U.S. patent application number 13/922663 was filed with the patent office on 2013-12-26 for sports shaft grip.
The applicant listed for this patent is Paul Chalifoux. Invention is credited to Paul Chalifoux.
Application Number | 20130344977 13/922663 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49774886 |
Filed Date | 2013-12-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130344977 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chalifoux; Paul |
December 26, 2013 |
SPORTS SHAFT GRIP
Abstract
A sports stick system, apparatus and method of engagement
including a grip assembly and a shaft assembly designed to afford
the user maximum functional capability in at point of purchase,
practice or game play, coupled with the ability to replace or
interchange grip systems. The system and apparatus provides
numerous embodiments of grips, shafts and inserts, including the
ability to tailor the gripping mechanisms to both right-handed and
left-handed users. The system also provides golf clubs including
interchangeable grips and heads to be tried at time of purchase or
to exchange after trying on a golf course.
Inventors: |
Chalifoux; Paul; (Wellesley,
MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Chalifoux; Paul |
Wellesley |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49774886 |
Appl. No.: |
13/922663 |
Filed: |
June 20, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61663328 |
Jun 22, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
473/299 ; 29/428;
29/453 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 53/14 20130101;
Y10T 29/49826 20150115; Y10T 29/49876 20150115; A63B 60/14
20151001; A63B 60/22 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/299 ; 29/453;
29/428 |
International
Class: |
A63B 53/16 20060101
A63B053/16 |
Claims
1. A sports stick apparatus comprising: a removably attached
reusable grip member; a shaft member comprising a non-uniform area
for attachment of the removably attached reusable grip member; and,
a striking surface.
2. The sports stick apparatus of claim 1 wherein the removably
attached reusable grip member comprises: a flexible body member; a
centrally disposed, annular aperture comprising an access opening;
and, a snap lock mechanism.
3. The sports stick apparatus of claim 1 wherein the shaft
comprises: a substantially rigid main stem; a first inclined plane;
a second inclined plane; wherein the shaft is disposed to fit into
the grip through the access opening and wherein the main stem is
fully seated into the annular space of the grip and wherein the
snap lock is disposed to slide down the main stem and snugly
engages the second inclined plane.
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. The sports stick apparatus of claim 3 wherein the grip mechanism
comprises a projection and wherein the shaft comprises a projection
lock.
7. (canceled)
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. The sports stick apparatus of claim further comprising an
insert mechanism in mechanical communication with the shaft
mechanism.
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. The sports stick apparatus of claim 10 wherein the insert
mechanism is wholly contiguous.
14. (canceled)
15. The sports stick apparatus of claim 10 wherein the insert
mechanism comprises divided segments and wherein the open spaces
between the divided segments are filled in with material differing
from the material of the insert mechanism.
16. The sports stick apparatus of claim 10 wherein the insert
mechanism comprises a range of two to two hundred divided
segments.
17. The sports stick apparatus of claim 10 wherein the insert
mechanism and the snap lock are contiguous.
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. A sports stick apparatus comprising a grip shaft assembly
comprising: a grip; at least one insert; a shaft; and, a snap lock
comprising: a grip area; an insert area; a shaft area; and, a
circumferential band disposed to provide compression to the
inserts.
22. The sports stick apparatus comprising a grip shaft assembly of
claim 21 wherein the circumferential band engages portions of shaft
to create retention.
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. The sports stick apparatus comprising a grip shaft assembly of
claim 21 wherein the at least one insert is divided into multiple
sections.
26. (canceled)
27. (canceled)
28. The sports stick apparatus comprising a grip shaft assembly of
claim 21 wherein the grip comprises extensions which fit into
indentations of grip to provide retention.
29. (canceled)
30. (canceled)
31. (canceled)
32. The sports stick apparatus comprising a grip shaft assembly of
claim 21 wherein surfaces of the shaft and the grip are covered
with opposing spheres and ribs which press past each other for
engagement.
33. (canceled)
34. (canceled)
35. (canceled)
36. (canceled)
37. (canceled)
38. (canceled)
39. (canceled)
40. (canceled)
41. (canceled)
42. (canceled)
43. (canceled)
44. (canceled)
45. (canceled)
46. A method of removably attaching a golf grip mechanism
comprising an access aperture, a longitudinal substantially
cylindrical cavity, and a snap lock mechanism to a golf shaft
mechanism comprising a main stem, a first inclined plane and a
second inclined plane comprising the steps of: positioning the
shaft mechanism into grip mechanism through the access aperture;
increasing the grip downwardly upon the shaft mechanism until the
main stem is fully seated into the longitudinal substantially
cylindrical cavity. sliding the snap lock down the main stem and
engaging the first inclined plane; expanding snap lock; sliding the
snap lock downwardly to engage the second inclined plane; and,
pressing the snap lock into a locked position; engaging the
inclined plane by snap lock; forcing grip downward; and, squeezing
the snap lock together.
47. (canceled)
48. (canceled)
49. (canceled)
50. (canceled)
51. (canceled)
52. (canceled)
53. A method of removably attaching a golf grip mechanism
comprising an access aperture, a longitudinal substantially
cylindrical cavity and a set of extensions and a golf shaft
mechanism comprising a main stem comprising a set of indentations,
comprising the steps of: positioning the shaft mechanism into grip
mechanism through the access aperture; increasing the grip
downwardly upon the shaft mechanism until the main stem is fully
seated into the longitudinal substantially cylindrical cavity; and,
engaging the extensions of the grip with the indentations of the
shaft to provide retention.
54. (canceled)
55. (canceled)
56. (canceled)
57. The method of removably attaching a golf grip mechanism
comprising an access aperture of claim 53, wherein the method
provides a consumer with a point of purchase system for instant
purchase of a properly fitted a golf grip and the club of choice
within a period from a range of one to thirty minutes comprising
the steps of: providing a set of interchangeable golf shafts sizes
and grip types; and, providing a set of interchangeable golf shafts
sizes and grip sizes.
58. The sports stick apparatus of claim 10 further comprising a
grip mechanism in mechanical communication with the insert
mechanism and wherein the grip mechanism comprises a screw
mechanism disposed to secure and detach the grip mechanism by
tightening or loosening screw which drives the insert in the upward
or downward direction along the shaft.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application takes priority from and claims the benefit
of U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 61/663,328 filed on
Jun. 22, 2012, the contents of which are herein incorporated by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to sporting good
apparatuses and more particularly to sports shaft and golf shaft
grip and head systems possessing interchangeable characteristics in
order to allot the user various strategic choices during purchase,
practice and game play.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] On present day golf clubs, the grip of the club is attached
to the opposite end of the shaft from the club manufacturers, and
is the part of the club the player holds on to while swinging.
Originally, grips were composed of one or more leather strips
wrapped around the shaft. The leather outer wrap on a grip is still
seen on some clubs, most commonly putters, but most modern grips
are a one-piece "sleeve" made of rubber, synthetic or composite
material that is slid over the shaft and secured with an adhesive.
These sleeve grips allow clubmakers and golfers to customize the
grip's diameter, consistency (softness/firmness) and texturing
pattern to best fit the player. Clubs with an outer "wrap" of
leather or leather-like synthetic still typically have a "sleeve"
form underneath to add diameter to the grip and give it its basic
profile.
[0004] Advances in materials have resulted in more durable,
longer-lasting soft grips, but nevertheless grips do eventually dry
out, harden, get worn or are otherwise damaged and must be
replaced. Replacement grips sold as do-it-yourself kits are
generally inexpensive and of high quality, although custom grips
that are larger, softer, or textured differently from the everyday
"wrap"-style grip are generally bought and installed by a
clubsmith.
[0005] Regripping often requires toxic, flammable solvents to
soften and activate the adhesive, and a vise to hold the club
steady while the grip is forced on. The newest replacement kits,
however, use double-sided tape with a water-activated adhesive that
is slippery when first activated, allowing easier installation.
Once the adhesive cures, it creates a very strong bond between grip
and shaft and the grip is usually impossible to remove without
cutting it off.
[0006] Presently, many golf grips are secured to a golf club shaft
by use of double sided adhesive tape. Tape is applied to a golf
club shaft. Acetone is poured over the adhesive tape to eliminate
the adhesive nature on a short term basis. The grip is pressed over
the end of a shaft with the adhesive tape and slid into position.
The adhesive tape becomes adhesive very quickly making grip
placement difficult. Movement of the grip is difficult as the
adhesive tape grabs the grip making proper alignment difficult. The
end of a shaft is reverse tapered so the shaft end is much larger
than a grip opening making placement difficult.
[0007] Additionally, as mentioned above, in concurrent systems,
removal and replacement of a grip normally takes a great amount of
time and labor as the grip must be cut off and the adhesive must
also be removed. Therefore, as this involves a tedious, labor
intensive and time consuming process, it is virtually impossible
for users to test different grips on clubs to ascertain which feel
suits the user. It would be advantageous to be able to try on and
off grips to determine which is preferable to a golfer.
[0008] Presently, golf clubs including putters, irons, metals,
woods and drivers are sold with a grip, shaft and club head
predetermined by golf club manufacturers. If a golfer prefers a
different type of grip, shaft or club head, either based on
material, size, shape, color or other characteristic, be it
structural or aesthetic, the golfer must have the component changed
after purchase is completed. Concurrently, placement and
replacement of golf grips on golf club shafts with is extremely
tedious as there is difficulty in both removing and installing the
grips. Golf club heads are predetermined and never changed. When
clubs wear with use over a period of time, a golfer is more likely
to buy new clubs than place new shafts. The present time consuming
process does not allow for changing a grip or club head at the time
of purchase.
[0009] Presently, golf grips are placed on a shaft by placing
double adhesive tape onto the shaft covering the length of the
grip. The inner layer of the adhesive tape provides a secure
interface tape to a shaft while the outer layer of adhesive tape
provides a secure interface to the inside of a grip. Unfortunately,
it is difficult to slide the grip over the adhesive surface of the
tape and solutions such as acetone are poured over the adhesive
tape and into the grip to produce a slippery surface, which allows
the grip to slide down the shaft. However if the solvent evaporates
too quickly, which happens often, the grip gets stuck half way.
[0010] Golf club heads are normally screwed onto shafts in such a
manner as to change their position by creating a different loft,
opening or closing the face angle. Normally, club heads are tried
on for fitting to fit a person's height and swing such that the
sole of a head is striking the ground in the middle. When it is
determined which club head is appropriate, the information is sent
to a manufacturer to have the clubs custom manufactured.
[0011] The club heads are almost always the same size, shape and
aesthetic appearance, the only difference to be determined is the
lie angle. It would be desirable to test different club heads in a
store and with such a method, a golfer could theoretically leave
with the clubs at the time of purchase. Additionally, club shafts
are made of different materials, lengths and various aesthetic
designs. It is a major project to change shafts as the head and
grips which are glued to a shaft must be removed. New ones are then
glued back on. It would be desirable to have shafts of different
materials, shapes, colors, length and the like to test at the time
of purchase.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The instant apparatus and system, as illustrated herein, is
clearly not anticipated, rendered obvious, or even present in any
of the prior art mechanisms, either alone or in any combination
thereof. A versatile system, method and series of apparatuses for
creating and utilizing a golf grip for a golf club. Thus the
several embodiments of the instant apparatus are illustrated
herein.
[0013] The present invention provides a method to secure a golf
club grip to a golf club shaft without the use of adhesive tape. A
grip is constructed with internal structures that snap or lock into
structures on a shaft or components attached to a shaft. The grip
is solid elastic material or is adhered to a plastic, metal or
other material internal component. The internal components may be
one piece or constructed of several components. The shaft is
tapered, parallel or reverse tapered at the grip end. A parallel is
the preferred shape. The shaft has areas shaped to accept
components on the grip that create resistance to grip removal.
[0014] A set of forces acting onto a golf club are generated while
striking a golf ball. The swinging motion generated around a
person's body creates centripetal forces, which could cause
dislodgement of a shaft from a grip if proper resistance is not
provided. Striking a ball with the club head creates rotational
forces in one direction. Components to the new invention in several
versions utilize the fact that little to no force is applied in the
opposite rotation created by ball striking.
[0015] Twisting of a shaft in a grip while striking a ball is
resisted by components constructed on a shaft and within a grip.
Twisting in the opposite direction is resisted by snap components
which compress or bend and release into or passed indentations or
other components. Enough force is easily generated by hand twisting
to disengage snap locks, however, the force is more that can be
generated by using a club during a round of golf. In addition,
forces of hands on to a grip secure it further to a shaft as
components that need to expand for release are compressed. For the
snap adaptation, there exist at least are three known main types of
snap fits: annular, cantilever, and torsional.
[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, components in a golf club grip
will compress, and thus the diameter of the grip will expand as the
downward force of the grip placement occurs. Compression of
components or grip diameter expansion is released and engagement of
shaft components is engaged. A grip is held in position by these
components. As illustrated herein, there may be as few as one
component and as many as thousands depending on their size.
[0017] Depending upon the amount of usage, golf club grips
regularly require removal and replacement. It is nice if grips are
interchangeable to be able to try different grips on golf clubs to
see which grip is most effective for a particular golfer. In one
embodiment of the instant apparatus, grip removal can be
predetermined to be difficult to avoid accidental separation during
use. In yet another embodiment, removal and replacement may be
render effortless in order to allow a golfer to test different
grips and see which grip feels best.
[0018] Moreover, the ability to readily change grips may be
especially high import for putter use as this feature would lend
golfers the ability to test a thicker or thinner grip.
Additionally, although herein embodiments of gripping mechanisms
have been highlighted, the instant system and all embodiment
thereof may be readily adapted for attachment of a club head to a
shaft in an identical And, this qualifies as extremely important
when golfers would like to try different combinations grips,
shafts, clubheads.
[0019] It is an object of the present system to additionally
introduce and employs several techniques for quick exchange of
grips and club heads in order that a customer in a store may assess
different grips, shafts, and club heads to determine which
combination best suits the customer at the time of purchase. The
customer will more likely buy a club if the feel is better based on
the grip, shaft control and head performance. Determining which
combination is better achieved by trying different components. In
addition, a customer may determine that they do not like the grip,
shaft or club head after purchase of golf clubs and have the
opportunity to easily return and exchange it with another
interchangeable grip.
[0020] It is also an object of the present system to reveal a
series of easy exchange techniques to be utilized as grips, shafts
or club heads wear, allowing for easy replacement of old worn grips
with new ones, particularly as grips wear out several times a year
for many golfers. Presently, the replacement of old worn grips is
accomplished by a professional club builder or by a golfer
themselves. If a golfer attempts to perform the replacement, the
cost is reduced as the cost of profession labor is thus
eliminated.
[0021] It is a primary object of the present system to introduce
the concept of interchangeable components, especially grips,
results in ease of placement and potential cost savings, which will
inherently result in greater profits for golf companies and
courses, as well as providing a better brand of golf for the user
as the ability to have fresh grips and heads, without having to
wait for a professional to perform replacement, will enable players
to always possess their "A-game".
[0022] It is an object of the present system to reveal techniques
which allow exchangeable and interchangeable grips, shafts and club
heads can include snap, screw, Velcro, interlocking, channels,
Morses taper, friction or like methods of joining and disconnection
parts quickly. It is a further object of the instant system to
introduce at least three manners or methods in which components may
be constructed to facilitate quick exchange.
[0023] It is a further object of the instant system to introduce a
first manner or method in which components may be constructed to
facilitate quick exchange wherein a shaft may be composed of
uniform construction such that each end facilitates the technique
of removal. It is a further object of the instant system to
introduce a second manner or method in which components may be
constructed to facilitate quick exchange wherein a shaft is
constructed and altered after construction such as placing holes,
grooves, threads, taper, slots, projections or the like.
[0024] It is a further object of the instant system to introduce a
third manner or method in which components may be constructed to
facilitate quick exchange wherein an existing shaft is cut and
inserts into the shaft placed or inserts placed into or onto a
shaft without cutting. In one embodiment, a shaft may have a
groove, slot, dimple or like placed into a shaft during
manufactured or altered after manufacture for provide the desired
result. In an additional embodiment, a shaft may be cut and an
insert fitted and glued with materials such as epoxy, which are
used to hold club heads to shafts.
[0025] It is an additional object of the instant system to
introduce a method for providing the consumer with a point of
purchase system wherein the consumer can purchase the comprising
the capability wherein purchasing a sports equipment gripping
mechanism, and particularly a golf club grip, may be chosen to fit
the consumer's requirements via the ability to interchange/exchange
numerous grip types and sizes. Thus, the consumer can get in and
complete the purchase of the grip of choice and the club of choice
within a matter of minutes, even as few as ten minutes.
[0026] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more
important features of the versatile golf club embodiments in order
that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better
understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art
may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the
invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form
the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.
[0027] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment
of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited in its application to the details of
construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in
the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The
invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced
and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that
the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose
of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0028] These together with other objects of the invention, along
with the various features of novelty, which characterize the
invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed
to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better
understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the
specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to
the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are
illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] Advantages of the present invention will be apparent from
the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments
thereof, which description should be considered in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings, in which having thus described the
invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the
accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale,
and wherein:
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates grip has a central hole accessed through
opening;
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a grip shaft assembly consisting of grip,
insert and shaft.
[0032] FIG. 3A is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in the
fully open position.
[0033] FIG. 3B illustrates top plan views of different embodiments
of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in the fully open position.
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates a grip shaft assembly consisting of grip,
insert, shaft and snap lock.
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates an assembly drawing of the grip and shaft
assembled as grip shaft and illustrates different meshing and
securing apparatus variations.
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates an additional embodiment of the golf club
with shaft and grip.
[0037] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate alternative embodiments of the
golf club shaft grip.
[0038] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate side views of an alternative
embodiment of the golf club shaft grip and top plan view of the
same.
[0039] FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of the shaft/golf club wherein club is external and not inserted
into golf grip insert.
[0040] FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of the embodiment of the
shaft/golf club of FIG. 9A wherein the club which accepts placement
of golf grip insert attachment through opening.
[0041] FIG. 10A illustrates the shaft of an embodiment of the
present system comprising an internal snap system which includes
shaft, locking pin and grip.
[0042] FIG. 10B illustrates the locking pin and grip of the
internal snap system.
[0043] FIG. 10C illustrates an embodiment of the present system
wherein the internal snap system assembled in the entirety with the
shaft, locking pin and grip in place.
[0044] FIG. 11A illustrates an embodiment of the present system
comprising a grip which fits over shaft, wherein the shaft is
manufactured with areas to substantially house and retain extended
portions of the grip.
[0045] FIG. 11B illustrates an embodiment of the present system
wherein the grip fitted over the shaft.
[0046] FIG. 11C illustrates the grip fitted over shaft and locked
to retain the grip in place, additionally the use of a spring at
the top of the shaft and inside of the grip may be used to offset
the difficulty in obtaining manufacturing tolerances.
[0047] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the present system
somewhat similar to the grip shaft snap connection of FIG. 11,
however, the internal portion possesses screw like threads to
tighten the grip to the shaft as the grip is rotated.
[0048] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrates an embodiment of the present
system wherein the shaft fits into grip wherein, the shaft has top
surface, opening to vertical groove, which opens to horizontal
groove to vertical groove.
[0049] FIG. 14, illustrates a base set of golf clubs with several
interchangeable grips for grip changing.
[0050] FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of the present system
wherein a golf club with an insert into a golf club shaft for grip
changing.
[0051] FIG. 16A illustrates the separately disposed components of
an embodiment of the present system wherein the shaft is altered to
expose an insert for grip changing.
[0052] FIG. 16B illustrates the system of FIG. 16A wherein the
shaft is altered to expose an insert for grip changing in the fully
assembled form.
[0053] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a grip system comprising an
easy to use safeguard system comprising an upper circular member, a
stem and a square insert.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL EMBODIMENTS
[0054] The detailed description set forth below in connection with
the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently
preferred embodiments of the invention and does not represent the
only forms in which the present invention may be constructed and/or
utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence
of steps for constructing and operating the invention in connection
with the illustrated embodiments.
[0055] FIG. 1 shows grip 1 has a central hole or access aperture 8,
through a longitudinal substantially cylindrical cavity 4. A snap
lock mechanism 6 possesses a projection 7, which may be an optional
feature and may not be required in all circumstances. Shaft 10 has
a main stem 12, an inclined plane 15 and inclined plane 18 and
projection lock 20. Shaft 10 is positioned into grip 1 through
access hole or aperture 8 until main stem 12 is fully seated into
space 4. Snap lock 6 slides down main stem 12 and engages inclined
plane 18 expanding snap lock 6. As grip 1 is pressed further into
position, inclined plane 18 is engaged by snap lock 6. Snap lock 6
squeezed together forcing grip 1 downward. When fully seated,
inclined plane 15 against snap lock 6 prevents separation of grip 1
from shaft 10. When projection 7 is used, it creates a firm lock
into indentation 20. Projection 7 may be round, square, triangular,
oval, rectangular or any usable shape depending on how much
retention is required to hold grip 1 on shaft 10.
[0056] FIG. 2 shows a grip shaft assembly 30 consisting of grip 32,
insert 34 and shaft 38. Because grip 32 may be constructed of a
rubber like material, engagement into locks, snaps, grooves etc is
wear as rubber compresses easily and deforms with time, using an
insert constructed of metal, plastic, ceramic or other hard
material or combinations of materials provides less compression and
a firmer grip retention. Snap lock 36 uses combinations of sizes,
inclinations, indents, projections to provide adequate long term
retention.
[0057] FIG. 3 shows grip shaft assembly 40 constructed of grip 42,
insert 44, shaft 45, and separate snap lock 46. Snap lock 46 may be
separated from insert 44 or be contiguous of the same or differing
materials. Cross section 47 reveals different configurations shown
at cross section 60, cross section 62 and cross section 64. Rubber
like material grip 50 surrounds insert 52. Insert 53 may be
contiguous or divided into segments divided by open spaces 56. Open
spaces 56 may be filled in with other materials. There may be as
few as two segments or as many as hundreds.
[0058] FIG. 4 shows a grip shaft assembly 70 consisting of grip 72,
insert 74, shaft 76 and snap lock 77. Snap lock 77 consists of grip
area 80, circumferential band 82, insert area 84, and shaft area
86. Cross section of snap lock 77 at line 78 reveals cross section
88. Cross section 88 shows circumferential grip 80, circumferential
band 82, insert 84 and shaft section 86. Circumferential band 82
provides added or all the compression to inserts 84. Inserts 84 may
be a single unit or divided into multiple sections. Circumferential
band 82 can also engage portions of shaft 86 to create further
retention. Cutting or releasing circumferential band 82 allows
removal of grip 72 from shaft 76.
[0059] FIG. 5 shows grip 92 and shaft 94 assembled as grip shaft
90. Shaft 94 can have an oval cross section 100, round 102 or any
shape. Shaft 94 has indentations 96 which may be a circular grooves
96 or dimples 99. Grip 92 has extensions 98 which fit into
indentations 96 of grip 92 to provide retention. Extensions 98 of
grip 92 are pressed into place as a grip is placed onto shaft 94
which is tapered, parallel or reverse tapered. Extensions 98 of
grip 92 are positioned into indentations 96 of shaft 94 by parts
compressing or expanding as downward force is applied and then
released into position. Alternatively, surfaces of a shaft and grip
are covered with spheres or ribs which press past each other.
Internal surface 108 has spheres of ribs 104 attached to the inner
surface of a grip or insert which compress past spheres or ribs 106
attached to a shaft outer surface.
[0060] FIG. 6 shows golf club 110 with shaft 118 and grip 112.
Shaft 112 has antirotational and retention grooves 116 and
antirotational top groove 114. Antirotational wings 120 provide
potential retention and resistance to grip 112 rotating around
shaft 112. Grip 118 has matching internal features to fit into
features previously mentioned on shaft 118 surface.
[0061] FIG. 7 shows the golf club shaft grip wherein an embodiment
of the golf club shaft grip 124 is in the tightened position and an
embodiment of the golf club shaft grip 140 is an additional
alternative in the tightened position. Golf club shaft grip 124
secures and detaches grip 128 by tightening or loosening screw 130
which drives insert 132 up or down to engage or disengage snap 146.
Golf club shaft grip 140 has screw 126 which provides added
security that grip 142 will not disengage from shaft 136, 144
during swing motions by disengaging snap 148.
[0062] FIG. 8 shows golf club 150 with grip 154 and shaft 159
secured by snap 158. Snap 158 is engaged and disengaged by
tightening or loosening screw 152 with screw driver 156. Top of
screw 160 of golf club 162 can have any shape to provide adequate
torque such as a slot, hex, square, star or the like.
[0063] FIG. 9 shows shaft/golf club 170 which accepts placement of
golf grip insert attachment 172 through opening 180. Shaft/golf
club 170 is an existing golf club which has been cut shorter to
accept insert 172. Portion 178 of snap grip 172 is placed into cut
shaft 182 through hole 180. It is secured by adhesive cements or
the like. Assembled club 174 shows snap grip 172 cemented into
shaft 182.
[0064] FIG. 10 shows an internal snap system which includes shaft
186, locking pin 188 and grip 190. Shaft 186 has snap lock 194
attached to or integral with the lower shaft 196. Shaft 186 is
inserted into grip 190 through opening 202 and pressed into
position until snap lock 194 engages internal grip lock 204. To
secure snap lock 194, locking pin 198 is placed though opening 204
of grip 190 and between extensions of snap lock 194 to prevent
compression and release. Locking pin 198 is removed if desired to
allow removal of grip 190.
[0065] FIG. 11 shows grip 212 which fits over shaft 210. Shaft 210
has slot 222 with side slots 224. Side slots 224 have dimples or
indentations 218. Grip 212 has pegs 226 on the inside of grip 212.
Pegs 212 slid down slot 222 of shaft 210 and line up with slots
224. Grip 212 is rotated into slots 224 and engage dimples or
indentations 218. Golfers are right handed or left handed so the
orientation is dependent on the force of one or the other. A right
handed golfer swings a golf club such that forces are pulling a
shaft out of a grip and as the club strikes a ball force are
rotational such that the shaft wants to rotate clockwise. The side
slots 224 have a distal wall which stops rotation in a clockwise
direction. However, forces are minimal to none in a counter
clockwise direction during use. Applied force in a counter
clockwise direction disengages pegs 226 from dimples 218 of side
slots 224 so a grip can be removed.
[0066] Additionally the use of a form of tension applying and
retaining mechanism, such as a spring or torsion bar at the top of
the shaft and inside of the grip may be used to offset the
difficulty in obtaining manufacturing tolerances. The use of this
design can be combined with other versions to create proper
resistance and retention. Snap locks 224 and 226 can be placed a
different intervals for different golf club manufacturers such that
only their golf grip fits their brand of golf club. There may be
different distances, offsets or numbers to make each
individualized.
[0067] FIG. 12 is a similar design to the grip shaft snap
connection of FIG. 11 however, the internal portion has screw like
threads 232 to tighten the grip to the shaft as it is rotated.
Threads 242 within grip 238 slide down channel 230 of shaft 236.
Threads 242 of grip 238 are rotated into threads 232 of shaft 236
until extension sphere 246 engages dimple 234 to provide
retention.
[0068] FIG. 13 shows a shaft 290 which fits into grip 301. Shaft
290 has top surface 293, opening 292 to vertical groove 298, which
opens to horizontal groove 296 to vertical groove 294. Grip 301 has
tabs 306 which slide down vertical groove 298, into horizontal
groove 296, and up vertical groove 294 during placement. Grip 301
has cushioned inner surface 308 producing a soft feel while golfing
and accurate fit. During placement, tabs 306 slide down slot 298
until top surface 293 of shaft 290 hits top inner surface 302 of
grip 301. Elastic area 302 stretches as downward force continues
allowing tabs 306 to engage horizontal slot 296 until horizontal
slot 294 is engaged at which point the elastic layer 302 shortens
lifting and holding tabs 306 into horizontal slot 294. To remove
grip 301 from shaft 290, downward pressure and rotation disengage
components. Slots in shaft 290 may be curved, dimpled or be of
various shapes.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 14, golf club 2 400 has grip 401, shaft
408 and club head 412. Shaft 408 has lower portion 410 which
attaches to club head 412 and upper portion 406 which is covered by
grip 404. Upper portion 406 of shaft 408 provides a means for grip
404 to be removed quickly. Common techniques include reversible
glues such as thermoplastic glues, screws, snaps, Velcro,
interlocking, Morses taper, frictional or like methods of joining
and disconnection parts quickly. Methods may be combined such as
occurs with snaps or interlocks further secured with a screw from
the top, side or bottom. Grip 404 is easily and quickly removed
from upper portion 406 of shaft 408. Grips 414, 416, 418 and 420
are designed to fit onto upper portion 406 of shaft 408 in the same
manner as grip 404. Grip 414, 416, 418 and 420 vary by material,
size, shape, color, design, aesthetics, combination of material,
cord, etc. A golfer would select the grip that feels the best and
use it. There could also be a method of securing a grip permanently
or more securely if desired. Golf club heads 407 and 411 are joined
to a shaft in a similar manner as describe for grips.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 15, golf club 422 has grip 424 mounted
onto insert 426 in such as fashion as to be easily exchanged and
interchanged. An insert which has lower portion which fits into a
shaft and is removably attached via any of the mechanisms mentioned
herein including, but not limited to snaps, depression peg
fittings, slidably disposed pegs, snap locks, sliding channel
technology comprising threads down a shaft and additionally
technology such as extension spheres engages dimple member to
provide retention, wherein the shaft may tapered, parallel or
reverse tapered.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 16, insert 436 is constructed of a size to
fit into opening hole 440 of shaft 443 of golf club 38. Cut out 42
exposes the inside of shaft 443. Golf club 444 shows insert 436
placed inside shaft 443 to provide mechanisms to provide reversible
retention of a grip. Each manufacturer can have a specific design
configured so only their grips, shaft and club head fits their
clubs.
[0072] FIGS. 17A and 17B comprise a grip system 460 comprising an
easy to use safeguard system 462 comprising a upper circular member
472, a stem 474 and a square insert 476 the golf grip snap 464, 466
coming undone from the shaft 470, which may include a screw
mechanism and a square insert disposed to enter from the top of the
mechanism and insert through the grip and engages a matching square
or rectangle in the grip insert and shaft. The grip may comprise a
smaller cylindrical hole or aperture 480 and may also comprise a
flexible material such that the aperture may stretch and then
release to hold insert in place.
[0073] The profit loss of others providing replacements is
eliminated. There is more profit for the manufacturer of the club.
For example, if different companies market and sell putters and one
company offers a putter, than the interchangeable grips, shafts and
club heads could be manufactured to possess different
configurations such that grips, shafts and club heads of one
company wouldn't fit the grips, shafts and club heads of another
company. This would eliminate companies which make grips from
supplying replacements.
[0074] The greatest opportunity for implementation of this concept
may well be with putters. The ability to have different grips and
different club heads connect with different length shafts creates
an exponential number of choices for the user. Just as different
golfers require different putter lengths, many different golfers
desire different grip sizes, shapes, appearances, as well different
putter heads. Therefore, retail stores and pro shops would be
required to stock different grips, shafts and club heads, which
would require minimal space when compared to the same number of
putters, to achieve similar results.
[0075] Therefore, illustrated in one embodiment is a method for
providing the consumer a point of purchase system comprising the
capability wherein purchasing a sports equipment gripping
mechanism, and particularly a golf club grip, may be chosen to fit
the consumer's requirements via the ability to interchange/exchange
numerous grip types and sizes. Thus, the consumer can get in and
complete the purchase of the grip of choice and the club of choice
within a matter of minutes, which could range from ten minutes to
30 minutes.
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