U.S. patent application number 12/754032 was filed with the patent office on 2010-10-07 for golf putter incorporating swing analysis module.
Invention is credited to Robert Lueders.
Application Number | 20100255922 12/754032 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42826654 |
Filed Date | 2010-10-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100255922 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lueders; Robert |
October 7, 2010 |
GOLF PUTTER INCORPORATING SWING ANALYSIS MODULE
Abstract
An improved golf putter incorporating a weight management system
that allows for adjustment of a golf club head weighting by
incorporating an adjustable weight system wherein weights may be
removed and replaced quickly and easily without requiring a
specialized tool is disclosed. Weights received within weight ports
formed in the heel and toe portions of the putter are maintained
securely affixed within the club head body. While the preferred
golf club embodiment disclosed is a putter, the present invention
contemplates incorporating any of the features and/or advancements
disclosed herein into any golf club. In addition, the present
invention further includes novel aspects relating to overall
design, including mass distribution and a rearwardly projecting
portion having an upwardly sloped sole that prevents the club from
snagging the turf. Furthermore a hollowed out area formed within
the rearwardly projecting portion is sized and shaped to receive a
correspondingly sized and shaped sensing module adapted to measure
club head movement and wirelessly transmit data to a remote
graphical user interface.
Inventors: |
Lueders; Robert; (Olathe,
KS) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MALIN HALEY DIMAGGIO BOWEN & LHOTA, P.A.
1936 S ANDREWS AVENUE
FORT LAUDERDALE
FL
33316
US
|
Family ID: |
42826654 |
Appl. No.: |
12/754032 |
Filed: |
April 5, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12031932 |
Feb 15, 2008 |
7691004 |
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12754032 |
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60901783 |
Feb 15, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/224 ;
473/223; 473/335; 473/341 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2220/24 20130101;
A63B 60/50 20151001; A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 2053/0491
20130101; A63B 53/0487 20130101; A63B 2220/808 20130101; A63B 69/36
20130101; A63B 2071/0663 20130101; A63B 2220/40 20130101; A63B
53/02 20130101; A63B 53/0433 20200801; A63B 71/0686 20130101; A63B
60/54 20151001; A63B 69/3685 20130101; A63B 71/0669 20130101; A63B
2102/32 20151001; A63B 2220/16 20130101; A63B 2071/063 20130101;
A63B 53/0441 20200801; A63B 60/46 20151001; A63B 53/0416 20200801;
A63B 24/0021 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/224 ;
473/341; 473/335; 473/223 |
International
Class: |
A63B 53/06 20060101
A63B053/06; A63B 69/36 20060101 A63B069/36 |
Claims
1. A golf putter comprising: a head including a main body and a
rearwardly projecting portion integrally formed with and extending
from said main body; said main body including a face, a heel
portion, a toe portion, a top portion, and a sole; said main body
top portion defining an elongate aperture having a length and a
width, said length exceeding said width, said length aligned
parallel with said face; a hosel having an end portion sized for
insertion within said elongate aperture; removable weights received
within weight-receiving ports defined in the upper half of said
heel portion and said toe portion; said rearwardly projecting
portion including a top that projects rearwardly from said main
body face portion and terminates in a rear end; first and second
modules sized and shaped for alternate removable insertion behind
said main body face portion and below said the top of said
rearwardly projecting portion, each of said modules defining a
bottom surface that sweeps upward from the front portion thereof to
the back portion thereof; said first module adapted for removably
receiving a weight selected from one of a group of weights of
differing mass; said second module comprising a swing analysis
module and housing at least one 3-axis accelerometer, a gyroscope
to detect movement of said head in each of the three dimensions, a
battery power source, a processor, and wireless transmitter for
transmitting data obtained by said module.
2. A golf putter according to claim 1, wherein said second module
further includes means for wireless transmission of data relating
to club movement to a remote user interface.
3. A golf putter according to claim 1, wherein said main body face
portion includes at least two sound transmitting holes formed along
axes that are generally perpendicular to said face and spaced on
either side of a centerline separating said heel portion from said
toe portion.
4. A golf putter according to claim 3, wherein said second module
includes a pair of microphones including a first microphone mounted
toward a toe end of said module and a second microphone mounted
toward a heel end of said module.
5. A golf putter according to claim 4, wherein the combination of
said sound transmitting holes and said pair of microphones allow
the system to identify whether contact with a golf ball was
on-center, or off-center toward the toe, or off-center toward the
heel, by analyzing the relative sound transmitted through said
holes as detected by said microphones.
6. A golf putter according to claim 5, further including a sound
barrier inserted between said two sound transmitting holes to form
two distinct sound chambers separated by said sound barrier.
7. A golf putter according to claim 1, where said face portion
defines a recessed area, and receives a face insert within said
recessed area, said head formed of a first material, said insert
formed of a second material, said first material being different
than said second material.
8. A golf putter according to claim 7, wherein said insert includes
a rear portion defining a plurality of recessed areas.
9. A golf putter according to claim 1, wherein said swing analysis
module generates audible feedback indicating whether impact was
on-center or off-center.
10. A golf putter according to claim 9, wherein said audible
feedback further indicates whether off-center impact was toward
said heel portion or toward said toe portion.
11. A golf putter comprising: a head including a main body and a
rearwardly projecting portion integrally formed with and extending
from said main body; said main body including a face, a heel
portion, a toe portion, a top portion, and a sole; said face
including a recessed area including a recessed generally planar
surface defining at least two through bores, each through bore
aligned generally perpendicular to said recessed generally planar
surface and extending completely through said main body, said at
least two through bores including at least one through bore
disposed toward the toe portion relative, and at least one through
bore disposed toward the heel portion; said main body top portion
defining an elongate aperture having a length and a width, said
length exceeding said width, said length aligned parallel with said
face; a hosel having an end portion sized for insertion within said
elongate aperture; removable weights received within
weight-receiving ports defined in the upper half of said heel
portion and said toe portion; said rearwardly projecting portion
including a top that projects rearwardly from said main body face
portion and terminates in a rear end; first and second modules
sized and shaped for alternate removable insertion behind said main
body face portion and below said the top of said rearwardly
projecting portion, each of said modules defining a bottom surface
that sweeps upward from the front portion thereof to the back
portion thereof; said first module adapted for removably receiving
a weight selected from one of a group of weights of differing mass;
said second module comprising a swing analysis module and housing
at least one 3-axis accelerometer, a gyroscope to detect movement
of said head in each of the three dimensions, a battery power
source, a processor, and wireless transmitter for transmitting data
obtained by said module.
12. A golf putter according to claim 11, wherein said swing
analysis module further includes a first microphone located toward
the toe portion of said main body and second microphone located
toward the heel portion of same main body.
13. A golf putter according to claim 11, wherein said swing
analysis module generates a signal corresponding to audible
feedback indicating whether impact was on-center or off-center.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/031,932, filed on Feb. 15, 2008, which
claims the benefit of provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No.
60/901,783, filed on Feb. 15, 2007.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] N/A
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0003] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyrights rights whatsoever.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates to the sport of golf, and more
particularly to a golf putter having an adjustable weighting system
and further adapted for use with a swing analysis system for
analyzing the movement of a golf club.
[0006] 2. Description of Related Art
[0007] The sport of golf is one of the most popular and fastest
growing sports in the world. Unfortunately, for both beginners and
veterans of the game, it is one of the most difficult games to
master. The key to the success of top golfers is that they have
tremendous hand-eye coordination and the innate ability to swing a
golf club in a way to maximize the ability to hit the golf ball
with both power and accuracy,
[0008] Since most golfers are not born with such a talent, the only
way to improve their swing is to practice individually or with
professional help. The majority of players learn the game from a
friend and develop their swing by trial and error on the golf
course and at the driving range. However, learning the game in this
manner can inhibit how good the player's swing can become.
[0009] The player needs a way to analyze his or her swing after the
swing has been made.
[0010] One golf club, however, has been the subject of more
innovative efforts than the others, that golf club is the putter.
Perhaps one reason why the putter has been the subject of so much
innovation efforts is that its use accounts for half of the strokes
allotted for a regulation round at par, namely two putts for every
hole . . . not to mention the fact that golfer's routinely exceed
two putts per hole.
[0011] A number of advancements in the golf putter art tend to
relate to weight distribution and weight adjustability. For
example, some golfers prefer a heavy putter, while others prefer a
lighter putter. In addition, some golfers desire to adjust the
weight of the putter depending on the conditions of the green, such
as type of grass, condition of the green, undulation of the green,
speed of the green, etc. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,641,487,
issued to Hamburger, discloses an adjustably weighted putter
wherein the body has a plurality of cavities formed therein for
receiving weights to alter the weight characteristic of the club
head upon removal of threaded fasteners. U.S. Pat. No. 6,896,625,
issued to Grace, discloses a golf putter head incorporating
removable weights such that the putter may be adapted between low
swing weight, standard swing weight, and high swing weight
configurations. Removal and replacement of the weights requires a
specialized tool. U.S. Pat. No. 6,348,014, issued to Chiu,
discloses a golf putter head and weight adjustable arrangement
wherein the putter head body has a plurality of holes for receiving
weights fastened by rubber retaining rings.
[0012] Other advancements in putter design involve advancements
directed to improving the feel of the putter. Those attempts are
primarily directed to the use of face inserts formed of various
metal and non-metal materials. Such attempts, however, primarily
focus on altering the materials forming the putter face, i.e. that
portion of the putter that contacts the golf ball. While such
attempts have proven somewhat successful in improving the feel of
the putter, there exists a need for an improved putter design that
further improves the feel of the putter by maximizing vibration
isolation and the transmission of vibration from impact to the
golfer's hands. The disclosures found in the prior art fail to
either teach or suggest a golf putter with adjustable weight system
wherein the weights may be easily adjusted by removal and
replacement of weights in many areas of the putter head as well as
within the main body of the putter. Further, the prior art fails to
disclose a golf putter that is both suitable for play while being
adapted for use with an attachable swing analyzer. Accordingly
there exists a need for an improved golf club, particularly a
putter, adapted with an improved adjustable weight system and
further adapted for optional use of attachable swing analyzer
module.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention overcomes the limitations and
shortcomings in the art by providing an improved golf putter
incorporating a weight management system that allows for
comprehensive adjustment of a golf club head weighting by
incorporating an adjustable weight system wherein weights may be
removed and replaced quickly and easily. Adjustable weight ports
are provided in the heel and toe portions of the putter head, and
the putter head defines a cavity adapted for receiving either an
adjustable weighting module or an electronic swing analysis module.
The putter head is designed such that mass has been removed from
the lower/sole portion of the putter head to the upper or top
portion thereby raising the center of mass, preferably to a point
at or above the equator of the golf ball to reduce or eliminate
back spin imparted to the golf ball upon contact. The putter head
further includes apertures, preferably disposed in connection with
the face portion to provide for the transmission of impact sounds
to the electronic swing analysis module to monitor on-center and
off-center impact. In one or more alternate embodiments, a putter
shaft terminates in a hosel that is affixed to the putter head
using vibration isolating mounting configuration thereby providing
an improved feel. The hosel is preferably shaped as an elongated
rectangular cross-section for insertion within a corresponding
elongated hosel receiving slot formed in the putter head such that
the shaft is automatically installed in aligned relation with the
face of the putter. A resilient bushing is disposed in surrounding
relation with the hosel and provides a vibration isolating
interface between the hosel and the putter head to further dampen
the energy transmitted through the bushing. The putter head may be
adapted with one or more face inserts to allow for customization.
While the preferred golf club embodiment disclosed is a putter, the
present invention contemplates incorporating any of the features
and/or advancements disclosed herein into any golf club.
[0014] In addition, the present invention further includes novel
aspects relating to overall design, including mass distribution and
a rearwardly projecting portion having an upwardly sloped sole that
prevents the club from snagging the turf. Furthermore a hollowed
out area formed within the rearwardly projecting portion is sized
and shaped to receive a correspondingly sized and shaped sensing
module adapted to measure club head movement and wirelessly
transmit data to a remote graphical user interface.
[0015] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an improved golf swing analysis system.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide such a
system wherein specially designed golf clubs are provided, each
having an area adapted for removably receiving a module containing
accelerometers and a wireless transmitter.
[0017] In accordance with these and other objects, which will
become apparent hereinafter, the instant invention will now be
described with particular reference to the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a golf putter in
accordance with the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a top view thereof;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view thereof;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a side view thereof;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a rear view thereof;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a bottom rear perspective view thereof;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a plug for securing weights
to the club head by snap-fit connection;
[0025] FIGS. 8-10 depict a sensing module in accordance with the
present invention;
[0026] FIGS. 11-13 depict a wrist mounted graphical interface for
receiving wireless transmissions from the sensing module;
[0027] FIG. 14 depicts a side view of a putter head in accordance
with an alternate embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a top front perspective view thereof;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a front view thereof;
[0030] FIG. 17 is a bottom rear perspective view thereof;
[0031] FIG. 18 is an exploded top front perspective view
thereof;
[0032] FIG. 19 is a partially exploded bottom rear perspective view
thereof;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a front top perspective view of another alternate
embodiment golf putter;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a bottom perspective view thereof;
[0035] FIG. 22 is a partially exploded view of a further alternate
embodiment golf putter; and
[0036] FIG. 23 is a rear perspective view of an alternate
embodiment face insert for enhancing sound transmission for the
putter shown in FIGS. 14-19.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] With reference now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-13 depict a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, namely, an improved
golf putter head, generally referenced as 10, incorporating a
weight management system that allows for adjustment of a golf club
head weighting by incorporating an adjustable weight system wherein
weights may be removed and replaced quickly and easily without
requiring a specialized tool. Golf putter head 10 includes a main
body forming the face portion 12 including a heel portion 14, a toe
portion 16, a top portion 18, a bottom portion or sole 20. As used
herein the term "main body" refers to the elongate front/face
portion of the putter head encompasses the face potion and
projecting heel and toe portions. The golf putter head further
includes an integral rear portion 30 that projects rearwardly from
the face portion 12.
[0038] Face portion 12 is preferably a milled planar surface within
tight manufacturing tolerance, and may include horizontal grooves
in accordance with the Rules of Golf as set forth by the United
States Golf Association (USGA). In addition, face 12 may include an
insert, such as SANTOPRENE.RTM. a material known for use with
putters. SANTOPRENE.RTM. is a registered trademark of Advanced
Elastomer Systems, LP, Akron, Ohio. In accordance with this
embodiment, face 12 may include an insert that is flat or ribbed or
with an overall convex curvature from top to bottom. In a preferred
embodiment, face 12 has a slight loft as is typical with
putters.
[0039] Face portion 12 defines weight-receiving ports in the toe
and heel areas, namely a toe weight port 22 and a heel weight port
24. In a preferred embodiment, the toe and heel weight ports are
offset to the upper half of the club (e.g. above a horizontal
centerline). The positioning of the weight ports on the upper half
of the club face allows the user to make weighting adjustments that
effectively raise the center of gravity. This design feature is in
contrast with conventional putter design norms wherein mass is
distributed lower.
[0040] In addition, a rear club head portion, generally referenced
as 30, projects rearwardly from said main body. Rear portion 30
includes a top 32, a sole 34, and defines an opening 36. In
addition, a shaft-receiving aperture 19 is formed in a suitable
location on top portion 18 for mounting golf putter head 10 to a
suitable shaft, or hozzle structure for connection to a shaft.
[0041] The exact location of shaft-receiving aperture 19 may very
to suit a particular golfer, such that the putter may be center
shafted, conventionally heel shafted, or in any other suitable
shaft configuration. Golf putter head 10 may be fabricated from
steel, titanium, or any other suitable material, or combination of
materials or alloys. Golf putter 10 may be fabricated by forging or
casting process, and may be formed as a single unit or from
individual components joined into a unitary club head.
[0042] As discussed above, a significant aspect of the present
invention relates to providing a golf putter adapted with an
adjustable weight management system. In a preferred embodiment,
weights (not shown) are removably received within weight ports 22
and 24 and are each similarly maintained securely affixed within
the club head body by plugs 40, shown in FIG. 7, adapted for snap
fit engagement with the club head. As best illustrated in FIG. 7,
each plug 40 includes a radially enlarged first end 42 adapted to
fit within one of the heel or toe ports 22 and 24 so as to be flush
with face 12. Each plug further includes a cylindrical body 44
extending from first end 42 and terminating in a second end 46
having flexibly movable fingers 46a and 46b separated by a slot 48
and adapted with a projecting flange 49 defined on finger 46b.
Plugs 40 may be simply removed manually by the user by application
of force using only his/her fingers. Thus, unlike other putter
weight adjustment systems disclosed in the art, the present
invention may be configured so as not to require use of a special
tool, such as a wrench, to remove and replace the weights. Plugs of
differing weights or materials are provided to allow the user to
customize weighting. As noted above, while the preferred golf club
embodiment disclosed is a putter, the present invention
contemplates incorporating any of the features and/or advancements
disclosed herein into any golf club. In addition, the present
invention further includes novel aspects relating to overall design
of club head 10. More particularly, club head 10 includes a
rearwardly projecting portion 30 having a top 32 and an upwardly
sloped sole 34 extending from the back of face 12 in a generally
arcuate manner for mating with top 32 as best seen in FIGS. 1 and
4. A significant advantage presented by arcuate sole 34 is that it
prevents the club from snagging the turf on the back swing,
particularly for putts in proximity to the edge of the green where
the grass transitions in height (e.g. the collar). This structure
further relocates mass from the lower portion between the heel 14
and toe 16 areas to an elevated location thereby raising the center
of gravity and moment of inertia. This configuration produces more
top spin and has been found to start the ball rolling quicker on
the green thereby helping to eliminate bouncing and skidding at the
beginning of the roll associated with back spin. The rearwardly
extending top portion 32 further provides desirable visual
characteristics as the top presents the user with a "T-Square"
shaped design to help the golfer properly square the face to the
intended target line. The width of top portion 32 is preferably the
same width as a golf ball because studies have shown the human
brain picks up the outside shape of objects easier. The theory is
similar to the 2 & 3 ball putters currently found in the
market.
[0043] In addition, mass has been removed from the lower portion of
the heel & toe to raise the center of gravity and also the
moment of inertia. More particularly, a significant aspect of the
present invention includes distributing the mass (e.g. weight) of
the club head higher and forward. For example, the sole as seen at
the bottom edge of face 12 is convexly shaped. The convex shape
functions to move mass upward at the heel and toe thereby raising
the center of mass. The removal of material from the heel portion
14 and the toe portion 16 also give the golfer the opportunity to
rock the club towards or away from himself without raising the
"sweet spot" thus giving the golfer a greater chance of contacting
the sweet spot over other putter designs & making it more
adaptable to different putting styles. Similarly, the convex sole
34 also functions to displace mass upward. The removal of material
also helps prevent the club head from snagging the green surface
(very short grass) on the backswing, and also helps to prevent
grass (taller rough or first cut) from grabbing the club when on
the fringe of the green up against the rough, in both the backswing
and the downswing. Avoiding such contact with the grass along the
fringe of a green is the reason many golfers attempt to contact the
ball with the sole of the wedge in order to prevent the grass from
grabbing and twisting the clubface.
[0044] With weights removed from the heel and toe weight ports 22
and 24 the putter becomes more of a center weighted putter.
Additional contemplated embodiments include a center weight system
in the very back on the bottom side to enhance the center weighted
effect of the putter and to alter the moment of inertia ("MOI"). As
should be apparent, however, adding heavier weights to weight ports
22 and 24 causes the putter to becomes more of a heel-toe weighted
putter. This makes the putter more adapable to different styles of
putting (almost universal), therefore more people can use the
benefits of the swing trainer/analyzer and still use this as their
prefered putter for actual play.
[0045] Still another novel aspect of the present invention includes
providing a hollowed out area formed within the rearwardly
projecting portion is sized and shaped to receive a correspondingly
sized and shaped electronic sensing module adapted to measure club
head movement and wirelessly transmit data to a remote graphical
user interface. FIGS. 8-10 depict a sensing module 50 designed to
fit within the hollowed out area 36. FIGS. 11-13 depict a preferred
embodiment for a wrist mounted graphical user interface 60 for
receiving information from sensing module 50.
[0046] Sensing module 50 thus also provides an improved low cost
golf swing analyzer adapted for measuring club acceleration and
swing path and transmitting data to a graphical user interface,
such as wrist module 60, using IEEE802.15.4 ISM band wireless
transmission. A suitable battery power supply (not shown) provides
electrical power for operation. In the preferred embodiment, the
putter head is adapted to include a cavity specifically sized and
shaped for receiving an accelerometer containing housing securely,
yet removably, mounted therein such that the outer dimensions and
appearance of the club are not altered. Accordingly, sensing module
50 is preferably adapted with projecting levers 52 that function to
engage the club head and secure the sensing module by press fit.
The visual characteristics are very important for a golfer, and
being able to use the swing analyzer without seeing it is a
significant aspect of the present invention. In an alternate
embodiment, the accelerometers and wireless transmitters are
permanently incorporated into the clubs upon manufacture. By
providing such a specially designed set of clubs, the present
invention thus provides a swing analysis system that allows the
user to obtain swing path and tempo information for each club in
the bag.
[0047] Sensing module 50 includes a housing having outer dimensions
corresponding to the cavities formed in the various clubs to allow
substantially the entire module to be received within the club head
whereby the module is substantially concealed. Concealing the
sensing module within the club head eliminates the possibility that
the golfer's swing will be affected by changes in the appearance of
the club. The housing is adapted for removable replacement,
preferably by a snap-fit or press fit connection within the club
head cavity as discussed above. Sensing module 50 houses all of the
components necessary to analyze the swing including, a battery,
processor, accelerometer, gyroscope, radio transceiver, voice
recognition, and microphones therein.
[0048] Sensing module 50 includes at least one 3-axis accelerometer
and a gyroscope or electronic compass. An accelerometer is a device
that measures its own motion, in contrast to a measuring motion by
remote sensing. Providing a 3-axis accelerometer allows movement of
the club to be measured in each of the three dimensions, namely X,
Y, and Z. When combined with data obtained by the gyroscope,
sensing module 50 generates a three dimensional model of club
movement in terms of direction, acceleration, and velocity. The
sensing module further includes a wireless transmitter for
transmitting data obtained from the accelerometer and gyroscope to
a processor. In a preferred embodiment, the wireless transmitter
transmits data using the IEEE 802.15.4 ISM radio bands. The IEEE
802.15.4 wireless transmission system is significant as it provides
a means for transmitting data at low power consumption thereby
prolonging battery life, while further providing a transmitter of
very low complexity and high reliability. The system is further
capable of operating on any of 16 channels in the 2.4. GHz ISM
band, 10 channels in the 915 MHz band, and one channel in the 868
MHz band. In addition, the present invention contemplates wireless
communication using the 802.15.1 band, commonly identified with
BLUETOOTH.RTM. technology. BLUETOOTH.RTM. is a registered trademark
of BlueTooth Sig, Inc. Bellevue, Wash.
[0049] Data transmitted by the wireless transmission system is
received by a graphical user interface 60. In accordance with a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, the graphical user
interface is comprises a wrist mounted electronic device that
receives and processes the data to provide virtually instantaneous
feedback. The feedback may result in the generation of graphical
output on a display, or may result in the generation of audible
output. In an alternate embodiment, the graphical user interface
may be adapted to be worn on the body of user by a clip, belt,
holster, or any other suitable means of attachment. The graphical
user interface may be provided in various levels of integration.
For example, a base unit may be provided with a black and white
display, while more advanced units may be provided with a color
display. Even more advanced units may be adapted with GPS, course
layout, score card, the Rules of Golf, tips, and competitive and
betting game management features. In addition, the graphical user
interface may include a touch screen and be adapted to communicate
in a wireless environment to enable communication between the user
and the golf course management system to allow the user to order
food and beverages, obtain weather warnings, post scores in real
time for tournament and handicap purposes.
[0050] In accordance with another embodiment, the graphical user
interface may be adapted to allow for the transfer of information
to a personal digital assistant ("PDA"), laptop computer, tablet,
or any other suitable electronic device. This embodiment achieves a
number of enhanced uses for the data. For example, transferring the
data to a computer allows for the data to be analyzed, manipulated,
displayed, and shared. The data may also be electronically
transmitted over the Internet to a third party for analysis. In
addition, a golf instructor will be able to receive data for a
number of students simultaneously.
ALTERNATE EMBODIMENT
[0051] FIGS. 14-19 depict an alternate embodiment golf putter head,
generally referenced as 100, incorporating a removable module
weight management and swing analysis system. Golf putter head100
includes a main body, generally referenced as 101 and a rearwardly
projecting or rear portion, generally referenced as 120. Main body
101 includes a forward face portion 102 that includes a heel
portion 104, a toe portion 106, a top portion 108, a bottom portion
or sole 110. Face portion 102 may define a recess for receiving an
insert 103, as illustrated in FIG. 18. Removable weights 112 are
received within weight-receiving ports in the toe and heel portions
104 and 106 as best illustrated in FIG. 15. In a preferred
embodiment, the toe and heel weight ports are offset to the upper
half of the club (e.g. above a horizontal centerline). The
positioning of the weight ports on the upper half of the club face
allows the user to make weighting adjustments that effectively
raise the center of gravity. This design feature is in contrast
with conventional putter design norms wherein mass is distributed
lower. A shaft-receiving aperture 109 is formed in a suitable
location on top portion 108 for mounting golf putter head 100 to a
suitable shaft or hosel 107 which in turn may be connected to a
shaft. The exact location of shaft-receiving aperture 109 may vary
to suit a particular golfer, such that the putter may be center
shafted, conventionally heel shafted, or in any other suitable
shaft configuration. Shaft receiving aperture 109 is preferably
elongate, and is illustrated as an elongate rectangle with rounded
ends. A significant aspect of elongate shaft aperture 109 is that
is results in automatic alignment of the neck 107A of hosel 107 for
mounting to a hosel with the club face upon insertion of the neck
107A into aperture 109. The present invention further contemplates
providing a bushing (not shown) in surrounding relation with the
shaft portion that is inserted within aperture 109 to provide
vibration dampening.
[0052] Rear club head portion, generally referenced as 120,
projects rearwardly from main body 101. Rear portion 120 includes a
top 122 that projects rearwardly from the main body 101 and
terminates in a generally J-shaped rear end 124. A module 130 is
removably received within the otherwise open area defined rearward
of main body 101 and below top 122 of rear portion 120. Module 130
includes an upwardly swept or tapered bottom surface 131. As best
illustrated in FIG. 18, module 130 may be adapted with an insert
132 for securing a weight 134. Weight 134 is representative of any
number of weights having different masses such that the user is
able to customize the weight of the putter head. Module 130
includes a front side having a projecting key structure 136 for
mating with a recess 115 defined on the rear area of main body 101
as best seen in FIG. 14, and a rear side similarly structured for
mating engagement with end 124 of rear club portion 120. As should
be apparent, any suitable mating structure is considered within the
scope of the present invention.
[0053] As discussed above, module 130 may be configured with
electronic components to function as a swing sensing module with
the features disclosed with sensing module 50 herein above. The
housing is adapted for removable replacement, preferably by a
snap-fit or press fit connection within the club head cavity as
discussed above. A significant aspect of the present alternate
embodiment includes adapting the putter with a sensing module
capable of detecting on-center contact (i.e. on the center of the
face, when measured from heel 104 to toe 106) versus off-center
contact, as well as on-center contact (i.e. on the center of the
face, when measured from top to bottom/sole). To accomplish this
function, this embodiment relies on adapting swing analysis module
130 with at least one pair of microphones, namely a first
microphone mounted toward the heel portion and a second microphone
mounted toward the toe portion. In an alternate embodiment, the
present invention may be adapted with additional microphones,
mounted both toward the top and toward the bottom further enhance
impact detection. The microphones are mounted with sensing module
130, preferably on the front end thereof above projecting key
structure 136. In addition, putter head 100 is adapted with sound
transmitting through bores or holes, referenced as 126, formed
along axes that are generally perpendicular to face 102 of putter
head 100 and spaced on either side of the heel/toe centerline or
center of the putter face 102 and/or insert 103. Additional sound
transmitting through bores or holes 127 may also be formed in face
102 and disposed below holes 126. The combination of sound
transmitting holes 126 and/or 127 with microphones mounted within
module 130 functions to allow the system to identify whether
contact with a golf ball was on-center, or off-center toward the
toe, or off-center toward the heel by analyzing the relative sound
transmitted from the face through holes 126 (and/or 127) as
detected by microphones in module 130. In addition, the combination
of sound transmitting holes 126 and/or 127 with microphones mounted
within module 130 functions to allow the system to identify whether
contact with a golf ball was on-center, or off-center toward top of
the face, or off-center toward the bottom of the face by analyzing
the relative sound transmitted from the face through holes 126
(and/or 127) as detected by microphones in module 130.
[0054] A sound barrier insert 128 is preferably inserted between
apertures 126 and 127 to provide two distinct sound chambers
separated by sound barrier 128. Providing two distinct sound
chambers enhances sensitivity of the generated impact. FIG. 23
depicts an alternate face insert, referenced as 103A, having
recessed areas, including a pair of inboard recessed areas 103B and
a pair of outboard recessed areas 103C. Recessed areas 103B and
103C function as sound transmission chambers to more effectively
transmit sound through sound transmitting holes 126 and 127. By
providing a face insert 103A having areas of reduced thickness
that, when installed, are generally aligned with sound transmitting
holes 126 and 127, the present invention is capable of determining
the general location of off-center hits by analyzing the sound
created upon impact of face insert 103A and the golf ball. Once the
location is determined the swing analysis module will then generate
feedback, such as audio feedback that informs the golfer/user of
the off-center impact thereby allowing the golfer to adjust his/her
swing to achieve on center impact. The audio feedback may be
generated at the module via a speaker, or may be wirelessly
transmitted to a remote system, such as the wrist mounted user
interface 60 disclosed herein above.
[0055] As should be apparent, the heel side forms a first or left
channel and the toe side forms a second or right channel. Main body
101 and insert 103 and/or 103A forms two sound chambers immediately
behind the striking surface (created by the indentations on the
back side of the face insert 103A). Each chamber (103B and 103C) is
sized differently (e.g. one larger than the other) to create a
different frequency of sound. Also the through bore sound ports
(126 and 127) are offset from the center of the respective chambers
on purpose, for time & amplitude measurement. They are also
different diameters to allow different frequencies to pass through
them to the analyzing unit. In a preferred embodiment, through
bores 126 have a larger diameter than through bores 127. As a
result, the left channel functions when the ball is struck on the
heel end, or left of center, to analyze the sound that comes from
each chamber on the left or heel side. The outermost chamber from
the center line of the face, namely the chamber in communication
with through bores 126, forms a larger chamber and sound port to
create a lower frequency transmission that is allowed to pass back
to the microphone vs. the innermost chamber which will perform the
same function at a slightly higher frequency. There is also a
greater distance for the sound to travel from the outermost chamber
(corresponding to through bores 126 and recessed portions 103C) vs.
the innermost chamber (corresponding to through bores 127 and
recessed portions 10313). The frequency and amplitude of the sound
generated by each chamber and the time it takes the sound to travel
will be used to triangulate where the ball hit.
[0056] For example if the ball impacts hits over the outer chamber,
corresponding to through bores 125 and near the top part of the
face, i.e. furthest from the club face center line, which is over
the sound port of that chamber, that sound will be louder and get
to the microphone faster than if it hit anywhere else over that
chamber i.e. like in the lower, closer to the center of the
clubface, part of the same chamber. The frequency will be the same
but the time and amplitude will be different. If the ball hits hits
over the lower part of the closest chamber, corresponding to
through bores 127, in relation to the center line of the club face,
that higher frequency will be louder and faster to the microphone
versus hitting it in any other area over that chamber. It is
expected that the closer the ball strikes to the wall separating
the two chambers will result in feedback from both chambers. While
feedback from all 4 chambers may be transmitted to both
microphones, the present invention is capable of discriminating and
determining the stronger feedback from the chamber that's closest
to the strike area, and the least from the furthest.
[0057] Furthermore, the accelerometer allow the system to identify
when the ball was struck for determining the time of the sound
travel. So measuring time, frequency and amplitude by each
microphone, then processing that information with an algorithm in
the processor software will determine and tell you where the ball
contacted the face i.e. heel/toe, high/low etc. High vs. low is
also an important measurement since most of the mass is above the
equator, and more momentum and roll will be created on balls struck
above the putter equator.
[0058] A significant aspect of the present invention involves
providing a swing sending and analysis module capable of providing
audible feedback to the user. Accordingly, the present invention is
adapted to provide feedback for all of the swing analysis functions
as well as system operation. More particularly the combination of
accelerometers, gyroscope, microphones, processor, etc. function to
allow the system to sense and determine the motion of the club
head. Accordingly, the swing analysis module is capable of
detecting and determining various stroke parameters, including club
head acceleration and speed, whether the face is open, square, or
closed in relation to the target line at impact, indicating stoke
path in relation to the target line (i.e. on-line,
outside-to-inside, or inside-to-outside, or arc-shaped), the
effective loft of the club face at impact,
[0059] A further significant aspect of the present invention
involves providing audible feedback of the swing motion as sensed
by the swing sensing and analysis module. Such feedback may
comprise a synthesized or pre-recorded voice indicating any of the
detected and determined swing characteristics capable of being
sensed and/or determined by the swing sensing and analysis module.
Accordingly, the feedback may comprise an electronically generated
voice stating "face open" to indicate that the face was open at
impact, or "outside-in" to indicate that the swing path traveled
across the target line from the outside to the inside. In the
alternative, the audible feedback may comprise a series of beeps.
For example, the system may be configured to provide feedback
regarding acceleration or deceleration at time of impact by
generating consecutive beeps that get louder or faster as the head
increases speed, while getting quieter or slower for decreasing
speed during the whole stroke. In addition, the system may be
configured to provide a series of timed beeps, similar to the
sounds generated by a metronome, to assist the golfer in developing
timing and rhythm.
SECOND ALTERNATE EMBODIMENT
[0060] FIGS. 20 and 21 depict another alternate embodiment golf
putter head, generally referenced as 200. Golf putter head 200
includes a main body, generally referenced as 201 and a rearwardly
projecting or rear portion, generally referenced as 220. Main body
201 includes a forward face portion 202 that includes a heel
portion 204, a toe portion 206, a top portion 208, a bottom portion
or sole 210. The bottom surface 210 of main body 201 preferably
sweeps upward as the surface extends from front to rear to prevent
the putter from snagging on the turf. Face portion 202 may define a
recess for receiving an insert 203, as illustrated in FIG. 21.
Removable weights 212 are received within weight-receiving ports in
the toe and heel portions 204 and 206. In a preferred embodiment,
the toe and heel weight ports are offset to the upper half of the
club (e.g. above a horizontal centerline). The positioning of the
weight ports on the upper half of the club face allows the user to
make weighting adjustments that effectively raise the center of
gravity thereby providing the putter head with a high moment of
inertia. This design feature is in contrast with conventional
putter design norms wherein mass is distributed lower. A shaft neck
or shaft 209 projects upward from a suitable location on top
portion 208 for mounting golf putter head 200. The exact location
of shaft 209 may vary to suit a particular golfer, such that the
putter may be center shafted, heel shafted, or shafted in any other
suitable shaft configuration.
[0061] Rear club head portion, generally referenced as 220,
projects rearwardly from main body 201. Rear portion 220 includes a
top 222 that projects horizontally rearwardly from the main body
201 and terminates at a rear end 224. Rear portion 220 includes a
bottom or sole 226 that projects rearwardly from the sole 210 of
main body 201 and curves upward to join rear end 224 of top 222. A
replaceable weight 230 is remvovably affixed to the sole 226 of
rear portion 220 preferably generally adjacent to rear end 224 so
as to provide an adjustable weight element positioned relatively
high on the putter thereby further enhancing the high moment of
intertia.
THIRD ALTERNATE EMBODIMENT
[0062] FIG. 22 depicts a third alternate embodiment golf putter,
generally referenced as 300, adapted to maximize feel by minimizing
impact vibration transmission. Golf putter 300 includes a main
body, generally referenced as 301 and a rearwardly projecting or
rear portion, generally referenced as 320. Main body 301 includes a
forward face portion 302 that includes a heel portion 304, a toe
portion 306, a top portion 308, a bottom portion or sole 310. The
bottom surface 310 of main body 301 preferably sweeps upward as the
surface extends from front to rear to prevent the putter from
snagging on the turf. Face portion 302 defines a recess for
receiving a vibration dampening insert 303, which in turn receives
a face insert 305, as illustrated in FIG. 22. By isolating face
insert 305 from the remaining portions of the putter using a
vibration isolation insert 303, the feel of the putter is
improved.
[0063] Removable weights 312 are received within weight-receiving
ports in the toe and heel portions 304 and 306. In a preferred
embodiment, the toe and heel weight ports are offset to the upper
half of the club (e.g. above a horizontal centerline). The
positioning of the weight ports on the upper half of the club face
allows the user to make weighting adjustments that effectively
raise the center of gravity thereby providing the putter head with
a high moment of inertia. This design feature is in contrast with
conventional putter design norms wherein mass is distributed lower.
A shaft 309 is connected to face insert 305 and isolated from the
remainder of the putter body 301 and 320 via a resilient band 313.
Shaft 309 may be connected to golf putter 300 at any suitable
location. Additional inserts 315 are provided for removable
insertion into a cavity formed in the rear portion 320 of putter
head 300. By using a variety of optional inserts 315 of varying
mass, the weight of the putter head may be adjusted.
[0064] The adjustable weighting aspects disclosed herein provide a
number of advantages. First, providing removable and replaceable
weights allows the user to change the total overall weight of the
head. Second, adjustable weighting as disclosed herein allows the
user to change the mass properties of the weight above the equator
of the ball so as to affect the rate of topspin generated when
contacting the ball. Top spin is desirable as it tends to keep the
ball rolling on the intended line. In contrast, back spin causes
the ball to skip and skid thereby causing the ball to deviate from
the intended line. Third, since the heel weight could differ from
the toe weight in terms of weight (they don't have to be the same)
this will affect the feel and performance of how the putter head
moves during the swing, helping to correct the users tendencies to
either have the face open or closed at impact during the swing.
Finally the more weight that is distributed to the extremities the
higher the MOI (more resistance to twisting if the ball if
contacted off center).
[0065] The instant invention has been shown and described herein in
what is considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiment. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made
therefrom within the scope of the invention and that obvious
modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art.
* * * * *