine/electrical generators installed in a given golf course or a recreational environment in accordance with the present invention can then be controlled by a suitably configured control means as appropriate.

The invention as herein before described utilises a drainage system, which in the best mode contemplated, is an existing closed loop drainage system. Furthermore in the best mode contemplated the drainage system comprises a rainwater drainage system comprising a system of suitably configured piping. Many golf courses throughout the world have such a closed loop system that is configured such that an irrigation system obtains water from a reservoir, such as a lake. The water is then used to irrigate and is then returned to the lake via the drainage system. This is important because water is a scarce commodity in many areas around the world. Coupling such an irrigation system and drainage system with sub surface aeration is considered to be at the essence of the present invention. This follows because an important aspect of the present invention relates to utilisation of the aeration system to actually remove water from the recreational surface (top soil and/or grass layers as appropriate). Water is removed by pumping air into such a surface to displace the water to the surface which thereby evaporates. Removing water from such a surface is desirable to increase the oxygen content of the surface layers. Similarly if the oxygen content of such layers is required to be lowered then this is achieved in accordance with the present invention by adding water via the irrigation system operating in the mode of delivering water. As those skilled in the art will appreciate the present invention, utilising an irrigation system to actually remove water, represents an intrinsically different approach to the matter of providing aeration. Additionally providing air to such a surface under pressure also displaces any unwanted carbon dioxide gas from the surface layers thereby further increasing the oxygen content associated with the surface.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention herin before described may be optimised further in various ways without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the present invention. For example in order to optimise the aeration functionality it may be desirable to divide a given location of a golf course green into various sections. In this way the aeration and irrigation system may be diverted to aerate or irrigate a particular section of the green to further optimise the aeration or irrigation being applied to a particular section.

Claims

1 . A method of aerating at least one sub surface location of a recreational sports area such as a golf course, said method comprising the steps:

establishing at least one reservoir of water;

using said water flow to drive a suitably configured water turbine;

using said water turbine to provide power to drive an air turbine; and

substantially returning said used water to said reservoir via a water drainage system.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said water turbine is coupled with an electrical generator for generating electricity.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said water turbine is coupled with an electrical generator for generating electricity, said generated electricity is used to power a motor to drive said air turbine.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said water turbine is directly coupled with said air turbine in order to mechanically drive said air turbine.

5. A method as claimed in clauim 1 wherein said water turbine is coupled with a battery for generating electricity.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising:

said air turbine having at least one mode of operation from the set 5 comprising:

a first mode providing air under pressure with air flowing in a first direction and a second mode providing a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction, 0 wherein:

said air turbine is driven by said water turbine associated with an inlet configured to receive a flow of water and an outlet configured to discharge said5 water, said water turbine configured to extract kinetic energy from said received water.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein a said turbine comprises a rotational member having a plurality of fin-like members for interacting with a0 received fluid.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said air turbine is connected via an axle to said water turbine. 5

9. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein a gear arrangement is provided to control the rotational speed of said air turbine relative to said water turbine.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said delivered water is o sprayed in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said water turbine.

11. The method as claimed in claim 1 wherein said delivered water is sprayed in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said water turbine and said plurality of directions is two, a first said direction providing

5 a first mode of operation providing air under pressure with air flowing in a first direction and said second direction providing a second mode of operation providing a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction. 0

12. A recreational sports area, such as a golf course, comprising:

at least one reservoir of water;

a pressurized water irrigation apparatus for delivering a flow of water from5 said reservoir to said at least one location of said recreational sports area;

a water turbine configured to receive and thereby use said delivered water flow; 0 an air turbine driven by power derived from said water turbine; and

a return drainage pipeline for substantially returning said used water to said reservoir. 5

13. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein said water turbine is coupled with an electrical generator for generating electricity.

14. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein said water turbine is coupled with an electrical generator for generating electricity and o said generated electricity is used to power a motor to drive said air turbine.

15. A recreational sports areas as claimed in claim 12 wherein the water turbine is coupled with a battery for generating electricity.

16. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein said water turbine is directly coupled with said air turbine in order to mechanically drive said air turbine.

17. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein:

said air turbine has at least one mode of operation from the set comprising:

a first mode providing air under pressure with air flowing in a first direction and a second mode providing a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction,

and wherein:

18. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein a said turbine comprises a rotational member having a plurality of fin-like members for interacting with a received fluid.

19. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein said air turbine is connected via an axle to said water turbine.

20. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein a gear arrangement is provided to control the rotational speed of said air turbine relative to said water turbine.

21. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 wherein said delivered water is sprayed in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said water turbine.

22. A recreational sports area as claimed in claim 12 said delivered water is sprayed in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said water turbine and said plurality of directions is two, a first said direction providing

a first mode of operation providing air under pressure with air flowing in a first direction and said second direction providing a second mode of operation providing a partial vacuum through air flowing in a second direction.

23. An apparatus adapted to control air flow in a conduit associated with a recreational sports area, said apparatus comprising:

24. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said apparatus is adapted to receive said water from a land irrigation system.

25. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein a said turbine comprises a rotational member having a plurality of fin-like members for interacting with received water.

26. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said second turbine is coupled to an electrical generator.

27. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said second turbine is coupled to an electrical generator and said electrical generator is used to provide electrical power to power said second turbine.

28. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said second turbine is coupled to a battery.

29. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said second turbine is coupled to a battery and said battery is used to provide power to said second turbine.

30. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 wherein said second turbine is directly coupled to said first turbine, said first turbine thereby being driven directly by said extracted kinetic energy.

31. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said second turbine is directly coupled to said first turbine, said first turbine thereby being driven directly by said extracted kinetic energy and said coupling comprises an axle.

32. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein a gear arrangement is provided to control the rotational speed of said first turbine relative to said second turbine.

33. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said water inlet mechanism is configured to deliver said inlet water in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said second turbine.

34. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said water inlet mechanism is configured to deliver said inlet water in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said second turbine and said plurality of directions is two and said two directions provide said first and said second modes of operation.

35. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said water inlet mechanism is configured to deliver said inlet water in a plurality of directions to a respective plurality of locations about said second turbine and said plurality of directions is two and said two directions provide said first and said second modes of operation said two directions being substantially parallel and substantially opposite to one another.

36. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein said water outlet is configured to receive said water from said second turbine via the fall of said water under gravity.

37. A method of controlling air flow in a conduit associated with a recreational sports area, said method comprising using a flow of water to drive a water turbine and using said water turbine to provide power to drive an air turbine for use in sub-surface aeration.

38. The method as claimed in claim 37 wherein said water turbine is coupled to an electrical generator to provide said power.

39. The method as claimed in claim 37 wherein said water turbine is directly coupled to said air turbine to provide said power.