U.S. patent application number 16/817822 was filed with the patent office on 2021-03-04 for golf bag incorporating adjustable shoulder strap assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to Acushnet Company. The applicant listed for this patent is Acushnet Company. Invention is credited to Ian Burgess, Duane Marshall.
Application Number | 20210059388 16/817822 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004717183 |
Filed Date | 2021-03-04 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210059388 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burgess; Ian ; et
al. |
March 4, 2021 |
GOLF BAG INCORPORATING ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER STRAP ASSEMBLY
Abstract
Golf bag and shoulder strap comprising: elongated tubular body
for holding golf clubs; shoulder strap assembly comprising a
pre-curved strap pad having a first end, a second end, and being
configured to slidably receive a strap; the strap having a first
strap end and a second strap end, each attached to the elongated
tubular body; the pre-curved strap pad being positioned in a
predetermined location on a wearer's front, shoulder and back when
the golf bag is mounted on the wearer. Strap may be slidably
received within a buckle and either (i) an interior channel that
extends within the pre-curved strap pad between the first end and
the second end; or (ii) slots and/or tabs that are positioned along
a top exterior portion of the pre-curved strap pad that does not
contact the wearer's front, shoulder and back when the golf bag is
mounted on the wearer.
Inventors: |
Burgess; Ian; (Tiverton,
RI) ; Marshall; Duane; (Greenwich, RI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Acushnet Company |
Fairhaven |
MA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Acushnet Company
Fairhaven
MA
|
Family ID: |
1000004717183 |
Appl. No.: |
16/817822 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16556290 |
Aug 30, 2019 |
|
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16817822 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 13/30 20130101;
A63B 55/408 20151001; A45F 3/047 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45F 3/04 20060101
A45F003/04; A45C 13/30 20060101 A45C013/30; A63B 55/00 20060101
A63B055/00 |
Claims
1. A golf bag having a shoulder strap, comprising: an elongated
tubular body for holding golf clubs; and a shoulder strap assembly
comprising a pre-curved strap pad, the pre-curved strap pad having
a first end, a second end, and is configured to slidably receive a
strap; wherein the strap has a first strap end and a second strap
end, each which is attached to the elongated tubular body; such
that the pre-curved strap pad is positioned in a predetermined
location on a wearer's front, shoulder and back when the golf bag
is mounted on the wearer.
2. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the strap is slidably received
within an interior channel that extends within the pre-curved strap
pad between the first end and the second end.
3. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the strap is slidably received
within slots and/or tabs that are positioned along a top exterior
portion of the pre-curved strap pad that does not contact the
wearer's front, shoulder and back when the golf bag is mounted on
the wearer.
4. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 1, wherein the
strap threads each of the pre-curved strap pad and a buckle
assembly.
5. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 1, wherein the
pre-curved strap pad comprises a sheath and a pre-curved support
member that is at least partially comprised of a silicon
composition and is enclosed within the sheath.
6. The golf bag having a shoulder strap pad of claim 3, wherein the
sheath has an underside that contains surface texturing therein in
a predetermined pattern that is configured to grip any surface that
contacts the underside.
7. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 1, wherein an
underside of the pre-curved strap pad has a contour that at least
partially matches and follows a contour of the wearer's body when
the pre-curved strap pad is positioned in the predetermined
location on the wearer's front, shoulder and back.
8. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 2, wherein the
first end of the pre-curved strap pad is tethered to the buckle
assembly and the buckle assembly is operable with respect to each
of the first end of the pre-curved strap pad and a portion of the
strap that threads the buckle assembly to selectively adjust and
set the position of the pre-curved strap pad into the predetermined
location on the wearer's front, shoulder and back when the buckle
assembly is in a closed position.
9. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 6, wherein the
buckle assembly is in a closed position when i) a first clamping
member of the buckle assembly is rotated toward and forced and
secured against a first portion of the strap threading the buckle
assembly from a first direction thereby forcing and securing the
first portion of the strap threading the buckle assembly against
the first end of the pre-curved strap pad within the buckle
assembly; and ii) a second clamping member of the buckle assembly
is rotated toward and forced and secured against a second portion
of the strap threading the buckle assembly from a second direction,
thereby forcing and securing the first portion of the strap
threading the buckle assembly against a second portion of the first
end of the pre-curved strap pad within the buckle assembly.
10. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 1, wherein the
shoulder strap assembly comprises two pre-curved strap pads, two
straps, and two buckle assemblies.
11. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 8, wherein each
strap threads a hub.
12. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 9, wherein the
hub is disposed between the second end of each pre-curved strap pad
and the second strap end of each strap and slidably receives each
strap in a criss-cross configuration.
13. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 10, wherein the
hub is positioned on the wearer's back when the golf bag is mounted
on the wearer.
14. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 1, wherein the
strap is removably attached at least one end to the elongated
tubular body.
15. The golf bag having a shoulder strap of claim 1, wherein the
strap is slidably adjustable within the pre-curved strap pad while
mounted on the wearer without changing the predetermined location.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in part of co-pending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/556,290, filed on Aug. 30,
2019.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to golf bags having
a single or dual shoulder strap assembly that is configured to be
adjustable for positioning in a predetermined location on a
wearer's front, shoulder and back when the golf bag is mounted on
the wearer.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Both professional and recreational golfers use their golf
bags for many different purposes today. The bags are normally
designed to carry clubs and balls, and accessories such as head
covers, towels, hats, umbrellas, and golf tees. Many golf courses
require that golfers walk the entire course and carry their own
bags. Thus, the golfer is constantly placing the bag over his/her
shoulders, removing the bag from their shoulders, and placing the
bag down or standing-up the bag using a support leg mechanism on
the bag. The golfer is also constantly removing and placing
different clubs in the bag depending upon the shot being made.
Thus, the golf bag and attached shoulder strap assembly needs to be
durable, relatively lightweight, and comfortable when mounted on
the wearer.
[0004] In this regard, a golf bag can be uncomfortable to carry
when an attached shoulder strap isn't shaped and positioned ideally
on the wearer's front, shoulder and back. In conventional golf bag
and shoulder strap assemblies, each end of a flexible strap pad is
tethered to a strap, with each strap also being attached to the
golf bag. These straps can be loosened or tightened between the
strap pad and golf bag to adjust the position of the golf bag with
respect to the wearer. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to
maintain a comfortable strap pad position on the wearer's front,
shoulder and back when loosening or tightening a strap
tethered/connected between the strap pad and golf bag.
[0005] Golf bag manufacturers therefore continuously seek to
develop improved golf bag and shoulder strap assembly
configurations which can solve this problem without meanwhile
negatively impacting distribution of the bag's weight across the
golfer's back on the course. Such improved golf bags and shoulder
strap assemblies, if meanwhile durable and producible cost
effectively within existing golf bag manufacturing processes, would
be particularly useful and desirable. The current golf bag and
adjustable shoulder strap assembly of the invention addresses and
solves these needs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The novel features that are characteristic of the present
invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the
preferred embodiments of the invention, together with further
objects and attendant advantages, are best understood by reference
to the following detailed description in connection with the
accompanying drawings in which like numerals refer to like elements
of the inventive golf bag:
[0007] FIG. 1A is a rear perspective view of a person carrying a
golf bag incorporating a dual shoulder strap assembly according to
one embodiment of the invention;
[0008] FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of a person carrying a
golf bag incorporating a dual shoulder strap assembly according to
another embodiment of the invention;
[0009] FIG. 1C is a rear perspective view of a person carrying a
golf bag incorporating a dual shoulder strap assembly according to
yet another embodiment of the invention;
[0010] FIG. 1D is a front perspective view of a person carrying a
golf bag incorporating a dual shoulder strap assembly according to
any of the embodiments depicted in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B or FIG. 1C;
[0011] FIG. 2A is a close-up view of the dual shoulder strap
assembly depicted in FIG. 1A;
[0012] FIG. 2B is a close-up view of the dual shoulder strap
assembly depicted in FIG. 1B;
[0013] FIG. 2C is a close-up view of the dual shoulder strap
assembly depicted in FIG. 1C;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a close-up view of first and second support
members having different lengths and being configured to be
enclosed by a sheath according to one embodiment of the
invention;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a close-up view of each of a support member and a
gripping member that contains surface texturing in a predetermined
pattern; and
[0016] FIG. 5 is a cross-section of a shoulder strap construction
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 6A is a rear perspective view of a golf bag and
adjustable shoulder strap assembly of the invention mounted on a
wearer before the pre-curved shoulder strap pad is
positioned/adjusted in a predetermined location on a wearer's
front, shoulder and back;
[0018] FIG. 6B is a rear perspective view of a golf bag and
shoulder strap assembly of the invention mounted on a wearer after
the pre-curved shoulder strap pad is positioned/adjusted in a
predetermined location on a wearer's front, shoulder and back;
[0019] FIG. 6C is a front perspective view of a golf bag and
shoulder strap assembly of the invention wherein an adjustable
pre-curved shoulder strap pad according to one embodiment is
mounted and positioned/adjusted in a predetermined location on a
wearer's front, shoulder and back;
[0020] FIG. 6D is a front perspective view of a golf bag and
shoulder strap assembly of the invention wherein an adjustable
pre-curved shoulder strap pad according to a different embodiment
than shown in FIG. 6C is mounted and positioned/adjusted in a
predetermined location on a wearer's front, shoulder and back;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a close-up view of shoulder strap assembly
according to one embodiment;
[0022] FIGS. 8-10 are elevated, side and top views, respectively,
of a pre-curved shoulder strap pad according to one embodiment;
[0023] FIGS. 11-13 are elevated, side and top views, respectively,
of a pre-curved shoulder strap pad according to a different
embodiment than shown in FIGS. 8-10;
[0024] FIG. 14 depicts a pre-curved support member according to one
embodiment that can be enclosed within a pre-curved shoulder strap
pad of the invention, and
[0025] FIGS. 15-17 depict a buckle according to one embodiment that
can be used to secure the strap in a desired position once the
strap is adjusted into a predetermined location on a wearer's
front, shoulder and back while the golf bag is mounted on a
wearer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0026] Accordingly, in one embodiment, a golf bag has a shoulder
strap, comprising: an elongated tubular body for holding golf
clubs; and a shoulder strap assembly comprising a pre-curved strap
pad, the pre-curved strap pad having a first end, a second end, and
is configured to slidably receive a strap; wherein the strap has a
first strap end and a second strap end, each which is attached to
the elongated tubular body; such that the pre-curved strap pad is
positioned in a predetermined location on a wearer's front,
shoulder and back when the golf bag is mounted on the wearer.
[0027] The strap may be slidably received within an interior
channel that extends within the pre-curved strap pad between the
first end and the second end.
[0028] The strap may be slidably received within slots and/or tabs
that are positioned along a top exterior portion of the pre-curved
strap pad that does not contact the wearer's front, shoulder and
back when the golf bag is mounted on the wearer.
[0029] The strap may thread each of the pre-curved strap pad and a
buckle assembly.
[0030] The pre-curved strap pad may comprise a sheath and a
pre-curved support member that is at least partially comprised of a
silicon composition and is enclosed within the sheath.
[0031] The sheath may have an underside that contains surface
texturing therein in a predetermined pattern that is configured to
grip any surface that contacts the underside.
[0032] An underside of the pre-curved strap pad may have a contour
that at least partially matches and follows a contour of the
wearer's body when the pre-curved strap pad is positioned in the
predetermined location on the wearer's front, shoulder and
back.
[0033] The first end of the pre-curved strap pad may be tethered to
the buckle assembly and the buckle assembly is operable with
respect to each of the first end of the pre-curved strap pad and a
portion of the strap that threads the buckle assembly to
selectively adjust and set the position of the pre-curved strap pad
into the predetermined location on the wearer's front, shoulder and
back when the buckle assembly is in a closed position.
[0034] The buckle assembly may be in a closed position when i) a
first clamping member of the buckle assembly is rotated toward and
forced and secured against a first portion of the strap threading
the buckle assembly from a first direction thereby forcing and
securing the first portion of the strap threading the buckle
assembly against the first end of the pre-curved strap pad within
the buckle assembly; and ii) a second clamping member of the buckle
assembly is rotated toward and forced and secured against a second
portion of the strap threading the buckle assembly from a second
direction, thereby forcing and securing the first portion of the
strap threading the buckle assembly against a second portion of the
first end of the pre-curved strap pad within the buckle
assembly.
[0035] The shoulder strap assembly may comprise two pre-curved
strap pads, two straps, and two buckle assemblies. Each strap may
thread a hub. The hub may be disposed between the second end of
each pre-curved strap pad and the second strap end of each strap
and slidably receives each strap in a criss-cross configuration.
The hub may be positioned on the wearer's back when the golf bag is
mounted on the wearer.
[0036] The strap may be removably attached at least one end to the
elongated tubular body.
[0037] The strap may be slidably adjusted within the pre-curved
strap pad while mounted on the wearer without changing the
predetermined location.
[0038] In a different embodiment, a golf bag of the invention
comprises an elongated tubular body for holding golf clubs; and a
shoulder strap assembly comprising: (i) a first strap having a
first end and a second end; (ii) a second strap having a first end
and a second end; and (ii) a bridge member having a first end and a
second end. The first bridge member is disposed undetachably
between the second end of the first strap and the second end of the
second strap. Meanwhile, the elongated tubular body is configured
to be detachably adjoined to each of the first end of the first
strap, the first end of the second strap, the second end of the
first strap and the second end of the second strap.
[0039] In one embodiment, the first strap comprises a first sheath,
a first support member, and a first gripping layer; and the second
strap comprises a second sheath, a second support member, and a
second gripping member; wherein each sheath has a length L.sub.s;
each support member has a length L.sub.su; and each gripping member
has a length L.sub.g; wherein L.sub.g<L.sub.su<L.sub.s such
that each of the first strap and the second strap has a
predetermined radius R.sub.p.
[0040] In one embodiment, the bridge member, the first strap and
the second strap are vertically coupled to form the shoulder strap
assembly. In another embodiment, the bridge member, the first strap
and the second strap are coupled horizontally to form the shoulder
strap assembly.
[0041] In one embodiment, the bridge member comprises a flexible
material.
[0042] In one embodiment, the first strap and the second strap are
each flexibly adjoined to the elongated tubular body; and the first
strap is flexibly adjoined to the second strap.
[0043] In one particular embodiment, the shoulder strap assembly is
configured such that the second strap has a shape that is a
reflection of the first strap's shape. In another embodiment, the
first strap has a shape that differs from a shape of the second
strap.
[0044] In one embodiment, at least one of the first strap sheath
and the second strap sheath has an underside that contains surface
texturing therein in a predetermined pattern that is configured to
grip any surface that contacts the underside. In a specific such
embodiment, the surface texturing is rubber-based.
[0045] In one embodiment, a golf bag of the invention comprises an
elongated tubular body for holding golf clubs and a shoulder strap
assembly comprising first and second straps; wherein a first
section of each strap is configured to be adjacent a front of a
wearer; a second section of each strap is configured to be adjacent
a shoulder of the wearer; and a third section is configured to be
adjacent to the wearer's back; and wherein the third section has a
curve such that an upper portion of the third section extends
vertically with respect to the wearer and a lower portion of the
third section is horizontal with respect to the wearer.
[0046] A golf bag of the invention may comprise an elongated
tubular body for holding golf clubs and a shoulder strap assembly,
wherein the shoulder strap assembly comprises first and second
straps; each strap having (i) a concave radius r.sub.cc extending
from a first end of the strap to approximate a second end of the
strap; and (ii) a convex radius r.sub.cv at the second end of the
strap; wherein r.sub.cc>r.sub.cv.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0047] Advantageously, a golf bag of the invention includes a dual
shoulder strap assembly which enables and facilitates mounting of
both straps about the golfer's shoulders as well as improves
continued distribution of the bag's weight across the golfer's back
on the course and is meanwhile durable, possesses high mechanical
strength, and is producible cost effectively within existing golf
bag manufacturing processes. Collectively, FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, and
FIG. 1C depict rear perspective views of a person carrying a golf
bag incorporating a dual shoulder strap assembly according to thr
different constructions, and FIG. 1D depicts a frontal perspective
views thereof. Golfer 1 carries golf bag 2 which comprises
elongated tubular body 4 for holding golf clubs; as well as a dual
shoulder strap assembly 6 that includes (i) a first strap 8, having
a first end 10 and a second end 12; (ii) a second strap 14, having
a first end 10 and a second end 12; and (iii) a bridge member 16
having a first end 18 and a second end 20.
[0048] Elongated tubular body 4 of golf bag 2 has a closed end 3
and an opposing open end 5, into which golf clubs 7 can be inserted
into open end 5 of tubular body 4 (which has a cavity that is
bordered by side walls (not shown)) of golf bag 2 such that,
usually, golf club heads 9 with head covers 11 project from open
end 5. The sidewall forming the cavity (not shown) within elongated
tubular body 4 may include pockets and rings, and other
compartments for golf balls, and accessories such as towels, hats,
gloves, golf tees, beverages, and the like.
[0049] Elongated tubular body 4 can be made of any suitable textile
material including leather, and woven/non-woven fabrics. Also, golf
bag 2 may include a carrying handle and support leg assembly. The
same or different fabric materials can be used to construct
elongated tubular body 4, such as lightweight, high-strength
fabrics and/or plastics. For example, woven fabrics made of nylon,
polypropylene, or polyester, can be used. Elastic webbing made of
spandex or rubber fabric material also can be used. The webbing
normally is relatively thin and has minimal or no padding. Plastic,
metal, composite, or other suitable material may be used as
well.
[0050] In turn, FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C are enlarged/close-up
views of the dual shoulder strap assemblies 6 depicted collectively
in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, and FIGS. 1C, and 1D respectively.
[0051] In each of these figures, bridge member 16 is disposed
between and connecting the second ends 12 of first strap 8 and
second strap 14 undetachably/unremovably/fixedly. Bridge member 16
is preferably formed from fabrics and/or compositions that are
entirely or at least partially flexible, expandable, stretchable or
otherwise pliable such as spandex or a rubber-containing fabric
material. However, it is also envisioned that non-flexible fabrics
and/or compositions may also be suitable materials for bridge
member 16 such as an undetachable, non-removably attached
plastic.
[0052] Meanwhile, elongated tubular body 4 of FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B,
FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D is configured to be detachably
adjoined/connected to first ends 10 and second ends 12 of each of
first strap 8 and second strap 14 at connection mechanisms 13 and
15, respectively.
[0053] It is envisioned that first ends 10 and second ends 12 may
be adjoined to elongated tubular body 4 either directly, or
alternatively, indirectly by, for example, connecting straps 17
which are preferably undetachably/unremovably/fixedly attached
to/ajoined with/to first ends 10 and second ends 12 yet
detachably/removably attached/tethered to/ajoined with elongated
tubular body 4 via attaching mechanisms 19 such as but not limited
to sliders or other buckles, clips, clasps, hubs, pivots, eyehooks,
loops, ties/knots, tri-glide clip, slide piece, or adjusting member
that allows the shoulder strap to be adjusted lengthwise.
Connecting straps 17 preferably have adjustable lengths.
[0054] In some embodiments, in lieu of attaching mechanisms 19, a
bridge member such as bridge member 16 may be used to adjoin first
ends 10 and second ends 12 to elongated tubular body 4 undetachably
at both ends of each of straps 17. Any suitably shaped/constructed
flexible or non-flexible or at least partially flexible bridge
member may be used to adjoin first ends 10 and second ends 12 to
elongated tubular body 4.
[0055] In one embodiment, as is represented in the cross-section of
first strap 8 of FIG. 5, first strap 8 (as well as second strap 14,
not shown) may be constructed so that sheath 22 is adjacent to
support member 24, which in turn is adjacent to gripping member 25
(having an underside with surface texturing 26 thereon in a
predetermined pattern 27 such as also depicted in FIG. 4); wherein
sheath 22 has a length L.sub.s; support member 24 has a length
L.sub.su; and gripping member 25 has a length L.sub.g; wherein
L.sub.g<L.sub.su<L.sub.s such that each strap (first strap
8/second strap 14) has a predetermined radius R.sub.p. This
construction can facilitate and improve how a strap 8 conforms to
the wearer's shoulder. In a specific embodiment, surface texturing
26 in a predetermined pattern 27 may be formed of a rubber-based
material.
[0056] In another embodiment, each strap comprises a sheath that
encloses a support member which has a contour that is configured to
be enclosed by the sheath. In this embodiment, the support
member(s) are preferably flexible, curved, lightweight and
relatively flat when not flexed or otherwise bent.
[0057] In one embodiment, bridge member 16, first strap 8 and the
second strap 14 are coupled horizontally within shoulder strap
assembly 6 such as in FIG. 1A. In another embodiment, bridge member
16, first strap 8 and second strap 14 are coupled vertically within
shoulder strap assembly 6 such as in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C. Other
constructions are likewise envisioned, for example, wherein bridge
member 16, first strap 8 and second strap 14 are coupled diagonally
within shoulder strap assembly 6.
[0058] As used herein, the phrase "coupled vertically" means that
the intersection of first end 18 (of bridge member 16) and second
end 12 (of first strap 8) is vertically aligned with the
intersection of second end 20 (of bridge member 16) and second end
12 (of second strap 14). Meanwhile, as used herein, the phrase
"coupled horizontally" means that the intersection of first end 18
(of bridge member 16) and second end 12 (of first strap 8) is
horizontally aligned with the intersection of second end 20 (of
bridge member 16) and second end 12 (of second strap 14).
[0059] In one embodiment, first strap 8 and second strap 14 are
each flexibly adjoined to elongated tubular body 4; and first strap
8 is flexibly adjoined to second strap 14.
[0060] In one particular embodiment, shoulder strap assembly 6 is
configured such that second strap 14 has a shape that is a
reflection of the shape of first strap 8. In another particular
embodiment, shoulder strap assembly 6 is configured such that
second strap 14 has a shape that is a partial reflection of the
shape of first strap 8.
[0061] In yet another embodiment, shoulder strap assembly 6 is
configured such that second strap 14 has a shape that is a
translation of the shape of first strap 8. In still another
embodiment, shoulder strap assembly 6 is configured such that
second strap 14 has a shape that is a partial translation of the
shape of first strap 8.
[0062] In alternative embodiments, first strap 8 has a shape that
differs partially or in its entirety from the shape of second strap
14.
[0063] In particular embodiments, first strap 8 is shorter than
second strap 14, which can facilitate a golfer's mounting and/or
dismounting of the golf bag assembly by permitting one or more ends
of first strap 8 to be released/disconnected from elongated body 4
before releasing one or more ends of second strap 14 so that the
golf bag assembly can be slidably removed perhaps without even
disconnecting second strap 14 from elongated body 4.
[0064] In one particular embodiment of a golf bag of the invention,
shoulder strap assembly 6 comprises first strap 8 and second strap
14; wherein a first section of each strap is configured to be
adjacent the wearer's front or chest area; a second section of each
strap is configured to be adjacent or rest upon a shoulder of the
wearer; and a third section of each strap is configured to be
adjacent wearer's back; and wherein third section has a curve such
that an upper portion of the third section extends vertically with
respect to both the strap assembly and the wearer and a lower
portion of the third section extends horizontally with respect to
both the strap assembly and the wearer. It is envisioned that the
lengths of each of the first, second and third sections can be
pre-selected and coordinated considering torso measurement ranges
for wearers or be customized according to match a particular
wearer's torso measurements.
[0065] As emphasized on first strap 8 in FIG. 2A, first strap 8 and
second strap 14 may each have (i) a concave radius r.sub.cc
extending from first end 10 to approximate a second end 12; and
(ii) a convex radius r.sub.cv at second end 12; wherein
r.sub.cc>r.sub.cv.
[0066] It is envisioned that any of the
constructions/shaped/contours of first strap 8 and second strap 14
discussed herein may be reversed, which may be of particular use
for example when considering whether a person is left-handed or
right-handed.
[0067] Any portion of shoulder straps 8 and 14 can have a cushioned
portion made of any suitable material including, but not limited
to, foams, natural and synthetic leathers, natural and synthetic
rubbers, woven and non-wovens, and natural and synthetic fabrics.
Foamed materials are particularly preferred for constructing the
cushioned portions. These foamed materials have good stability and
yet are also sufficiently flexible to make the cushioned portions
comfortable when resting on the shoulders. These foamed materials
can have a relatively soft durometer, for example, the hardness can
be in the range of about 10 to about 80 Shore A. Another hardness
scale (Asker.RTM.C) can be used to measure the indentation hardness
of the foams, soft rubbers, elastomers or other materials, and the
Asker C hardness is normally in the range of 25 to 75. In general,
foam compositions are made by forming gas bubbles in a polymer
mixture using a foaming (blowing) agent. As the bubbles form, the
mixture expands and forms a foam composition having either an open
or closed cellular structure. Many foams contain both open and
closed cells. Various thermoplastic and thermoset materials may be
used in forming the foam compositions as discussed further below.
In one preferred embodiment, a polyurethane foam composition is
used to form the foam material. In another embodiment, ethylene
vinyl acetate (EVA) foams are used. In a particularly preferred
embodiment, a high-stretch, high-recovery foam material referred to
as AriaPrene.TM., and available from Tiong Long Corp. can be used.
This foam material is hypo-allergenic, lightweight, non-toxic, and
decomposable.
[0068] Other thermoplastic elastomers that can be used in
accordance with this invention include polyester-polyether block
copolymers such as Hytrel.RTM. resins, available from DuPont. These
block copolymers are available in different grades and contain hard
(crystalline) segments of polybutylene terephthalate and soft
(amorphous) segments based on long-chain polyether glycols.
Polyether-amide block copolymers, which are commonly known as
Pebax.RTM. resins, and are available from Arkema, Inc. (Columbs,
France), also may be used. Other suitable thermoplastic polymers
include, but are not limited to, polyurethanes, polyureas,
silicones, ethylene acid copolymer ionomers, polyesters,
polyolefins, polyamides, polyamide-ethers, polyamide-esters;
fluoropolymers, polystyrenes, polyvinyl chlorides, polycarbonates,
polyethers, and polyimides including homopolymers, copolymers, and
modified polymers and blends thereof.
[0069] Natural and synthetic rubber materials also may be used.
Suitable rubber materials include, but are not limited to,
polybutadiene, polyisoprene, ethylene propylene rubber ("EPR"),
ethylene-propylene-diene ("EPDM") rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber,
styrenic block copolymer rubbers (such as "SI", "SIS", "SB", "SBS",
"SIBS", "SEBS", "SEPS" and the like, where "S" is styrene, "I" is
isobutylene, "E" is ethylene, "P" is propylene, and "B" is
butadiene), polyalkenamers such as, for example, polyoctenamer,
butyl rubber, halobutyl rubber, polystyrene elastomers,
polyethylene elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, polyurea
elastomers, metallocene-catalyzed elastomers and plastomers,
copolymers of isobutylene and p-alkylstyrene, halogenated
copolymers of isobutylene and p-alkylstyrene, copolymers of
butadiene with acrylonitrile, polychloroprene, alkyl acrylate
rubber, chlorinated isoprene rubber, acrylonitrile chlorinated
isoprene rubber, and blends of two or more thereof.
[0070] Advantageously, a golf bag and adjustable shoulder strap
assembly of the invention desirably allows the wearer to optimize
strap pad comfort and positioning on the wearer's front, shoulder
and back while also facilitating golf bag positioning against the
particular wearer. In a golf bag and adjustable shoulder strap
assembly of the invention, a strap is slidably and adjustably
received within a pre-curved strap pad and can be locked/secured
into a desired position such that the pre-curved strap pad is
located in a predetermined location on a wearer's front, shoulder
and back when the golf bag is mounted on the wearer.
[0071] In this regard, FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 7-17 represent and
depict several non-limiting embodiments of a golf bag and
adjustable shoulder strap assembly of the invention. Generally,
FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are each rear perspective views of a golf bag
and adjustable shoulder strap assembly of the invention, differing
in that in FIG. 6A, the pre-curved strap pad has not been adjusted
within the shoulder strap assembly (wearer 60's belt 79 is
visible); whereas in FIG. 6B, the pre-curved strap pad has indeed
been adjusted within the adjustable shoulder strap assembly (wearer
60's belt in not visible).
[0072] Meanwhile, FIG. 6C and FIG. 6D are each front perspective
views of a golf bag and adjustable shoulder strap assembly of the
invention, differing in that FIG. 6C depicts one pre-curved strap
pad according to the invention, whereas FIG. 6D depicts a different
pre-curved strap pad according to the invention.
[0073] FIG. 7 is a close-up view of one possible adjustable
shoulder strap assembly of the invention. FIGS. 8-10 are elevated,
side and top views, respectively, of a pre-curved strap pad
according to one embodiment; and FIGS. 11-13 are elevated, side and
top views, respectively, of a pre-curved strap pad according to a
different embodiment than that depicted in FIGS. 8-10.
[0074] FIG. 14 represents one possible pre-curved support member
that can be enclosed within a sheath portion of any pre-curved
strap pad of the invention; and FIGS. 15-17 represent one possible
securing means (a buckle) for securing the strap once it is secured
to position in the pre-curved strap pad in a predetermined location
on a wearer's front, shoulder and back when the golf bag is mounted
on a wearer.
[0075] Now referring specifically to FIGS. 6A,6B, 6C, 6D, and/or
7-17 collectively, golf bag 30 has an elongated tubular body 34 for
holding golf clubs 36; an adjustable shoulder strap assembly 38
comprising a pre-curved strap pad 40 having a first end 42, a
second end 44, and being configured to slidably receive a strap 46
within an aperture portion 32 of pre-curved strap pad 40. Strap 46
has a first strap end 48 and a second strap end 50, each which is
attached/connected to elongated tubular body 34 such that
pre-curved strap pad 40 is positioned in a predetermined location
52 on a wearer 60's front 54, shoulder 56 and back 58 when golf bag
30 is mounted on wearer 60.
[0076] Strap 46 may be slidably received within an interior channel
62 that extends within pre-curved strap pad 40 between first end 42
and second strap end 44. In this embodiment, strap 46 is not
visible when looking at top exterior portion 64 of pre-curved strap
pad 40.
[0077] In alternative embodiments, as is shown in FIGS. 6D and
11-13, strap 46 may be slidably received within slots/tabs 66 that
are positioned along top exterior portion 64 of pre-curved strap
pad 40 such that at least segments 67 of strap 46 are visible when
looking at top exterior portion 64.
[0078] In each of these embodiments, top exterior portion 64 of
pre-curved strap pad 40 does not contact the wearer 60's front 54,
shoulder 56 and back 58 when golf bag 30 is mounted on wearer
60.
[0079] Strap 46 threads each of the pre-curved strap pad 40 and
buckle assembly 68.
[0080] Pre-curved strap pad 40 comprises a sheath 70 and a
pre-curved support member 72 which can at least partially be
comprised of a silicon composition and is enclosed within sheath
70. Sheath 70 has an underside 74 that can be configured to grip
any surface that contacts the underside. Underside 74 has a
pre-curved contour 76 that at least partially matches and follows a
contour 78 of wearer 60's body 80 when pre-curved strap pad 40 is
positioned in predetermined location 52 on wearer 60's front 54,
shoulder 56 and back 58.
[0081] First end 42 of pre-curved strap pad 40 can be tethered to
buckle assembly 68 which is operable with respect to each of first
end 42 and a portion of strap 46 that threads buckle assembly 68 to
selectively adjust and set pre-curved strap pad 40 into
predetermined location/position 52 on the wearer 60's front 54,
shoulder 56 and back 58 when buckle assembly 68 is in a closed
position 82.
[0082] Buckle assembly 68 is in a closed position 82 when i) a
first clamping member 84 of buckle assembly 68 is rotated toward
and forced and secured against a first portion 86 of strap 46
threading buckle assembly 68 from a first direction 88 thereby
forcing and securing the first portion 86 against first end 42 of
pre-curved strap pad 40 within buckle assembly 68; and ii) a second
clamping member 90 of buckle assembly 68 is rotated toward and
forced and secured against second portion 92 of strap 46 threading
buckle assembly 68 from second direction 94, thereby forcing and
securing first portion 86 against second portion 92.
[0083] It is understood that buckle 68 represents one of several
different securing mechanisms that can be utilized to set
pre-curved strap pad 40 into predetermined location/position 52 on
the wearer 60's front 54, shoulder 56 and back 58 when the securing
mechanism is in a closed position.
[0084] The adjustable shoulder strap assembly may comprise two
pre-curved strap pads 40, two straps 46, and two buckle assemblies
68. Each strap 46 threads a hub 96 which is disposed between second
end 44 of each pre-curved strap pad and second strap end 50 of each
strap 46 and slidably receives each strap 46 in a criss-cross
configuration. Hub 96 is positioned on wearer 60's back 58 when
golf bag 30 is mounted on wearer 60. Embodiments are indeed
envisioned, however, wherein the adjustable shoulder strap assembly
has a single pre-curved strap pad.
[0085] At least one end of strap 46 (first strap end 48 and/or
second strap end 50) may be removably attached to elongated tubular
body 34 such as with a clip.
[0086] Accordingly, pre-curved strap pad positioning and golf bag
placement with respect to the wearer can be set and changed simply
and easily by slidably adjusting the strap within the pre-curved
strap pad. And desirably, golf bag positioning against the wearer
can even be adjusted thereby without changing the position of the
shoulder strap pad on the wearer's front, shoulder and back during
that adjustment since the strap is slidably adjustable within and
through the pre-curved strap pad.
[0087] When numerical lower limits and numerical upper limits are
set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these
values may be used. Other than in the operating examples, or unless
otherwise expressly specified, all of the numerical ranges,
amounts, values and percentages such as those for amounts of
materials and others in the specification may be read as if
prefaced by the word "about" even though the term "about" may not
expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly,
unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set
forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations
that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be
obtained by the present invention. All patents, publications, test
procedures, and other references cited herein, including priority
documents, are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such
disclosure is not inconsistent with this invention and for all
jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted. It is
understood that the compositions, golf ball components, and
finished golf balls described and illustrated herein represent only
some embodiments of the invention. It is appreciated by those
skilled in the art that various changes and additions can be made
to compositions and products without departing from the spirit and
scope of this invention. It is intended that all such embodiments
be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *