Golf Artificial putting platform: Profile system helps Zen realise putting perfection for golfers

摘要

British golf innovator and exporter Zen is all about putting - from coaching golfers to supplying novel equipment. Its latest product development - to improve the performance of the 'Zen Green Stage' artificial putting platform - involved replacing its prototype frame with MiniTec profile system profiles and corner connectors to provide increased stiffness and reduced weight for the 4.8m long by 1.8m wide structure. The user-adjustable platform allows golf enthusiasts and professionals to perfect their green reading and putting technique by setting the vertical height of each corner using electric jacks operated using wireless controls. In this way the compound angles created on the artificial green can be adjusted to consistently simulate different slopes and replicate where the green will 'break'. The novel structure uses 45mm by 135mm MiniTec profile rails with twin beams running the length of the structure and cross members connected via flexible angle brackets that allow vertical flexure but assure high rigidity and stiffness in the horizontal plane. The platform, which has two regulation hole cups, can be fitted with different grades of artificial turf to simulate the varying conditions and 'stimp speed' of greens encountered on world championship golf courses.