U.S. patent application number 16/896813 was filed with the patent office on 2020-12-17 for putting training aid.
The applicant listed for this patent is Vladimir Gribovsky. Invention is credited to Vladimir Gribovsky.
Application Number | 20200391093 16/896813 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004888062 |
Filed Date | 2020-12-17 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200391093 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gribovsky; Vladimir |
December 17, 2020 |
PUTTING TRAINING AID
Abstract
A putting training aid that includes an elongated body, a first
tee recess and a second tee recess. The elongated body has an upper
surface, a first end and a second end. The first end is opposite
the second end. The elongated body has a width that is less than a
diameter of a golf ball that is used in conjunction with the
putting training aid. The first tee recess is formed in the upper
surface of the elongated body between the first end and the second
end thereof. The first tee recess is adapted to receive a first
portion of the golf ball. The second tee recess is formed in the
upper surface of the elongated body. The second tee recess is
closer to the second end of the elongated body than the first tee
recess. The second tee recess is adapted to receive a second
portion of the golf ball.
Inventors: |
Gribovsky; Vladimir;
(Waconia, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gribovsky; Vladimir |
Waconia |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004888062 |
Appl. No.: |
16/896813 |
Filed: |
June 9, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62859957 |
Jun 11, 2019 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 69/3676
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 69/36 20060101
A63B069/36 |
Claims
1. A putting training aid comprising: an elongated body having an
upper surface, a first end and a second end, wherein the first end
is opposite the second end, wherein the elongated body has a width
that is less than a diameter of a golf ball that is used in
conjunction with the putting training aid; a first tee recess
formed in the upper surface of the elongated body between the first
end and the second end thereof, wherein the first tee recess is
adapted to receive a first portion of the golf ball; and a second
tee recess formed in the upper surface of the elongated body,
wherein the second tee recess is closer to the second end of the
elongated body than the first tee recess and wherein the second tee
recess is adapted to receive a second portion of the golf ball.
2. The putting training aid of claim 1, and further comprising a
reflective mechanism having an upper surface that is substantially
aligned with the upper surface of the elongated body, wherein the
reflective mechanism has a length that is greater than the diameter
of a golf ball that is used in conjunction with the putting
training aid and wherein the reflective mechanism is mounted in a
recess formed in the elongated body.
3. The putting training aid of claim 1, wherein a distance between
the first tee recess and the second tee recess is approximately
equal to a distance between the second tee recess and the second
end of the elongated body.
4. The putting training aid of claim 1, and further comprising a
third tee recess formed in the upper surface of the elongated body
between the second tee recess and the second end of the elongated
body, wherein the third tee recess is adapted to receive a third
portion of the golf ball.
5. The putting training aid of claim 4, wherein a distance between
the first tee recess and the second tee recess is approximately
equal to a distance between the second tee recess and the third tee
recess and wherein the distance between the second tee recess and
the third tee recess is approximately equal to a distance between
the third tee recess and the second end of the elongated body.
6. The putting training aid of claim 1, wherein the first tee
recess has a first diameter, wherein the second tee recess has a
second diameter and wherein the second diameter is smaller than the
first diameter.
7. The putting training aid of claim 1, wherein the elongated body
further comprises a lower surface that is opposite the upper
surface and wherein the putting training aid further comprises an
enhanced friction region on the lower surface of the elongated
body.
8. The putting training aid of claim 7, wherein the enhanced
friction region is proximate the first end of the elongated
body.
9. The putting training aid of claim 1, wherein the elongated body
has a first edge and a second edge that both extend between the
first end and the second end and wherein the first recess and the
second recess are intermediate the first edge and the second
edge.
10. A putting training system comprising: a golf ball having a
diameter; a putting training aid comprising: an elongated body
having an upper surface, a first end and a second end, wherein the
first end is opposite the second end and wherein the elongated body
has a width that is less than the diameter of the golf ball; a
first tee recess formed in the upper surface of the elongated body
between the first end and the second end thereof, wherein the first
tee recess is adapted to receive a first portion of the golf ball;
and a second tee recess formed in the upper surface of the
elongated body, wherein the second tee recess is closer to the
second end of the elongated body than the first tee recess and
wherein the second tee recess is adapted to receive a second
portion of the golf ball; and a golf club that is capable of
contacting the golf ball when placed on the first tee recess or the
second tee recess to cause the golf ball to roll along the upper
surface of the elongated body.
11. The putting training system of claim 10, and further comprising
a reflective mechanism having an upper surface that is
substantially aligned with the upper surface of the elongated body,
wherein the reflective mechanism has a length that is greater than
the diameter of a golf ball and wherein the reflective mechanism is
mounted in a recess formed in the elongated body.
12. The putting training system of claim 10, wherein a distance
between the first tee recess and the second tee recess is
approximately equal to a distance between the second tee recess and
the second end of the elongated body, wherein the first tee recess
has a first diameter, wherein the second tee recess has a second
diameter and wherein the second diameter is smaller than the first
diameter.
13. The putting training system of claim 10, and further comprising
a third tee recess formed in the upper surface of the elongated
body between the second tee recess and the second end of the
elongated body, wherein a distance between the first tee recess and
the second tee recess is approximately equal to a distance between
the second tee recess and the third tee recess and wherein the
distance between the second tee recess and the third tee recess is
approximately equal to a distance between the third tee recess and
the second end of the elongated body.
14. The putting training system of claim 10, wherein the elongated
body further comprises a lower surface that is opposite the upper
surface, wherein the putting training aid further comprises an
enhanced friction region on the lower surface of the elongated body
and wherein the enhanced friction region is proximate the first end
of the elongated body.
15. A method of training on putting, wherein the method comprises:
providing training aid having an elongated body, wherein the
elongated body comprises an upper surface, a first end, a second
end, a first tee recess and a second tee recess, wherein the first
end is opposite the second end, wherein the elongated body has a
width that is less than a diameter of a golf ball, wherein first
tee recess is formed in the upper surface of the elongated body
between the first end and the second end thereof and wherein the
second tee recess is formed in the upper surface of the elongated
body closer to the second end of the elongated body than the first
tee recess; placing the golf ball at least partially in the second
tee recess; striking the golf ball placed at least partially in the
second tee recess with a golf club so that the golf ball rolls
along the upper surface of the elongated body to the second end of
the elongated body; and placing the golf ball at least partially in
the first tee recess; and striking the golf ball placed at least
partially in the first tee recess with the golf club so that the
golf ball rolls along the upper surface of the elongated body to
the second end of the elongated body.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the putting training aid
further comprises a reflective mechanism having an upper surface
that is substantially aligned with the upper surface of the
elongated body, wherein the reflective mechanism has a length that
is greater than the diameter of the golf ball, wherein the
reflective mechanism is mounted in a recess formed in the elongated
body and wherein the method further comprises using the reflective
mechanism to align a position of a golfer who is holding the golf
club with respect to the golf ball.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the elongated body further
comprises a third tee recess formed in the upper surface of the
elongated body between the second tee recess and the second end of
the elongated body and wherein the method further comprises prior
to placing the golf ball at least partially in the second tee
recess: placing the golf ball at least partially in the third tee
recess; and striking the golf ball placed at least partially in the
third tee recess with the golf club so that the golf ball rolls
along the upper surface of the elongated body to the second end of
the elongated body.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein a distance between the first
tee recess and the second tee recess is approximately equal to a
distance between the second tee recess and the third tee recess and
wherein the distance between the second tee recess and the third
tee recess is approximately equal to a distance between the third
tee recess and the second end of the elongated body.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein the first tee recess has a
first diameter, wherein the second tee recess has a second diameter
and wherein the second diameter is smaller than the first
diameter.
20. The method of claim 15, wherein the elongated body further
comprises a lower surface that is opposite the upper surface,
wherein the method further comprises reducing movement of the
putting training aid when striking the golf placed at least
partially in the second tee recess or the first tee recess using an
enhanced friction region on the lower surface of the elongated
body.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No.
62/859,957, which was filed on Jun. 11, 2019. The contents of which
are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates generally to devices used to improve
the proficiency of golfing. More particularly, the invention
relates to putting training aids.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A variety of devices have been developed to enhance the
proficiency of golfing in general and putting in particular.
Depending upon the specific device, each may focus on one or more
variables that enter into the putting stroke.
[0004] These variables can relate to body placement, such as the
feet, shoulders, hips, hands and eyes in relation to the addressing
of the ball. Further variables can relate to the striking force,
the alignment and related eye-hand coordination pertaining to the
backswing and follow through of the putting stroke.
[0005] The related complexity of the assembly varies depending upon
the numbers of variables that the device attempts to correct
through repetitive practice. Some of such devices provide prepared
putting surfaces approximating the granularity of grass, which
include practice holes. Some include electronic sensors to provide
feedback about the stroke condition.
[0006] Some mimic the golf hole and provide a target hole that can
be placed on a floor surface or in HVAC system registers to permit
indoor practice. Some provide reflective mechanisms or magnetic
indicators to assure certain head alignments. Others provide
mechanical restraints to maintain arm, wrist and/or hand position
to the putter.
[0007] Many assemblies also exist to assure a squared alignment of
the putter head to the ball during and through the putting stroke
motion. Some provide mechanical gauges and reflective mechanisms
whereby the golfer is able to monitor head motion over the stroke.
Some provide a guide surface, which the putter shaft follows to
assure an aligned, squared travel motion.
[0008] Although a repetitive motion can be practiced with many of
the latter devices, a deficiency exists in that the golfer does not
have the benefit of the feedback of the ball travel to confirm the
proper stroke motion.
[0009] Consequently, repetitive practice can merely result in a
learned stroke, but which does not provide accurate results.
Preferably, a training device should permit a normal stroke motion,
while allowing the golfer to monitor selected portions of the
motion and obtain a feedback of the resultant effect on ball
travel.
[0010] One aspect of putting that has been recognized as being
important to making puts is striking the golf ball with a proper
putter orientation and swing such that the golf ball travels in a
substantially straight line.
[0011] One such device is disclosed in Kueng et al., U.S. Pat. No.
5,409,231, which discloses an elongated golf stroke training
device. The golf ball is positioned on the elongated golf stroke
training device and then struck with a putter where the goal is for
the golf ball to roll along the elongated golf stroke training
device to an end of the device that is opposite the initial
position of the golf ball.
[0012] In appreciation of the foregoing shortcomings, the present
invention was developed to provide an assembly that allows a golfer
to monitor initial positioning as well as stroke motion during the
backswing motion, to assure the putter head is square to the ball,
and to confirm a straight line ball travel in relation to an
elongated travel path. A controlled, consistent backswing and
follow through with corresponding putting accuracy are thereby
obtained.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] An embodiment of the invention is directed to a putting
training aid that includes an elongated body, a first tee recess
and a second tee recess. The elongated body has an upper surface, a
first end and a second end. The first end is opposite the second
end. The elongated body has a width that is less than a diameter of
a golf ball that is used in conjunction with the putting training
aid. The first tee recess is formed in the upper surface of the
elongated body between the first end and the second end thereof.
The first tee recess is adapted to receive a first portion of the
golf ball. The second tee recess formed in the upper surface of the
elongated body. The second tee recess is closer to the second end
of the elongated body than the first tee recess. The second tee
recess is adapted to receive a second portion of the golf ball.
[0014] Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a putting
training system that includes a golf ball, a putting training aid
and a golf club. The golf ball has a diameter. The putting training
aid has an elongated body, a first tee recess and a second tee
recess. The elongated body has an upper surface, a first end and a
second end. The first end is opposite the second end. The elongated
body has a width that is less than the diameter of the golf ball.
The first tee recess is formed in the upper surface of the
elongated body between the first end and the second end thereof.
The first tee recess is adapted to receive a first portion of the
golf ball. The second tee recess is formed in the upper surface of
the elongated body. The second tee recess is closer to the second
end of the elongated body than the first tee recess. The second tee
recess is adapted to receive a second portion of the golf ball. The
golf club is capable of contacting the golf ball when placed on the
first tee recess or the second tee recess to cause the golf ball to
roll along the upper surface of the elongated body.
[0015] Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method
of training on putting. A training aid having an elongated body is
provided. The elongated body includes an upper surface, a first
end, a second end, a first tee recess and a second tee recess. The
first end is opposite the second end. The elongated body has a
width that is less than a diameter of a golf ball. The first tee
recess is formed in the upper surface of the elongated body between
the first end and the second end thereof. The second tee recess is
formed in the upper surface of the elongated body closer to the
second end of the elongated body than the first tee recess. The
golf ball is placed at least partially in the second tee recess.
The golf ball placed at least partially in the second tee recess is
struck with a golf club so that the golf ball rolls along the upper
surface of the elongated body to the second end of the elongated
body. The golf ball is placed at least partially in the first tee
recess. The golf ball placed at least partially in the first tee
recess is struck with the golf club so that the golf ball rolls
along the upper surface of the elongated body to the second end of
the elongated body.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further
understanding of embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute
a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments
and together with the description serve to explain principles of
embodiments. Other embodiments and many of the intended advantages
of embodiments will be readily appreciated as they become better
understood by reference to the following detailed description. The
elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to
each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding similar
parts.
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the putting training aid
that includes an elongated golf stroke training device and a
reflective mechanism.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the elongated golf stroke
training device used in conjunction with the reflective
mechanism.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of the elongated golf stroke training
device used in conjunction with the reflective mechanism.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a top view of the elongated golf stroke training
device.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the elongated golf stroke
training device with an enhanced friction region.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0022] An embodiment of the invention is directed to a putting
training aid 10 that generally includes an elongated golf stroke
training device 20, a reflective mechanism 22 and a mounting
mechanism 24, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. The putting training aid
10 enhances the ability of a golfer to accurately position with
respect to a golf ball 12 when putting. Accurate position of the
golfer with respect to the golf ball 12 enhances the ability of the
golfer to accurately hit the golf ball 12.
[0023] The elongated golf stroke training devices disclosed in
Kueng et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,409,231, and Gribovsky, U.S. Pat. No.
8,684,858, only include a single recess that is adapted to receive
a portion of a golf ball to thereby retain the golf ball in an
initial position while the golfer is aligning with respect to the
golf ball.
[0024] In contrast, the putting training aid 10 of this invention
includes at least two recesses 30, 32, 34 formed in the elongated
golf stroke training device 20, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The
recesses 30, 32, 34 are positioned in spaced-apart configuration.
In certain embodiments, the putting raining aid includes three
recesses 30, 32, 34. The recesses 30, 32, 34 are generally all
positioned along a line. In certain embodiments, each of the
recesses 30, 32, 34 are located approximately intermediate opposite
side edges of the elongated golf stroke training device 20.
[0025] The plurality of recesses includes a first recess 30, a
second recess 32 and a third recess 34. The second recess 32 is
intermediate the first recess 30 and the third recess 34. The first
recess 30 is a first distance from the first end 26 of the
elongated golf stroke training device 20. A spacing between the
first recess 30 and the second recess 32 may be approximate equal
to a spacing between the second recess 32 and the third recess
34.
[0026] The third recess 34 has a diameter. The second recess 32 has
a diameter that is less than the diameter of the third recess 34.
The first recess 30 has a diameter that is less than the diameter
of the second recess 32.
[0027] In certain embodiments, the diameter of the second recess 32
is between about 70% and about 90% of the diameter of the third
recess 34. In other embodiments, the diameter of the second recess
32 is about 80% of the diameter of the third recess 34.
[0028] In certain embodiments the diameter of the first recess 30
is between about 70% and about 90% of the diameter of the second
recess 32. In other embodiments, the diameter of the first recess
30 is about 80% of the diameter of the second recess 34.
[0029] Forming the putting training aid 10 with the diameter of the
third recess 34 larger than the diameter of the second diameter 32
and the diameter of the second recess 32 larger than the diameter
of the first recess 30 reduces the potential of the golf ball 12
being disrupted from its rolling path as the golf ball 12 passes
over the first recess 30 and the second recess 32 when rolling
along the upper surface 38 of the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 after being struck with a golf club 14 where the golf
ball 12 is in an initial position at least partially seated in the
third recess 34.
[0030] The first recess 30, the second recess 32 and the third
recess 34 are all formed with a shape and size that permits the
golf ball 12 to at least partially seat therein. The at least
partial seating of the golf ball 12 in the first recess 30, the
second recess 32 or the third recess 34 causes the golf ball 12 to
resist moving with respect to the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 when the golf ball 12 is at least partially seated in the
first recess 30, the second recess 32 or the third recess 34.
[0031] In certain embodiments, the first recess 30, the second
recess 32 and the third recess 34 each have a generally circular
shape. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the
concepts of the invention permit the first recess 30, the second
recess 32 and/or the third recess 34 may be formed with a
non-circular shape as long as the first recess 30, the second
recess 32 and the third recess 34 retain the functionality set
forth above.
[0032] The elongated golf stroke training device 20 may be defined
as having a first end 26 and a second end 28 at opposite ends
thereof, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The first end 26 is in the
direction in which the golf ball 12 rolls after being struck by the
putter. The second end 28 is opposite the first end 26.
[0033] The elongated golf stroke training device 20 is formed with
a width that is sufficiently narrow to encourage the golfer to
accurately putt the golf ball 12. In certain embodiments, the width
of the elongated golf stroke training device 20 may be less than a
width of the golf ball 12 that is to be used with the putting
training aid 10. In other embodiments, the elongated golf stroke
training device 20 has a width of about 1 inch.
[0034] Opposite sides 36 of the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 may be oriented generally parallel to each other between
the first end 26 and the second end 28. While it is illustrated
that the sides 36 are oriented perpendicular to the upper surface
38, it is possible for the sides 36 to have alternative
orientations with respect to the upper surface 38.
[0035] Intermediate the sides 36, a first alignment line 39 is
provided on the elongated golf stroke training device 20. In
certain embodiments, a distance between the first alignment line 39
and both sides 36 is substantially equal.
[0036] The first alignment line 39 extends from the third recess 34
towards the first end 26. The first alignment line 39 does not need
to be continuous. Additionally, the first alignment line 39 may
include indicia such as an arrow to indicate the direction in which
the golf ball 12 is to roll on the elongated golf stroke training
device 20.
[0037] The elongated golf stroke training device 20 is formed with
a thickness that is sufficiently large such that the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 resists bending and breakage during use.
As such, the thickness may be selected based upon the material from
which the elongated golf stroke training device 20 is fabricated.
In certain embodiments when the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 is fabricated from a plastic material, the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 has a thickness of about 3/8 of an
inch.
[0038] The elongated golf stroke training device 20 is formed with
a length that is sufficiently long to enable the golfer using the
putting training aid 10 to ascertain that the golf ball 12 has been
putted in a substantially straight direction. In certain
embodiments, the length of the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 is at least ten times greater than the width of the
elongated golf stroke training device 20. The length of the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 is at least 24 inches. In
other embodiments, the length of the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 is about 48 inches.
[0039] The elongated golf stroke training device 20 may be
fabricated from a variety of materials using the concepts of the
invention. Examples of suitable materials include plastic, wood,
metal or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, at least a
portion of the elongated golf stroke training device 20 is
fabricated from a substantially clear plastic material.
[0040] Fabricating the elongated golf stroke training device 20
from the substantially clear plastic material enables indicia to be
printed on a lower surface thereof. Alternatively, the indicia may
be provided at an intermediate position that is between the upper
and lower surfaces of the elongated golf stroke training device
20.
[0041] Using either of the preceding configurations enables the
upper surface of the elongated golf stroke training device 20 to be
substantially smooth to facilitate the golf ball 12 rolling over
the surface thereof. Alternatively, the indicia may be printed on
the upper surface of the elongated golf stroke training device 20
in a manner that provides the upper surface of the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 that is substantially smooth.
[0042] The weight of the reflective mechanism 22 and the mounting
mechanism 24 cause the first end of the elongated golf stroke
training device 20 to resist movement during use of the putting
training aid 10. To decrease the potential of the second end 28 of
the elongated golf stroke training device 20 moving during the use
of the putting training aid 10, a lower surface 70 of the elongated
golf stroke training device 20 includes an enhanced friction region
72 that is positioned proximate the second end 28 as illustrated in
FIG. 5. In certain embodiments, the enhanced friction region 72 has
a texture that is similar to sandpaper having a texture.
[0043] The enhanced friction region 72 is thereby contrasted from
the lower surface 70 of the elongated golf stroke training device
20 that is substantially smooth and is not fabricated from a
material that enhances the ability of the elongated golf stroke
training device 20 to resist movement with respect to the surface
on which the elongated golf stroke training device 20 is placed
during used.
[0044] The reflective mechanism 22 may be fabricated from a variety
of materials that provide a relatively high level of reflectivity.
In certain embodiments, the reflective mechanism 22 may be a
mirror. The reflective mechanism 22 may be fabricated from a
plastic material that resists breaking to a greater extent than
reflective mechanisms fabricated from glass.
[0045] The reflective mechanism 22 may include a second alignment
line 40 that is used during the alignment process, as illustrated
in FIGS. 2 and 3. The second alignment line 40 may be oriented in a
generally vertical direction when the reflective mechanism 22 is in
a use configuration. The second alignment line 40 may extend at
least partially between a lower edge 42 of the reflective mechanism
22 and an upper edge 44 of the reflective mechanism 22. In certain
embodiments, the second alignment line 40 extends substantially
between the lower edge 42 and the upper edge 44.
[0046] The second alignment line 40 may have a width that is
sufficiently large to enable the second alignment line 40 to be
readily seen by the golfer using the putting training aid 10.
However, the second alignment line 40 should not be too wide so
that the second alignment line 40 restricts the ability to see the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 and the first alignment
line 39 during the alignment process.
[0047] In certain embodiments, the second alignment line 40 may
have a width of up to about 1/2 of an inch. In other embodiments,
the second alignment line 40 may have a width of about1/8 of an
inch or less as long as the golfer can see the line and the golf
ball 12. While the figures illustrate that the second alignment
line 40 is substantially complete, the second alignment line 40 may
be fabricated in other configurations such as being a dashed
line.
[0048] The reflective mechanism 22 may have a height that is
greater than a width. Forming the reflective mechanism with these
dimensions enhances the ability of the golfer to obtain an accurate
alignment while also enabling the putting training aid 10 to have a
compact configuration when not being used.
[0049] In certain embodiments, the reflective mechanism 22 has a
height of between about 2 inches and about 10 inches. In other
embodiments, the reflective mechanism 22 has a height of between
about 4 inches and about 6 inches.
[0050] In certain embodiments, the reflective mechanism 22 has a
width of between about 1 inch and about 6 inches. In other
embodiments, the reflective mechanism 22 has a width of between
about 3 inches and about 4 inches.
[0051] The mounting mechanism 24 may generally include a base 50
and an arm assembly 52 that extends from the base 50, as
illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. The base 50 may have a length and a width
that are sufficiently large to support the reflective mechanism 22
in a desired position and thereby reduce the likelihood of the
putting training device tipping over once positioned. However, the
base 50 should be sufficiently small to facilitate storage of the
putting training aid 10 when not in use.
[0052] In certain embodiments, the base 50 may have a generally
square or rectangular configuration. The base 50 may have a length
and a width that are both between about 3 inches and about 10
inches. In other embodiments, the base has a length and a width
that are both between 3 inches and about 5 inches.
[0053] The base 50 may be fabricated with a height that is about
the same as the height of the elongated golf stroke training device
20 that is used in conjunction with the putting training aid 10. In
certain embodiments, the height of the base 50 may be between
about1/4 of an inch and about1/2 of an inch.
[0054] The base 50 may be formed with a recess 54 that extends from
an edge of the base 50 towards a central portion of the base 50.
The recess 54 may have a width that is approximately the same as a
width of the elongated golf stroke training device 20 that is used
in conjunction with the putting training aid 10. In certain
embodiments, the recess 54 has a width of between about1/2 of an
inch and about 2 inches.
[0055] The base 50 may be fabricated with a retention device 56
located proximate the recess 54 that is used to retain the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 in a substantially
stationary position with respect to the putting training aid 10
during the use of the putting training aid 10. In certain
embodiments, the retention device 56 is a friction fit between the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 and the base 50. In other
embodiments, the retention device 56 may include a plurality of
fingers mounted along both sides of the recess 54.
[0056] The fingers may be fabricated from a material that allows
the fingers to deflect when the elongated golf stroke training
device 20 is inserted into the recess 54. The fingers thereby
engage the sides of the elongated golf stroke training device 20.
When the elongated golf stroke training device 20 is formed with a
width that is approximately the same as a width of the recess 54,
the fingers do not have to deflect very far when the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 is inserted into the recess 54.
[0057] A force by which the fingers engage the sides of the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 is sufficiently large so
that the elongated golf stroke training device 20 resists movement
with respect to the base 50 during use of the putting training aid
10. However, the force should not be too large so that the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 may be separated from the
putting training aid 10 when not in use.
[0058] The fingers may be fabricated from the same material that is
used to fabricate the other portions of the base 50. Using such a
configuration minimizes the potential that the fingers would become
separated from the base 50.
[0059] In another configuration, the retention device comprises at
least one screw (not shown) that extends into the base 50. The
screw is capable of extending into the recess 54 to engage the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 to thereby retain the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 in a substantially
stationary position with respect to the base 50.
[0060] In another embodiment, sides of the recess 54 each have a
channel (not shown) formed therein. An end of the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 may include an extension (not shown) that
extends from the sides thereof proximate the end of the elongated
golf stroke training device 20 that engages the base 54.
[0061] This configuration enables the elongated golf stroke
training device 20 to slide into engagement with the base 54. A
person of skill in the art will appreciate that the configuration
may be reversed.
[0062] The arm assembly 52 operably attaches the reflective
mechanism 22 to the base 50. The arm assembly 52 may include a
first arm portion and a second arm portion. The first arm portion
may be oriented substantially transverse to the base.
[0063] In certain embodiments, the base 50 has an aperture 64
formed therein having a width and a length that are approximately
the same as the width and the thickness of the first arm portion.
Using such a configuration enables the first arm portion to
frictionally engage the base 50.
[0064] The second arm portion may be attached to the reflective
mechanism 22. In one such configuration, the second arm portion is
attached to a surface of the reflective mechanism 22 using an
adhesive, a fastener or combination thereof.
[0065] A fastening mechanism 66 may be used to operably attach the
first arm portion to the second arm portion. The fastening
mechanism 66 should enable the reflective mechanism 22 to be
pivoted with respect to the base 50 so that the reflective
mechanism 22 may be aligned based upon factors such as the height
of the golfer who is using the putting training aid 10.
[0066] In one such configuration, the fastening mechanism 66 is a
screw and a wing nut. Using such a configuration enables the
fastening mechanism 66 to be adjusted without the use of tools.
[0067] In operation, the elongated golf stroke training device 20
is attached to the putting training aid 10 so that an upper surface
of the elongated golf stroke training device 20 is generally
aligned with an upper surface of the putting training aid 10.
[0068] The elongated golf stroke training device 20 is leveled so
that the sides of the elongated golf stroke training device 20 are
at approximately the same height. In certain embodiments, leveling
may be performed using a leveling mechanism that is incorporated
into at least one of the elongated golf stroke training device 20
and the putting training aid 10.
[0069] While side-to-side leveling of the elongated golf stroke
training device 20 is an important factor in setting up the
invention, the elongated golf stroke training device 20 should be
relatively level with respect to the direction between opposite
ends of the elongated golf stroke training device 20.
[0070] Next, the reflective mechanism 22 is oriented so that when
the golfer is standing adjacent to an end of the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 that is distal the reflective mechanism
22 so that the golfer may see at least a portion of the elongated
golf stroke training device 20 in the reflective mechanism 22 when
in a position that is typically used when putting. This aspect
enables the invention to be used by golfers having various
heights.
[0071] A golf ball 12 is positioned in first recess 30 on the
elongated golf stroke training device 20. The golfer grasps the
putter and positions the head of the putter proximate to the golf
ball 12.
[0072] The golfer then turns his/her head to look towards the
reflective mechanism 22. If the second alignment line 40 is not
aligned with a center of the elongated golf stroke training device
20, the golfer moves his/her feet towards or away from the
elongated golf stroke training device 20 until the second alignment
line 40 is aligned with the first alignment line 39 on the
elongated golf stroke training device 20.
[0073] The golfer then swings the putter with the goal of having
the golf ball 12 roll along an upper surface of the elongated golf
stroke training device 20 until the first end 26 of the elongated
golf stroke training device 20. This process may be repeated using
additional golf balls 12 to enhance the ability of the golfer to
feel when the golfer's body is in an optimum position with respect
to the golf ball 12.
[0074] The invention provides a golfer with instant feedback in a
variety of areas that are important to success. The golfer can
determine whether his or her eyes are directly over the golf ball
12 at the start of the golf stroke. The golf can monitor whether
the golf club 14 is moving straight on the back swing as opposed to
moving inside or outside. The golfer can monitor whether the golf
club 14 has accelerated when moving the golf club 14 into contact
with the golf ball 12.
[0075] The golfer can determine the orientation of the golf club
face when the golf club 14 contacts the golf ball 12. The golf club
face should be oriented straight with respect to the golf ball 12.
If the golf club face is in an open orientation, the golf ball 12
will roll off the elongated golf stroke training device 20 to the
right. If the golf club face is in a closed orientation, the golf
ball 12 will roll off the elongated golf stroke training device 20
to the left. The preceding comments are with respect to a
right-handed golfer. The movement of the golf ball 12 would be
opposite what is described above for a left-handed golfer.
[0076] This process is repeated until the person consistently
causes the golf ball 12 to roll over the first alignment line 39
until reaching the first end 26 of the elongated golf stroke
training device 20.
[0077] Because the first recess 30 is closest to the first end 26
of the elongated golf stroke training device 20, putting from the
first recess 30 has the greatest likelihood of enabling the person
to cause the golf ball 12 to roll along the first alignment line 39
and off the first end 26 of the elongated golf stroke training
device 20.
[0078] Once the person has attained sufficient proficiency at
causing the golf ball 12 to roll along the first alignment line 39
from the first recess 30 to the first end 26, the person repeats
the process with the golf ball 12 positioned in the second recess
32.
[0079] Once the person has attained sufficient proficiency at
causing the golf ball 12 to roll along the first alignment line 39
from the second recess 32 to the first end 26, the person repeats
the process with the golf ball 12 positioned in the third recess
34.
[0080] Through the preceding process, the golfer progressively
develops not only the skill to accurately put but also the
confidence. This process thereby represents a significant
improvement over the process of using the putting training aid
described in Gribovsky, U.S. Pat. No. 8,684,858.
[0081] In the preceding detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which
is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the
invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional
terminology, such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "leading,"
"trailing," etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the
Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments can be
positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional
terminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no way
limiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be
utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without
departing from the scope of the present invention. The preceding
detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting
sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the
appended claims.
[0082] It is contemplated that features disclosed in this
application, as well as those described in the above applications
incorporated by reference, can be mixed and matched to suit
particular circumstances. Various other modifications and changes
will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.
* * * * *