Abstract: A method of removably covering a smooth, rigid surface such as a floor, with a large section of heavy duty, artificial turf which involves pulling it across the surface while supported on a pneumatic cushion to minimize frictional drag and then relieving the cushion after the section is in place to allow it to settle onto the surface. The installation in use comprises such turf supported within its periphery on the pneumatic cushion in contactless overlying relationship above the rigid surface. The apparatus comprises powered rollers for supporting a roll of the turf, rope-like members for attachment to the roll along its leading margin, winches for pulling such rope-like members and a blower for developing the air cushion between the turf and rigid surface.

Abstract: Apparatus for manipulating large sections of non-rectangular shaped artificial turf which facilitates repeated covering and uncovering of a surface with such turf. The apparatus comprises at least one belt removably attached to an oblique margin of the artificial turf to provide non-deflecting support for a roll of artificial turf wrapped onto an elongated cylindrical pole. More specifically, the apparatus allows for a non-rectangular shaped segment of artificial turf, for instance, such as utilized in a baseball field, to be deployed and recovered with the assistance of a pneumatic cushion.

Abstract: A method of removably covering a smooth, rigid surface such as a floor, with a large section of heavy duty, artificial turf which involves pulling it across the surface while supported on a pneumatic cushion to minimize frictional drag and then relieving the cushion after the section is in place to allow it to settle onto the surface. The installation in use comprises such turf supported within its periphery on the pneumatic cushion in contactless overlying relationship above the rigid surface. The apparatus comprises powered rollers for supporting a roll of the turf, rope-like members for attachment to the roll along its leading margin, winches for pulling such rope-like members and a blower for developing the air cushion between the turf and rigid surface.