Patent Application
20240416208
The present disclosure relates to a stick device for putting. The putting stick may be elevated and deployable to improve putting outcomes. The stick may be advantageous in counting the number of successful putts as it utilizes a scoring system for use of personal recording and competing.
Nearly ½ of all strokes on a golf course are consumed on the putting green. Whether it's the end of a PGA tournament, a weekend competitive game, or simply a personal best score, putting plays a major role in all of these outcomes. Starting the golf ball rolling on the desired path plays the greatest role in the optimal outcome, both in precision and accuracy. Furthermore, starting the ball online reduces error for long and short putts. The need for effective putting practice equipment is well recognized among golfers aiming to improve their game. Traditional putting aids often lack adjustability and portability, limiting their effectiveness and convenience. Furthermore, having a level surface to practice putting assures a putt's direction is the result of the golfer and not the surface, thus, eliminating an unknown variable that may falsely give a putter feedback on their putt. This invention addresses these limitations by introducing a versatile and easily transportable putting apparatus.
The current device aims to improve putting outcomes by providing an elevated, level, narrow stick/ramp (device) to putt up (providing visual feedback on success of starting the ball online and instant failure by the ball falling off the stick and/or not returning after reaching the distal, curved portion or the stopper-see below), a level with adjusting leg mounts for leveling or raising/lower the angle of the stick, a counting device to display the number of successful putts, and a wireless attachment to software/app to provide live and online scoring for tracking personal growth and sharing/competing online or virtually, and a holder for phone or web camera video capture/sharing. Additionally, the curved, distal portion returns the ball to the golfer when putted on line, with no side spin and a stopper allows adjustment in the length of the putt up the stick and also helps return the ball to the putter. An advanced version of the Elevated Putting Stick allows electronic recording of attempts and successful puts to the end of the elevated putting stick.
Thus, what is needed is an elevated, level, putting stick that can be elevated off the floor or green, with a ramp that helps golfers release the club up on the proper plane, with a scoring system, and with a manual or advanced electronic tracking system that collects data, outcomes, and personal bests with a means to return the ball near the starting point. An adjustable angle of the ramp allows leveling, but also elevates the angle of the ramp that correlates to more/less energy to putt the ball to the end, mimicking a longer or shorter putt, respectively.
The present disclosure relates to a thin elevated putting ramp (stick) constructed of wood, plastic, metal/alloy, plexiglass, or other materials: such a thin ramp may contain a sensor to record each attempted putt and/or successful putt to the end of the thin ramp. Such a sensor may consist of a light, sound, motion or touch sensor.
A putting apparatus for use with a golf ball, the putting apparatus includes a ramp having a generally planar and flat upper surface, a first distal end of the ramp including a ball starting point (depressed circle) (it is noted that the terms ball stopper, ball starting point, and depression or depressed circle can be used interchangeably and are terms generally used to refer to the holding portion for the ball prior to putting located on the upper planar surface) configured to hold a ball in place prior to putting, an adjustable base supporting the ramp, the adjustable base including at adjustment mechanism to allow adjustment of the ramp in both horizontal and vertical planes, and a level attached to the adjustable base to ensure the putting apparatus is level before use wherein a second distal end is curved to facilitate return of the ball when putt up the ramp after a successful putt. An adjustable end stopper attaches to the track to allow the practicing of shorter putts and also may return the ball to the starting point. Such an end stopper includes a foam pad to absorb energy of a putt and a means to record a successful put up to the stopper.
In some embodiments, the golf ball starting point is a hole bored through the ramp or an indentation configured to hold the ball. In some embodiments, the adjustable base comprises a two-piece assembly allowing for breakdown and easy assembly of the putting apparatus and a pin for securing the two-piece assembly in a slidable configuration. In some embodiments, the ramp is broken into connectible sections for easy storing and transport, the sections being connected by a fastener or other connection means to provide a smooth upper surface. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a sensor to record when the ball successfully makes it past a chosen point or to the end of the ramp, the sensor being a light, touch, or sound sensor. In some embodiments, the adjustable base further includes holes for the adjustment screws. In some embodiments, the adjustable base further comprises a channel allowing a component to slide through another component of the base, the components being secured by a pin.
The explanations are illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the present teachings, its principles, and its practical application. The specific embodiments of the present teachings as set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the present teachings. The scope of the present teachings should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as will be gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description.
The present disclosure relates to a stick. The stick may assist in accuracy of putt shots for golfing purposes. The term “stick” may be used herein after to refer specifically to a putter, a stick, or the like. The stick may be referred to as a “putting stick.” The putting stick has a thin elevated ramp. The ramp may contain a sensor to record each attempted putt at the end of the ramp.
The putting apparatus 100 includes an adjustable base 120. The adjustable base 120 includes at least 2 adjustment screws 122. The adjustment screws 122 allow for adjustment of the adjustable base 120 thereby allowing adjustment on both horizontal and vertical planes. The adjustable base 120 of the putting apparatus 100 further includes a level 126 to ensure to the user that the putting apparatus 100 is level before use. This element is essential in that the ball will roll off of the ramp 102 if the golfing apparatus 100 is not level.
The adjustable base 120 of the putting apparatus 100 further includes a two piece assembly 126, 128 allowing for breakdown and easy assembly of the golfing apparatus 100. The base 120 includes the two pieces 126, 128 in a by means of the holes 130, 134 in slidable configuration, as shown in
The base 120 further includes holes 140 for the adjustment screws 120.
The thin ramp includes a curved ramp and may include end stop (now shown). The end stop may be used to stop the forward progression of the golf ball once it is putt. In the present embodiment, the ramp 102 includes a curved distal end 112. The curve 106 allows the user to putt up the ramp 102 onto the curve 106 on the surface 108, as illustrates by movement arrows A and B. After a successful pull of the ball 10 up the ramp 102 to the curved 106 distal end 112, the curve 106 facilitates return of the ball 10 to the user.
The curve 106 on the end helps the user improve on adjusting ones “touch” or specifically distance control. By hitting it farther up the curve 106, it requires more energy and this correlates with hitting a longer putt. The user/golfer can see how close they can get to the end and still have the ball return but not go off the end. The curve 106 also allows the golfer/user to have a shorter stick that is portable yet practice longer putts
As such, the elevated putting of the present apparatus works on getting the ball online but also on distance control, the two aspects that make up putting.
In some embodiments, the ramp 102 may be broken into connectible sections for easy storing and transport. These components may be connected by a fastener or other connection means to provide for a smooth upper surface 106.
In some embodiments, not shown, the end stop may help return the ball to the starting location of the putt. The end stop may include a stop pad. The stop pad may contain a light, touch, or sound sensor. The sensor will record when the gold ball successfully makes it to the end of the thin ramp.
In some embodiments, the ramp 102 includes a sensor. The sensor may be used to count successful putts to the end of the stick (light, motion, touch, sound sensor) and the sensor, which is made of similar detectors as the stick, is used to record attempts. Sensor cushion stop may contain a maximum compression to discredit unusually hard strikes: additionally, the cushion may provide an estimate of putt length based on the degree of compression calibrated to a norm chart.
In some embodiments, both ends of the putting stick may include a balancing mechanism, similar to the adjustment screws 120. The elevating and balancing mechanism may elevate one side of the stick and act to balance the stick side to side per level. The balancing mechanism includes an elevated lever. The elevated lever may open and close, folding back on itself. When the elevated lever is deployed, it may raise a bar on the putting side of the thin ramp, and, at the end, can be used as the back stop or sensor. Elevating/balancing mechanism to both elevate one end of the putting stick and/or balance the stick side to side per the level. The elevated lever shall open and close, folding back on itself: when deployed, it may raise a bar on the putting side of the thin ramp, at the end, that can be used as the back stop/sensor.
A thin elevated putting ramp (stick) constructed of wood, plastic, metal/alloy, plexiglass, or other materials: such a thin ramp may contain a sensor to record each attempted putt and/or successful putt to the end of the thin ramp. Such a sensor may consist of a light, sound, motion or touch sensor.
The thin putting ramp (stick) will have an opening/hole cut into the ramp for the golf ball to rest prior to the putt. The putting surface may contain a micromaterial that allow the golf ball to roll forward, but restricts it rolling backwards to aid in loading the golf ball onto the hole. Such hole may contain a sensor for recording attempts or providing the time for the ball to travel to the end.
Elevating/balancing mechanism to both elevate one end of the putting stick and/or balance the stick side to side per the level. The elevated lever shall open and close, folding back on itself: when deployed, it may raise a bar on the putting side of the thin ramp, at the end, that can be used as the back stop/sensor.
Other options for the golfing apparatus include the following option elements. Sensor to count successful putts to the end of the stick (light, motion, touch, sound sensor) and a sensor, made of similar detectors (light, motion, touch, sound) to record attempts. A manual counter, bead, or electronic counter with a reset button for the counter. Phone/video mount to record or track ball motion/spin/roll and used for sharing data and competing. Wireless transmission of data to phone/computer. App/software/computer connect for data processing, sharing, coaching, and online competing. Electrical wiring/battery to support data collection and display. Putting ramp may have a bending/collapsible component to allow easy storage and deployment. Sensor cushion stop may contain a max compression to discredit unusually hard strikes; additionally, the cushion may provide an estimate of putt length based on the degree of compression calibrated to a norm chart. The cushion shop attaches to the putting stick and can be adjusted along the length of the putting surface to increase or decrease the length of the putt. Pro version with electronics will have a battery source or solar collection means for providing electrical support.
In some embodiments, the sensor includes a counter. The counter may be manual, bead or electronic. The counter may have a reset button.
In some embodiments, the putting stick includes a phone or video mount. The mount may allow the recording or tracking of ball motion, spin, and roll. The video may be used for sharing data and competing. It may also be used during practice to track progress over time.
In some embodiments, the putting stick includes corresponding software. The software may connect for data processing, sharing, coaching, and online competing.
In some embodiments, the putting stick includes a battery. The battery may have electric wiring to support data collection from the sensor. The electric wiring may have a solar collection source or a battery source for means of providing electrical support.
Primary Structure: Ramp: The apparatus features a ramp with a generally planar and flat upper surface: Ball Starting Holder: Located at the first distal end of the ramp, the ball holder fixes the ball in place prior to putting. It can be either a hole bored through the ramp or an indentation configured to secure the ball. Curved End: The second distal end of the ramp is curved to facilitate the return of the ball after a successful putt.
Adjustable Base: Adjustment Mechanism: The adjustable base supports the ramp and includes a mechanism for adjusting the ramp in both horizontal and vertical planes, enhancing the adaptability of the apparatus. Level: A level is attached to the adjustable base to ensure the apparatus is level before use. Component Assembly: The adjustable base consists of a two-piece assembly for easy breakdown and assembly. This assembly includes a pin for securing the pieces in a slidable configuration. Adjustment Screws: Holes for adjustment screws are included in the base to facilitate precise adjustments. Channel and Pin Mechanism: A channel within the base allows one component to slide through another, with a pin securing the components in place. The width of the putting stick can be adjusted thinner to increase the difficulty or wider to decrease the difficulty or to allow practice of an uneven putt (as seen with a break on a golf green).
Portability and Storage: Connectible Sections: The ramp is designed in connectible sections, allowing for easy storage and transport. These sections are connected by fasteners or other means to ensure a smooth upper surface when assembled.
Feedback Mechanism: Sensor: The apparatus includes a sensor to record when the ball successfully reaches the end of the ramp. This sensor can be a light, touch, or sound sensor, providing immediate feedback to the user.
The elevated configuration is unique in that it provides mental feedback when the ball falls off or doesn't return. A user or golfer may make a putt by putting a little off center and still go in the cup, but to get the perfect putt on line, the ball must not have any side spin or it falls off on the way up or the way back down after it reaches the curve. As such, if the apparatus wasn't elevated, the apparatus would not function as shown and described herein because instant feedback would not be provided.
Additionally, varying the height helps mimic longer putts as you increase the steepness. The user/golfer is able to adjust the height by means of the screws so as to mimic the steepness of a hill. As such, the apparatus would not function as uniquely without the height adjustment as shown and described herein.
Even further, the level is advantageous in that it removes a variable that may give the user/golfer a false result. If the user/golfer desires the putting direction to be only based on the putter striking the ball and not on any curve by an uneven ground. As such, this is key to having it off the ground that might not be level. This configuration assures it's level side to side
The apparatus offers a comprehensive solution for golfers seeking to improve their putting skills through a combination of adjustability, portability, and immediate feedback mechanisms. This ensures a practical and effective training experience, adaptable to various practice environments and user needs.
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoing detailed description, it is to be understood that the present invention is not to be limited to just the embodiments disclosed, but that the invention described herein is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of the claims hereafter. The claims as follows are intended to include all modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the claims or the equivalent thereof.
It is noted that the terms “substantially” and “about” may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation.
These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.
While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.
Unless otherwise stated, any numerical values recited herein include all values from the lower value to the upper value in increments of one unit provided that there is a separation of at least 2 units between any lower value and any higher value. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of a component, a property, or a value of a process variable such as, for example, temperature, pressure, time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90, preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intended that intermediate range values such as (for example, 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc.) are within the teachings of this specification. Likewise, individual intermediate values are also within the present teachings. For values which are less than one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 as appropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner. As can be seen, the teaching of amounts expressed as “parts by weight” herein also contemplates the same ranges expressed in terms of percent by weight. Thus, an expression in the Detailed Description of the Invention of a range in terms of at “′x′ parts by weight of the resulting polymeric blend composition” also contemplates a teaching of ranges of same recited amount of “x” in percent by weight of the resulting polymeric blend composition.”
Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and all numbers between the endpoints. The use of “about” or “approximately” in connection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, “about 20 to 30” is intended to cover “about 20 to about 30”, inclusive of at least the specified endpoints.
The term “consisting essentially of” to describe a combination shall include the elements, ingredients, components, or steps identified, and such other elements ingredients, components or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, ingredients, components, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of, or even consist of the elements, ingredients, components or steps.
Plural elements, ingredients, components, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, ingredient, component, or step might be divided into separate plural elements, ingredients, components or steps. The disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element, ingredient, component, or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements, ingredients, components or steps. All references herein to elements or metals belonging to a certain group refer to the Periodic Table of the Elements published and copyrighted by CRC Press, Inc., 1989. Any reference to the group or groups shall be to the group or groups as reflected in this Periodic Table of the Elements using the IUPAC system for numbering groups.
While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.
Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination.
It is therefore intended that the appended claims (and/or any future claims filed in any utility application) cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.
Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination.
It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/472,624 filed on Jun. 13, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63472624 | Jun 2023 | US |
