U.S. patent application number 14/472102 was filed with the patent office on 2015-03-05 for golf swing training aid and method of use thereof.
The applicant listed for this patent is David Luttrull. Invention is credited to David Luttrull.
Application Number | 20150065263 14/472102 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52584006 |
Filed Date | 2015-03-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150065263 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Luttrull; David |
March 5, 2015 |
GOLF SWING TRAINING AID AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF
Abstract
A golf swing training aid is provided. The golf swing training
aid device may include a vibration element configured on a golf
club, the vibration element being in functional communication with
an interior of the golf club, the vibration element being
configured to switch between an active state and an inactive state.
The golf swing training aid may further have a power source and a
control in functional communication with the power source and the
vibration element. Upon operation of the control, the control
functionally couples the power source to the vibration element to
transition the vibration element between the active and inactive
states, wherein in the active state, the vibration element provides
vibrational input to a golfer's hands positioned on a grip of the
club.
Inventors: |
Luttrull; David; (Phoenix,
AZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Luttrull; David |
Phoenix |
AZ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52584006 |
Appl. No.: |
14/472102 |
Filed: |
August 28, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61871451 |
Aug 29, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/202 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 60/46 20151001;
A63B 2060/464 20151001; A63B 2209/10 20130101; A63B 69/3623
20130101; A63B 53/14 20130101; A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 71/146
20130101; A63B 69/3676 20130101; A63B 2225/20 20130101; A63B
2071/0655 20130101; A63B 60/16 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
473/202 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20060101
A63B069/36; A63B 71/14 20060101 A63B071/14; A63B 53/14 20060101
A63B053/14 |
Claims
1. A golf swing training device, the training device comprising: a
vibration element configured on a golf club, the vibration element
being in functional communication with a shaft of the golf club,
the vibration element being configured to switch between an active
state and an inactive state; a power source; and a control in
functional communication with the power source and the vibration
element, wherein operation of the control functionally couples the
power source to the vibration element to transition the vibration
element between the active and inactive states, wherein in the
active state, the vibration element provides vibrational input to
the golf club and to a golfer's hands positioned on a grip of the
club.
2. A golf swing training device, the training device comprising: a
vibration element configured on a backside of a golf glove, the
vibration element being configured to switch between an active
state and an inactive state; a power source; and a control in
functional communication with the power source and the vibration
element, wherein operation of the control functionally couples the
power source to the vibration element to transition the vibration
element between the active and inactive states, wherein in the
active state, the vibration element provides vibrational input to a
golfer's hands positioned in the golf glove.
3. A method of swinging a golf club, the method comprising:
coupling a vibration element to a golf club; activating the
vibration element to provide vibrational stimulus to a golfer's
hands gripping a grip of the golf club; and swinging the golf club
to strike a golf ball.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[S]
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application entitled "GOLF SWING TRAINING AID AND METHOD OF USE
THEREOF," Ser. No. 61/871,451, filed Aug. 29, 2013, now pending,
the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated entirely herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The following relates generally to golf equipment, and in
particular to a golf swing training device that aids a golfer in
achieving the proper grip of a handle of a golf club.
[0004] 2. State of the Art
[0005] With so many physical distractions on the golf course,
including sand traps, water hazards, deep rough, and wind, just to
name a few, and all the other mental details that go into playing
the sport of golf effectively, the only thing the golfer truly has
control of is the physical connection (i.e., grip) to the handle of
the golf club. And, although at first glance the art of gripping
the handle may seem simple and even routine, there is much more to
it than meets the eye. Indeed, because a golfer's hands are the
link between the golfer and the golf club, the golfer's grip on the
handle is paramount to achieving a high-quality, repetitive golf
swing that produces consistent results. The configuration of the
hands and fingers is only one aspect of the grip. The grip pressure
and the grip pressure consistency through the stroke or swing all
affect the proper release for the club and allow the club face to
maintain the same orientation through the motion as the original
set-up position.
[0006] Professional golfers and instructors alike will tell you
that golf begins with a good grip. Holding the handle of the golf
club correctly gives the golfer a feel for the club and is the
source of everything that follows in the golf swing. Without
achieving the proper grip of the handle, a golfer may never be able
master the finer techniques of the golf swing, because the
variables in the swing that are compounded by an incorrect grip of
the handle will never allow the golfer to do so.
[0007] Many theories have been introduced and much instruction has
been developed to help golfers achieve a proper grip on the handle,
including proper hand and finger placement, as well as grip tension
and/or pressure, both in a static grip and a dynamic grip. For
example, the primary goal of the hands in a static grip is to grip
the handle so that the hands and fingers are in the proper
placement with respect to one another on the handle and to apply
the correct grip pressure on the handle. Thereafter, in a dynamic
grip, the golfer swings the club and attempts to make the proper
swing according to the shot being executed, while also attempting
to square the club face to the golf ball at the point of contact.
To achieve this goal, a golfer attempts to grip the handle tightly
enough to prevent it from slipping out of the golfer's hands during
the swing and also lightly enough to not cause the golfer to
execute a poor golf shot. Indeed, too tight of a grip on the handle
may cause the golfer to execute a bad swing, which more often than
not results in a poor shot. Moreover, too tight of a grip on the
handle may diminish the potential power generated by the golfer. It
is therefore the goal to correctly hold the handle properly with
the hands and fingers, as well as keep a constant, light grip
pressure to the handle which does not change through the swing or
putting motion.
[0008] Yet, even when a golfer understands these principles,
putting them into action on the course or on the driving range is a
tall order. How much grip strength and grip pressure is appropriate
for each individual golfer and each individual type of golf shot is
as varied as the individual golfer himself/herself.
[0009] Accordingly, there is a need in the golf industry for a
product and method of use thereof that can assist the individual
golfer in learning and repeating the proper grip of the handle of
the golf club for any number of golf shots.
SUMMARY
[0010] The following relates to golf equipment, and in particular
to a golf swing training device that aids a golfer in achieving the
proper grip of a handle of a golf club.
[0011] A first general aspect relates to a golf swing training
device, the training device comprising a vibration element
configured on a golf club, the vibration element being in
functional communication with an interior of the golf club, the
vibration element being configured to switch between an active
state and an inactive state, a power source, and a control in
functional communication with the power source and the vibration
element, wherein operation of the control functionally couples the
power source to the vibration element to transition the vibration
element between the active and inactive states, wherein in the
active state, the vibration element provides vibrational input to a
golfer's hands positioned on a grip of the club.
[0012] Another general aspect relates to wherein the vibration
element is configured to be releasably and repeatedly coupled to
the interior of the golf club.
[0013] Another general aspect relates to wherein the vibration
element is configured to be hidden from view.
[0014] Another general aspect relates to wherein the power source
is a stackable battery configuration, a single battery
configuration, a rechargeable battery configuration, and/or a
disposable battery configuration.
[0015] Another general aspect relates to wherein the vibration
element is configured to functionally engage the interior of the
shaft of the golf club in a friction fit arrangement.
[0016] Another general aspect relates to wherein the vibration
element is configured to be a part of a positioning mechanism that
may be configured to house the vibration mechanism and the battery
within the interior of the golf club shaft.
[0017] Another general aspect relates to wherein the positioning
mechanism includes a flexible stopper that is configured to engage
the interior surfaces of the golf club and thereby securely
position the positioning mechanism within the interior of the golf
club at the distal end of the shaft near the grip.
[0018] Another general aspect relates to a golf swing training
device, the training device comprising a vibration element
configured on a backside of a golf glove, the vibration element
being configured to switch between an active state and an inactive
state, a power source, and a control in functional communication
with the power source and the vibration element, wherein operation
of the control functionally couples the power source to the
vibration element to transition the vibration element between the
active and inactive states, wherein in the active state, the
vibration element provides vibrational input to a golfer's hands
positioned in the golf glove.
[0019] Another general aspect relates to a method of swinging a
golf club, the method comprising coupling a vibration element to a
golf club, activating the vibration element to provide vibrational
stimulus to a golfer's hands that are gripping a grip of the golf
club, and swinging the golf club to strike a golf ball.
[0020] The foregoing and other features, advantages, and
construction of the present disclosure will be more readily
apparent and fully appreciated from the following more detailed
description of the particular embodiments, taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] Some of the embodiments will be described in detail, with
reference to the following figures, wherein like designations
denote like members.
[0022] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a golf
swing training aid device in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a back view of an embodiment of a golf swing
training aid in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a golf
swing training aid device in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 4 is a front view of an embodiment of a golf swing
training aid in accordance with the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0026] A detailed description of the hereinafter described
embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented
herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference
to the Figures listed above. Although certain embodiments are shown
and described in detail, it should be understood that various
changes and modifications may be made without departing from the
scope of the appended claims. The scope of the present disclosure
will in no way be limited to the number of constituting components,
the materials thereof, the shapes thereof, the relative arrangement
thereof, etc., and are disclosed simply as an example of
embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0027] As a preface to the detailed description, it should be noted
that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents, unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0028] Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of a
golf swing training device 10. Embodiments of the training device
10 may comprise various structural components that complement one
another to provide the unique functionality and performance of the
training device 10, the structure and function of which will be
described in greater detail herein. For example, embodiments of the
training device 10 may comprise a vibration element 30, a power
source 40, and a control switch 41 configured in the handle of a
golf club 8. The handle of the golf club may comprise the grip of
the golf club and the underlying shaft region.
[0029] Embodiments of the training device 10 may comprise a
vibration element 30. The vibration element 30 may be configured to
be in functional communication with the power source 40 via the
control switch 41 (ON/OFF switch), such that upon operation of the
control switch 41, the power source 40 can provide power to the
vibration element 30 to cause the vibration element 30 to function
according to its intended purpose. In other words, upon activation
of the vibration element 30 from its inactive state to its active
state by the switch 41, the vibration element 30 may provide
vibrational movement, motion, agitation, or other similar
repetitive movement to the handle of the golf club 8.
[0030] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
vibration element 30 being configured within a hollow 5 of the
shaft 4 of the golf club 8, as depicted in FIG. 1, so as to be out
of sight of the golfer and hidden from view. In addition, with the
vibration element 30 positioned within the shaft 4, the vibration
element 30 does not interfere with the normal operation of the golf
club or putter. With the vibration element 30 positioned within the
hollow 5 of the shaft 4, the vibration element 30 may be in
functional communication with the shaft 4 of the golf club 8, so
that under the condition that the vibration element 30 is in an
active state, the vibrational movement generated by the vibration
element 30 may travel from the vibration element 30 to the shaft 4
and/or the grip 2 and onto the hand(s) of the golfer to indicate to
the golfer that the vibration element 30 has been triggered and/or
is active. Thus, the golfer can sense or feel the vibration of the
vibration element 30 when active. When in the inactive state, the
vibration element 30 does not vibrate so that the golfer does not
feel the vibration sensation.
[0031] Embodiments of the training device 10 may be utilized by a
golfer to benefit the golfer's grip on the handle of the club 8. In
most cases, the handle of the club 8 will comprise the grip 2 of
the club, the grip 2 being comprised of rubber-type material that
is placed on the club 8 around the exterior of the shaft 4 at the
distal end of the club 8 away from the club head. The grip 2 may
allow the golfer to achieve a better grip on the handle of the golf
club 8 to manipulate the golf club 8 during a golf swing or during
a golf putting stroke.
[0032] Activating the vibration element 30 within the golf club 8
can be used to train a golfer to apply the correct grip pressure to
the handle or grip 2 of a golf club 8 (i.e., driver, long iron,
short iron, or putter). For example, the vibration element 30 that
is positioned in the club 8 proximate the grip 2 may serve to
accentuate the senses in the golfer's hands that are positioned on
the grip 2. The vibration element 30 may also serve to accentuate
the sensory input in the golfer's brain received from the golfer's
hands, which helps focus the golfer's mind. For example, before
swinging the golf club 8 or before using the putter, a golfer may
manually activate the vibration element 30 by operation of the
switch 41. In this way, the vibration element 30 can provide
vibrational input to the handle or grip 2 that can be sensed by the
golfer's hands and processed by the golfer's mind both before and
during the golf swing or putting stroke.
[0033] Such vibrational effects from the vibration element 30 may
serve, among other things, to relax the golfer's hands, to massage
the golfer's hands, or to continuously remind the golfer's hands
and brain by sensory stimulation of the hands to maintain the
correct grip pressure during the swing or putt. For example, such
vibrational effects, or massaging effects, may allow the golfer to
relax the golfer's muscles and hands on the handle or grip 2 of the
golf club 8 to allow the golfer to apply the correct amount of grip
pressure to the handle or grip 2 prior to the swing. Such
vibrational effects may also serve to remind the golfer to maintain
a constant and consistent grip pressure on the handle or grip 2
during the golf swing or putting stroke. Indeed, such vibrational
effects from the vibration element 30 may allow the golfer's
muscles to relax and not grip the handle or grip 2 as tightly as
might otherwise be the case. Further to the above, because of the
sensory stimulus that the vibrational effects and massaging effects
from the vibration element 30 provide to the golfer's hands, the
golfer can more actively feel the physical and functional
interaction between the grip 2 and the golfer's hands than might
otherwise be possible without the vibrational effects. Again, this
sensory stimulus can help to remind the golfer to apply the correct
grip pressure on the handle prior to the swing or putting stroke.
This sensory stimulus can also help to remind the golfer to apply
consistent and continuous grip pressure on the handle during the
swing. In other words, because the golfer can sense the vibrational
and massaging effects in his/her hands throughout both the static
and dynamic grips of the grip 2, the golfer's mind and hands are
able to more acutely focus on the application of proper pre-swing
grip pressure, as well as on sustaining constant and consistent
pressure on the handle or grip 2 during the swing or stroke,
despite other distractions around the golfer or on the golf course.
Such acute focus benefits the golfer in the execution of any golf
shot, but may be more beneficial to the golfer during the putting
stroke.
[0034] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
vibration element 30 being positioned within the interior of the
shaft 4 in a friction fit configuration. Embodiments of the
training device 10 may include the vibration element 30 being
configured within a module 34 that is configured to be inserted
within the interior of the shaft 4 in a friction fit configuration.
Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the module 34
being configured to be inserted within the interior of the shaft 4
and held in place by a positioning mechanism 38. The module 34 may
include the vibration element 30, the power source 40, and the
control 42. The module 34 may further comprise a housing, in which
the vibration element 30, the power source 40, and the control 42
may be placed. Advantages of the module 34 being positioned within
hollow 5 of the shaft 4 proximate the grip 2 of the club 8 may be
that the weight of the vibration element 30, the power source 40,
and/or the module 34 itself, or the combined weights thereof, may
be negligible to the golfer during the golfer's swing, being that
these components are positioned underneath (i.e., within the shaft
4 under the hands) or at least near the golfer's hands. In this
way, the golfer's swing is not affected, or at least is very
minimally affected, even to a negligible degree, due to the weight
of the vibration element 30, the power source 40, and/or the module
34, or the combined weights thereof.
[0035] The vibration element 30 may be any vibration element, now
known or later developed, that provides vibration, shaking,
shuddering, pulsating, or other similar movement to the degree that
it can be felt by the golfer upon activation of the vibration
element 30. For example, the vibration element 30 may be a
vibration motor #312-105 manufactured by Precision Microdrives. The
vibration element 30 may further comprise an interior motor and a
counterweight 32 coupled thereto. The counterweight 32 may be
coupled to the drive shaft of the motor, such that as the motor
rotates, it drives the counterweight 32. The counterweight 32 may
be configured on the drive shaft to have its weight offset from
axial center of the drive shaft, such that when the counterweight
32 rotates, the counterweight produces the vibration, shaking,
shuddering, pulsating, or other similar movement about the axial
center. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand
that other brands and similar devices may be incorporated to
achieve a vibration, shaking, shuddering, pulsating, or other
similar movement in like degree.
[0036] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
positioning mechanism 38 being a flexible stopper that is
configured to have a diameter or outer circumference size that is
slightly less than the diameter of the shaft 4 of the club 8. In
this way, the positioning mechanism 38 may be initially inserted
within the distal regions of the shaft 4 near the top of the golf
club handle. And, because the shaft 4 generally tapers as the shaft
4 runs from the handle down to the club head, the positioning
mechanism 38 should come to rest against the interior of the shaft
4. Yet, the positioning mechanism 38 may be configured to
incorporate an adjustment member 39 that may functionally engage a
through bore 37 in the positioning mechanism 38 that causes the
positioning mechanism 38 to expand in circumferential size as the
adjustment member 39 is advanced into the through bore 37. By so
doing, the positioning mechanism 38 may engage the interior
surfaces of the hollow shaft 4 and thereby securely couple to the
interior of the shaft 4 at the distal end of the shaft 4 near the
grip 2. Moreover, the adjustment member 39 may be configured to
also engage the module 34 in an upper region of the module 34.
Thus, with the positioning mechanism 38 secured to the interior of
the shaft 4 and the adjustment member 39 secured to the module 34,
the vibration element 30 may be secured within the interior of the
shaft 4 via the module 34, and thus prevented from axially
advancing down the shaft 4.
[0037] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
positioning mechanism 38 being configured to be repeatedly and
releasably coupled to the module 34, such that the positioning
mechanism 38 and the module 34 may be detached from one another or
reattached to each other as often as determined by the golfer/user.
Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the positioning
mechanism 38 being fixedly coupled to the module 34, such that the
adjustment member 39 has no need to engage the module 34 to retain
the module 34 in its proper position within the shaft 4. Instead,
an upper surface of the module 34 may be fixedly coupled to the
positioning mechanism 38, such that under the condition the
positioning mechanism 38 is secured to the interior of the shaft 4,
so too is the module 34 thereby.
[0038] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the module
34 having one or more openings, such as a flap or door, wherein the
components that are configured therein may be removed, replaced, or
repaired, as needed. Embodiments of the module 34 may include the
module 34 being hinged on a side thereof so that the module 34 may
be laid open for access to the components housed therein.
[0039] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include a weight
reception portion (not depicted) that may be configured to receive
weighted portions (not depicted) that may be coupled to the module
34 or to the vibration element 30 to provide additional weight to
the club 8 to customize the weight, feel, and customized
configuration of the club 8 to the golfer's individual liking
and/or preference.
[0040] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include one or
more vibration elements 30 being configured on the club 8.
Embodiments of the training device 10 may include one or more
modules 34 being configured on the club 8. For example, one
vibration element 30 or module 34 may be configured on an interior
region of the shaft 4, and another vibration element 30 or module
34 may be configured on an exterior region of the shaft, such as,
for example, but not limited thereto, on the exterior of the grip
2, on the exterior of the shaft 4, or near the club head. One or
more vibration elements 30 or modules 34 may be functionally
coupled to the club 8, as described herein, at the same or various
locations on the club 8 to produce a customized weight distribution
and customized vibrational sensation that an individual golfer may
prefer.
[0041] Embodiments of the training device 10 may comprise a power
source 40. The power source 40 may be a battery or other
stored-energy source. The power source 40 may be a stackable
battery configuration, a single battery configuration, a
rechargeable battery configuration, and/or a disposable battery
configuration. The power source 40 may be configured to be in
functional communication with the vibration element 30 and the
control 41, as herein described, to provide power to these various
components, as needed.
[0042] Embodiments of the training device 10 comprise the module
34, including, but not limited thereto, the vibration element 30,
the power source 40 and the switch 41 being manufactured with the
club 8. Alternatively, embodiments of the training device 10
comprise the module 34, including, but not limited to, the
vibration element 30, the power source 40 and the switch 41 being
configured to be introduced onto a pre-existing club after
manufacture, such that the training device 10 may be an
after-market product.
[0043] With a club 8 equipped with the remaining components of the
device 10, the golfer may utilize the equipped club 8 to train the
golfer's hands to effectuate a better swing or putting stroke. A
golf club comprising an embodiment of the device 10 may be
provided, as described herein. The golfer may then activate the
device 10 with the control switch 41, such that the club handle
begins to vibrate from the vibration motion resulting from the
vibration element 30 being placed in its active state by the switch
41. With the handle of the club vibrating, the golfer may grip the
handle of the club (i.e., the grip region of the club). With the
hands in the proper position on the grip of the club and with the
vibration element 30 sending vibrational effects to the golfer's
hands, as described herein, the golfer can swing the club to
execute a golf shot. And, with the vibration element 30 providing
vibration to the handle, the golfer is able to apply the proper
amount of grip pressure both before and during the swing because of
the relaxing effects emanating from the vibrational motion, as
discussed herein.
[0044] With reference now to FIG. 2, embodiments of the training
device 10 may further comprise the vibration element 30 or module
34 being configured on the back surface of a golf glove 14 to
provide vibrational effects directly to the golfer's hands. In this
way, a golfer may wear the golf glove 14 having the module 34
configured thereon and receive the same, or similar, vibrational
stimulus as that described above with regard to the golf club 8
equipped with the device 10. Indeed, embodiments of the training
device 10 utilizing the glove 14 may be similar in function to the
training device 10 combined into the shaft 4 of the golf club 8. In
other words, the function of the training device 10 as described
above with respect to the golf club 8 may also be adapted to
function in the same or similar to the glove 14.
[0045] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
vibration element 30, power source 40, the control 41, and/or the
module 34 being releasably coupled to the glove 14 by means such as
hook and loop fasteners, pockets, sleeves, pouches, straps, belts,
hooks, elastic band, buttons or other similar means that might hold
these components in place during operation by the golfer. As
exemplarily depicted in FIG. 2, the module 34 may be positioned
within, or under, a cover 15 configured on the back of the glove
14. Yet, embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
vibration element 30, power source 40, the control 41, and/or the
module 34 being fixedly coupled to the glove 14 by means such as
stitching, adhesive, or other permanent fastening means. What's
important is that the vibration element 30 and/or module 34 can
provide vibration effects in the active state to the golfer's hands
both prior to and during the golf swing or putting stroke.
Embodiments of the training device 10 further include the module 34
being positioned on the glove 14 at any point on the glove 14 that
is out of the way of the normal operation of the glove 14 during a
golf swing or putting stroke.
[0046] Furthermore, embodiments of the training device 10 may
include a combination of the vibration element 30 and/or module 34
being placed on the glove 14, as described, as well as being
configured in the handle of the golf club 8, as described, to
provide a combined vibrational effect to the hands of the
golfer.
[0047] With reference now to FIG. 3, additional embodiments
ancillary to the embodiments described above may include the
training device 10 comprising a sensor 20 and a control unit 50.
The sensor 20 may be any sensor, now known or later developed, that
is capable of sensing and measuring pressure that is applied to the
sensor 20 by exterior forces, such as a golfer gripping the handle
or grip 2 of the golf club 8.
[0048] For example, embodiments of the training device 10 may
comprise a tactile sensor 20 that can be configured on the exterior
of the grip 2, such that the tactile sensor 20 may come into direct
contact with the hands of the golfer. The tactile sensor 20 may be
coupled to the grip 2 by adhesive, stitching, tape, glue, or other
adhesive means. Moreover, the tactile sensor 20 may be formed
integrally with the grip 2, such that the tactile sensor 20 is
virtually indistinguishable from the grip 2. Further, the tactile
sensor 20 may be configured to be wrapped around the grip 2 and
secured thereto. The tactile sensor 20 may be configured to be
removable from the grip 2. In certain embodiments, the tactile
sensor 20 may be configured to be repeatedly and releasably coupled
to the grip 2. The tactile sensor 20 may be configured to be
adjustable on the grip 2 in various locations on the grip 2.
Indeed, the configuration of the tactile sensor 20 on the grip 2
may be customizable, for example, but not limited thereto, to the
needs and style of the individual golfer, to the particular brand
of golf club, or to the type of golf shot being executed.
[0049] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
tactile sensor 20 being configured between the grip 2 and the shaft
4 of the golf club 8 (not depicted). The tactile sensor 20 may be
coupled to the exterior of the shaft 4 but interior to the grip 2,
such that the tactile sensor 20 resides between the shaft 4 and the
grip 2. The tactile sensor 20 may be coupled to the shaft 4 by
adhesive, tape, glue, or other adhesive means. Moreover, the
tactile sensor 20 may be configured to be wrapped around the shaft
4 and secured thereto. The tactile sensor 20 may be configured to
be removable from the shaft 4 once the grip 2 has been removed from
the shaft 4 that covers the tactile sensor 20. In certain
embodiments, the tactile sensor 20 may be configured to be
repeatedly and releasably coupled to the shaft 4 under the grip 2.
The tactile sensor 20 may be configured to be adjustable on the
shaft 4 in various locations on the shaft 4 under the grip 2.
Indeed, the configuration of the tactile sensor 20 on the shaft 4
under the grip 2 may be customizable to the needs and style of the
individual golfer.
[0050] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include a
plurality of tactile sensors 20 positioned in any number of
positions on the grip 2, on the exterior of the grip 2, or between
the grip 2 and the shaft 4. In this way, multiple force
measurements at multiple locations may be measured by the plurality
of tactile sensors 20 to provide more detailed feedback of the
golfer's grip on the grip 2. For example, a plurality of tactile
sensors 20 may be positioned on the grip 2 where it might be
optimal to place each of the golfer's palms and/or each of the
golfer's individual fingers. In this way, pressure from various
locations on the golfer's hands may be measured with respect to the
handle or grip 2 of the golf club 8.
[0051] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
tactile sensor 20 incorporating a resistive-based sensor that is
configured to measure the resistance of a conductive elastomer or
foam between two points. Thus, as pressure is applied to the
elastomer, the resistive capacity of the elastomer changes, thus
producing a measurable variable that corresponds to the amount of
pressure applied. In the resistive-based sensor, ultra-thin and
flexible printed circuits may be utilized which are designed to
bend under applied force and which can be easily integrated into
force measurement applications. For example, in a piezoresistive
device, resistance is inversely proportional to applied force.
[0052] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
tactile sensor 20 incorporating a conductive-based sensor that is
configured to measure the capacitance between two parallel plates.
For example, as pressure is applied to one of the two plates, the
distance between the plates theoretically decreases, thus changing
the capacitance and providing a measurable variable that can
correspond to the amount of pressure applied. Generally, the two
plates are separated by a dielectric medium that gives the
capacitance-based sensor its force-to-capacitance
characteristics.
[0053] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
tactile sensor 20 incorporating a pressure indicating film that
releases an indicator in a quantity corresponding to the degree of
measured pressure from the golfer's grip on the grip 2. In this
way, a degree of pressure map may be produced to indicate where the
most pressure or force is exerted on the grip 2 by the golfer. In
embodiments where the tactile sensor 20 is the pressure indicating
film, the film may be replaced for each sampling of the golfer's
grip.
[0054] Embodiments of the training device 10 may comprise a control
unit 50. The control unit 50 may comprise a processing center that
has the capability of, at least, receiving and measuring signals
from the sensor 20, instructing the activation and deactivation of
the vibration element 30, comparing measured values from the sensor
20 with pre-stored values, and storing measured values from the
sensor 20. Embodiments of the control unit 50 may comprise a
computer system, including, but not limited to, a processor (CPU),
an internal storage unit, random access memory (RAM), accompanying
software, and other alternative inputs, including for example, a
micro USB drive and/or a flash drive. The computer system embodied
by the control unit 50 herein described is configured to control
the operational aspects of the training device 10. For example, the
software may be a computer program that is developed and configured
to operate the training device 10 according to its intended
operation, as described herein.
[0055] The control unit 50 may further comprise communication means
for communicating with external components. For example,
embodiments of the control unit 50 may comprise a communication
means for establishing the connection between the training device
10 and an external smartphone, tablet, computer, or other
electronic device to which the training device 10 may download
and/or transmit the information stored in the control unit 50.
These communication means may be data transmission wires, such as a
network cord, a USB cord, a micro USB cord, or other similar
physical connection means known in the art.
[0056] The communication means may also be configured to conduct
the operations of the training device 10, such as drawing power
from the power source 40, storing the force detected by the sensor
20, directing the activation, duration, and deactivation of the
vibration element 30, and other necessary operations. The
communication means may form a physical part of the control unit 50
or may be exterior thereto so long as the communication means can
be in functional communication with some or all of the components
of the training device 10, including the control unit 50. The power
source 40 may also be a wired power source that receives power from
a DC or AC electric power source exterior to the training device 10
including, the exterior power source being such components as a
wall outlet, a PC, tablet, or other electronic device from which
the power source 40 may receive and thereafter provide power.
[0057] The communication means may further comprise components that
allow the training device 10 to connect to and transmit data and
signals over a wireless network. The components of the
communication means may include, but are not limited to, a circuit
board, an antenna, a processor, a memory, an operating system, an
analog-to-digital converter, a digital-to-analog converter, an RF
component, a SIM card, a digital signal processor (DSP), and an RF
amplifier. The control unit 50 may further comprise a control that
activates the communication means to establish the communicative
connection over the wireless network between the training device 10
and another electronic device connected to the network. The
communication means may further comprise components that allow the
training device 10 to connect to the internet, whether via a
cellular tower provided by a cellular telephone company or via a
wireless router connected to a wired internet connection from an
internet service provider. The communication means may permit the
training device 10 to transfer data between the golf club 8 and
other electronic devices connected to the internet.
[0058] The communication means may further comprise components that
allow the training device 10 to connect to and transmit data and
signals between another wireless device that is capable of
transmitting data over a wireless network, such as by utilizing
Bluetooth.RTM. technology, or other short-distance, data-exchange
technology. The components may include, but are not limited to,
short-range transceivers that send and receive low-power radio
waves within the ISM radio-frequency band to facilitate
transmission of data between the communication means and the other
wireless devices, such as a golfer's smartphone, tablet, or
wireless-enabled device. Operating the control may activate the
communication means to establish the communicative connection
between the training device 10 and another wireless enabled device,
such that the training device 10 can communicate with the wireless
enabled device, as determined by the user of the training device
10.
[0059] The communication means may further comprise components,
such as an accelerometer and/or gyroscope, that allow the training
device 10 to be calibrated and set such that the training device 10
may activate upon the golfer taking a swing of the golf club 8 to
strike the golf ball. Once activated, the pressure applied by the
golfer to the handle or grip 2 can be measured by the sensors 20
and the measurements from the sensor 20, and/or sensors 20, can be
transmitted and stored in the control unit 50 and/or transmitted to
an external computer via one of a wired connection, wireless
connection, or other short-distance, data-exchange technology. In
this way, the training device 10 may be activated only when needed,
thus conserving the power source 40, and real-time feedback of the
golfer's swing can be gathered and stored within the training
device 10 or transmitted to an external storage device, such as a
computer hard drive.
[0060] Embodiments of the training device 10 comprise the control
unit 50, including the communication means and the processing
center, in any of the configurations described above, forming part
of the module 34 to be inserted within the shaft 4 of the club
8.
[0061] Embodiments of the training device 10 may be utilized by a
golfer to measure the pressure or force exerted on the handle or
grip 2 by the golfer's hands at any point before, during, or after
the golfer's swing, or during the entire act of swinging, as
determined by the golfer and the configuration of the training
device 10. Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
training device 10 being configured to measure and record the
pressure and/or force exerted on the grip 2 by the golfer's hands
by one or more sensors 20. In this way, the golfer may gather a
better understanding of the grip pressure being applied by the
golfer to the grip 2 of the golf club 8 during the golfer's swing.
The golfer may use this information to alter, amend, correct, or
otherwise change the positioning of his/her hands to advantageously
benefit the golfer's swing and the corresponding results
therefrom.
[0062] Embodiments of the training device 10 may include the
training device 10 being configured to store a predetermined
pressure or force value and thereafter use one or more sensors 20
to measure the force exerted by the golfer during the golfer's
swing to determine if the measured force from one or more of the
sensors 20 exceeds the predetermined pressure or force value and to
activate the vibration element 30 should one or more of the
measured forces exceed the predetermined value. In this way, when
the vibration element 30 activates the golfer can determine at what
point, or if at all, during the golfer's swing the golfer's grip on
the grip 2, at any or all of the one or more sensors 20, exceeds
the recommended pressure or force that should be exerted on the
grip 2 during a golf swing of the type being executed. Embodiments
of the training device 10 include the predetermined force being
adjustable by the golfer for various types of golf shots, including
drives, chips, putts, draws, fades, etc. Thus, by using training
device 10 in this way and by not triggering the activation of the
vibration element 30, the golfer can be trained not to exceed a
recommended, preprogrammed, and/or customizable grip strength on
many different types of golf shots.
[0063] With reference now to FIG. 4, embodiments of the training
device 10 may further comprise the sensor 20 being configured on a
point on the palm surface of a golf glove 14 to measure the
pressure or force exerted on the sensor by the golfer placing
his/her hand on the club 8 and executing golf swing. Moreover,
embodiments of the training device may further comprise one or more
sensors 20 being configured on various points on the inside of the
palm and hand of the golf glove 14, as depicted. Additional
variations of the locations of the sensors 20 may be utilized to
measure pressure and force between the golfer's hand and the grip
2, given that the golfer's hand is inside the glove 14 configured
with the sensors thereon. Embodiments of the training device 10 may
include the sensors 20 being releasably coupled to the glove 14 by
means such as hook and loop fasteners, pockets, sleeves, pouches,
or other receptacle-like embodiments that might hold the sensor 20
in place during operation. Embodiments of the training device 10
may include the sensors 20 being fixedly coupled to the glove 14 by
means such as stitching, adhesive, or other permanent fastening
means.
[0064] Embodiments of the training device 10 may further comprise
the various other components of the training device 10 being
configured on the back side (not depicted) of the glove 14, such
that the vibration element 30, power source 40, the control unit 50
are configured on the glove 14 but out of the way of the functional
aspects of the glove 14, such as its interaction with the grip 2.
These various components may be gathered together in the module 34,
such that the module 34 need only be coupled to the back side of
the glove, or to another portion of the golfer's body that does not
interfere with the golfer's swing or with the interaction between
the glove 14 and the grip 2. Embodiments of the training device 10
may include the vibration element 30, power source 40, the control
unit 50, and/or the module 34 being releasably coupled to the glove
14 or to the golfer's clothing or body by means such as hook and
loop fasteners, pockets, sleeves, pouches, straps, belts, hooks,
elastic band, or other similar means that might hold these
components in place during operation. Embodiments of the training
device 10 may include the vibration element 30, power source 40,
the control unit 50, and/or the module 34 being fixedly coupled to
the glove 14 by means such as stitching, adhesive, or other
permanent fastening means.
[0065] Embodiments of the training device 10 utilizing the glove 14
may be similar in function to the training device 10 combined into
the shaft 4 of the golf club 8. In other words, the function of the
training device 10 as described above may also be adapted to
function in the same or similar way but with the sensors 20
deployed on the palm-side of the glove 14 instead of in relation to
the club 8 itself. Furthermore, embodiments of the training device
10 may include a combination of the sensors 20 being placed on the
glove 14 as well as proximate the grip 2 to take a combined or
collective reading from the glove 14 and from the grip 2 of the
pressure and force exerted by a golfer on the grip 2 of the club 8
during a golf swing.
[0066] The components defining the above-described training device
10 may be formed of any of many different types of materials or
combinations thereof that can readily be formed into shaped objects
provided that the components selected are consistent with the
intended operation of a device of the type disclosed herein. For
example, and not limited thereto, the components may be formed of:
rubbers (synthetic and/or natural) and/or other like materials;
glasses (such as fiberglass) carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any
combination thereof, and/or other like materials; polymers such as
thermoplastics (such as ABS, Fluoropolymers, Polyacetal, Polyamide;
Polycarbonate, Polyethylene, Polysulfone, and/or the like),
thermosets (such as Epoxy, Phenolic Resin, Polyimide, Polyurethane,
Silicone, and/or the like), any combination thereof, and/or other
like materials; composites and/or other like materials; metals,
such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper, iron, steel, carbon
steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel, aluminum, any
combination thereof, and/or other like materials; alloys, such as
aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, copper alloy, any
combination thereof, and/or other like materials; any other
suitable material; and/or any combination thereof.
[0067] Furthermore, the components defining the above-described
training device 10 may be purchased pre-manufactured or
manufactured separately and then assembled together. However, any
or all of the components may be manufactured simultaneously and
integrally joined with one another. Manufacture of these components
separately or simultaneously may involve extrusion, pultrusion,
vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resin transfer
molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling,
reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding,
soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, plating, and/or the like.
If any of the components are manufactured separately, they may then
be coupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a
weld, a fastener (e.g. a bolt, a nut, a screw, a nail, a rivet, a
pin, and/or the like), wiring, any combination thereof, and/or the
like for example, depending on, among other considerations, the
particular material forming the components. Other possible steps
might include sand blasting, polishing, powder coating, zinc
plating, anodizing, hard anodizing, and/or painting the components
for example.
[0068] While this disclosure has been described in conjunction with
the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of
the present disclosure as set forth above are intended to be
illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without
departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as
required by the following claims. The claims provide the scope of
the coverage of the present disclosure and should not be limited to
the specific examples provided herein.
* * * * *