Patent ID: 6070824
Filing Date: 2000-06-06
Classification: A63C,B65H,Y10S

Abstract:
An apparatus for removably covering a rigid, relatively smooth surface with a large section of substantially impervious, heavy duty artificial turf having a leading margin a trailing margin and at least two side margins comprising:(a) at least one powered roller adapted to support and drive a roll of such artificial turf, said roll having a center shaft, said center shaft having two opposing ends;(b) a pair of opposing thrust bearing blocks positioned adjacent each of said opposing ends of the center shaft to restrict horizontal movement of the center shaft during winding and unwinding;(c) a thrust bearing attached to each opposed end of the center shaft, each thrust bearing having an attached wear plate allowing slidable contact against the associated thrust bearing block;(d) a plurality of rope-like members secured to a leading margin of the roll;(e) a winch for tensioning the members to unroll the artificial turf; and(f) a pneumatic generator for developing air pressure within the margins of the turf section wherein the margins are in sealing contact with the surface.