ALIGNMENT AID SYSTEM

Abstract

The subject invention comprises a system, and method of using the system, for providing improved alignment in multiple dimensions. Appropriate settings include woodworking, machining, and sports, although there are several other practical applications for this technology. This system allows for simultaneous alignment along the x, y, and z axes. Another embodiment of this invention incorporates the multi-dimensional alignment station with one or more horizontal alignment stations. Each of the alignment stations have a base and top, guides that fit into the station tops and bases, and positional locks that lock the rotating element into place relative to the base plate and the alignment guides in place within the alignment stations.

Description

BACKGROUND

The prior art includes systems that either fail to take into account one or more of these variables, or cannot be easily adjusted to modify these different variables. Further, golfers and golf instructors will benefit from a system that allows a coach to more easily judge the degree to which a golfer's alignment differs from the desired alignments. Current alignment aids do not provide adequate instructions and easy compatibility with cameras to maximize the view captured by such cameras or similar sensors. Also, current alignment aids are complicated with multiple parts, multiple locking elements, requiring multi-point and complicated adjustments in order to set multiple alignment guides.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject invention comprises a system, and method of using the system, for providing improved alignment in multiple settings. Appropriate settings include woodworking, machining, and sports, although there are several other practical applications for this technology.

The subject invention also relates to an alignment aid system that allows a coach to have a point of reference for each of these alignment factors relative to the user's actual alignments. The subject invention also provides an improved system for users to calibrate their stance and other positions relative to a coach's vantage point to improve a coach's ability to observe differences between the desired motion and the user's actual motion. This application is particularly useful for coaching systems involving still and video photography or other sensors, as the subject invention allows a user to position a camera or other sensor at an optimal position relative to the user so that optimal observation for coaches can be obtained, and optimal feedback can be provided.

One application relates to golf, as the invention provides an alignment aid for aligning a golfer's body, golf ball, golf club, club path, ball path, ball loft and other relevant factors relative to a given target that will benefit from the use of adjustable guides that can be fixed in place. The invention employs one or more alignment stations that have a base plate that anchors into the ground, guides that fit into the base plate, a top rotating element that fits onto the base plate and secures the first set of guides into place, and a positional lock that locks the rotating element into place relative to the base plate. Additional guides can be placed in the top rotating element, as to provide additional guidelines that are different from the guidelines created by the base plate guides. The vertical alignment apparatus allows the user to set a vertical alignment guide at any adjustable vertical angle, and subsequently adjust the set vertical angle along the horizontal plane to any horizontal orientation. After the vertical alignment and horizontal alignments are set to the preferred position, the alignments may then be locked in place. The above structure can be used in a system that incorporates multiple alignment stations, which may be connected by the above-mentioned guides.

When properly employed, the subject invention is an alignment system that allows a user to align multiple elements at once, including vertical and horizontal positions, and thereby improve the overall alignment. For instance, the above system will improve the direction a ball is struck by a golfer. The above system also allows a golfer to make advanced shots, such as draws and fades through the use of curved guides with the above system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the alignment aid system.

FIG. 1B is a top view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a side view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is a side sectional view taken in the 200A-200A plane of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1E is a front sectional view taken in the 200B-200B plane of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 2A is an exploded view of the alignment aid system shown in FIG. 1A showing the bottom and side view of the station top, and a top and side view of the station base.

FIG. 2B an alternate exploded view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 2A

FIG. 2C is an alternate exploded view of the alignment system shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIG. 3A is a Front perspective view of the station top of the alignment station.

FIG. 3B is a top view of the station top shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a side view of the station top shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 3D is a sectional view taken in the 201-201 plane of FIG. 3B.

FIG. 3E is a bottom view of the station top shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of the station base of the alignment station.

FIG. 4B is a top view of the station base shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a side view of the station base shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B.

FIG. 4D is a side, sectional view taken in the 202-202 plane of FIGS. 4A and 4B.

FIG. 4E is a bottom view of the station base shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4F is a bottom perspective view of the station base shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4G is a bottom perspective view of the station base shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is an alternate front perspective view of the alignment aid system, with the parts disassembled and laid out.

FIG. 5B is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the alignment aid system, including four alignment stations and six alignment guides.

FIG. 5C is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIG. 5B, showing an alternate arrangement of the elements.

FIG. 5D is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, showing an alternate arrangement of the elements.

FIG. 5E is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D, showing an alternate arrangement of the elements.

FIG. 5F is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIG. 1A, incorporating optimally placed cameras.

FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the alignment aid system comprising a horizontal station and a vertical station, also showing three alignment guides.

FIG. 6B is a top view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a side view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D is a rear perspective view of the vertical station base and the horizontal station top of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6E is a front view of the vertical station base and the horizontal station top of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6D.

FIG. 6F is a top view of the vertical station base and the horizontal station top of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6D.

FIG. 6G is a sectional view of the vertical station base and the horizontal station top of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6D, taken at the 601-601 plane of FIG. 6F.

FIG. 6H is a front perspective exploded view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6I is a rear perspective exploded view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a rear perspective view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 6D.

FIG. 7B is a rear view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a front view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7D is a top view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7E is a bottom view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7F is a side view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7G is a sectional view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A, taken in the 801-801 plane of FIG. 7C.

FIG. 8A is a rear perspective view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8B is a rear plan view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C is a front view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8D is a top view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8E is a bottom view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8F is a side view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8G is a sectional view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A, taken in the 801-801 plane of FIG. 8C.

FIG. 9A is a rear perspective view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 9B is a front view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C is a bottom view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9D is a side view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9E is a top view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9F is a sectional view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A, taken in the 802-802 plane of FIG. 9E.

FIG. 10A is a rear perspective view of the horizontal station shown in FIG. 6D.

FIG. 10B is a front view of the horizontal station shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a bottom view of the horizontal station shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10D is a side view of the horizontal station shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10E is a top view of the horizontal station shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10F is a sectional view of the horizontal station shown in FIG. 10A, taken in the 803-803 plane of FIG. 10E.

FIG. 11A is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of alignment aid system, including one multi-dimensional alignment station, three additional alignment stations, four horizontal alignment guides, and one vertical alignment guide.

FIG. 11B is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of alignment aid system, including one multi-dimensional alignment station, three additional alignment stations, four horizontal alignment guides, and one vertical alignment guide.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the alignment aid system 100. In this embodiment, alignment aid system 100 comprises one alignment station 110 and two alignment guides 160. Alignment station 110 consists of station base 120, station top 130, and station joiner 140. Station top 130 further comprises top joiner port 131, degree markings 136, and two top ports 151. Station base 120 further comprises two anchor ports 122, two anchor port shoulders 123, two perpendicular ports 153, two base ports 152, and angular indexes 126. Station joiner 140 further comprises washer 143 and nut 142. As shown, first alignment guide 161 passes through one top port 151, and second alignment guide 162 passes through one base port 152.

The length that alignment guides 160 extend from alignment station 110 is set and the angles between first alignment guide 161 and second alignment guide 162 are set by loosening station joiner 140, accomplished by turning nut 142, thereby loosening the tension against top port lock 145, here washer 143. In this loosened state, station top 130 may be rotated concentrically about bolt 141 (shown in FIG. 2) until first alignment guide 161 and second alignment guide 162 are oriented in the desired position. Degree markings 136 can be measured against angular index 126 in order to accurately set and measure the angle between first alignment guide 161 and second alignment guide 162. Also, alignment guides 160 may be adjusted to increase the distance the end of the alignment guide 160 extends from the station base by pulling away from, or shortened to decrease the distance the end of the alignment guide160 extends from the station base by pushing into alignment station 110. Different length alignment guides 160 can be used to achieve shorter or longer extensions from both sides of the alignment station 110. Once the angles of first alignment guide 161 and second alignment guide 162 and the desired lengths of alignment guides 160 are set, the angles and lengths can be locked in place by tightening station joiner 140, accomplished by tightening nut 142 to fit firmly against top port lock 145, here washer 143.

FIG. 1B is a top view of the alignment aid system shown in FIG. 1A. This view shows the top portion of station joiner 140, comprising bolt 141 and nut 142. Also shown are first alignment guide 161 passing through a top port 151, and second alignment guide 162 passing through a base port 152. Also visible are four angular indexes 126, and degree markings 136. Also shown are two anchor ports 122, two perpendicular ports 153, and two anchor port shoulders 123.

FIG. 1C is a side view of the alignment aid system 100 shown in FIG. 1A. Shown more fully is nut 142, here shown as a wing nut. Also shown are the front side of alignment station 110, a head on view of first alignment guide 161, and a side view of second alignment guide 162. In this view, first alignment guide 161 and second alignment guide 162 are arranged such that they are perpendicular to one another. In this embodiment, alignment aid system 100 is arranged about a horizontal plane. Under appropriate circumstances, as one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, alignment aid system could be arranged about a vertical plane, or any other angular plane.

FIG. 1D is a side sectional view taken in the 200A-200A plane of FIG. 1B. As shown, top port 151 passes fully through station top 130. When station top 130 is placed on station base 120, top joiner port 131 and base joiner port 121 align to create a continuous path through which station joiner 140, namely bolt 141 can pass from the top of distinct indentation 125 through to the bottom of lock seat 132.

FIG. 1E is a front sectional view taken in the 200B-200B plane of FIG. 1B. As shown, bottom port 152 passes fully through station base 120. When an alignment guide 160, here second alignment guide 162 and/or fourth alignment guide 164, fits inside base port 152, base port lock 135 touches guide 160. When station joiner 140 is tightened, alignment guide 160 is locked in place. Also shown are angular inexes 126. Also shown is the interaction of base port lock 135 with base port 152, as port lock 135 fits near the top end of base port 152. Also shown are the interaction of centering protrusion 124 with protrusion receptacle 134, with protrusion receptacle 134 fitting around centering protrusion 124. When station top 130 is placed on station base 120, top joiner port 131 and base joiner port 121 align to create a continuous path through which station joiner 140, namely bolt 141, can pass from the top of distinct indentation 125 through to the bottom of lock seat 132.

FIG. 2A is an exploded view of the alignment station 110 shown in FIG. 1. In this view, the station top is angled upward, and the station base is angled downward, centering protrusion 124 is visible, located centrally on the top surface of station base 120. Also visible is protrusion receptacle 134 on the bottom surface of station top 130, which comprises a round notch located centrally on the bottom surface of station top 130. Protrusion receptacle 134 is shaped to fit snugly over centering protrusion 124 when station top 130 is placed on top of station base 120. Centering protrusion 124 fits precisely into protrusion receptacle 134, allowing precise rotation of station top 130 against the top surface of station base 120. Top joiner port 131 is located centrally and extends vertically through station base 130. Base joiner port 121 is located centrally and extends vertically through station base 120. Top joiner port 131 fits in line with base joiner port 121 such that when station top 130 is positioned on top of station base 120, centering protrusion 124 fits precisely into protrusion receptacle 134. Bolt 141 is shown, and is shaped to fit freely through base joiner port 121 and top joiner port 131, and extend beyond the top surface of lock seat notch 133. Bolt 141 is shaped to thread into nut 142. Also shown is base port lock 135 on the bottom surface of station top 130.

FIG. 2B is an exploded view of the alignment station 110 shown in FIG. 1. In this view the top of the station top is angled downward and the station base is also angled downward.

FIG. 2C is an exploded view of the alignment station 110 shown in FIG. 1. In this view the top of the station top is angled upward and the station base is also angled upward.

FIG. 3A is a front perspective view of the station top of the alignment station. As shown, station top 130 further comprises lock seat notch 133, lock seat 132, and top joiner port 131. Lock seat notch 133 consists of a notch sized to allow top port lock 145, here washer 143, to fit inside. Lock seat notch 133 partially overlaps the exposed upper areas of top ports 151. Lock seat 132 sits centrally inside lock seat notch 133, and further comprises the top section of top joiner port 131.

Lock seat notch 133 and top port 151 overlap such that, when an alignment guide 160 is placed into a top port 151, the upper surface of first alignment guide 161 and/or third alignment guide 163 is above the plane of the surface of lock seat 132 and exposed. In that position, when a top port lock 145, here washer 143, is placed into lock seat notch 133 and onto lock seat 132, top port lock 145, here washer 143, comes into contact with first alignment guide 161 and/or third alignment guide 163. Further, when bolt 141 is placed through base joiner port 121, top joiner port 131, and washer 143, nut 142 can be tightened at the end of bolt 141, pushing down on washer 143, and locking first alignment guide 161 and/or third alignment guide 163 in place. Also, first alignment guide 161 and/or third alignment guide 163 may be extended or retracted or removed altogether from station base 120 by by loosening nut 142 and washer 143, pulling out or pushing in the appropriate alignment guide 160, and relocking the alignment guides 160 in place by tightening nut 142. Different length alignment guides 160 can be used to achieve shorter or longer extensions from both sides of the alignment station 110.

Also shown are degree markings 136, which here comprise raised lines, set at an angle away from the lower edge of the top surface of station top 130. Under appropriate circumstances, as one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, degree markings 136 could be structured as indentations, etchings, drawings, decals, or the like.

FIG. 3B is a top view of station top 130. More clearly shown are the exposed top portions of the two top ports 151, lock seat notch 133, lock seat 132, and degree markings 136. The exposed two top ports 151 enable the alignment guides 160, here first alignment guide 161 and third alignment guide 163 to be exposed, and compressed by station joiner 143, fixing them in place.

FIG. 3C is a side plan view of station top 130. FIG. 3D is a side plan, sectional view taken in the 201-201 plane of FIG. 3B. As shown is FIG. 3C, top ports 151 extend all of the way horizontally through station top 130.

FIG. 3D is a side plan, sectional view taken in the 201-201 plane of FIG. 3B. As shown, protrusion receptacle 134 extends across a central section of the bottom of station top 130. Also, top joiner port 131 extends vertically from the top of protrusion receptacle 134 through to the bottom part of lock seat notch 133. Also, this view shows that base port lock 135 is level with the bottom surface of station top 130, and is used to compress the alignment guides 160, here second alignment guide 162 and fourth alignment guide 164, positioned in base ports 152 within the station base 120, to lock them in position when the station joiner 140 is compressed by bolt 141, washer 143 when the nut 142 is tightened. Also, this view more clearly shows the overlap between top port 151 and lock seat notch 133. Wherein a portion of top port 151 is exposed within lock seat notch 133, and alignment guide 161 and or alignment guide 163 are aligned such that the top surface of alignment guide 161 and alignment guide 163 are above the bottom of lock seat notch 134 and top of lock seat 133.

3E is a view of the bottom of station top 130. As shown, top joiner port 131 extends vertically from the bottom of protrusion receptacle 134 all of the way through station top 130. This view more clearly shows the circular shape of protrusion receptacle 134.

As shown in FIGS. 3A through 3E, station top 130 comprises the following components: top joiner port 131, lock seat 132, lock seat notch 133, protrusion receptacle 134, base port lock 135, degree markings 136, and all top ports 151, all of which are components of the same monolithic station top 130.

FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of the top side of station base 120. As shown, station base 120 comprises two base ports 152, two anchor ports 122, two anchor port shoulders 123, two perpendicular ports 153, centering protrusion 124, four angular indexes 126; and base joiner port 121.

Anchor port 122 comprises circular holes located near the long ends of station base 120. An anchor 173 can be placed through anchor port 122 and into the ground or other otherwise attached to flat surface. Under appropriate circumstances, as one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, an anchor could be a golf tee, nail, suction cup, hook and loop system, or magnet.

Perpendicular ports 153 comprise circular holes located near the long ends of station base 120. An alignment guide 160 can be used as a perpendicular alignment guide 165, which may be placed through a perpendicular port 153, with one end of the perpendicular alignment guide resting against or pressed into the ground or other flat surface, and the remainder of perpendicular alignment guide extending perpendicularly from alignment station 110.

Centering protrusion 124 comprises an area located centrally on the top of station base 120, raised above the surface of station base 120. Centering protrusion 124 extends into protrusion receptacle 134 in the bottom of station top 130 and fits precisely, enabling station top 130 to rotate centrally about bolt 141.

Base joiner port 121 is located In the center of centering protrusion 124, extending from the top of centering protrusion 124 to the bottom of station base 120, allowing bolt 141 to pass through.

As shown, four angular indexes 126 are located uniformly at 90 degree intervals along the lateral and medial axises of station base 120. When station top 130 is placed on top of station base 120, angular indexes 126 protrude above the top surface of station base 120 and above the bottom lip of station top 130, pointing to a specific setting on degree markings 136. Also, when station top 130 is placed on top of station base 120, angular indexes 126 sit just outside the bottom lip of station top 130.

Station base 120 further comprises two base ports 152. As shown, base ports 152 comprise open-top channels structured to house alignment guides 160. The top surface of the station base 120 lies below the top surface of the alignment guides 160 such that when an alignment guide 160 is placed into a base port 152, the upper surface of second alignment guide 162 and/or fourth alignment guide 164 is above the plane of the surface of station base 120. This design enables the station top to compress the exposed top of the alignment guides 160 when station joiner 140 is compressed by tightening the nut 142. Further, when bolt 141 is placed through base joiner port 121, top joiner port 131, and washer 143, nut 142 can be tightened at the end of bolt 141, pushing down on washer 143 and compressing station top 130, pressing base port lock 135 down against the alignment guides 160 placed in base ports 152, here second alignment guide 162 and/or fourth alignment guide 164. Also, second alignment guide 162 and/or fourth alignment guide 164 may be extended or retracted or removed altogether from station base 120 by loosening nut 142 and washer 143, pulling out or pushing in the appropriate alignment guide 160, and relocking the alignment guides 160 in place by tightening nut 142. Different length alignment guides 160 can be used to achieve shorter or longer extensions from both sides of the alignment station 110.

FIG. 4B is a top view of station base 120. More clearly shown are the full length of base ports 152. Also shown are the shapes of anchor ports 122 and perpendicular ports 153, centering protrusion 124, base joiner port 121, and station base 120. Also shown are the precise locations of angular indexes 126. Anchor port shoulder 123 is shown bordering anchor port 122. Anchor port shoulder 123 is sloped to allow a tee to be pushed deep enough to allow the bottom edge of an alignment guide 160 that is placed in the guide port 150 of the station top 130, in guide port 151, to pass over the top of anchor 173 without touching anchor 173.

FIG. 4C is a side view of station base 120. As shown, alignment guide ports 152 extend all of the way through station base 120.

FIG. 4D is a side sectional view taken in the 202-202 plane of FIG. 4B. As shown, distinct indentation 125 comprises a hollow notch in the bottom of station base 120. Base joiner port 121 extends vertically from the top of distinct indentation 125 vertically through station base 120 through the top of centering protrusion 124. Centering protrusion 124 extends above the top surface of station base 120. Angular indexes 126 extend above the top surface of station base 120. As shown, anchor port 122 extends vertically through the bottom of station base 120 to the bottom of anchor port shoulder 123. Anchor port shoulder 123 comprises a sloped recession from the top surface of station base 120 to the top of anchor port 122. Perpendicular port 153 passes from the top of station base 120, through anchor port shoulder 123, and to the bottom surface of station base 120.

Two base ports 152 are shown. Base ports 152 are structured so that when an alignment guide 160 is housed in a base port 152, the top of the alignment guide 160 extends beyond the top surface of station base 120.

FIG. 4E is a bottom view of station base 120. As shown, station base 120 further comprises a distinct indentation 125 on the bottom surface, such that the distinct indentation 125 precisely fits the joiner head 144 within its indentation. This distinct indentation is centered such that when the joiner head 144 is placed within distinct indentation 125, the bolt 141 is centered in the station base 120 station base joiner port 121, which is also centered in the station top 130 top joiner port 131. The joiner head 144 fits into the bottom of the station base 120 into the distinct indentation 125 such that the surface of the joiner head 144 is flush or below the level of the bottom surface of the station base 120. The joiner head 144 is captured within the distinct indentation 125, such that the bolt 141 is held in place, and cannot turn when the nut 142 is tightened or loosened on the bolt 141 threads.

FIGS. 4F and 4G are perspective views of the bottom of station base 120. As shown, joiner head 144 has the same form factor as the distinct indentation 125, such that joiner head 144 fits precisely into distinct indentation 125. In this position, the top surface of the joiner head 144 is at or below the bottom surface of station base 120. As shown, bolt 141 is inserted partially into base joiner port 121, but not fully seated within distinct indentation 125. When bolt 141 is fully inserted into base joiner port 121, bolt 141 is locked such that bolt 141 cannot rotate.

As shown in FIGS. 4A through 4G, station base 120 comprises the following components: base joiner port 121, anchor ports 122, anchor ports 122, anchor port shoulders 123, centering protrusion 124, distinct indentation 125, angular indexes 126, and base ports 152, all of which are monolithic components of the same station base 120.

FIG. 5A is an alternate front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of alignment aid system 100, with the parts disassembled and laid out. In this embodiment, alignment aid system 100 comprises seven alignment guides 160, four alignment stations 110, carrying case 175, carabiner 176, and guide tube 177. Guide tube 177 is structured to simultaneously hold all of seven alignment guides 160. Carrying case 175 is structured to simultaneously hold all four alignment stations 110. Carabiner 176 is structured to fit through a hole in the corner of carrying case 175 and a hole in the top of guide tube 177, securing carrying case 175 to guide tube 177. In this arrangement, alignment aid system 100 can be easily stored upright in a club slot of a golf bag.

FIG. 5B is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of alignment aid system 100, including four alignment stations 110 and six alignment guides 160. This embodiment of alignment aid system 100 comprises four alignment stations 110, including primary alignment station 111, and three additional alignment stations 112, and six alignment guides 160. Primary alignment station 111 houses second alignment guide 162 through a base port 152, which passes through to an additional alignment station 112, connecting through a base port 152 of that additional alignment station 112. Here this first alignment guide 161 comprises a path 180 consisting of foot position 181. Here, this additional alignment station 112 connects to a first alignment guide 161 through its base port 152. Here, this second alignment station 112 houses a heel position 188 through top port 151. An alignment guide 160 also passes through one of the top ports 151 in the station top 130. This alignment guide 160, the second alignment guide 162, is set perpendicular to the first alignment guide 161. This second alignment guide 162 is set to the ball position. Additional alignment stations are attached to the alignment guides 160 as needed. Additional alignment stations can be attached to either the first or second alignment guides as required. The second, third, fourth, etc. guides can be used for setting foot position 181, hand position 189, ball position 182, club face angle 183, swing path 184, target path 185, and heel position 188.

FIG. 5C is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIG. 5B, showing an alternate arrangement of the elements. This configuration shows a similar configuration to FIG. 5A except there is a closer proximity of the primary alignment station 111, and additional alignment station 112 positions along guide 162 when using a shorter length golf club 171. The additional alignment station 112 on guide 161 is placed further from the primary alignment station 111, to enable setting the heel position 183 with third alignment guide 163, further from the second alignment guide 162, ball position 182.

FIG. 5D is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, showing an alternate arrangement of alignment stations 110, including primary alignment station 111, three additional alignment stations 112, and four alignment guides 160. This view shows additional modifications can be set to all of the alignment stations 110, and all of the alignment guides 160 in order to accommodate the varied spatial relationships necessary between the ball 172, the ball position 182 and the foot position 181 in FIGS. 5B, 5C and 5D as different length golf clubs 171 are used.

FIG. 5E is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system shown in FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D, showing an alternate arrangement of alignment stations 110, including primary alignment station 111, three additional alignment stations 112, and four alignment guides 160. This configuration further shows that the additional alignment stations can be separated from the multiple joined configurations demonstrated in FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D when it is necessary to use a separate alignment station 110 in addition to the joined primary alignment station 111 and additional alignment stations 112.

FIG. 5F is a front perspective view of the alignment aid system 100 shown in FIG. 1A, incorporating optimally placed cameras 178. In one preferred embodiment, one camera 178 is placed with a view along first alignment guide 161 in line with the foot position 181, and another camera 178 is placed with a view along second alignment guide 162 in line with the ball position 182. As one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, under appropriate circumstances additional cameras 178 could be placed as to provide views along additional paths 180, including but not limited to: club face angle 183, swing path 184, target path 185, down-the line camera position 186, face-on camera position 187, heel position 188, and/or hand position 189.

As one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, under appropriate circumstances a sensor and transceiver system could be incorporated into said alignment aid system 100 to permit the automatic recognition of one or more paths 180 by a computer system. Such a system could be further improved by placing markers on the feet, hands, legs, and other body parts of user 170, as well as on club 171, ball 172, which would permit a sensor and transceiver system to collect information about the actual path of such markers. A computer system could then compare the actual paths of such markers to the desired paths 180, providing improved feedback about how to improve alignments.

FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the alignment aid system comprising a multi-dimensional alignment station 601 and one or more alignment guides 660. As shown, the multi-dimensional alignment station further comprises a horizontal station 610 and a vertical station 690, along with three alignment guides 660. As shown, horizontal station 610 comprises horizontal station top 630, horizontal station base 620, and a station joiner 640. As shown, vertical station 690 comprises vertical station top 691, vertical station base 692, and a station joiner 640. As shown, vertical station 690 is fixed perpendicular to horizontal station 610.

In this embodiment, the nut 642 in vertical station 690 can be loosened so that vertical station top 691 can be rotated about the center of vertical station base 692. Rotating vertical station top 691 also rotates the angle of vertical alignment guide 695 relative to the horizontal plane. A user may set a vertical angle for a large number of purposes, including but not limited to setting a body position, swing path angle, hand angle, club head position, shaft position, and/or spinal alignment. Also, a vertical angle can be set to indicate a clubhead loft or another desirable vertical slope. An angle can be measured by noting the degree markings 636 on the vertical station top 691 relative to the angle indexes 626 on the vertical station base 692. When the desired angle is achieved, the vertical station 690 can be locked in place by tightening nut 642. Also, the tightening of the nut 642 against washer 643 locks the vertical alignment guide 695 in place in the vertical station top 691.

Also in this embodiment, the nut 642 in horizontal station top 630 can be loosened to that horizontal station top 630 can be rotated about the center of horizontal station base 620. Rotating horizontal station top 630 also rotates the angle of the alignment guides 660 passing through the top ports 651 relative to the horizontal station base and the alignment guides 660 passing through the base ports 652 of the horizontal station base. A user may set these alignment guides 660 at various horizontal angles for the purpose of setting foot position, hand position, ball position, club face angle, swing path, target path, heel position, or any number of other positions, angles, and/or paths, depending on the application. An angle can be measured by noting the degree markings 636 on the horizontal station top 630 relative to the angle indexes 626 on the horizontal station base 620. When the desired angle is achieved, the horizontal station 610 can be locked in place by tightening nut 642. Also, the tightening of the nut 642 against washer 643 locks the alignment guides 660 in place in the top ports 651 in the horizontal station top 630, while also securing the alignment guides 660 in place in the base ports 652 of the horizontal station base 620.

FIG. 6B is a top view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A. This view more fully demonstrates the vertical orientation of vertical station 690, and the perpendicular orientation of vertical station 690 relative to horizontal station 610.

FIG. 6C is a side view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A. This view even more fully demonstrates the vertical orientation of vertical station 690, and the perpendicular orientation of vertical station 690 relative to horizontal station 610.

FIG. 6D is a rear perspective view of the vertical station base and the horizontal station top of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A. As shown, the bottom of vertical station base 692 attaches to the front side of horizontal station top 630 at a perpendicular angle.

As shown, station top 630 further comprises lock seat notch 633, lock seat 632, and top joiner port 631. Lock seat notch 633 consists of a notch sized to allow top port lock 645, here washer 643, to fit inside. Lock seat notch 633 partially overlaps the exposed upper areas of top ports 651. Lock seat 632 sits centrally inside lock seat notch 633, and further comprises the top section of top joiner port 631.

Lock seat notch 633 and top port 651 overlap such that, when an horizontal alignment guide 660 is placed into a top port 651, the upper surface of first alignment guide 661 and/or third alignment guide 663 is above the plane of the surface of lock seat 632 and exposed. In that position, when a top port lock 645, here washer 643, is placed into lock seat notch 633 and onto lock seat 632, top port lock 645, here washer 643, comes into contact with first alignment guide 661 and/or third alignment guide 663. Further, when bolt 641 is placed through base joiner port 621, top joiner port 631, and washer 643, nut 642 can be tightened at the end of bolt 641, pushing down on washer 643, and locking first alignment guide 661 and/or third alignment guide 663 in place. Also, first alignment guide 661 and/or third alignment guide 663 may be extended or retracted or removed altogether from station base 620 by by loosening nut 642 and washer 643, pulling out or pushing in the appropriate horizontal alignment guide 660, and relocking the alignment guides 660 in place by tightening nut 642. Different length alignment guides 660 can be used to achieve shorter or longer extensions from both sides of the alignment station 610.

Also shown are degree markings 636, which here comprise raised lines, set at an angle away from the lower edge of the top surface of station top 630. Under appropriate circumstances, as one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, degree markings 636 could be structured as indentations, etchings, drawings, decals, or the like.

Also shown is the rear side of vertical station base 692. The rear side of vertical station base 692 includes a distinct indentation 625, a hexagonal indentation designed to house a bolt 641 with a hexagonal head 644. Also shown are two of the angle inexes 626.

FIG. 6E is a front view of the vertical station base 692 affixed perpendicularly into horizontal station top 630 of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6D. As shown, vertical station base 692 includes three angle indexes 626 positioned along the outer perimeter of its front face at 90 degree intervals at the left, top, and right sides. Vertical station base 692 also includes centering protrusion 624.

FIG. 6F is a top view of the vertical station base 692 and horizontal station top 630 of alignment system 600. This view more fully demonstrates the vertical orientation of vertical station base 692, and the perpendicular orientation of vertical station base 692 relative to horizontal station top 630. As shown, vertical station base 692 includes three angle indexes 626 and centering protrusion 624.

FIG. 6G is a sectional view of the vertical station base and the horizontal station top of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6D, taken at the 601-601 plane of FIG. 6F. As shown, tab 693 of vertical station 690 fits into tab insert 637 of horizontal station top 630. Horizontal station top 630 includes two guide ports 150, a lock seat 632, a lock seat notch 633, a protrusion receptacle 634, and a top joiner port 631. Vertical station base 692 includes centering protrusion 624, angle index 626, a base joiner port 621, and a distinct indentation 625.

FIG. 6H is a front perspective exploded view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6A. As shown, vertical station 690 comprises vertical station base 692, vertical station top 691, and a station joiner 640. As shown, horizontal station 620 comprises horizontal station base 620, horizontal station top 630, and a station joiner 640. Station joiner 640 consists of a bolt 641, a nut 642, and a washer 643.

This view demonstrates that vertical station 690 is assembled by placing a bolt 641 through the base joiner port 621 of vertical station base 692, the top joiner port 631 of vertical station top 691, and a washer 643 and into a nut 642. As shown, a nut 642 comprises a wing nut. In this arrangement, vertical station top 691 fits snugly on centering protrusion 624 of vertical station base 692.

This view also demonstrates that horizontal station 610 is assembled by placing a bolt 641 through the base joiner port 621 of horizontal station base 620, the top joiner port 631 of horizontal station top 630, a washer 643, and into a nut 642. As shown, a nut 642 comprises a wing nut. In this arrangement, horizontal station top 630 fits snugly on centering protrusion 624 of horizontal station base 620.

As shown, horizontal station base 620 further comprises two anchor ports 622, two base ports 652, and four angle indexes 626. As shown, vertical station top 691 further comprises two top ports 651, a lock seat 632, a lock seat notch 633, and degree markings 636.

This view also demonstrates how vertical station 690 is attached to horizontal station 610. As shown, tab 693 is placed into tab insert 637. In a preferred embodiment of this invention, an adhesive will be used to secure tab 693 inside tab insert 637, permanently attaching vertical station base 692 to horizontal station top 630. As one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, under appropriate circumstances tab 693 could be attached inside tab insert 637 with a magnet, latch assembly, hook and loop assembly, or a similar means for attaching the two mechanisms together. As one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, under appropriate circumstances a hinge could be added to allow vertical station 690 to fold horizontally on top of horizontal station top 630 for storage purposes, and unfold to the perpendicular arrangement for use.

FIG. 6I is a rear perspective exploded view of the alignment system shown in FIG. 6H. This view demonstrates that vertical station top 691 includes a protrusion receptacle 634 designed to fit snugly over the centering protrusion 624 of vertical station base 692. This view also demonstrates that the hexagonal head of bolt 641 fits snugly in the distinct indentation 625 of vertical station base 692. In this view, tab 693 at the bottom of vertical station base 692 is more visible. Horizontal station top 630 further comprises a base port lock 635, comprising the bottom surface of horizontal station top 630. When a horizontal alignment guide 660 is placed in a base port 652, and the horizontal station top 630 is placed on the horizontal station base 620, base port lock 635 touches the top of the horizontal alignment guide 660. In this arrangement, when station joiner 640 is tightened, base port lock 635 pushes down on horizontal alignment guide 660 locking it in place.

FIG. 7A is a rear perspective view of the vertical station base of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 6D. This view more clearly illustrates distinct indentation 625, tab 693, and two of the angle indexes 626. As shown, distinct indentation 625 further comprises a hexagonal bolt head seat 627 with a base joiner port 621 in the center.

FIG. 7B is a rear view of the vertical station base 692 of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 7A. This view demonstrates the structure of the distinct indentation 625 in the rear side of vertical station base 692, showing a hexagonal bolt head seat 627 with a base joiner port 621 in the center.

FIG. 7C is a front view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A. This view illustrates centering protrusion 624 with a base joiner port 621 in the center and the three angle indexes 626 on the front side of vertical station base 692. Also shown is the partially obstructed front-side view of tab 693.

FIG. 7D is a top view of the vertical station base 692 of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 7A. This view illustrates centering protrusion 624 and three angle indexes 626.

FIG. 7E is a bottom view of the vertical station base 692 of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 7A. This view illustrates centering protrusion 624, two angle indexes 626, and tab 693. As shown, the bottom edge of tab 693 comprises a trapezoid shape with a longer edge at the rear and a shorter edge at the front.

FIG. 7F is a side view of the vertical station base of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A. This view illustrates centering protrusion 624, two angle indexes 626, and tab 693. As shown, slanted bottom edge 694 slants continuously upward from the front of vertical station base 692 to its back. Tab 693 extends down from the rear end of slanted bottom edge 694.

FIG. 7G is a sectional view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 7A, taken in the 801-801 plane of FIG. 7C. This view illustrates one angle index 626, a centering protrusion 624, a base joiner port 621, a hexagonal bolt head seat 627, slanted bottom edge 694, and tab 693.

FIG. 8A is a rear perspective view of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 6A. This view illustrates the fully assembled vertical station 690. As shown, bolt 641 fits snugly in distinct indentation 625. As shown, vertical station top 691 fits on station base 692 inside the angle indexes 626.

FIG. 8B is a rear plan view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A. As shown, bolt 641 fits snugly in distinct indentation 625.

FIG. 8C is a front view of the vertical station shown in FIG. 8A. This view illustrates vertical station top 691, vertical station base 692, tab 693, bolt 641, and washer 643. As shown, vertical station top 691 further comprises degree markings 636 and two guide ports 650. As shown, vertical station top 691 fits on station base 692 inside the angle indexes 626. When nut 642 is loosened, vertical station top 691 can be rotated parallel to vertical station base 692, and the angular displacement between vertical station top 691 and vertical station base 692 can be changed. Loosening nut 642 also permits a user to place a vertical alignment guide 695 inside a guide port 650.

With a vertical alignment guide 695 placed inside a guide port 650, a user can then measure and calibrate the angle of the vertical alignment guides 695 relative to vertical station base 692 by reading degree markings 636 relative to the angle indexes 626. When the desired angle is achieved, the user can lock vertical station 690 and vertical guides 695 in place by tightening nut 642, thereby pushing washer 643 against lock seat 632 and vertical alignment guides 695.

FIG. 8D is a top view of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 8A. This view illustrates vertical station top 691 placed on vertical station base 692 and inside the three angle indexes 626. This view also illustrates two guide ports 650 and nut 642, as well as degree markings 636.

FIG. 8E is a bottom view of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 8A. This view illustrates vertical station top 691 placed on vertical station base 692 and inside the angle indexes 626. This view also illustrates two guide ports 650, nut 642, and degree markings 636. Also shown is a vertical alignment guide 695 placed inside a guide port 650. This view also demonstrates slanted bottom 694 and tab 693.

FIG. 8F is a side view of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 8A. This view illustrates nut 642, vertical station top 691 placed on vertical station base 692 inside the angle indexes 626, slanted bottom edge 694, and tab 693.

FIG. 8G is a sectional view of the vertical station 690 shown in FIG. 8A, taken in the 801-801 plane of FIG. 8C. This view demonstrates that vertical station top 691 rests on vertical station base 692 such that centering protrusion 624 snugly fits inside protrusion receptacle 634, with a station joiner 640 locking the vertical station 690 in place. As shown, bolt 641 fits snugly inside distinct indentation 625 with bolt 641 passing through base joiner port 621, top joiner port 631, washer 643, and into nut 642. This view also demonstrates how washer 643 slightly enters the top edge of the two guide ports 650, thereby locking the vertical alignment guides 695 in place. This view also shows slanted bottom edge 694 and tab 693.

FIG. 9A is a rear perspective view of the horizontal station top 630 shown in FIG. 7A. As shown, horizontal station top 630 comprises two guide ports 650, degree markings 636, tab insert 637, lock seat 632, lock seat notch 633, and a base joiner port 621.

FIG. 9B is a front view of the horizontal station top 630 shown in FIG. 9A. This view more fully illustrates tab insert 637. Also shown are degree markings 636 and one guide port 650.

FIG. 9C is a bottom view of the horizontal station top 630 shown in FIG. 9A. This view illustrates protrusion receptacle 634 and top joiner port 631. This view also more fully illustrates base port lock 635.

FIG. 9D is a side view of the horizontal station top 630 shown in FIG. 9A. This view illustrates two guide ports 650, degree markings 636, and the side edge of tab insert 637.

FIG. 9E is a top view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A. This view more fully demonstrates the trapezoid shape of the bottom edge of tab insert 637. Also shown are lock seat 632, lock seat notch 633, top joiner port 631, and two guide ports 650. This view also demonstrates how a portion of the two guide ports 650 are exposed inside lock seat notch 633.

FIG. 9F is a sectional view of the horizontal station top shown in FIG. 9A, taken in the 802-802 plane of FIG. 9E. This view illustrates two guide ports 650, a protrusion receptacle 634, a top joiner port 631, a lock seat 632, a lock seat notch 633, a base port lock 635, and tab insert 637.

FIG. 10A is a rear perspective view of the fully assembled horizontal station 610 shown in FIG. 6D. This view illustrates nut 642, washer 643, horizontal station top 630, and horizontal station base 620. Horizontal station top 630 further comprises two top ports 651 and degree markings 636. Horizontal station base 620 further comprises two anchor ports 622, two base ports 652, and two angle indexes 626. As shown, base port lock 635 slightly impinges the top of the two base ports 652.

FIG. 10B is a front view of the horizontal station shown 610 in FIG. 10A. This view illustrates nut 642, horizontal station top 630, and horizontal station base 620. Demonstrated here is tab insert 637, the degree markings 636 in the horizontal station top 630 relative to three angle indexes 626 in the horizontal station base 620. This view also more clearly illustrates how base port lock 635 slightly impinges the top of the two base ports 652. Also shown is one top port 651.

FIG. 10C is a bottom view of the horizontal station 610 shown in FIG. 10A. This view illustrates the hexagonal head of bolt 641 fit snugly in the distinct indentation 625 of horizontal station base 620. Also shown are two anchor ports 622.

FIG. 10D is a side view of the horizontal station 610 shown in FIG. 10A. This view illustrates nut 642, horizontal station top 630 fit on horizontal station base 620 between the angle indexes 626. As shown, horizontal station top 630 further comprises two top ports 651, degree markings 636, and tab insert 637. Here one base port 652 is visible.

FIG. 10E is a top view of the horizontal station shown 610 in FIG. 10A. This view illustrates nuist 642, washer 643, degree markings 636, and horizontal station top 630 fit on horizontal station base 620 between the angle indexes 626. This view also illustrates the trapezoid shape of the bottom surface of tab insert 637. Also shown are two base ports 652, two top ports 651, and two anchor ports 622.

FIG. 10F is a sectional view of the horizontal station 610 shown in FIG. 10A, taken in the 803-803 plane of FIG. 10E. This view illustrates bolt 641, washer 643, nut 642, horizontal station top 630, and horizontal station base 620. As shown, horizontal station top 630 further comprises two top ports 651, lock seat 632, lock seat notch 633, protrusion receptacle 634, top joiner port 631, and tab insert 637. As shown, horizontal station base 620 further comprises centering protrusion 624, distinct indentation 625, a base joiner port 621, and angle indexes 626.

In this embodiment, bolt 641 fits snugly in distinct indentation 625 in horizontal station base 620 and through base joiner port 621, top joiner port 631, washer 643, and into nut 642. Here, protrusion receptacle 634 of horizontal station top 630 fits snugly on centering protrusion 624 of horizontal station base 620. Also, two angle indexes 626 extend from the surface of horizontal station base 620 on each side of the horizontal station top 630.

When station joiner 640 is tightened by turning nut 642, washer 643 is pressed down onto the top of the two top ports 651. When alignment guides 660 are placed into the top ports 651, washer 643 presses down on the alignment guides 660 and, when nut 642 is tightened, the alignment guides 660 are locked in place. In this arrangement, when nut 642 is loosened, horizontal station top 630 is able to rotate on the horizontal place about bolt 641. When nut 642 is tightened, horizontal station top 630 is locked in place.

FIG. 11A is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of alignment aid system, including one multi-dimensional alignment station, three additional alignment stations, four horizontal alignment guides, and one vertical alignment guide. In this arrangement, the system is optimized for optimal putting paths 680.

Primary alignment station 611 also houses a second horizontal alignment guide 660 through a base port 652, which passes through to a base port 652 of multi-dimensional alignment station 601. Here this horizontal alignment guide 660 comprises a path 680 consisting of foot position 681.

Multi-dimensional alignment station 601 also houses a second horizontal alignment guide 660 through a top port 651 in multi-dimensional alignment station 601, through a top port 651 in an additional alignment station 612, and also through a top port 651 in a second additional alignment station 612. The first additional alignment station 612 houses an additional horizontal alignment guide 660 through a base port 652, with this horizontal alignment guide 660 comprising a path 680, here consisting of downswing path 684. The second additional alignment station 612 houses an additional guide 660 through a base port 652, with this horizontal alignment guide 660 comprising a path 680, here consisting of target path 685.

In this embodiment, multi-dimensional alignment station 601 also houses a vertical alignment guide 695 through a top port 651, with the vertical alignment guide 695 comprising a path 680 consisting of backswing path 696.

As shown, each of the primary alignment station 611, multi-dimensional alignment station 601, and additional alignment stations 612 comprises nuts 642. When nuts 642 are tightened, all of the horizontal alignment guides 660 and the vertical alignment guide 695 are locked in place, securing the components of the system in place relative to one another. Loosening a given nut 642 permits a user to change the horizontal angular orientation of the connected horizontal alignment guide 660 or vertical alignment guide 695. Proper calibration of each components permits a user to set various desired paths 680 including, but not limited to foot position 681, ball position 682, club face angle 683, downswing path 684, target path 685, camera position and/or down-the-line position 686, face-on camera position 687, heel position 688, hand position 689, and/or backswing path 696.

Here, this additional alignment station 612 connects to a first alignment guide 661 through its base port 652. An alignment guide 660 also passes through one of the top ports 651 in the station top 630. This alignment guide 660, the second alignment guide 660, is set perpendicular to the first alignment guide 660. This second alignment guide 660 is set to the ball position. Additional alignment stations are attached to the alignment guides 660 as needed. Additional alignment stations can be attached to either the first or second alignment guides as required. The second, third, fourth, etc. guides can be used for setting foot position 681, hand position 689, ball position 682, club face angle 683, swing path 684, target path 685, and heel position 688.

As one with ordinary skill in the art will understand, and as demonstrated above relating to the system shown in FIG. 11A, alignment aid system 600 can combine one or more multi-dimensional alignment stations 601 with one or more additional alignment stations 612 depending on the alignment needs of the user. In that embodiment, each additional alignment station 612 and/or multi-dimensional alignment station 601 will be connected by housing horizontal alignment guides 660 from the top port 651 of one station to the top port 651 of the other station, or by housing horizontal alignment guides 660 from the base port 652 of one station to the base port 652 of the other station.

FIG. 11B is a front perspective view of an alternate embodiment of alignment aid system, including one multi-dimensional alignment station, three additional alignment stations, four horizontal alignment guides, and one vertical alignment guide. In this arrangement, the system is optimized for optimal driving paths 680.

Primary alignment station 611 also houses a second horizontal alignment guide 660 through a base port 652, which passes through to a base port 652 of multi-dimensional alignment station 601. Here this horizontal alignment guide 660 comprises a path 680 consisting of foot position 681.

Multi-dimensional alignment station 601 also houses a second horizontal alignment guide 660 through a top port 651 in multi-dimensional alignment station 601, through a top port 651 in an additional alignment station 612, and also through a top port 651 in a second additional alignment station 612. The first additional alignment station 612 houses an additional horizontal alignment guide 660 through a base port 652, with this horizontal alignment guide 660 comprising a path 680, here consisting of downswing path 684. The second additional alignment station 612 houses an additional guide 660 through a base port 652, with this horizontal alignment guide 660 comprising a path 680, here consisting of target path 685.

In this embodiment, multi-dimensional alignment station 601 also houses a vertical alignment guide 695 through a top port 651, with the vertical alignment guide 695 comprising a path 680 consisting of backswing path 696.

As shown, each of the primary alignment station 611, multi-dimensional alignment station 601, and additional alignment stations 612 comprises nuts 642. When nuts 642 are tightened, all of the horizontal alignment guides 660 and the vertical alignment guide 695 are locked in place, securing the components of the system in place relative to one another. Loosening a given nut 642 permits a user to change the horizontal angular orientation of the connected horizontal alignment guide 660 or vertical alignment guide 695. Proper calibration of each components permits a user to set various desired paths 680 including, but not limited to foot position 681, ball position 682, club face angle 683, downswing path 684, target path 685, camera position and/or down-the-line position 686, face-on camera position 687, heel position 688, hand position 689, and/or backswing path 696.

Here, this additional alignment station 612 connects to a first alignment guide 661 through its base port 652. An alignment guide 660 also passes through one of the top ports 651 in the station top 630. This alignment guide 660, the second alignment guide 660, is set perpendicular to the first alignment guide 660. This second alignment guide 660 is set to the ball position. Additional alignment stations are attached to the alignment guides 660 as needed. Additional alignment stations can be attached to either the first or second alignment guides as required. The second, third, fourth, etc. guides can be used for setting foot position 681, hand position 689, ball position 682, club face angle 683, swing path 684, target path 685, and heel position 688.

Claims

1. An alignment aid system for providing adjustable guides, comprising: a. a multi-dimensional alignment station, a horizontal alignment guide, and a vertical alignment guide;b. wherein said multi-dimensional alignment station further comprises a vertical station and a horizontal station;c. wherein said vertical station further comprises a vertical station top, a vertical station base, and a station joiner: i. wherein said vertical station top comprises at least one top port extending through said vertical station top;ii. wherein said vertical alignment guide is housed within said top port;iii. wherein said vertical station top rotates parallel to said vertical station base;iv. wherein said station joiner tightens to lock said vertical station top in place relative to said vertical station base;v. wherein said station joiner tightens to also lock said vertical alignment guide in place within said top port;d. wherein said horizontal station further comprises a horizontal station top, a horizontal state base, and a station joiner: i. wherein said horizontal station top comprises at least one top port extending through said horizontal station top;ii. wherein said horizontal alignment guide is housed within said top port;iii. wherein said horizontal station top rotates parallel to said horizontal station base;iv. wherein said station joiner tightens to lock said horizontal station top in place relative to said horizontal station base;v. wherein said station base tightens to also lock said horizontal alignment guide in place within said top port.

2. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, wherein said vertical station top rotates 360 degrees about an axis located at the centerpoint of both the vertical station top and the vertical station base.

3. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, wherein said horizontal station top rotates 360 degrees about an axis located at the centerpoint of both the horizontal station top and the horizontal station base.

4. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, wherein each said station joiner comprises a friction lock comprising a nut, washer, and bolt; wherein each said washer rests on the top surface of each said station top, wherein each said bolt passes through a hole extending vertically through the centerpoint of each said station base and each said station top, through each said washer and, into each said nut, securing each said station top in place relative to each said station base, and securing each said alignment guide in place relative to said alignment station.

5. The alignment aid system described in claim 4, wherein said nut of said station joiner of said horizontal station loosens to permit the horizontal rotation of said horizontal station top relative to said station base and tightens to lock said horizontal station top and said horizontal alignment guides in place.

6. The alignment aid system described in claim 5, wherein said nut of said station joiner of said vertical station loosens to permit the vertical rotation of said vertical station top relative to said vertical station base and tightens to lock said vertical station top and said vertical alignment guide in place.

7. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, wherein said vertical alignment station and said horizontal alignment station each further comprise angular measurement indicators structured and arranged to permit a user to read an angular displacement between the alignment guides attached to said station top and said station base.

8. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, wherein said alignment aid system further comprises additional alignment stations, wherein said additional alignment stations are connected by an alignment guide, extending from a guide port of one alignment station into the port of another alignment station, with additional alignment guides extending from the other guide ports of said additional alignment stations, with all alignment guides being locked into place by the station joiners of each alignment station.

9. The alignment aid system described in claim 8, wherein said station joiner further comprises at least one positional lock and said station top further comprises at least one lock seat; wherein said positional lock is structured and arranged to fit tightly within said lock seat; and wherein said positional lock is structured and arranged to place enough frictional force upon said alignment guides as to restrict their movement.

10. The alignment aid system described in claim 9, wherein said alignment guides are arranged as to assist in one or more of the following purposes: placing ball position relative to foot placement; setting the distance to stand from the ball for each club for proper posture; aligning swing paths; establishing target path alignment; determining foot, hand, shoulder and knee positioning; checking clubface alignment; and to accurately position a camera for photographing and/or video recording golf swings.

11. The alignment aid system described in claim 8, wherein all of said alignment stations and alignment guides are locked into place by said station joiners, allowing said alignment aid system to be moved without affecting the relative angular orientations of said alignment stations and alignment guides.

12. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, further comprising an anchor for anchoring said alignment station to a surface.

13. The alignment aid system described in claim 1, wherein the tightening of said station joiner simultaneously locks in place the following: said alignment guides housed within said guide ports; the length of the portion of said alignment guides that extends out from said alignment station; the angular orientation of said station top relative to said station base.

14. An alignment aid system comprising: a. A horizontal alignment station;b. A horizontal alignment guide housed within the top of said horizontal alignment station;c. A vertical alignment station;d. A vertical alignment guide housed within the top of said vertical alignment station;e. Wherein the bottom edge of said vertical alignment station is attached at a 90 degree angle to a side of the top surface of the horizontal alignment station;f. Wherein the top of said horizontal alignment station rotates 360 degrees about the center of the horizontal alignment station at a fixed height along the plane of the horizontal axis;g. Wherein the top of said vertical alignment station rotates 360 degrees about the center of the vertical alignment station at a vertical plane that is adjusted by the rotation of the top of said horizontal alignment station;

15. The alignment aid system described in claim 14, further comprising a vertical alignment lock and a horizontal alignment lock; wherein said horizontal alignment lock loosens to permit the adjustment of the top of the horizontal alignment station relative to its base, and tightens to lock its top at a desired alignment relative to its base; wherein said vertical alignment lock loosens to permit the adjustment of the top of the vertical alignment station relative to its base, and tightens to lock its top at a desire alignment relative to its base.

16. The alignment aid system described in claim 15, wherein said horizontal alignment lock loosens to permit the adjustment of said horizontal alignment guide, and tightens to lock said horizontal alignment guide in place, within the horizontal alignment station; wherein said vertical alignment lock loosens to permit the adjustment of said vertical alignment guide within the vertical alignment station.

17. The alignment aid system described in claim 16, further comprising an additional horizontal alignment guide housed within the base of said horizontal alignment station.

18. The alignment aid system described in claim 17, wherein said second horizontal alignment guide extends into the base of a second horizontal alignment station; wherein said second horizontal alignment guide further comprises a top with a third horizontal alignment guide housed therein; wherein the top of said second horizontal alignment station can be rotated while also rotating said third alignment guide about the center of said second horizontal alignment station.

19. The alignment aid system described in claim 14, wherein the top of said vertical alignment system further comprises degree markings; wherein the base of said vertical alignment system further comprises angle indexes; wherein the angular displacement of the top of said vertical alignment system relative to its base can be measured by reading said degree markings against said angle indexes after the top is rotated.

20. An alignment aid system for providing adjustable guides comprising: a. primary alignment station;b. a multi-dimensional alignment station;c. two additional alignment stations;d. four horizontal alignment guides; ande. one vertical alignment guide;f. wherein each of said primary alignment station, multi-dimensional alignment station, and additional alignment station comprises a horizontal alignment station;g. wherein said multi-dimensional alignment station further comprises a vertical alignment station;h. wherein each said horizontal alignment station and vertical alignment station comprises a station top, a station base, a top port, a station joiner, and a base port;i. wherein said primary alignment station houses a horizontal alignment guide through a base port, passing said horizontal alignment guide along a foot position path through to a base port of said multi-dimensional alignment station;j. wherein said primary alignment station also houses a horizontal alignment guide through a top port following a path to ball position;k. wherein said multi-dimensional alignment station houses a vertical alignment guide through a top port in its vertical station top;l. wherein said multi-dimensional alignment station houses a horizontal alignment guide through a top port in its horizontal station top, passing said horizontal alignment guide through to a top port of a first additional alignment station and also through a top port of a second additional alignment station;m. wherein the first additional alignment station houses a horizontal alignment guide through a base port following a downswing path; andn. wherein the second additional alignment station houses a horizontal alignment guide through a base port following a target path.