SPORTS STADIUM WITH MOVABLE TURF MODULES AND ASSOCIATED METHOD

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a sports stadium of the type that has a plurality of turf modules which are assembled into a complete sports field with a turf surface. In particular the invention regards solutions for providing good quality natural turf on such turf modules.

Background

[0002] International patent application publication WO2013002649 describes a sports stadium of the type discussed herein. Namely of the type having a plurality of turf modules which can be assembled on a fixed support base into a complete sports field. When not in use, the turf modules can be stored in a storage room below the fixed support base. When in such a storing position, the operator can cultivate the turf by providing light and water to the turf, while protecting the turf for harsh weather.

[0003] Although the storage room disclosed in WO2013002649 can be suited for providing suitable climate for the natural turf, conventional methods are still used for cultivating the turf. This includes the use of conventional watering techniques and repeated inspection of the turf quality.

[0004] Various movable turf fields made up of turf modules are also described in Turfgrass Bulletin, issue 214 of October 2001. This article describes how an entire turf field is assembled by a plurality of adjacently arranged turf modules, having natural turf.

[0005] In the prior art, solutions are described regarding heating a natural turf. For instance, Norwegian patent publication NO304415 describes a sports field having natural turf. The field is provided with air-conducting channels in a layer below the turf which is adapted for warming the turf. Cooled (used) air returns through return channels below the turf.

[0006] Patent application GB2395135 describes an artificial sports surface where an artificial turf is rolled out onto a supporting surface from rolls. Between the supporting surface and the artificial turf are also intermediate layers rolled out from rolls. The supporting surface is built up by a plurality of supporting sub layers in the form of adjacently arranged blocks, having an upper and lower plate, between which supporting webs are arranged. The plates and webs form horizontally extending channels. These channels allows for drainage of water which will penetrate the artificial turf and other layers above them. The channels are also used for retro-fitting of piping through a plurality of adjacently arranged blocks. Such piping can be used for feeding sprinkler heads with water or other purposes, such as heating. This solution avoids extensive ground construction, as the piping is retro-fitted into the blocks themselves and not in the supporting ground.

[0007] JPH10313676 is discloses a solution having a piping in the ground below a turf. The turf is divided into zones and the piping is sectioned for every zone. The amount and temperature of heat medium flowing in the piping can be controlled to control growth of the lawn. Moreover, temperature detectors are arranged in the ground for the respective zones and to perform control based on the measured temperatures.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved solution for cultivating the turf on turf modules of the above described type. Additional objects will appear from the following description.

The invention

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sports stadium with a turf field and a surrounding spectators stand. The turf field is made up of a plurality of turf modules supported on a fixed support base. The upper face of the turf modules is turf. The turf modules are movable on the fixed support base, and movable between an application mode on the fixed support base and a storage mode in a storage location. According to the first aspect of the present invention, the turf modules comprise integrated module resource lines that distribute resources to the turf. Moreover, the turf modules comprise a module resource connection adapted to connect to a fixed resource connection.

[0010] The invention will exhibit most advantages when the turf on the turf modules is natural turf. However, the use of artificial turf on the turf modules is also within the scope of the invention.

[0011] The module resource lines being integrated shall mean that these lines are fixed parts of the turf modules. That is, they are not retro-fitted after the modules have been installed in an application mode or in a storage mode. On the contrary, they are part of the turf modules and are thus moved together with the turf modules.

[0012] In many preferred embodiments, the storage location will be an enclosed chamber having either artificial lighting or natural lighting, such as in a greenhouse. By storing the turf modules inside, i.e. in a chamber, the user is able to control the environment in which the modules and the turf are stored.

[0013] Preferably, the fixed support base comprises fixed resource lines which connect to fixed resource connections distributed on the fixed support base. In this manner, every turf module is able to connect to a dedicated fixed resource connection.

[0014] The turf modules may in one embodiment be interchangeable between an elevated transport condition, wherein wheels support the turf module, and a lowered resting condition, wherein the module resource connection is adapted to connect with the fixed resource connection as a result of the turf module being lowered from the transport condition into the resting condition.

[0015] In an alternative embodiment, fixed resource connections are arranged at a perimeter of the fixed support base and the module resource connections of some turf modules connect to such at the perimeter arranged fixed resource connections when in the application mode. In this alternative embodiment, some turf modules may transmit resources from one adjacently arranged turf module to another adjacently arranged turf module.

[0016] In some embodiments, the storage localization is provided with fixed resource connections and fixed resource lines, wherein the turf modules are connected with such fixed resource connections when in the storage mode. Thus, the operator may supply resources to the turf both when the turf modules are in the application mode (on the field / fixed support base) and in the storage mode (storage location).

[0017] The resources supplied through the fixed resource lines comprise at least one of the resources listed in the following group: water, temperated water, gas, temperated gas, plant nutrition, electric power, sensor signaling.

[0018] Sensor signaling involves communication of sensed parameters, such as temperature in the turf, to a parameter reader, normally a computer system. The supply of temperated water and temperated gas shall be construed as the supply of water and/or gas, the temperature of which is affected by the user. A typical example is the supply of hot water or hot gas on a cold winter day to keep the turf sufficiently warm. Temperated fluid can also be used in order to obtain optimal growth environment.

[0019] The storage localization can advantageously comprise a plurality of storage shelves at different vertical positions, in which turf modules are arranged when in the storage mode. The storage shelves are then provided with fixed resource lines in communication with fixed resource connections in the storage shelves. The storage location, such as a storage chamber, can be inside the sports stadium itself, such as below the fixed support base. It may however also be outside the sports stadium.

[0020] Preferably, a plurality of the turf modules can be provided with an identification code which is readable by a computer system, wherein also the position of an identified turf module is readable by the computer system when in an application mode. Advantageously the reading of the identification mode can be readable when the module resource connection is in engagement with the fixed resource connection. E.g. RFID transponders connected to the computer system and distributed in the fixed support base, and in the storage localization may be applied.

[0021] The turf modules can comprise turf condition sensors that are readable by a computer system. The sensed parameters may e.g. be communicated by wireless link or through the engagement of the fixed resource connection with the module resource connection. The turf condition sensors can typically be one or more of temperature sensors, humidity sensors, decay gas sensors, and more.

[0022] Advantageously, resource valves are arranged in association with the fixed resource lines and/or in association with the module resource lines. Such resource valves can advantageously be remotely operable. Such an embodiment makes the operator able to adapt the supply of resources, typically water or heat, to the turf modules in need of the resource in question. One typical example may be a cold day where the sun heats some of the turf modules, which then would not need further heating. Other turf modules arranged in the shadow should be heated by opening valves that control the supply of warm water and/or warm air. Advantageously, such individually controlled supply of resources can take place automatically by means of a computer system which detects the conditions of the turf at each turf module. Correspondingly, the computer system can operate resource valves in the storage location.

[0023] The storage location can be a storage chamber provided with storage chamber environment control means. A computer system is then adapted to control the storage chamber environment control means on the basis of input from sensors in the storage chamber. The storage chamber environment control means can typically comprise air heaters or coolers, air humidifiers and/or air dryers.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of cultivating the turf of a plurality of turf modules that are adapted to constitute a turf field of a sports stadium. The method comprises the following steps:

a) establishing a connection engagement between a module resource connection and a fixed resource connection; and

b) through said connection engagement, supplying a turf resource to the turf.

[0025] A turf resource may include for instance water, temperated water, gas, temperated gas, plant nutrition, electric power.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the following steps:

c) disengaging the connection engagement between the module resource connection and a fixed resource connection when the turf modules are on a fixed support base on which they constitute the turf field;

d) moving the turf modules to a storage location;

e) establishing a connection engagement between the module resource connections and fixed resource connections at the storage location.

[0027] With this method, the operator is able to move the turf modules to a location where he in some embodiments is able to control the environment. Also, he is able to leave the fixed support base available for events which require the turf field to be removed.

[0028] In yet another embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, step a) comprises

i) establishing connection engagements between first module resource connections arranged at a perimeter of a first set of turf modules and fixed resource connections arranged at the periphery of the fixed support base;

ii) establishing connection engagements between first module resource connections of a second set of turf modules and second module resource connections of the first set of turf modules; and

iii) establishing connection engagements between second module resource connections of the second set of turf modules and the module resource connection of additional turf modules;

thereby connecting the turf modules of the turf field either directly or indirectly to the fixed resource connections arranged at the periphery of the fixed support base.

[0029] With this method, an entire turf field may be arranged with turf modules which are connected to turf resources, however without the need of fixed resource connections in the fixed support base.

Examples of embodiment

[0030] While various aspects of the invention have been described above in general terms, some more detailed examples of embodiment will be given in the following with reference to the drawings, in which

Fig. 1

is a principle perspective view of a sports stadium according to the invention;

Fig. 2

is a principle view according to Fig. 1, however showing a storage chamber and separate turf modules being moved;

Fig. 3 to Fig. 5

are cross section views of a turf module being moved towards, arranged above and connected to a fixed resource connection;

Fig. 6 and Fig. 7

are enlarged cross section views of a fixed resource connection and a module resource connection, before and after establishment of connecting engagement;

Fig. 8

is a perspective view of a fixed resource connection and a facing module resource connection;

Fig. 9

is a schematic cross section view of a pipe channel recessed in the fixed support base;

Fig. 10

is a schematic top view of a turf module, showing possible locations of the module resource connection;

Fig. 11

is a schematic top view of two turf modules connecting to a peripherally arranged fixed resource connection;

Fig. 12

is an enlarged cross section view of a turf soil portion having a gas-conducting module resource line; and

Fig. 13

is a schematic diagram illustrating a computer system adapted for cultivating the turf of the turf modules described herein.

[0031] Fig. 1 is a principle drawing of a sports stadium 1 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the sports stadium 1 is equipped with a turf field 3 in the form of a football field. The turf field 3 is made up of a plurality of turf modules 5 which are arranged closely together on top of a fixed support base 7. Encircling the turf field 3 is a spectators stand 9, of which only parts are shown in Fig. 1.

[0032] Fig. 2 shows the same sports stadium 1 as in Fig. 1. However, in this situation the turf field 3 is not assembled on the fixed support base 7. Indicated with dotted lines is a storage location in the form of a storage chamber 11 below the fixed support base 7. An aperture 13 exists in a portion of the fixed support base 7, through which turf modules 5 can be transported between the storage chamber 11 and the fixed support base 7. Below the aperture 13 is a not shown lift which is adapted to move the turf modules 5 up and down through the aperture 13.

[0033] It should be noted that other storage locations 11 also are possible, for instance a chamber remote from the stadium or even outside without any cover above the turf modules 5.

[0034] In Fig. 2, on the fixed support base 7 one turf module 5 has been installed in its correct position. Two additional turf modules 5 have been transported onto the fixed support base 7 and are being moved towards their correct position. When the entire turf field 3 has been made up by turf modules 5, the aperture 13 is closed with a door (not shown) that is fixed in a position flush with the fixed support base 7.

[0035] In the storage chamber 11 there are a plurality of vertically stacked storage shelves 15, onto which turf modules 5 which are in a storage mode can be stored. As is indicated in Fig. 2, one turf module 5 is about to be moved out from its storage position from the lowermost shelf 15 in the storage chamber 11.

[0036] Also schematically indicated in Fig. 2 are fixed resource lines 17 which are fixed to the fixed support base 7. The fixed resource lines 17 are arranged as parallel lines which cover every position of the turf modules 5 when they are arranged in their application mode on the fixed support base 7. The fixed resource lines 17 advantageously comprises various types of lines for various resources, such as watering lines, heated water lines, electric lines and air-conducting lines. Although they are visible in Fig. 2, the fixed resource lines 17 can advantageously be arranged below the upper face of the fixed support base 7, i.e. not possible to see.

[0037] Extending up from the fixed resource lines 17 are a plurality of fixed resource connections 19. In this embodiment there is arranged one fixed resource connection 19 at each position of the turf modules 5 when they are in the application mode on the fixed support base 7 (i.e. when they are in use as an assembled turf field 3). In the shown embodiment, the entire turf field 3 is made up of 54 turf modules 5 (6 x 9). Hence there are arranged 54 fixed resource connections 19. Since the fixed resource lines 17 do not extend across the aperture 13, the door (not shown) discussed above is provided with corresponding fixed resource connections 19 and associated fixed resource lines 17.

[0038] Fig. 3 to Fig. 5 illustrate the process of moving a turf module 5 into an application mode on the fixed support base 7, including connecting a module resource connection 21 of the turf module 5 to a fixed resource connection 19 below it. Fig. 3 shows a turf module 5 which moves along a fixed support base 7 by means of wheels 23. In this situation, the wheels 23 constitute the lowermost part of the turf module 5 and support the remaining parts of the turf module 5. Centrally arranged in the turf module 5 there is a module resource connection 25 which connects to various module resource lines 27 in the turf module 5. The module resource lines 25 are integrated in the turf module 5, thus always being moved together with the turf module 5.

[0039] On top of the turf module 5 there is an upper face constituted by natural turf 28.

[0040] In the fixed support base 7 there is arranged a fixed resource connection 19 which is connected to fixed resource lines 17, as discussed above with reference to Fig. 2. As appears from Fig. 3 the fixed resource lines 17 are arranged below the upper face of the fixed support base 7, thereby being non-visible from above and well protected.

[0041] Fig. 4 shows the same components as Fig. 3. However the turf module 5 has been moved into a position where the module resource connection 25 is arranged directly above the upwardly facing fixed resource connection 19. The turf module 5 is now in its correct position on the fixed support base 7. In order to engage the module resource connection 25 with the facing fixed resource connection 17, the wheels 23 of the turf module 5 are pulled up towards the turf module 5, making the turf module move downwards. The downwards movement of the turf module 5 makes the module resource connection 25 move down towards the fixed resource connection 19. Fig. 5 shows the turf module 5 in a positon where the wheels 23 have been pulled up and the main body of the turf module 5 has landed onto the fixed support base 7.

[0042] In this embodiment, actuators 29 are used to move the module resource connection 25 the last vertical distance towards and into connected engagement with the fixed resource connection 19. Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 are enlarged portions of Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, respectively. In Fig. 6 the module resource connection 25 exhibits a vertical distance from the fixed resource connection 19. A set of actuators 29, which in this embodiment are pneumatic cylinders, are used to move the module resource connection 25 downwards into engagement with the fixed resource connection 19. The engaged position is shown in Fig. 7.

[0043] The actuators 29 may also be manually operated, or electrically or hydraulically operated.

[0044] Visible in Fig. 6 are connection heads 31 on the module resource connection 25 that enter receiving connection funnels 33 on the fixed resource connection 19.

[0045] When disengaging the module resource connection 25 from the fixed resource connection 19, the actuators 29 are operated in the opposite direction, thereby pulling up the module resource connection 25 from its engagement. As will be understood by the person skilled in the art, one can also imagine arranging the actuators 29 in association with the fixed resource connection 19, and adapt the fixed resource connection 19 to move up and down into and out of engagement with the module resource connection 25 above it.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment, the engagement and disengagement of the module resource connection 25 with the fixed resource connection 19 can be performed simply by lowering or pulling up the wheels 23 of the turf module.

[0047] Pulling the wheels 23 up will lower the module resource connection 25, and by adjusting the needed vertical distance and the vertical initial position of the module resource connection 25, one can in this manner omit using actuators 29 for these engagements and disengagements.

[0048] Fig. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of a module resource connection 25 and a fixed resource connection 19. The turf module 5 and some of the fixed support base 7 are omitted for illustrational purpose. The actuators 29 are also not shown.

[0049] The fixed resource connection 19 as well as the module resource connection 25 comprise a main plate 26, 20. Depending from the main plate 26 of the module resource connection 25 are four guide pins 35 (barely visible) which are adapted to enter facing guide funnels 37 provided in the main plate 20 of the fixed resource connection 19. The guide pins 35 and the guide funnels 37 provides for mutual alignment between the main plates 20, 26, ensuring proper engagement between the connection heads 31 and the connection funnels 33.

[0050] When the turf modules 3 are not in their application mode on the fixed support base 7, covers (not shown) are advantageously arranged over the fixed resource connection 19 in order to protect it and in order to provide an even and useful surface. Thus, the fixed support base 7 can be used for other purposes when the turf field 3 (i.e. the turf modules 5) are not arranged on the fixed support base 7.

[0051] Fig. 9 is a schematic cross section side view of a pipe channel 39 recessed in the fixed support base 7. A plurality of fixed resource lines 17 are arranged in the pipe channel 39. Above the pipe channel 39 is a removable cover 41 which upon removal permits inspection of the fixed resource lines 17. Also arranged below the same cover 41 is an auxiliary channel 43 which may be employed if the user needs to arrange additional piping in the fixed support base 7. An advantageous use of the auxiliary channel 43, or a portion of the pipe channel 39, is drainage of water in a situation where the turf modules 5 are not present on the fixed support base 7. Such a situation may e.g. during a concert or a convention. Moreover, in such a situation, the fixed resource connections 19 at the fixed support base 7 may advantageously be used by other equipment than the turf modules 5, such as gear powered with electricity.

[0052] In addition to the fixed resource lines 17, as shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the pipe channel 39 may also comprise lines which are not used by the turf modules 5. Such lines can typically include electric power used when the turf modules 5 are arranged on the fixed support base 7, for instance during a concert. Other lines can include cooling lines for an ice rink.

[0053] Fig. 10 is a schematic top view of a turf module 5, with the position of the module resource connection 25 indicated in a central portion of the turf module 5. Indicated with a dotted line is an alternative localization of the module resource connection 25'. As will be understood, the position of the module resource connection 25 must be adapted to the positions of the fixed resource connections 19, or vice versa.

[0054] Fig. 11 depicts with a schematic top view, an alternative embodiment to the one disclosed above. In this embodiment the module resource connection 125 is arranged on a side of the turf module 5. It connects with facing fixed resource connection 119, which is one of a plurality arranged along a turf field periphery 50 which surrounds the turf field 3. That is, in this embodiment, the fixed resource connections 119 are not arranged in the fixed support base 7, however along the outskirts of the turf field 3. Indeed, a combination of fixed resource connections 19, 119 arranged in the periphery and in the fixed support base 7 can be imagined.

[0055] Preferably, mutual engagement between the module resource connection 125 and the peripherally arranged fixed resource connection 119 is provided by moving them towards each other in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0056] Fig. 11 depicts an embodiment wherein fixed resource lines 17 in the fixed support base 7 are not used. Instead, the module resource lines 27 are used for transmitting resources from one turf module 5 to adjacent turf modules 5. With dotted lines in Fig. 11 an additional and adjacently arranged turf module 5 is arranged beside a peripherally arranged turf module 5. The peripherally arranged turf module 5 connects to a fixed resource connection 119 with a module resource connection 125. In addition the peripherally arranged turf module 5 comprises an oppositely arrange module resource connection 125 that connect to the said adjacent turf module 5. In this manner, resources can be distributed throughout the turf field 3 through rows of turf modules 5, without the need for fixed resource lines 17.

[0057] In the embodiment of Fig. 11, the turf modules 5 comprise module resource lines 27 adapted to provide resources to the turf of the turf module 5, as well as resource transmission lines 45 which are adapted to transmit resources from one module resource connection 125 to an adjacent turf module 5, through another distant module resource connection 125.

[0058] As will be appreciated by the skilled person, the solution outlined in Fig. 11 makes the turf field 3, made up of the turf modules 5, suitable for installation outside the sports stadium 1. It may for instance be temporarily be installed on a parking lot or other suitable flat ground, if the user wants to move the venue for a sports event, e.g. By providing temporarily fixed resource connections (119) he may still be able to provide required resources to the turf, even if the turf modules 5 are not installed on the fixed support base 7 or the common storage location.

[0059] Fig. 12 is an enlarged cross section view of the upper portion of a turf module 5. More precisely, Fig. 12 shows the upper face, namely the natural turf, of a turf module 5. The module resource line 27 in this embodiment is a gas line, through which air is distributed. The module resource line 27 connects to a plurality of smaller outlet pipes 51 that extends upwards through the upper portion of the turf soil 53. Having a plurality of such outlet pipes 51 distributed evenly about the turf modules 5, makes the user able to influence the condition of the air above the turf field 3 by flowing appropriately heated / cooled air through the outlet pipes 51. In addition, he may control the temperature of the turf itself. One can also imagine using negative pressure in the module resource line 27 in order to move air from the turf field into and away from the field. This approach may cause fresh air from outside the sports stadium to enter the stadium. Advantageously the outlet pipes 51 are small and flexible to not represent hazard to persons on the turf field 3.

[0060] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram which illustrates a computer system 100 which is adapted for controlling the supply of resources to the turf modules 5. The diagram is divided into five parts, namely a turf module 5 located on the fixed support base 7 (left hand side of Fig. 13), the fixed support base 7, the computer system 100 (center part of Fig. 13), the storage chamber 11, and a turf module 5 (right hand side of Fig. 13) in the storage chamber 11.

[0061] The computer system 100 comprises a computer or CPU 101 to which conventional user interface such as a keyboard and monitor 103 are attached. Advantageously a hand-held device, such as a smart phone 105 or a tablet computer can also communicate with the CPU 101 through wireless communication.

[0062] The CPU 101 is connected to a plurality of various sensors, including sensors in the turf module 5, such as temperature sensor 151, O₂-sensor 152 and humidity sensor 153. When the turf module 5 is arranged on the fixed support base 7, the sensors 151, 152, 153 in the turf module 5 connect to the CPU 101 through a module sensor communication line 109 which extends between the CPU 101 and a fixed resource connection 19 in the fixed support base 7. The fixed resource connection 19 is then engaged with the module resource connection 25. When the turf module 5 is arranged in the storage chamber 11 (cf. Fig. 2), the sensors 151, 152, 153 connect through the module sensor communication line 109 and a fixed resource connection 219 in the storage chamber 11, which is engaged with the module resource connection 25. Thus, the computer system 100 is able to measure conditions of the turf module 5 both in the application mode (on the fixed support base 7) and in the storage mode (at a storage location, such as the storage chamber 11).

[0063] There are also advantageously arranged sensors in the storage chamber 11, such as temperature sensor 155, O₂-sensor 156, and humidity sensor 157. These sensors 155, 156, 157 connect to the CPU 101 through a storage sensor communication line 111.

[0064] Also controlled by the CPU 101 is a module water supply valve 113. The module water supply valve 113 is arranged in the turf module 5 and is controlled through a module water supply valve communication line 115. The module water supply valve communication line 115 extends between the CPU 101 on one side and the fixed resource connection 19 on the fixed support base 7 and the fixed resource connection 219 of the storage chamber 11 on the opposite side.

[0065] The turf module 5 also comprises a module nutrition supply valve 117, which in a corresponding manner connects to the CPU 101 via a control line 121 and through the module resource connection 25 and the fixed resource connection 19 (or 219 if arranged in the storage chamber 11).

[0066] In the fixed support base 7 there is arranged a plurality of fixed resource lines 15 in the form of heated water lines. The flow of heated water through these lines is controlled by heated water control valves 123 which are controlled by the CPU 101 through heater water valve control line 127. In some embodiments the lines conducting heated water can be adapted to guide the heated water in the fixed support base 7, without guiding the water into the turf modules 5. That is, the turf modules 5 would then be heated by convection from the heated fixed support base 7 to the turf modules 5. One could also use cold water for cooling the turf modules 5. In such embodiments a fixed support base temperature sensor 129 can be arranged in the fixed support base 7, and connect to the CPU 101 through a support base temperature communication line 131.

[0067] In the storage chamber 11 there can advantageously be arranged storage chamber environment control means 133, such as air heaters or humidity control means. Typically, the storage chamber environment control means 133 will be operated based on input from the sensors 155, 156, 157 in the storage chamber 11. Thus, the operator is able to set a desired set of environmental parameters in the computer system 100 in order to obtain desired growth of the turf during storage. In some cases, the operator may want the turf to grow as fast as possible to repair damages from an earlier event, such as a football match. In other cases, he may want to prepare the turf for particularly cold or warm weather. In such cases he may want to make the conditions in the storage chamber similar to the outside weather, in order to reduce the climatic difference experienced by the turf when moved onto the fixed support base 7.

[0068] In order to cultivate the turf, the user may in some cases find it advantageous to arrange some turf modules 5 in a sunny portion of the fixed support base 7, while he may want some remaining turf modules 5 to be arranged in the storage chamber 11. Advantageously, by means of the computer system 100 discussed under reference to Fig. 13, each turf module 5 which is connected to a fixed resource connection 19, 119, 219, can be operated independently. Thus, the computer system 100 can be used to cultivate the turf of any one specific turf module 5 arranged on the fixed support base 7 and/or on one specific turf module 5 in the storage localization 11. Indeed, as an option the operator should be able to cultivate the turf of all the turf modules 5 in parallel, i.e. with identically supplied resources.

[0069] It will also be advantageous to have a redundancy of turf modules 5, so that turf modules 5 experiencing excessive wear can be replaced an repaired. Thus, while an entire turf field 3 is in the application mode on the fixed support base 7, auxiliary turf modules 5 may be in the storage chamber 11 (or another storage location).

[0070] In addition to the supply of various resources, such as water and nutrition to the turf, the turf modules 5 are also provided with resource outlets (not shown). Advantageously, resource outlets can be arranged in the module resource connections 25, thereby connecting the resource outlets to the fixed resource connections 19. One can also imagine having separate outlets from the turf modules 5, such as water drainage outlets that could let excessive water flow into the pipe channel 39 or the auxiliary channel 43, as shown in Fig. 9.

[0071] One can also imagine that the turf modules 5 comprise more than one module resource connection 25, for instance two.

Claims

1. Sports stadium (1) with a turf field (3) and a surrounding spectators stand (9), wherein the turf field (3) is made up of a plurality of turf modules (5) supported on a fixed support base (7), the upper face of the turf modules (5) being turf, which turf modules are movable on the fixed support base (7), and movable between an application mode on the fixed support base (7) and a storage mode in a storage location (11), characterized in that

- the turf modules (5) comprise integrated module resource lines (27) distributing resources to the turf;

- the turf modules (5) comprise a module resource connection (25) adapted to connect to a fixed resource connection (19).

2. Sports stadium (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fixed support base (7) comprises fixed resource lines (17) which connect to fixed resource connections (19) distributed on the fixed support base (7).

3. Sports stadium (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the turf modules (5) are interchangeable between an elevated transport condition, wherein wheels (23) support the turf module (5), and a lowered resting condition, wherein the module resource connection (25) is adapted to connect with the fixed resource connection (19) as a result of the turf module (5) being lowered from the transport condition into the resting condition.

4. Sports stadium (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that fixed resource connections (119) are arranged at a perimeter of the fixed support base (7) and that some module resource connections (25) connect to such at the perimeter arranged fixed resource connections (119) when in the application mode.

5. Sports stadium (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that some turf modules (5) transmit resources from one adjacently arranged turf module (5) to another adjacently arranged turf module.

6. Sports stadium (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage location (11) is provided with fixed resource connections (219) and fixed resource lines (17), wherein the turf modules (5) are connected with the fixed resource connections (219) when in the storage mode.

7. Sports stadium (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said resources comprise at least one of the resources listed in the following group: water, temperated water, gas, temperated gas, plant nutrition, electric power, sensor signaling.

8. Sports stadium (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage location (11) comprises a plurality of storage shelves (15) at different vertical positions, in which turf modules (5) are arranged when in the storage mode, wherein the storage shelves (15) are provided with fixed resource lines (17) in communication with fixed resource connections (219) in the storage shelves (15).

9. Sports stadium according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of the turf modules (5) are provided with an identification code which is readable by a computer system (100), wherein also the position of an identified turf module (5) is readable by the computer system when in the application mode and/or in the storage mode.

10. Sports stadium according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the turf modules (5) comprise turf condition sensors (151, 152, 153) that are readable by a computer system (100).

11. Sports stadium according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that resource valves ( 113, 117, 123) are arranged in association with the fixed resource lines (17) and/or in association with the module resource lines (27), wherein the resource valves are remotely operable.

12. Sports stadium according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage location (11) is a storage chamber provided with storage chamber environment control means (133), wherein a computer system (100) is adapted to control the storage chamber environment control means (133) on the basis of input from sensors (155, 156, 157) in the storage chamber (11).

13. Method of cultivating the turf (28) of a plurality of turf modules (5) that are adapted to constitute a turf field (3) of a sports stadium (1), characterized in that the method comprises the following steps:

a) establishing a connection engagement between a module resource connection (25) and a fixed resource connection (19, 119, 219);

b) through said connection engagement, supplying a turf resource to the turf (28).

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the method comprises the following steps:

c) disengaging the connection engagement between the module resource connection (25) and a fixed resource connection (19, 119) when the turf modules (5) are on a fixed support base (7) on which they constitute the turf field (3);

d) moving the turf modules (5) to a storage location (11);

e) establishing a connection engagement between the module resource connection (25) and fixed resource connections (219) at the storage location (11).

15. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that step a) comprises

i) establishing connection engagements between first module resource connections (25) arranged at a perimeter of a first set of turf modules (5) and fixed resource connections (119) arranged at the periphery of the fixed support base (7);

ii) establishing connection engagements between first module resource connections (25) of a second set of turf modules (5) and second module resource connections (25) of the first set of turf modules (5); and

iii) establishing connection engagements between second module resource connections (25) of the second set of turf modules (5) and the module resource connection (25) of additional turf modules (5);

thereby connecting the turf modules (5) of the turf field (3) either directly or indirectly to the fixed resource connections (119) arranged at the periphery of the fixed support base (7).

Ansprüche

1. Sportstadion (1) mit einem Rasenfeld (3) und einer umgebenden Zuschauertribüne (9), wobei das Rasenfeld (3) aus einer Vielzahl von auf einer stationären Trägerbasis (7) getragenen Rasenmodulen (5) hergestellt ist, wobei die Oberseite der Rasenmodule (5) Rasen ist, wobei die Rasenmodule (5) auf der stationären Trägerbasis (7) beweglich sind, und zwischen einem Anwendungsmodus auf der stationären Trägerbasis (7) und einem Lagermodus an einem Lagerplatz (11) beweglich sind, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass

- die Rasenmodule (5) integrierte Modul-Betriebsmittelleitungen (27) umfassen, die Betriebsmittel auf dem Rasen verteilen;

- die Rasenmodule (5) eine Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindung (25) umfassen, die zur Verbindung mit einer stationären Betriebsmittelverbindung (19) ausgelegt ist.

2. Sportstadion (1) nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die stationäre Trägerbasis (7) stationäre Betriebsmittelleitungen (17) umfasst, die an stationäre auf der stationären Trägerbasis (7) verteilte Betriebsmittelverbindungen (19) anschließen.

3. Sportstadion (1) nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Rasenmodule (5) zwischen einem angehobenen Transportzustand, wobei Räder (23) das Rasenmodul (5) tragen, und einem abgesenkten Ruhezustand wechselbar sind, wobei die Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindung (25) als Ergebnis der Absenkung des Rasenmoduls (5) aus dem Transportzustand in den Ruhezustand zum Anschluss an die stationäre Betriebsmittelverbindung (19) ausgelegt ist.

4. Sportstadion (1) nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass stationäre Betriebsmittelverbindungen (119) an einem Rand der stationären Trägerbasis (7) angeordnet sind und dass einige Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindungen (25), wenn sie sich im Anwendungsmodus befinden, mit solchen am Rand angeordneten stationären Betriebsmittelverbindungen (119) verbunden sind.

5. Sportstadion (1) nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass einige Rasenmodule (5) Betriebsmittel von einem angrenzend angeordneten Rasenmodul (5) zu einem anderen angrenzend angeordneten Rasenmodul übertragen.

6. Sportstadion (1) nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Lagerplatz (11) mit stationären Betriebsmittelverbindungen (219) und stationären Betriebsmittelleitungen (17) bereitgestellt ist, wobei die Rasenmodule (5) mit den stationären Betriebsmittelverbindungen (219) verbunden sind, wenn sie sich im Lagermodus befinden.

7. Sportstadion (1) nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Betriebsmittel mindestens eines der in der folgenden Gruppe aufgeführten Betriebsmittel umfassen: Wasser, temperiertes Wasser, Gas, temperiertes Gas, Pflanzendünger, elektrische Energie, Sensorsignalisierung.

8. Sportstadion (1) nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Lagerplatz (11) eine Vielzahl von Lagerregalen (15) in verschiedenen vertikalen Positionen umfasst, in denen Rasenmodule (5) angeordnet sind, wenn sie sich im Lagermodus befinden, wobei die Lagerregale (15) mit stationären Betriebsmittelleitungen (17) bereitgestellt sind, die mit stationären Betriebsmittelverbindungen (219) in den Lagerregalen (15) in Verbindung stehen.

9. Sportstadion nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass eine Vielzahl der Rasenmodule (5) mit einem Kennungscode bereitgestellt sind, der von einem Computersystem (100) lesbar ist, wobei auch die Position eines erkannten Rasenmoduls (5) von dem Computersystem im Anwendungsmodus und/oder im Lagermodus lesbar ist.

10. Sportstadion nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Rasenmodule (5) Rasenzustandssensoren (151, 152, 153) umfassen, die von einem Computersystem (100) lesbar sind.

11. Sportstadion nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass Betriebsmittelventile (113, 117, 123) zugehörig zu den stationären Betriebsmittelleitungen (17) und/oder zugehörig zu den Modul-Betriebsmittelleitungen (27) angeordnet sind, wobei die Betriebsmittelventile fernbedienbar sind.

12. Sportstadion nach einem der vorangehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Lagerplatz (11) ein Lagerraum ist, der mit Lagerraumumgebung-Steuerungsmitteln (133) bereitgestellt ist, wobei ein Computersystem (100) zur Steuerung der Lagerraumumgebung-Steuerungsmittel (133) auf Basis von Eingaben aus Sensoren (155, 156, 157) in dem Lagerraum (11) ausgelegt ist.

13. Verfahren zum Kultivieren des Rasens (28) einer Vielzahl von Rasenmodulen (5), die dazu ausgelegt sind, ein Rasenfeld (3) eines Sportstadions (1) zu bilden, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte umfasst:

a) Einrichten eines Verbindungseingriffs zwischen einer Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindung (25) und einer stationären Betriebsmittelverbindung (19, 119, 219);

b) Zuführen eines Rasen-Betriebsmittels an den Rasen (28) durch den Verbindungseingriff.

14. Verfahren nach Anspruch 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte umfasst:

c) Lösen des Verbindungseingriffs zwischen der Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindung (25) und einer stationären Betriebsmittelverbindung (19, 119), wenn sich die Rasenmodule (5) auf einer stationären Trägerbasis (7) befinden, auf der sie das Rasenfeld (3) bilden;

d) Bewegen der Rasenmodule (5) zu einem Lagerplatz (11);

e) Einrichten eines Verbindungseingriffs zwischen der Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindung (25) und den stationären Betriebsmittelverbindungen (219) am Lagerplatz (11).

15. Verfahren nach Anspruch 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass Schritt a) umfasst:

i) Einrichten von Verbindungseingriffen zwischen ersten Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindungen (25), die an einem Rand eines ersten Satzes von Rasenmodulen (5) angeordnet sind, und stationären Betriebsmittelverbindungen (119), die am Rand der stationären Trägerbasis (7) angeordnet sind;

ii) Einrichten von Verbindungseingriffen zwischen ersten Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindungen (25) eines zweiten Satzes von Rasenmodulen (5) und zweiten Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindungen (25) des ersten Satzes von Rasenmodulen (5); und

iii) Einrichten von Verbindungseingriffen zwischen zweiten Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindungen (25) des zweiten Satzes von Rasenmodulen (5) und der Modul-Betriebsmittelverbindung (25) von zusätzlichen Rasenmodulen (5);

dadurch Verbinden der Rasenmodule (5) des Rasenfeldes (3) entweder direkt oder indirekt mit den stationären, am Rand der stationären Trägerbasis (7) angeordneten Betriebsmittelverbindungen (119).

Revendications

1. Stade sportif (1) doté d'un terrain en gazon (3) et de gradins de spectateurs périphériques (9), dans lequel le terrain en gazon (3) est composé d'une pluralité de modules de gazon (5) supportés sur une base de support fixe (7), la face supérieure des modules de gazon (5) étant du gazon, lesquels modules de gazon sont mobiles sur la base de support fixe (7), et mobiles entre un mode d'application sur la base de support fixe (7) et un mode de rangement dans un emplacement de rangement (11), caractérisé en ce que

- les modules de gazon (5) comprennent des lignes de ressources de modules intégrées (27) distribuant des ressources au gazon ;

- les modules de gazon (5) comprennent une connexion de ressource de module (25) adaptée pour être connectée à une connexion de ressource fixe (19).

2. Stade sportif (1) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la base de support fixe (7) comprend des lignes de ressource fixes (17) qui se connectent à des connexions de ressource fixes (19) réparties sur la base de support fixe (7).

3. Stade sportif (1) selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que les modules de gazon (5) sont interchangeables entre un état de transport surélevé, où des roues (23) supportent le module de gazon (5), et un état de repos abaissé, où la connexion de ressource de module (25) est adaptée pour être connectée à la connexion de ressource fixe (19) du fait que le module de gazon (5) est abaissé de l'état de transport à l'état de repos.

4. Stade sportif (1) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que des connexions de ressource fixes (119) sont agencées au niveau d'un périmètre de la base de support fixe (7) et en ce que certaines connexions de ressource de module (25) se connectent à de telles connexions de ressource fixes (119) agencées au niveau du périmètre, dans le mode d'application.

5. Stade sportif (1) selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que certains modules de gazon (5) transmettent des ressources d'un module de gazon (5) agencé de manière adjacente à un autre module de gazon disposé de manière adjacente.

6. Stade sportif (1) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'emplacement de rangement (11) est pourvu de connexions de ressource fixes (219) et de lignes de ressource fixes (17), dans lequel les modules de gazon (5) sont connectés aux connexions de ressource fixes (219), dans le mode de rangement.

7. Stade sportif (1) selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que lesdites ressources comprennent au moins l'une des ressources énumérées dans le groupe suivant : eau, eau tempérée, gaz, gaz tempéré, nutrition végétale, énergie électrique, signalisation de capteur.

8. Stade sportif (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'emplacement de rangement (11) comprend une pluralité d'étagères de rangement (15) à différentes positions verticales, dans lesquelles des modules de gazon (5) sont agencés, dans le mode rangement, dans lequel les étagères de rangement (15) sont pourvues de lignes de ressource fixes (17) en communication avec des connexions de ressource fixes (219) dans les étagères de rangement (15).

9. Stade sportif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'une pluralité des modules de gazon (5) sont pourvus d'un code d'identification qui peut être lu par un système informatique (100), dans lequel également la position d'un module de gazon identifié (5) peut être lu par le système informatique dans le mode d'application et/ou dans le mode de rangement.

10. Stade sportif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les modules de gazon (5) comprennent des capteurs d'état du gazon (151, 152, 153) qui peuvent être lus par un système informatique (100).

11. Stade sportif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que des vannes de ressource (113, 117, 123) sont agencées en association avec les lignes de ressource fixes (17) et / ou en association avec les lignes de ressource de module (27), dans lequel les vannes de ressource peuvent être actionnées à distance.

12. Stade sportif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'emplacement de rangement (11) est une chambre de rangement pourvue de moyens de commande d'environnement de chambre de rangement (133), dans lequel un système informatique (100) est adapté pour commander les moyens de commande d'environnement de chambre de rangement (133) sur la base d'une entrée provenant de capteurs (155, 156, 157) dans la chambre de rangement (11).

13. Procédé de culture du gazon (28) d'une pluralité de modules de gazon (5) adaptés pour constituer un terrain en gazon (3) d'un stade sportif (1), caractérisé en ce que le procédé comprend les étapes suivantes :

a) établir une mise en prise de connexion entre une connexion de ressource de module (25) et une connexion de ressource fixe (19, 119, 219) ;

b) à travers ladite mise en prise de connexion, fournir une ressource de gazon au gazon (28).

14. Procédé selon la revendication 13, caractérisé en ce que le procédé comprend les étapes suivantes :

c) libérer la mise en prise de connexion entre la connexion de ressource de module (25) et une connexion de ressource fixe (19, 119) lorsque les modules de gazon (5) sont sur une base de support fixe (7) sur laquelle ils constituent le terrain en gazon (3) ;

d) déplacer les modules de gazon (5) vers un emplacement de rangement (11) ;

e) établir une mise en prise de connexion entre la connexion de ressource de module (25) et les connexions de ressource fixes (219) au niveau de l'emplacement de rangement (11).

15. Procédé selon la revendication 13, caractérisée en ce que l'étape a) comprend les étapes suivantes :

i) établir des mises en prise de connexion entre des premières connexions de ressource de module (25) agencés au niveau d'un périmètre d'un premier ensemble de modules de gazon (5) et des connexions de ressource fixes (119) agencées à la périphérie de la base de support fixe (7) ;

ii) établir des mises en prise de connexion entre des premières connexions de ressource de module (25) d'un second ensemble de modules de gazon (5) et des secondes connexions de ressource de module (25) du premier ensemble de modules de gazon (5) ; et

iii) établir des mises en prise de connexion entre des secondes connexions de ressource de module (25) du second ensemble de modules de gazon (5) et la connexion de ressource de module (25) de modules de gazon supplémentaires (5) ;

en connectant ainsi les modules de gazon (5) du terrain en gazon (3) soit directement, soit indirectement aux connexions de ressources fixes (119) agencées à la périphérie de la base de support fixe (7).

Drawing