GOLF PUTTING TRAINING APPARATUS

Abstract

A golf putting training apparatus. Plural horizontal and vertical components with plural visual aid components are included that are used to properly align and properly swing a golf club putter. A 6:4 ratio is used with the plural horizontal and vertical components to provide a ratio for backswing and following through distancing and to help create muscle memory for a golfer. A pre-determined thickness is included allowing the golf club putter to be swing over the apparatus preventing the golf club putter from impacting a ground surface. The plural horizontal and vertical components help keep a face of the golf club putter in a proper alignment and at a ninety-degree angle to the golf ball when it is struck with the golf club putter.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

This application relates to golf putting. More specifically, it relates to a golf putting training apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

One of the most important things for a golfer to do is have a consistent golf swing and putting stroke. Golfers spend many hours at the golf range and on putting greens practicing their golf swing and putting stroke.

When a person starts golf as a new sport or golfers on high school or college teams, such golfers need to be taught how to properly swing a golf club or how to properly develop a consistent putting stroke. Professional and non-professional golfers also need to adjust their golf swing and putting stroke from time to time.

However, there are a number of problems associated with teaching a new golfer how to swing a golf club or develop a putting stroke or having professional and non-professional golfers adjust their swing or putting stroke.

One problem is that there are few training aids available for golfers to adjust a golf swing for a putting stroke.

Another problem is that it is difficult for a golfer to track the motion of his or her golf swing or stroke especially a putting stroke.

Another problem is that it is difficult for golfer to have a visual alignment component to track the motion of his or her swing or stroke especially a putting stroke.

Another problem is that it is difficult for a golfer to have a visual alignment component to track the motion of his or her swing or stroke especially a putting stroke that easily attachable and removable from a golf club.

Another problem is that is it difficult for a golfer to determine a proper distance for a backswing and a distance for a follow through with a golf club putter.

Another problem is that is difficult for a golfer to keep a face of a golf club putter at a proper angle when striking a golf ball.

Another problem is that it is difficult for a golfer to keep a golf club putter from impacting the ground before a golf ball is struck while putting.

Another problem is that it is difficult for a golfer to properly align a golf ball and a golf club putter header in training tools known in the art.

Another problem is that most putting training tools do not allow a golfer to create muscle memory to develop a consistent and accurate putting stroke.

There have been attempts to solve of the problems associated with adjusting a golf swing for a putting stroke.

For example, U.S. published patent application number US20030224868, published by Richard Port teaches “A putting training aid and putter calibration device for use on a putting surface is disclosed which includes a horizontal calibrated bar with a linear centered scale and a parallel calibration block having an oblique face and set on the practice putting surface below and offset from the horizontal calibrated bar. Also provided is a linear scale decal which is applied to a putter shaft. The device is designed to align the putter head to proper lie and neutral loft so that the face is square to the intended target line and to teach the golfer the proper grip, stance, alignment of the golfer, alignment of the club and proper putting stroke.”

U.S. published patent application number US20150217175, published by Carson Tyler teaches “A multipurpose golf training aid that can be used to teach full swing alignment, putting alignment, full swing path and putting path development.”

U.S. published patent application number US20110039629, published by Stuart Smith teaches “Golf putting training apparatus, for use with a putter, comprises a base having a support upstanding therefrom, and a guide carried by said support. The guide has an elongate guide surface for the shaft of the putter to be slid along during putting. An indicator extends laterally from the base, below the guide surface, to provide a golfer with a visual indication of the alignment of the face of the putter head with respect to a golf ball positioned adjacent the indicator. In use, the golfer practices a putting stroke by swinging the putter so that the shaft slides along the guide surface, whilst using the indicator to align the face of the putter head at an appropriate angle for striking the golf ball.”

U.S. Pat. No. 6,450,893, issued to Primiano, et al. teaches “An apparatus for providing a laser alignment golf training aid uses a single-pivot mounting clamp for easy installation and improved accuracy. A support bar is pivotally mounted directly to the single-pivot mounting clamp and a unitary element is used to clamp a laser aiming device to the support bar. There are no interfaces or fasteners between the support bar interface and the aiming device interface of the unitary element to further eliminate sources of inaccuracy. The device uses a hollow support bar and alloy fastening elements to reduce weight.”

U.S. Pat. No. 6,796,910, issued to Foster teaches “A laser guided putting aid to enable a golfer to practice and perfect his putting stroke. The laser guided putting aid includes a combination laser and clamp by which the laser is detachably connected to the shaft of the putter without having to make any changes thereto. The laser emits a pattern of light that fans out in a vertical plane so as to cast a vertical reference line against a target that is located at the end of a putting surface. The golfer practices his putting stroke while attempting to maintain the position of the vertical reference line against the target. If the golfer's putting strokes becomes non-linear, the reference line will move off the target to immediately provide the golfer with a visual indication that his stroke is off-line. An alignment device is included so that the laser is connected to the shaft of the putter such that the vertical plane in which the pattern of light is emitted from the laser will lie in perpendicular alignment with each of the putting surface and the striking face of the putting head of the golfer's putter.”

U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,968, issued to Port, et al. teaches “A putting training aid and putter calibration device for use on a putting surface is disclosed which includes a horizontal calibrated bar with a linear centered scale and a parallel calibration block having an orthogonal face and set on the practice putting surface below and offset from the horizontal calibrated bar. Also provided is a linear scale decal which is applied to a putter shaft. The device is designed to align the putter head to proper lie and neutral loft so that the face is square to the intended target line and to teach the golfer the proper grip, stance, alignment of the golfer, alignment of the club and proper putting stroke.”

U.S. Pat. No. 11,554,300, that issued to Wright teaches “A configurable golfing apparatus including a rectangular handle portion. The rectangular handle portion includes a golf club shaft that is securely mounted within the configurable golf club handle. The rectangular shape provides new and additional hand placement and new and additional configuration capabilities for both right-handed and left-handed golfers. The configurable golfing apparatus allows different golf club heads (e.g., drivers, irons, putters, etc.) to be inserted and removed from the configurable golfing apparatus. The golf club shaft inside the rectangular handle portions complies with straightness, bending and flexibility, and twisting and torque, properties and attachment to a golf club head requirements for a golf club shaft required by the United States Golf Association (USGA) and Royal and Ancient (R&A) Golf Club of St Andrews rules and functions in a manner similar to a golf club shaft not enclosed in a rectangular handle portion.”

However, these solutions still do not solve all of the problems associated with training apparatus for golf putters. Thus, it is desirable to solve some of the problems associated with training apparatus for a golf putter.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention, some of the problems associated with golf putting accuracy are overcome. A golf putting training apparatus is presented.

The golf putting training apparatus has plural horizontal and vertical components with plural visual aid components that are used to properly align and properly swing a golf club putter. A 6:4 ratio is used with the plural horizontal and vertical components to provide a ratio for backswing and following through distancing. The golf putting training apparatus includes a pre-determined thickness allowing the golf club putter to be swing over it preventing the golf club putter from impacting a ground surface during putting practice. The golf putting training apparatus helps keep a face of the golf club putter in a proper alignment and at a ninety-degree angle to the golf ball when it is struck with the golf club putter. The golf putting training apparatus helps create muscle memory for a golfer for a correct and accurate putting stroke.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of preferred embodiments of the present invention will be more readily apparent from the following detailed description. The detailed description proceeds with references to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the following drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with plural colors;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with plural patterns;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with a golf club putter in a start position;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with a golf club putter in an end position;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a golfer with a golf club putter in a start position on the golf putting training apparatus;

FIG. 7A is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components;

FIG. 7B is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating another golf putting training apparatus;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components; and

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Exemplary Golf Putting Training Apparatus

FIG. 1 is a block diagram 10 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12. The golf putting training apparatus 12 includes, but is not limited to, a first horizontal component 14 of a first pre-determined length 16 and a first pre-determined width 18 and a first pre-determined thickness 20 connected at first end to a vertical component 22 at a first position 24 on a first side 26 on the vertical component 22, the first pre-determined length 16 providing a first optimal length for a starting position of a golf club putter 28 to strike a golf ball 30, a first outer edge 32 of the first horizontal component 14 providing a first alignment component for a first edge component 29a of a putting head 29 with a center marker 29m on a top surface of the putting head 29 of the golf club putter 28. A second horizontal component 34 of a second pre-determined length 36 and a second pre-determined width 38 and a second pre-determined thickness 40 connected at first end to the vertical component 22 at a second position 42 on the first side 26 on the vertical component 22, the second horizontal component 34 providing a second alignment component for the golf club putter 28, the second pre-determined width 38 less than the first pre-determined width 18, the second position 42 on the vertical component 22 creating a gap of a pre-determined distance 44 between the first horizontal component 14 and the second horizontal component 34, the gap of the predetermined distance 44 and the second-predetermined width 38 creating a visual contrast and a first visual aid component between the first horizontal component 14 and the second horizontal component 34 to align the golf club putter 28 when the golf club putter 28 strikes the golf ball 30. A horizontal mark 46 on the vertical component 22 of a pre-determined length 48 and pre-determined width 50 in alignment at a pre-determined alignment position 52 on second horizontal component 34 to align the golf ball 30 to be struck by the golf club putter 28 providing a second visual aid component to align the golf ball 30 to allowing striking by the golf club putter 28. A third horizontal component 54 of a third pre-determined length 56 and a third pre-determined width 58 and a third pre-determined thickness 60 connected at a first end to the vertical component 22 at a third position 62 on a second side of 56 on the vertical component 22, a first outer edge 64 of the third horizontal component 54 providing a third alignment component for a second edge component 29b of the golf club putter 28, the third pre-determined length 58 shorter than the first pre-determined length 16, the third pre-determined length 58 providing a second optimal length for an ending position of the golf club putter 28 after striking the golf ball 30. The first pre-determined thickness 20, the second pre-determined thickness 40 and the third pre-determined thickness 60 providing an elevated surface over which the golf club putter 28 is swung to practice a putting stroke to hit the golf ball 30 with the face 29f of the putter head 29 of the golf club putter so the golf club putter 28 does not impact a ground surface 66 while practicing, thereby providing a putting accuracy component to improve putting accuracy.

The golf putting training apparatus 12 can be used for both right-handed and left-handed golfers.

In one embodiment, the golf club putter 28 includes a golf club handle included in U.S. Pat. No. 11,554,300, that issued to Wright, the contents of which are incorporated by reference. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with golf club handles can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, the golf putting training apparatus 12 further includes a company logo 67 on one of the horizontal 14, 34, 54 and/or vertical 22 components (one company logo illustrated in FIG. 1 on the first horizontal component 14 for simplicity, etc.). However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with and/or with a company logo can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, a ratio of lengths between the first pre-determined length 16 and the third predetermined length 56 includes a ratio of 6-to-4 because measurements of six inches and four inches are used. However, in a simplest form, this ratio is 3-to-2 (i.e., divide 6/2 and 4/2 leaves 3 and 2). However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other ratios can be used to practice the invention.

In one specific embodiment, it has been determined experimentally that about a six-inch (about 15.24 centimeters (cm)) back swing provides an first optimal length for a starting position 82 (FIG. 4) of the golf club putter 28 to strike 84 (FIG. 4) the golf ball 30 for keeping the putting stroke as accurate as possible. It also has been determined experimentally that about a four inch (about 10.16 cm) follow through provides a second optimal length for an end position 88 (FIG. 5) with the golf club putter 28 as it strikes the golf ball 30 for keeping the putting stroke as accurate as possible. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other ratios and other measurements can be used to practice the invention.

In one specific embodiment, the first pre-determined thickness 20, the second pre-determined thickness 40 and the third pre-determined thickness 60 include a thickness of about 0.25 inches (about 0.635 cm) to about 0.50 inches (about 1.27 cm). It has been determined experimentally that about 0.25 to about 0.50 inches elevates the golf putting training apparatus 12 off the ground surface 66 to prevent a golfer 92 (FIG. 6) using the golf club putter 28 from impacting the ground surface 66 and misdirecting the golf ball 30 when the golfer 92 is practicing putting. The thicknesses 20, 40, 60 also help keep a face 29f of the golf club putter 28 at a ninety-degree angle to the golf ball 30 when it is struck with the golf club putter 28. The 0.25 inch to 0.50 inch thickness allows the golfer 92 using the golf club putter 28 to develop muscle memory to elevate a putting stroke and prevent it from impacting the ground when using the golf club putter 28 in an actual golf game on an actual golf course ground surface 66 when the golf putting training apparatus 12 is not used. The golf putting training apparatus 12 helps create muscle memory for a golfer 92 to develop and maintain a correct and accurate putting stroke. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other measurements can be used to practice the invention.

“Muscle memory” is a form of procedural memory that involves consolidating a specific motor task into memory of a brain through repetition, which has been used synonymously with motor learning and developing new muscle tissues. There are two different kinds of muscle memory. One type, neurological, is tied to the recall of learned activity, while the other form, physiological, is related to the regrowth of actual muscle tissue. The neurological form of muscle memory has to do with a phenomenon in which a golfer's 92 (FIG. 6) muscles are “remembering” specific movements. These two types of muscle memory mean a brain of the golfer 92 no longer has to think about the muscle movements for new muscle tissues developed into a new putting stroke by using the golf putting training apparatus 12 when putting during an actual golf game on a golf course.

In one embodiment, the first pre-determined thickness 20, the second pre-determined thickness 40 and/or the third pre-determined thickness 60 include a same thickness. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other measurements can be used to practice the invention.

In another embodiment, the first pre-determined thickness 20, the second pre-determined thickness 40 and the third pre-determined thickness 40 include a different thickness. In such an embodiment, a golfer 92 can have a customized golf putting training apparatus 12 to be used to practice a specific putting stroke with the golf club putter 28. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other measurements can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, it has been determined experimentally that the pre-determined length of the vertical component 22 is about four inches (about 10.16 cm), which is an averaged length of a typical putter head 29 on the golf club putter 28. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other measurements can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram 68 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with plural colors 70, 72.

In one embodiment, the first horizontal component 14 and the vertical component 22 include a first color 70 (e.g., blue, red, pink, orange, yellow, etc.) on a top surface of the first horizontal component 14 and the vertical component 22, the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54 include a second different color 72 (e.g., black, etc.) on a top surface of the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54, to create a visual contrast between the first horizontal component 14 and the vertical component 22 and the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54. This visual contrast allows a golfer 92 (FIG. 6) using the golf club putter 28 to focus more clearly on the second horizontal component 34 to keep a face 29f of the golf club putter 28 at a ninety-degree angle to the golf ball 30 when it is struck with the golf club putter 28 for a more accurate putting stroke. The different colors also provide another visual contrast between the golf putting training apparatus 12 and the ground surface 66 (e.g., golf course green grass, etc.) on which it is been used. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other colors can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, the colors included on the first horizontal component 14, the vertical component 22, the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54 can be split into multiple different colors (e.g., blue and white, orange and white, etc.) on the same top surface of the components to increase visibility and create an additional level of visual contrast. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other colors can be used to practice the invention.

The present invention is not limited to the different color components described and various combinations of one or more different colors can be used to practice the invention. In another embodiment all components of the golf putting training apparatus 12 include a same color, and/or combinations of different colors. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other colors can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram 74 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with plural patterns 76, 78.

In one embodiment, the first horizontal component 14 and the vertical component 22 include a first pattern 76 (e.g., smooth, raised components, receptacles components, cross-hatching, contour-hatching, tick-hatching, company logos, etc.) on a top surface of the first horizontal component 14 and the vertical component 22, the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54 include a second different pattern 78 (e.g., none, e.g., smooth, raised components, receptacles components, cross-hatching, contour-hatching, tick-hatching, company logos, etc.) on a top surface of the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54, to create a visual contrast between the first horizontal component 14 and the vertical component 22 and the second horizontal component 34 and third horizontal component 54. This visual contrast allows a golfer 92 (FIG. 6) using the golf club putter 28 to focus more clearly on the second horizontal component 34 to keep a face 29f of the golf club putter 28 at a ninety-degree angle to the golf ball 30 when it is struck with the golf club putter 28 for a more accurate putting stroke. The different patterns also provide another type of visual contrast between the golf putting training apparatus 12 and the ground surface 66 (e.g., green grass, etc.) on which it is been used. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other colors can be used to practice the invention.

The present invention is not limited to the different pattern components described and various combinations of one or more different patterns can be used to practice the invention. In another embodiment, all components of the golf putting training apparatus 12 include no patterns, a same pattern, and/or combinations of different patterns. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other patterns can be used to practice the invention.

Returning to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the gap 44 and the second- predetermined width 38 create another type of visual contrast and a first visual aid component between the first horizontal component 14 and the second horizontal component 34 to align the golfer 92 (FIG. 6) using the golf club putter 28 when the golf club putter 28 strikes the golf ball 30.

In one specific embodiment, the gap 44 includes a measurement of about 0.5 inches (about 1.27 cm). It has been determined experimentally that 0.5 inches is a minimum gap that is used to provide a minimum visual contrast and the first visual aid. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other gap 44 measurements can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, the horizontal mark 46 on the vertical component 22 of the pre-determined length 48 includes a horizonal mark receptacle, a raised horizontal mark protrusion and/or a horizontal mark added directly (e.g., with ink, 3D printing materials, etc.) on a top surface of the vertical component. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other types of horizon marks can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, the pre-determined alignment position 52 of the horizonal mark 46 on the vertical component includes a vertical alignment on the vertical component 22 at a midpoint of the pre-determined width 38 of the second horizontal component 34. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other locations of the horizonal mark on the vertical component 22 and/or on the second horizontal component 34 can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, the horizontal mark 46 on the vertical component 22 of the pre-determined length 48 includes a measurement of about 0.5 inches (about 1.27 cm). However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiment and other embodiments with other pre-determined length measurements for the horizontal mark 46 can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram 80 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with a golf club putter 28 in a start position 82.

In FIG. 4 the golf club putter 28 starts at a start position 82. The first edge component 29a of the putting head 29 of the golf club putter 28 is aligned with the first outer edge 32 of the first horizontal component 14 providing the first alignment component for the putter heard 29. The center marker 29m of the putter head 29 is aligned with the horizontal mark 46 on the vertical component 22 providing a second alignment component for the putting head marker 29m. The second edge component 29b of the putting head 29 of the golf club putter 28 is aligned with the first outer edge 64 of the third horizontal component 34 providing the third alignment component for the putter heard 29. A golfer 92 (FIG. 6) swings the golf club putter 28 over the top surfaces of the golf putting training apparatus 12 in a forward swing direction 84 to strike golf ball 30. In FIG. 4 the golf club putter 28 follows a path over the second horizonal component 34 to strike the golf ball 30 at a ninety-degree angle.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram 86 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with a golf club putter 28 in an end position 88.

FIG. 5, an instance in time after the golf ball 30 has been struck by the golf club putter 28 head 29 and is no longer in the drawing. The golf club putter 28 head 29 is at an end position 88 past the end of all three horizontal components 14, 34, 54 and vertical component 22.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram 90 illustrating a golfer 92 with a golf club putter 28 in a start position 82 on the golf putting training apparatus 12.

In FIG. 6, the golfer 92 swings 84 the golf club putter 28 above and over the top surfaces of the golf putting training apparatus 12 in a forward direction from the start position 82 to strike golf ball 30 at a ninety-degree angle to aim the golf ball 30 towards the golf green hole 93 on ground surface 66 to end position 88. FIG. 6 also illustrates additional alignment tool 114′ (FIG. 10) placed perpendicular to the golf putting training apparatus 12 to the to align the feet of the golfer 92.

FIG. 7A is a block diagram 94 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with additional components.

In FIG. 7A, a first additional guide component 96 is added perpendicular to the first horizonal component 14 to further guide the first edge component 29a of the putting head 29 of the golf club putter 28. In such an embodiment, the first horizontal component 14 includes plural protrusions 98 (only three of which are illustrated for simplicity) that are accepted into plural receptacles 100 (only three of which are illustrated for simplicity) on the first additional guide component 96. In another embodiment, the first additional guide component 96 includes the plural protrusions 98 and the first horizonal component 14 includes the plural receptacles 100. In another embodiment, various combinations of the protrusions 98 and receptacles 100 are added onto and used with both the first additional guide component 96 and the first horizontal component 14. The plural protrusions 98 and plural receptacles can be on a top surface and/or a side surface of the first additional guide component 96 and/or first horizonal component 14. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 7A also illustrates a second additional guide component 102 that is added perpendicular to the third horizontal component 54 to further guide the second edge component 29b of the putting head 29 of the golf club header 29. In such an embodiment, the third horizontal component 54 includes plural protrusions 98 (only three of which are illustrated for simplicity) that are accepted into plural receptacles 100 (only three of which are illustrated for simplicity) on the second additional guide component 102. In another embodiment, the second additional guide component 102 includes the plural protrusions 98 and the third horizonal component 54 includes the plural receptacles 100. In another embodiment, various combinations of the protrusions 98 and receptacles 100 are added onto and used with both the second additional guide component 102 and the third horizontal component 54. The plural protrusions 98 and plural receptacles can be on a top surface or a side surface of the second additional guide component 102 and/or third horizonal component 54. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other embodiments can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 7A illustrates guide components 96, 102 added to both the first horizontal component 14 and the third horizontal component 54. However, the invention is not limited to this embodiment and can practiced with just the first additional guide component 96 and/or just the second additional guide component 102. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other combinations and other embodiments can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment the guide components 96, 102 are both dynamically attachable to and removable from the golf putting training apparatus 12. In another embodiment, the guide components 96, 102 are permanently attached and not dynamically attachable and removable. In another embodiment one of the guide components 96, 102 is dynamically attachable and removable and another one of the guide components 96, 102 is permanently attached. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other combinations and other embodiments can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 7B is a block diagram 104 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with additional components.

FIG. 7B illustrates only the first additional guide component 96 is added perpendicular to the first horizonal component 14 to further guide the first edge component 29a of the putting head 29 of the golf club putter 28. Similarly, one second additional guide 102 can be added to the third horizontal component 54 and used alone (not illustrated in FIG. 7B).

FIG. 8 is a block diagram 106 illustrating another golf putting training apparatus 12′.

In FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the golf putting training apparatus 12′ includes only the first horizontal component 14, the vertical component 22 and the third horizontal component 54. The golf putting training apparatus 12′ further includes a vertical alignment mark 107 including a different color and/or different pattern to create an additional visual alignment aid. In this embodiment, the second horizontal component 34 is not included and not used. In such an embodiment, the golf ball 30 is aligned with the horizontal mark 46 and the vertical mark 107 on the vertical component 22. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram 108 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus with additional components.

In FIG. 9, in one embodiment, the golf putting training apparatus 12 further includes a lighting component 110 including, but not limited to, a light emitting diode (LED) component and/or a laser component and/or other lighting component. The lighting component 110 is used to project a light beam path from the golf putting training apparatus 12 towards a golf hole 93 to further aid the golfer 92 to align the golf club putter 28. In such an embodiment, the lighting component 110, includes but is a not limited to, an electrical circuit with a power source (e.g., a battery, capacitor, etc.) and an on/off switch. The lighting component 110 is placed within the vertical component 22, on top of the vertical component 22 and/or beneath the vertical component 22. In another embodiment, the lighting component 110 is placed on, beneath and/or within other components 14, 34, 54 of the golf putting training apparatus 12. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other embodiments with or without lighting components can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram 112 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with additional components.

In FIG. 10, the golf putting training apparatus 12 includes one or more additional alignment tools 114, 114′ (only two of which are illustrated for simplicity) that are used to that are used parallel 114 to and/or perpendicular 114′ to the golf putting training apparatus 12 to assist a golfer 92 to correctly align the golf club putter 28 and the body including the hands and/or feet of the golfer 92. In one embodiment, alignment tools 114, 114′ can be place in the gap 44 for another visual cue and/or to correctly align the golf club putter 28 and the body including the hands and/or feet of the golfer 92. FIG. 10 illustrates a circular tube alignment tool 114. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other embodiments with other shapes with and/or without additional alignment tools can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram 116 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12″ with additional components.

In FIG. 11, the golf putting training apparatus 12″ includes a mirrored surface 118. The mirrored surface reflects an image of the golfer 92 and the golf club putter 28 to allow the golfer to use a proper body and hand form when striking the golf ball 30 with the golf club putter 38. In such an embodiment, one or more, and/or all of the 14, 22, 34, 54 components include a mirrored surface. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other embodiments with and/or without mirrored surface components can be used to practice the invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram 120 illustrating a golf putting training apparatus 12 with additional components.

In FIG. 12, the golf putting training apparatus 12 includes an attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 with a horizontal marker 124 for aligning the putter head 29 of the golf club putter 29. The attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 provides another visual aid for properly aligning the putter head 29 of the golf club putter 29. The attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 includes a metal, rubber, wood, plastic and/or composite material. The attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 with the horizontal marker 124 is used on a golf course by the golfer 29 to mark a ball on a golf green. The attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 with horizontal mark 124 is a reminder to the golfer 92 to properly align the putter head 29 on the golf club putter 28 and trigger the muscle memory of the putter practice swings with the 6:4 ratio on the golf green without the golf putting training apparatus 12 being present. In one embodiment, the golf putting training apparatus 12 includes a raised receptacle 126 with a slot that allows the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 to be dynamically attached and removed the golf putting training apparatus 12 by sliding in and out of the slot in the raised receptacle 124. In another embodiment, the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 includes a magnetic metal, including but not limited to iron, cobalt, steel, nickel, etc. In such an embodiment, the golf putting training apparatus 12 also includes a magnetic metal. In another embodiment, the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 includes a hook-and-loop fastener (e.g., VELCRO, etc.). In such an embodiment, the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 includes a strip with hooks and the golf putting training apparatus 12 includes a strip with fasteners and/or vice-versa. In another embodiment, the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 includes a first magnetic adhesive strip and the golf putting training apparatus 12 includes a second magnetic adhesive strip. In another embodiment, the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 includes a magnetic metal and the golf putting training apparatus 12 includes a non-magnetic substance (e.g., plastic, wood, cardboard, composite material, etc.) and further includes a magnetic adhesive strip to attach and remove the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122. Other combinations of magnetic and non-magnetic materials can be used to practice the invention for the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 and the golf putting training apparatus 12. The attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 is illustrated on the second horizontal component 34 but can be used anywhere on a top surface of any component 14, 34, 54 the golf putting training apparatus 12, 12′, 12″. The attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 is illustrated as a circular object. However, the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 is not limited to this shape and other shapes can be used for the attachable and removable golf ball marker 122 (e.g. square, rectangle, oval, triangle, other polygon, etc.). However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other embodiments with and/or without the golf ball maker 122 and other components can be used to practice the invention.

Components 14, 22, 34, 54, 114, 122 of the golf putting training apparatus 12 comprise one or more of: cardboard, composite materials, metal, plastic rubber, wood, or a combination thereof. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other materials can be used to practice the invention.

Components 14, 22, 34, 54, 114, 122, of the golf putting training apparatus 12 are individually manufactured, machined, three-dimensional (3D) printed by a 3D printer, extruded and/or pultruded including cardboard, paper, metal, rubber, wood, plastic and/or composite materials and/or combinations thereof. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment and other embodiments with other manufacturing process and other materials can be used to practice the invention.

In one embodiment, all components 14, 22, 34, 54, 114, 122, of the golf putting training apparatus 12 are manufactured, machined, 3D printed by a 3D printer, injection molded, vacuum formed, extruded and/or pultruded as a one-piece integral unit. In another embodiment, selected ones of the components 14, 22, 34, 54, 114, 122 of the golf putting training apparatus 12 are manufactured machined, 3D printed by a 3D printer, extruded and/or pultruded, or a combination thereof, separately and are assembled into a final the golf putting training apparatus 12. However, the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and other embodiments may be used to practice the invention.

“Manufacturing” includes the process of making items from raw materials. “Machining” includes various processes in which a piece of raw material is cut into a desired final shape and size by a controlled material-removal process.

A “3D printer” includes 3D printing or “Additive manufacturing.” 3D printing is a process of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape from a digital model. 3D printing is achieved using an “additive process,” where successive layers of material (e.g., metal, plastic, etc.) are laid down in different shapes. 3D printing is also considered distinct from traditional manufacturing and/or machining techniques, which mostly rely on the removal of material by methods such as cutting or drilling and are “subtractive” processes.

In one embodiment, the 3D printing process includes a Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing process and/or a Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing process. FDM technology includes a process of making physical objects by building up successive layers of material with an extruded thermoplastic filament. SLA technology includes a form of 3D printing technology used for creating models, prototypes, patterns, and production parts in a layer-by-layer fashion using photochemical processes by which light causes chemical monomers and oligomers to cross-link together to form polymers to create physical objects. However, the present invention is not limited to these 3D printing processes and other 3D printing processes can be used to practice the invention.

“Injection molding” includes a manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting molten material into a mold, or mold. Injection molding can be performed with a host of materials mainly including metals, glasses, elastomers, confections, and most commonly thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers.

“Vacuum forming” includes a manufacturing process for producing parts by simplified version of thermoforming, where a sheet of plastic is heated to a forming temperature, stretched onto a single-surface mold, and forced against the mold by a vacuum. This process can be used to form plastic into permanent objects.

“Extrusion” is a manufacturing process where a material such as aluminum, plastic, etc. is pushed and/or drawn through a die to create long objects of a fixed cross-section. Hollow sections are usually extruded by placing a pin or mandrel in the die. Extrusion may be continuous (e.g., producing indefinitely long material) or semi-continuous (e.g., repeatedly producing many shorter pieces). Some extruded materials are hot drawn and others may be cold drawn.

The feedstock may be forced through the die by various methods: by an auger, which can be single or twin screw, powered by an electric motor; by a ram, driven by hydraulic pressure, oil pressure or in other specialized processes such as rollers inside a perforated drum for the production of many simultaneous streams of material.

“Pultrusion” is a manufacturing process for producing continuous lengths of materials. Pultrusion raw materials include metals such as aluminum, etc. or a liquid resin mixture (e.g., containing resin, fillers and specialized additives) and reinforcing fibers (e.g., fiberglass, composite materials, etc.). The process involves pulling these raw materials (rather than pushing as is the case in extrusion) through a heated steel forming die using a continuous pulling device. The reinforcement materials are in continuous forms such as rolls of fiberglass mat or doffs of fiberglass roving. As the reinforcements are saturated with the resin mixture in the resin impregnator and pulled through the die, the gelation (or hardening) of the resin is initiated by the heat from the die and a rigid, cured profile is formed that corresponds to the shape of the die.

There are also protruded laminates. Most pultruded laminates are formed using rovings aligned down the major axis of the part. Various continuous strand mats, fabrics (e.g., braided, woven and knitted), and texturized or bulked rovings are used to obtain strength in the cross axis or transverse direction.

The pultrusion process is normally continuous and highly automated. Reinforcement materials, such as roving, mat or fabrics, are positioned in a specific location using preforming shapers or guides to form a pultrusion. The reinforcements are drawn through a resin bath where the material is thoroughly coated or impregnated with a liquid thermosetting resin. The resin-saturated reinforcements enter a heated metal pultrusion die. The dimensions and shape of the die define the finished part being fabricated. Inside the metal die, heat is transferred initiated by precise temperature control to the reinforcements and liquid resin. The heat energy activates the curing or polymerization of the thermoset resin changing it from a liquid to a solid. The solid laminate emerges from the pultrusion die to the exact shape of the die cavity. The laminate solidifies when cooled and it is continuously pulled through the pultruson machine and cut to the desired length. The process is driven by a system of caterpillar or tandem pullers located between the die exit and the cut-off mechanism.

A “composite material” is a combination of two materials with different physical and chemical properties. The different physical or chemical properties of the two materials remain separate and distinct at the macroscopic or microscopic scale within the finished structure. Common polymer-based composite materials, include at least two parts, a substrate (e.g., fibers, etc.) and a resin.

When the two materials are combined, they create a composite material which is specialized material to do a certain job, for instance to become stronger, lighter or resistant to electricity. Composite materials also improve strength and stiffness of the materials. One reason for their use over traditional materials is because they improve the properties of their base materials and are applicable in many situations.

The composite materials include, but are not limited to, “Fiber-reinforced polymers” (FRP) including thermoplastic composites, short fiber thermoplastics, long fiber thermoplastics or long fiber-reinforced thermoplastics. There are numerous thermoset composites, but advanced systems usually incorporate aramid fiber and carbon fiber in an epoxy resin matrix. The composite materials also include carbon/carbon composite materials with carbon fibers and a silicon carbide matrix.

A golf putting training apparatus 12, 12′, 12″ is presented herein. The golf putting training apparatus has plural horizontal and vertical components with plural visual aid components that are used to properly align and properly swing a golf club putter. A 6:4 ratio is used with the plural horizontal and vertical components to provide a ratio for backswing and following through distancing. The golf putting training apparatus includes a pre-determined thickness allowing the golf club putter to be swing over it preventing the golf club putter from impacting a ground surface. The golf putting training apparatus helps keep a face of the golf club putter in a proper alignment and at a ninety-degree angle to the golf ball when it is struck with the golf club putter. The golf putting training apparatus helps create muscle memory for a golfer for a correct and accurate putting stroke.

It should be understood that the architecture, programs, processes, methods and systems described herein are not related or limited to any particular type of computer or network system (hardware or software), unless indicated otherwise. Various types of general purpose or specialized computer systems may be used with or perform operations in accordance with the teachings described herein.

In view of the wide variety of embodiments to which the principles of the present invention can be applied, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are exemplary only, and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present invention. For example, the steps of the flow diagrams may be taken in sequences other than those described, and more or fewer elements may be used in the block diagrams.

While various elements of the preferred embodiments have been described as being implemented in software, in other embodiments hardware or firmware implementations may alternatively be used, and/or vice-versa.

The claims should not be read as limited to the described order or elements unless stated to that effect. In addition, use of the term “means” in any claim is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, and any claim without the word “means” is not so intended. Therefore, all embodiments that come within the scope and spirit of the following claims and equivalents thereto are claimed as the invention.

Claims

1. A golf putting training apparatus, comprising in combination: a first horizontal component of a first pre-determined length and a first pre-determined width and a first pre-determined thickness connected at first end to a vertical component at a first position on a first side on the vertical component,the first pre-determined length providing a first optimal length for a starting position of a golf club putter to strike a golf ball;a first outer edge of the first horizontal component providing a first alignment component for a first edge component of a putter head of the golf club putter;a second horizontal component of a second pre-determined length and a second pre-determined width and a second pre-determined thickness connected at first end to the vertical component at a second position on the first side on the vertical component,the second horizontal component providing a second alignment component for the golf club putter;the second pre-determined width less than the first pre-determined width,the second position on the vertical component creating a gap of a pre-determined distance between the first horizontal component and the second horizontal component,the gap and the second-predetermined width creating a visual contrast and a first visual aid component between the first horizontal component and the second horizontal component to align the golf club putter when the golf club putter strikes the golf ball;a horizontal mark on the vertical component of a pre-determined length in alignment at a pre-determined alignment position on the second horizontal component to align the golf ball to be struck by the golf club putter providing a second visual aid component to align the golf ball to allowing striking by the golf club putter; anda third horizontal component of a third pre-determined length and a third pre-determined width and a third pre-determined thickness connected at a first end to the vertical component at a third position a second side of on the vertical component,a first outer edge of the third horizontal component providing a third alignment component for a second edge component of the golf club putter,the third pre-determined length shorter than the first pre-determined length,the third pre-determined length providing a second optimal length for an ending position of the golf club putter after striking the golf ball;the first pre-determined thickness, the second pre-determined thickness and the third pre-determined thickness providing an elevated surface over which the golf club putter is swung to practice a putting stroke so the golf club putter does not impact a ground surface when the golf club putter is swung providing a putting accuracy component to improve putting accuracy.

2. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, a ratio of lengths between the first pre-determined length and the third predetermined length includes a ratio of lengths of 6-to-4.

3. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first pre-determined length includes six inches and the third pre-determined length includes four inches.

4. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first pre-determined thickness, the second pre-determined thickness and the third pre-determined thickness all include a thickness of 0.25 inches to 0.50 inches.

5. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first pre-determined thickness, the second pre-determined thickness and the third pre-determined thickness include a same thickness or the first pre-determined thickness, the second pre-determined thickness and the third pre-determined thickness include a different thickness or a combination thereof the same or different thicknesses.

6. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first pre-determined thickness, the second pre-determined thickness and the third pre-determined thickness allow a golfer to develop muscle memory and elevate a putting stroke and prevent it from impacting the ground when using the golf club putter is used by the golfer in an actual golf game on an actual golf course.

7. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first horizontal component and the vertical component include a first color on a top surface of the first horizontal component and the vertical component,the second horizontal component and the third horizontal component include a second different color on a top surface of the second horizontal component and third horizontal component,the first color and second different color creating a visual contrast between the first horizontal component and the vertical component and the second horizontal component and third horizontal component.

8. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first color and different second color includes a black, blue, orange, pink, red or yellow color.

9. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the first horizontal component and the vertical component include a first pattern on a top surface of the first horizontal component and the vertical component,the second horizontal component and third horizontal component include a second different pattern on a top surface of the second horizontal component and third horizontal component,the first pattern and the second different pattern creating a visual contrast between the first horizontal component and the vertical component and the second horizontal component and third horizontal component.

10. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, pre-determined distance between the first horizontal component and the second horizontal component creating the gap includes a pre-determined distance of 0.5 inches.

11. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the pre-determined alignment position or the horizonal mark on the second horizontal component includes a vertical alignment on the vertical component at a midpoint of the pre-determined width of the second horizontal component.

12. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a first additional guide component attached perpendicular to the first outer edge of the first horizontal component providing a first additional alignment component for the first edge component the of putting head of the golf club putter; anda second additional guide component attached perpendicular to the first outer edge of the third horizontal component providing a second additional alignment component for the second edge component of the putting head of the golf club putter.

13. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 12 wherein, the first additional guide component is dynamically attachable to and removable from the first horizontal component and the second additional guide component is dynamically attachable to and removable from the third horizontal component.

14. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: an attachable and removable golf ball marker with a horizontal mark for aligning the putter head of the golf club putter on a golf course green.

15. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a lighting component,wherein the lighting component includes a light emitting diode (LED) or a laser lighting component.

16. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, a top surface of the golf putting training apparatus includes a mirrored surface component.

17. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 further including: one or more additional alignment components used parallel to, or perpendicular to, the golf putting training apparatus.

18. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the components of the golf putting training apparatus comprise one or more of: cardboard, composite materials, metal, paper, plastic, rubber, wood, or a combination thereof.

19. The golf putting training apparatus of claim 1 wherein, the components of the golf putting training apparatus are manufactured, machined, three-dimensional (3D) printed by a 3D printer, injection molded, vacuum formed, extruded, pultruded, or a combination thereof.

20. A golf putting training apparatus, comprising in combination: a first horizontal component of a first pre-determined length and a first pre-determined width and a first pre-determined thickness connected at first end to a vertical component at a first position on a first side on the vertical component, the first pre-determined length providing a first optimal length for a starting position of a golf club putter to strike a golf ball;a first outer edge of the first horizontal component providing a first alignment component for a first edge component of a putter head of the golf club putter;a second horizontal component of a second pre-determined length and a second pre-determined width and a second pre-determined thickness connected at first end to the vertical component at a second position on the first side on the vertical component,the second horizontal component providing a second alignment component for the golf club putter;the second pre-determined width less than the first pre-determined width,the second position on the vertical component creating a gap of a pre-determined distance between the first horizontal component and the second horizontal component,the gap and the second-predetermined width creating a visual contrast and a first visual aid component between the first horizontal component and the second horizontal component to align the golf club putter when the golf club putter strikes the golf ball;a horizontal mark on the vertical component of a pre-determined length in alignment at a pre-determined alignment position on the second horizontal component to align the golf ball to be struck by the golf club putter providing a second visual aid component to align the golf ball to allowing striking by the golf club putter;a third horizontal component of a third pre-determined length and a third pre- determined width and a third pre-determined thickness connected at a first end to the vertical component at a third position a second side of on the vertical component,a first outer edge of the third horizontal component providing a third alignment component for a second edge component of the golf club putter,the third pre-determined length shorter than the first pre-determined length,the third pre-determined length providing a second optimal length for an ending position of the golf club putter after striking the golf ball;the first pre-determined thickness, the second pre-determined thickness and the third pre-determined thickness providing an elevated surface over which the golf club putter is swung to practice a putting stroke so the golf club putter does not impact a ground surface when the golf club putter is swung providing a putting accuracy component to improve putting accuracy;a lighting component including a light emitting diode (LED) or a laser to project a light beam to allow further alignment of the of putting head of the golf club putter;an attachable and removable golf ball marker with a horizontal mark for aligning the putter head of the golf club putter on a golf course green; andone or more of:a dynamically attachable and removable first additional guide component attached perpendicular to the first outer edge of the first horizontal component providing a first additional alignment component for the first edge component the of putting head of the golf club putter; ora dynamically attachable and removable second additional guide component attached perpendicular to the first outer edge of the third horizontal component providing a second additional alignment component for the second edge component of the putting head of the golf club putter.

21. A golf putting training apparatus, comprising in combination: a first horizontal component of a first pre-determined length and a first pre- determined width and a first pre-determined thickness connected at first end to a vertical component at a first position on a first side on the vertical component,the first pre-determined length providing a first optimal length for a starting position of a golf club putter to strike a golf ball;a first outer edge of the first horizontal component providing a first alignment component for a first edge component of a putter head of the golf club putter;a second horizontal component of a second pre-determined length and a second pre-determined width and a second pre-determined thickness connected at first end to the vertical component at a second position on the first side on the vertical component,the second horizontal component providing a second alignment component for the golf club putter;a horizontal mark on the vertical component of a pre-determined length and a vertical mark perpendicular to the horizontal mark on the vertical component to align the golf ball to be struck by the golf club putter providing a second visual aid component to align the golf ball to allowing striking by the golf club putter; andthe first pre-determined thickness and the second pre-determined thickness providing an elevated surface over which the golf club putter is swung to practice a putting stroke so the golf club putter does not impact a ground surface when the golf club putter is swung providing a putting accuracy component to improve putting accuracy.