FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to a magnetic ecosystem for storing objects on sporting equipment, and more specifically, to a magnetic system for use with a golf bag or other golf equipment.
BACKGROUND
Individuals rely on storage items to carrying sporting equipment around to and from sporting events or during a sporting competition. In certain sports, such as golf, an individual may have to travel long distances while carrying several items, such as golf clubs. Conventional golf bags have been around for a long time and are used to carry several different golf clubs as the user plays a round of golf. While several aspects of golf have evolved in the coming years, such as advancement in golf clubs, golf balls, ranging technology, and the like, relatively little development has been found in golf bags.
Typical golf bags include a compartment to store a player's golf clubs and additional pockets for storage of smaller golf related items, such as golf balls, golf tees, gloves, and other items. The pockets include zippers that can be closed to keep items secure while a player carries the golf bag and opened when the player need access to the items. Because a player must carry the golf bag between every shot, the player must zip and unzip the pocket every time they want to access the items in the pockets. Such a task can be bothersome, particularly for frequently used items or items spread out between multiple pockets. Thus, there exists a need for an improved golf bag.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure is generally related to systems, devices, and methods of storing sporting equipment on an athletic bag, such as a golf bag. For example, one or more aspects of the present disclosure can include a golf bag or golf accessory system having one or more magnets configured to secure a plurality of golfing accessories to a golf bag.
Some aspects of the present disclosure can include a golf bag that includes a magnetic plate (e.g., ferromagnetic plate) coupled to a shell having a first surface defining a chamber configured to accommodate a plurality of golf clubs and a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and configured to cooperate with first surface to define an interior cavity. The magnetic plate may be disposed within the interior cavity of the shell and configured to generate a magnetic field and is configured to interact with a magnetic device such that when the magnetic device is disposed on an outer surface of the shell, the magnetic device is coupled to the magnetic plate via the magnetic field. In some configurations, the magnetic plate has a width that is greater than or equal to 75% of a width of a first side of the shell. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnetic plate can have a surface area that is greater than or equal to 100 square centimeters (cm2), such as 250, 300 or 400 cm2. In some configurations, the magnetic plate is planar.
In some aspects of the golf bag, the shell includes a base and a top end that is opposite the base, the chamber extends from the base to the top end of the shell, and the magnetic plate is positioned closer to the top end of the shell than to the base. The shell can include a first side, a second side that is opposite the first side, a third side, and a fourth side that is opposite the third side, the width of the first side being greater than a width of the third or fourth sides. In some configurations, the second surface defines at least a portion of the first, second, third, and fourth sides. The first surface may define a debossed region and the magnetic plate may be disposed within the debossed region. The shell can also include a plurality of pockets and, in some such configurations, a first pocket of the plurality of pockets includes a first zipper that surrounds the first pocket. Each of the plurality of pockets may be positioned closer to a base of the shell than to a top end of the shell.
In some of the described configurations, the width of the magnetic plate is substantially equal to the width of the first side of the shell. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnetic plate can include a surface area that is greater than or equal to 25% of a surface area of the first side. Some of the present golf bags may include a second magnetic plate configured to be disposed within the interior cavity of the shell and configured to generate a second magnetic field. The second magnetic plate may be configured to interact with the magnetic device such that when the magnetic device is disposed on an outer surface of the shell, the magnetic device is coupled to the second magnetic plate via the second magnetic field. The magnetic device is configured to hold a golf accessory such that the golf accessory is secured to the golf bag while the magnetic device is coupled to the shell.
Some aspects of the present disclosure can include a golf accessory system having a golf bag defining a chamber configured to accommodate a plurality of golf clubs and including an integrated magnetic plate that extends along a first side of the golf bag and is configured to interact with a first magnetic field, a magnetic hub configured to emit a second magnetic field, the magnetic hub configured to be coupled to the golf bag via a fastener, and a first magnetic holder configured to hold a first golf accessory such that the first golf accessory is secured to the golf bag while the first magnetic holder is coupled to the magnetic plate or the magnetic hub.
In some aspects, the first magnetic holder includes a towel clip. In such configurations, the first magnetic holder may have a first portion that includes a first magnet and a second portion that includes a second magnet, the second portion being moveable relative to the first portion between: an open position and a closed position in which respective ends of the first portion and second portion are closer together than in the open position. While the towel clip is in the closed position and the first golf accessory is interposed between the first and second portions, the towel clip is configured to secure the first golf accessory. In some configurations, the first or second magnet are configured to bias the towel clip toward the closed position and couple the first magnetic holder to the golf bag via the first or second magnetic field.
Some configurations of golf accessory system include a second magnetic holder configured to hold a second golf accessory such that the second golf accessory is secured to the golf bag while the second magnetic holder is coupled to the magnetic plate or the magnetic hub. In some such configurations, the second magnetic holder can include a first portion having a first magnet configured to be coupled to the magnetic plate or the magnetic hub and a strap configured to be moveable relative to the first portion between an open portion and an engaged portion in which the strap is configured to secure the second golf accessory to the second magnetic holder. The first and second magnetic holder may be coupled to the golf bag via the magnetic plate. The golf accessory system can further include a third magnetic holder configured to hold a third golf accessory and, in some configurations, the third magnetic holder is coupled to the golf bag via the magnetic plate or the magnetic hub.
The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled” may be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed configuration, the term “substantially” may be substituted with “within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 percent.
Further, an apparatus or system that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in other ways than those specifically described.
The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, an apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those elements. Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps.
Any configuration of any of the apparatuses, systems, and methods can consist of or consist essentially of—rather than comprise/include/have—any of the described steps, elements, and/or features. Thus, in any of the claims, the term “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” can be substituted for any of the open-ended linking verbs recited above, in order to change the scope of a given claim from what it would otherwise be using the open-ended linking verb.
The feature or features of one configuration may be applied to other configurations, even though not described or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of the configurations. Some details of the above configurations and others are described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation. For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears. Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identical structure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate a similar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as may non-identical reference numbers. The figures are drawn to scale (unless otherwise noted), meaning the sizes of the depicted elements are accurate relative to each other for at least the configuration depicted in the figures.
FIG. 1 is a illustrative view of an example of the present golf accessory system.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are first and second side views, respectively, of an example of a shell of a golf bag of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 2C is a sectional view of the shell of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
FIG. 2D is a top, plan view of the shell of FIGS. 2A and 2B.
FIG. 3A is a view of an example of a first magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 3B is a view of an example of a second magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 3C is a view of an example of a third magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 3D is a view of an example of a fourth magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 3E and 3F are front and back views, respectively, an example of a fifth magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 3G is a view of an example of a sixth magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 3H is a view of an example of a seventh magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 3I is a view of an example of an eighth magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 3J and 3K are front and side views of an example of a ninth magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 3L, 3M, and 3N are front, bottom, and side views, respectively, of an example of a tenth magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 3O and 3P are top and back views of an example of an eleventh magnetic holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another example of a magnetic holder.
FIG. 4B is a side view of the sixth magnetic holder of FIG. 4A in a first configuration.
FIG. 4C is a front view of the sixth magnetic holder of FIG. 4A in a second configuration.
FIG. 4D is a perspective, exploded view of a portion of the sixth magnetic holder of FIG. 4A.
FIG. 4E is a front view of the sixth magnetic holder of FIG. 4A coupled to a golfing accessory.
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an example of a magnetic holder coupled to a magnetic hub of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 5B is a perspective, exploded view of the magnetic hub of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 5C is a front view of the magnetic hub of FIG. 5A.
FIGS. 6A and 6B are front and side views of an example of a magnetic accessory of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 6C and 6D are front and side views of an example of a second magnetic accessory of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 6E and 6F are back and side views of an example of a third magnetic accessory of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 6G and 6H are back and side views of an example of a fourth magnetic accessory of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 7A-7D are respective side views of an example of a golf bag of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 7E is a side view of an example of the golf accessory system in a first configuration.
FIG. 7F is a side view of an example of the golf accessory system in a second configuration.
FIG. 7G is a side view of an example of the golf accessory system in a third configuration.
FIG. 7H is a side view of the magnetic plate of FIG. 7G removed from the golf bag.
FIG. 8A-8C are side views of various examples of golf bags of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 8D-8E are first and second side views, respectively, of another example of a golf bag of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 9A-9B are respective side views of an example of a golf bag of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 9C is a front view of the golf bag of FIG. 9A
FIG. 10A is a side view of a push cart of the present golf accessory systems engaged with a golf bag.
FIG. 10B is a front view of the push cart of FIG. 10A without the golf bag.
FIG. 10C is an enlarged view of a magnetic portion the push cart of FIG. 10A.
FIGS. 11A-11B are front and back views, respectively, of a magnetic dock in an engaged position.
FIG. 11C is an back view of the magnetic dock of FIG. 11A in a stowed position.
FIG. 12A is a front view of another example of a magnetic dock of the present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 12B-12C are front and back views, respectively, of another example of the magnetic dock present golf accessory systems.
FIGS. 13A and 13B are a top view and a sectional view, respectively, of an example of a magnetic ball holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 13C is a side view of the magnetic ball holder of FIG. 13A coupled to a plurality of golf balls.
FIGS. 14A and 14B are side views of an example of a magnetic towel holder of the present golf accessory systems.
FIG. 14C is a front view of the magnetic towel holder of FIG. 14A coupled to a golf towel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, shown therein and designated by the reference numeral 10 is one configuration of a golf accessory system. System 10 is configured enable a user to securely carry one or more sporting accessories that can be quickly accessed. In the configuration depicted in FIG. 1, system 10 includes a golf bag 14, a magnetic hub 18, and a magnetic holder 22. In other configurations, system can include golf bag 14, one or more magnetic hubs 18, one or more magnetic holders 22, or any combination thereof. Each of golf bag 14, magnetic hub 18, and magnetic holder 22 can be configured to secure one or more sporting accessories 26, such as a golfing accessory, to the golf bag. Although magnetic holder 22 is described as a separate component from the golfing accessory, in some configurations, the magnetic holder can be integrated with the golfing accessory or the accessory can be magnetized.
Golf bag 14 includes a magnetic plate 30 and a shell 34 that defines a chamber 38 configured to accommodate a plurality of golf clubs and is configured to house the magnetic plate. Magnetic plate 30 is configured to secure golfing accessory 26 to golf bag 14. For example, accessory 26 can be coupled to magnetic holder 22 which is secured to magnetic plate 30 via a magnetic force (e.g., magnetic field 74). In other configurations, accessory 26 can be magnetic and can be directly secured to magnetic plate 30. As depicted in FIG. 1, magnetic plate 30 is sized to accommodate multiple sporting accessories 26 at the same time. Magnetic plate 30 may be sized and positioned on shell 34 so that a user may easily secure and access accessories 26, as described in further detail with reference to FIGS. 2A-2D. As further described herein, golf bag 14 may include one or more additional components such as a plurality of pockets, wheels, golf stand, straps, loops, fasteners, or the like.
Magnetic hub 18 is configured to secure a golfing accessory 26 to a golf bag (e.g., 14) and may include a fastener 42 and a magnet 46. Fastener 42 may include a suitable non-magnetic fastener such as, for example, a clip, ring, pin, tie, button, snap fastener, clamp, clasp, buckle, bolt snap, adhesive, hook and loop fastener, adhesive, or the like. Fastener 42 is configured to couple hub 18 to golf bag 14, or other conventional golf bag. Magnet 46 is configured to emit, or otherwise interact with, a magnetic field to couple a magnetic device (e.g., magnetic holder 22) to the golf bag (e.g., 14). As shown in FIG. 1, magnetic holder 22 is configured to secure accessory 26, such as a golf towel, to magnetic hub 18. Magnetic holder 22 may be structured such that the holder can secure a variety of accessories 26 to golf bag 14, as described in further detail with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. In some configurations, magnetic holder 22 includes a magnet 50 that interacts with magnet 46 to couple the magnetic holder to hub 18 and golf bag 14. In some aspects, at least one of magnets 46, 50 is a permanent magnet. In such configurations, the other magnet 46, 50 may include a ferromagnetic plate or another permanent magnet.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2D, shell 34 includes a first side 52, a second side 54 that opposes the first side, a third side 56, and a fourth side 58 that opposes the third side. For example, FIG. 2A shows a side view of first side 52; FIG. 2B shows a side view of second side 54; FIG. 2C shows a sectional view of shell 34 taken about line 2C-2C of FIG. 2B; and FIG. 2D shows a top view of shell 34. In the depicted configurations, each side 52, 54, 56, 58 extends from a base 60 of shell 34 to a top end 62 of the shell.
As shown, magnetic plate 30 may be disposed on first side 52 of shell 34 and can be shaped to secure a plurality of accessories 26 to the first side of the shell. For example, magnetic plate 30 can have a width D1 that spans at least a majority of a width D2 of first side 52 of shell 34. In some configurations, width D1 of magnetic plate 30 is greater than, equal to, or between any two of 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99% of width D2 of first side 52. As a non-limiting example, width D1 may be greater than 10 centimeters (cm), such as greater than 15, 20, or 25 cm. In some configurations, magnetic plate 30 can have a height D3 (shown in FIG. 2A) that spans at least 10 percent of a height D4 (shown in FIG. 2B) of shell 34. In certain illustrative configurations, height D3 of magnetic plate 30 can be greater than, equal to, or between any two of 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, or, 35% of height D4 of shell 34. In some configurations, magnetic plate 30 can include a surface area that is greater than, equal to, or between any two of 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 950, 1000 or more square centimeters (cm2). Adding such a large magnetic plate (e.g., 30) to golf bag goes against conventional teachings which attempt to make golf bags as light as possible.
As shown herein, magnetic plate is a single integral piece, however, in other configurations, the magnetic plate may include a plurality of magnetic plates positioned together (e.g., spaced by a distance less than 7 cm, such as 5, 3, 2, 1 cm or less). Magnetic plate 30 may be positioned closer to top end 62 than to base 60 to secure multiple accessories (e.g., 26) to golf bag 14 at a position that is more accessible to a user. For example, a center or vertical midpoint of the magnetic plate 30 can be closer to top end 62 than base 60 such that the middle of the magnetic plate is above a vertical midpoint of the bag. Although FIG. 2A depicts magnetic plate 30 securing two accessories (e.g., 26) to shell 34, in other configurations, more than two accessories (e.g., 3, 4, 5, or more) can be secured by the magnetic plate at the same time.
Referring now to FIG. 2C, a sectional view of shell 34 taken about line 2C-2C of FIG. 2B is shown. Shell 34 includes a first surface 64 that defines chamber 38 and a second surface 68 that is spaced apart from the first surface. In some configurations, first surface 64 may define an interior of golf bag 14, including portions of first, second, third, and fourth sides 52-58. Additionally, or alternatively, second surface 68 may define an exterior surface of golf bag 14, including portions of first, second, third, and fourth sides 52-58. First and second surfaces 64, 68 cooperate to define an interior cavity 72 of shell 34 configured to accommodate magnetic plate 30. As shown, magnetic plate 30 is disposed within interior cavity and configured to generate a magnetic field 74 that extends outside of shell 34. In some configurations, first surface 64 can be debossed (e.g., depressed to fit magnetic plate 30) and the magnetic plate is disposed within the debossed region. Magnetic plate 30 may be covered at least by second surface 68 and is protected against the elements (e.g., rain, snow, dust, UV exposure, or the like). Further, by having magnetic plate 30 hidden (e.g., not visible), golf bag 14 may provide storage and exhibit a more aesthetically pleasing appearance reducing the number of oversized storage pockets. Although, cavity 72 is shown extending along the entire length of shell 34, in other configurations, cavity 72 may span only a portion of the shell. For example, cavity 72 may be located only on first side of shell 34 at a location closer to top end 62 than to base 60.
Magnetic plate 30 is configured to interact with multiple magnetic devices (e.g., magnetic holders 22, accessories 26, or the like) such that when the magnetic device is disposed on an outer surface (e.g., 68) of shell 34, the magnetic device is coupled to the magnetic plate via magnetic field 74. Magnetic field 74 is strong enough to hold the magnetic devices to magnetic plate 30 with one or more intervening materials (e.g., second surface 68). Magnetic plate 30 includes a magnetic material (e.g., ferromagnetic material) that is configured to interact with (e.g., emit or react to) magnetic field 74 another magnetic field to operate as described herein. For example, in some configurations, magnetic plate 30 includes a ferrimagnet material that does not naturally emit magnetic field 74, but reacts to the magnetic field produced by an external magnet (e.g., from holder 22 or accessory 26). In such configurations, magnetic plate 30 can be attracted to both north and south magnetic poles and orientation of a magnetic device (e.g., holder 22) is not needed. Further, the ferromagnetic plate (e.g., 30) will not affect other metallic objects in golf bag 14.
Magnetic plate may include a suitable material such as iron (e.g., ferrite), cobalt, nickel, aluminum, neodymium (e.g. N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, and N52), gadolinium, alloys or combinations thereof (e.g., alnico, samarium cobalt, or the like), or other magnetic material. As described above, magnetic plate 30 can be ferromagnetic and configured to react with another magnet (e.g., holder 22 or accessory 26) to attract the magnet. However, in other configurations, magnetic plate 30 may include a permanent magnet that emits magnetic field 74. In some configurations, a thickness of magnetic plate 30 is less than 2 cm, such as 1, 0.5, 0.25, or 0.1 cm. In such configurations, magnetic plate 30 can be structured (e.g., by selecting type of material, method of magnetizing material, surface area, or the like) to produce a strong enough magnetic field to hold multiple robust golfing accessories (e.g., speaker, cell phone, range finder) and is light enough to not cause excessive strain while a user carries golf bag 14.
Magnetic hub 18 is shown attached to second side 54 via fastener 42 and is configured to emit or react to a magnetic field 74 to secure a magnetic device (e.g., magnetic holder 22) to golf bag 14. Magnetic hub 18 is sized smaller than magnetic plate 30 (e.g., less than 150 cm2) and is configured to secure two or less golfing accessories 26 to golf bag 14. Magnetic hub 18 can be portable and easily coupled to, and removed from a golf bag (e.g., 14), so a user can transfer the hub between different golf bags. For example, a user may add or remove magnetic hubs 18 from their golf bag (e.g., 14) based on the number of accessories needed for a specific round.
As shown in FIG. 2D, magnetic plate 30 may include one or more planar portions. For example, magnetic plate 30 can include a primary planar portion 78 and one or more secondary planar portions 82 extending from the primary planar portions. Primary planar portion 78 has a width that is greater than each of secondary planar portions 82 and the width of primary planar portion is at least 60% of the width of magnetic plate 30. Each of secondary planar portions 82 can be angularly disposed relative to portion 78 such that the primary planar portion 78 and each secondary planar portions 82 form an obtuse angle (e.g., greater than 150 degrees, such as 160, 170, or 175 degrees). Planar portions 78, 82 may provide a better holding force to secure magnetic holders 22, which also have a planar magnetic device (e.g., magnet 46). However, in other configurations, magnetic plate 30 may be entirely planar or, alternatively, slightly curved to mimic the curvature of golf bag 14. In yet other configurations, portions 78, 82 may not be integrated an can include a plurality of separate magnets positioned near one another.
In some configurations, a width of first and second sides 52, 54 (e.g., D2) is greater than a width of third and fourth sides 56, 58 (e.g., D5). In such configurations, width D1 of magnetic plate 30 can be greater than the width D5 of third side 56 or fourth side 58. In this way, the largest surface of golf bag 14 can be utilized as a magnetic storage area to secure multiple golf accessories (e.g., 26) to the golf bag without the need to additional bulky pockets. Various golf accessories 26 can be secured to the magnetic plate 30 and magnetic hub 18 and may be easily accessed by a user as there is no need to zip and unzip pockets to access the accessories.
Each accessory (e.g., 26) may be attached to a magnetic holder 22 while the holder is coupled to magnetic plate 30 or magnetic hub 18. For example, FIGS. 3A-3P shows various magnetic holders 22a-22k which are each configured to attach to a particular golf accessory (e.g., 26) or other items. As an illustrative, non-limiting example, holder 22a may be configured to secure a range finder to golf bag 14, holder 22b may be configured to secure a smart phone to the golf bag, holder 22c may be configured to secure a score card to the golf bag, holder 22d may be configured to secure a ball marker to the golf bag, holder 22e may be configured to secure a speaker to the golf bag, and holder 22f may be configured to secure a towel to the golf bag. This list is merely illustrative and various other holders (e.g., 22) may be utilized to secure different accessories 26 to the golf bag, including gloves, hats, divot tools, golf head covers, umbrellas, cup holders, belts, sunglasses, binoculars, brushes, electronics (e.g., global positioning system (GPS)), storage compartments, or the like.
Each holder 22a-22k includes a magnetic portion 86 that includes a magnet (e.g., 50) and is configured to emit or react to magnetic field 74 to couple the holder to a magnetic component (e.g., magnetic plate 30 or hub 18) of golf bag 14. In some configurations, magnetic portion 86 includes a magnetic plate that is positioned on an exterior surface of the holder (e.g., 22) and, in other configurations, magnetic portion may include a magnetic plate that is enclosed within the holder. In some configurations, magnetic portion 86 is substantially the same size as magnet 50, while in other configurations, the magnetic portion may be larger than the magnet 50. However, in either configurations, magnetic portion 86 can configured to prevent magnet 50 from moving within the enclosed magnetic portion 86 or on an external surface of the holder. In some configurations, holder 22 can include one or more additional components configured to couple an accessory (e.g., 26) to the holder.
For example, referring to FIG. 3A, holder 22a includes a strap 88 that is moveable relative to magnetic portion 86 (e.g., hingedly moveable) to engage an accessory (e.g., 26) and secure the accessory to the magnetic portion. For example, strap 88 is configured to be moveable relative to magnetic portion 86 between an open position (shown) and an engaged portion in which the strap is configured to secure an accessory (e.g., 26) to the holder. Strap 88 is configured to be moveable without interfering with magnetic portion 86. For example, strap 88 may have an additional magnet that couples the strap to magnet 50 or, in other configurations, strap 88 may include another fastener (e.g., hook and loop fastener, adhesive, latch, snap fastener, button, eye fastener, or the like) that enables a portion of the strap to be attached to a portion of holder 22a such as, for example, a segment of magnetic portion 86 or another portion of the strap. In this way, the accessory (e.g., 26) can be accessed without removing the holder (e.g., 22) from golf bag 14. In some configurations, such as those shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, holders 22b, 22c define a receptacle 90 configured to receive and accommodate an accessory. Receptacle 90 may be defined by magnetic portion 86 and a covering layer 92 that at least partially overlies the magnetic portion. For example, covering layer 92 of holder 22b only partially overlies magnetic portion 86, while covering layer 92 of holder 22c overlies an entirety of magnetic portion 86. In some other configurations, covering layer 92 can define a compartment that can accommodate other accessories, such as one or more golf balls, golf tees, speaker, cleaning brush, gloves, divot repair, or the like.
In some configurations, holder 22 can have multiple components to engage the accessory (e.g., 26). For example, as shown in FIGS. 3E and 3F, holder 22e includes two straps 88, each of which are moveable relative to magnetic portion 86 and configured to overlie one another to secure the accessory to the holder. As depicted, at least one of the straps includes one or more additional magnets, or other fasteners, which may be utilized to couple the straps 88 together. As shown in FIG. 3G, holder 22f includes two magnetic portions 86 hingedly coupled to one another, as described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 4A-4D, below. The magnets (e.g., 50) within the magnetic portions 86 are configured to be attracted to one another and may clamp together to secure an accessory, such as a golf towel. The magnetic portions 86 are also configured to be attracted to a second magnet (e.g., 30, 18) to couple holder 22f to golf bag 14.
Referring now to FIG. 3H, a holder 22g is shown and is configured to secure a plurality of golf tees to a golf bag (e.g., 14). Holder 22g includes a plurality of receptacles 90g coupled to a magnetic portion 86. Each receptacle can be defined by a cover portion or cover layer and otherwise formed as described herein. Each receptacle 90g of holder 22g can be sized to receive a golf tee and may include a width that is substantially equal to 1 centimeter. In some configurations, receptacles 90g can include an opening at a top and bottom portion so that the golf tees can be slid into the receptacles. In some configurations, magnetic portion 86 includes two magnets enclosed within the magnetic portion. In an illustrative, non-limiting configuration, holder 22g can include a width substantially between 5 cm and 10 cm and a height substantially between 3 cm and 6 cm the magnets can include two circular n50 magnets.
Referring now to FIG. 3I, a holder 22h is shown and is configured to secure a glove to a golf bag (e.g., 14). Holder 22h includes a magnetic portion 86 and a hook and loop fastener 87h configured to engage with a hook and loop fastener of a glove. In some configurators, holder 22h can include a receptacle 90h that is sized to receive a fastener (e.g., carabiner) such that the holder can be attached to a golf bag in a non-magnetic manner. In this way, holder 22h can be configured to attach to both the described golf bags and conventional golf bags or adjusted based on storage needs or preferences. In an illustrative, non-limiting configuration, holder 22g can include a width or height that is substantially between 3 cm and 8 cm.
Referring now to FIGS. 3J and 3K, a holder 22i is shown and is configured to secure one or more golf balls to a golf bag (e.g., 14). Holder 22i includes a receptacle 90i coupled to a magnetic portion 86. In the depicted configuration, receptacle 90i extends along a majority of (up to including substantially all of) a width of holder 22i. Receptacle 90i is configured to hold at least two (e.g., 3 or 4) golf balls and magnetic portion 86 can include a plurality of magnets that are configured to secure holder 22i to a magnetic device while the golf balls are disposed within the receptacle. In some configurations, holder 22i includes a covering configured to cover receptacle such that the golf balls to not fall out of receptacle. In such configurations, covering can include a fastening device configured to keep the covering in place and, in other configurations, covering can be weighted or otherwise configured to cover receptacle 90i. In an illustrative, non-limiting configuration, receptacle 90i can include a width that is substantially between 8 and 12 cm, a height that is substantially between 4 and 10 cm, a depth that is substantially between 4 and 10 cm, or combination thereof.
Referring now to FIGS. 3L-3N, a holder 22j is shown and is configured to secure a brush to a golf bag (e.g., 14). Holder 22j includes a magnetic portion 86 having a magnet that is configured to be secured to a magnetic device and a plurality of other sides 88j that are moveable relative to the magnetic portion to define a chamber. The chamber includes an opening 87g and is sized to receive a head of a golf brush such that the handle of the brush extends through opening 87g while the brush is coupled to holder 22j. In some configurations, at least one side (e.g., 88j) is configured to operate as a hinge (e.g., living hinge) to enable holder 22j to wrap around the brush. In some configurations, at least one side (e.g., 88j) is configured to be removable coupled to a portion of holder 22j so that the holder can be moved between a secured and an unsecured state. For example, as shown in FIG. 3N, holder 22j can include a latching portion 89j that is configured to selectively couple a side (e.g., 88j) of the holder together. In such configurations, latching portion 89j can include a fastener (e.g., hook and loop, button, snap, or the like), zipper, magnets, or other components to selectively attach a side (e.g., 88j) to another portion of the holder to allow a user to easily access and secure the brush to the holder. In some configurations, latching portion 89j can include two fastening devices connected to opposing ends of holder 22j. The present holders (e.g., 22a-22j) may include leather, rubber (e.g., natural rubber, silicon, synthetic rubber), other polymer (e.g., polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, or the like), or combination thereof. In some configurations, a majority the an outer surface (e.g., surface area) of the holders is leather.
FIGS. 3O and 3P illustrate a holder 22k that is similar to holder 22i and is configured to hold food, such as chips, hotdogs, sandwiches, or other snacks. Holder 22k includes body having a magnetic portion 86k, a cover 92k that is moveable relative to the magnetic portion, and may define a receptacle 90k configured to accommodate a food product. Magnetic portion 86k is shown having two magnets (e.g., 50), however, other configurations can have a different magnetic arrangement. Cover 92k can be hingedly coupled to a portion of the body that is moveable between an open and closed configurations. In such configurations, cover 92k may include a fastening device, such as tabs, snap fit, a lip, or other fastening structure that is configured to maintain the cover in the closed configuration. In some configurations, holder 22k includes a removable or disposable tray that is disposed within receptacle 90k so that the holder can be easily cleaned. As shown in FIGS. 3O and 3P holder 22k is sized to accommodate a hot dog, but the dimensions can be varied depending on the type of snack.
Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4D, additional views of holder 22f (e.g., towel clip) are shown. For example, FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of holder 22f in a closed configuration; FIG. 4B shows a side view of holder 22f in the closed configuration; FIG. 4C shows a front view of holder 22f in an open configuration; FIG. 4D shows a partial exploded view of holder 22f; and FIG. 4E shows holder 22f coupled to a first accessory 26a.
Holder 22f includes a first magnetic portion 86a and a second magnetic portion 86b coupled to the first magnetic portion via a hinge 94 (e.g., living hinge). Each magnetic portion 86a, 86b is moveable such that holder 22f can be configured in a closed position in which the first and second magnetic portions are coupled together (see FIG. 4A) and an open configuration in which the first and second magnetic portions are separated from one another (see FIG. 4C). In the closed position the respective ends of the first and second magnetic portions 86a, 86b are closer together (e.g., abutting) than in the open position. The ends of first or second magnetic portion 86a, 86b can rotate about hinge 94 to move holder 22f between the open and closed configurations.
Each magnetic portion 86a, 86b includes a magnet (e.g., 50) that is enclosed within the respective magnetic portions. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C with respect to first magnetic portion 86a, magnet 50 is interposed between an outer surface 98a and an inner surface 102a. Magnets 50 may interact with one another to bias holder 22f toward the closed position to secure the accessory (e.g., 26) to the holder. In some configurations, inner surface 102a can include frame that defines a chamber 104. Chamber 104 can have a thickness that is less than other portions of inner surface 102b (e.g., the frame) to minimize the amount of material between magnets 50 of first and second magnetic portions 86a, 86b. In some configurations, such as that shown in FIG. 4C, inner surface 102a may, but need not, include one or more locking features 106 configured to improve grip between an inner surface 102b of second magnetic portion 86b. Additionally, or alternatively, inner surface 102a, inner surface 102b, or both may include a material that has a high friction coefficient, such as a rubber.
In the depicted configuration, hinge 94 is a flexible, living hinge and can be made from the same material as first magnetic portion 86a, second magnetic portion 86b, or both. For example, holder 22f (e.g., any of 86a, 86b, 92) may include leather, rubber (e.g., natural rubber, silicon, synthetic rubber), other polymer (e.g., polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, or the like), or combination thereof. In an illustrative, non-limiting configuration, outer surfaces 98a, 98b and hinge 94 may include leather and inner surfaces 102a, 102b may include rubber. In the ways described above, a golfing towel 26a may be secured between inner surfaces 102a, 102b while holder 22f is in the closed configuration as shown in FIG. 4E. The above described components may enable a user to attach a golfing towel 26a to golf bag 14 without the need to a specialized towel (e.g., towel with integrated ring, magnet, or the like). In some configurations, holder 22f is configured so that towel 26a can be completely removed from golf bag 14a simply by pulling downward on the towel. Towel 26a can then be reattached to golf bag 14 by moving one of the magnetic portions 86a, 86b to the open configuration, placing the towel within the holder 22f, and releasing the magnetic portion. This provides improved accessibility as compared to conventional golfing towels and golf bags.
As shown in FIG. 5A, holder 22f may then be couple to magnetic hub 18 via magnetic field 74, which can be attached to golf bag 14 via fastener 42 (e.g., carabiner). Holder 22 and hub 18 may be utilized on existing golf bags without existing magnetic components. As shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, hub 18 includes a first surface 110, a second surface 112 that opposes the first surface, and a magnetic plate 46 interposed between the first and second surfaces. In some configurations, first surface 110, second surface 112, or both, define an aperture 116 configured to receive fastener 42. In the depicted configurations, magnetic plate 46 may be sized to cover a majority of hub 18 (e.g., surface area of magnet 46 is at least 50% (such as 60%, 70%, or more) of a surface area of first surface 110 or second surface 112). In some configurations, magnetic plate 46 can be a 10 gauge ferromagnetic plate configured to interact with a magnetic field 74 with sufficient strength to hold holder 22 and accessory 26 during regular use of golf bag 14. In some such configurations, magnet 46 can be a similar size as magnet 50 (e.g., having surface areas within 15% of each other) to facilitate a good connection between hub 18 and holder 22.
Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6H, various magnetic accessories (e.g., 26) are shown. The magnetic accessories 26 can include magnets that are integrated into the product and are configured to interact with a magnetic device (e.g., magnetic hub 18, magnetic plate 30, or other magnetic portion of golf bag 14) without the use of a holder (e.g., 22). In the depicted configurations, magnets can be disposed within a components so that the magnet is not visible to a user and, in other configurations, the magnet can be disposed on an exterior surface of the accessory.
As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, shown is a magnetic accessory 26c that is configured as a brush. Magnetic accessory 26c includes a body 28c and one or more magnets 50 coupled to (e.g., integrated with) the body. As shown, one or more components associated with a golf brush can be coupled to body 28c, such as a first brush, a second brush, a metal spike, other brushing components, or combination thereof. As shown, magnetic accessory 26c includes two magnets disposed within body 28c of the accessory, however, more or less magnets can be utilized. In some configurations, magnets 50 are positioned such that the magnets are closer to one side of body 28c than another side of the body. In this manner, the accessory 26c can include a magnetic side and a non-magnetic side, which can be marked. In some such embodiments, the magnetic side can be marked with a magnetic icon so that the player may easily identify and attach the accessory to a magnetic device (e.g., 30).
Referring now to FIGS. 6C and 6D, shown is a magnetic accessory 26d that is configured as a divot repair tool. Magnetic accessory 26d includes a body 28d and one or more magnets 50 coupled to (e.g., integrated with) the body. In some configurations, accessory 26d can include a primary magnet 50 configured to attach body 28d to a magnetic device and one or more secondary magnets 50d configured to attach a component (e.g., ball marker) to the body. In some such configurations, body 28d can define an aperture, indentation, or other feature that enables a user to easily remove and attach another components to the body (e.g., via secondary magnets 50d).
Referring now to FIGS. 6E and 6F, shown is a magnetic accessory 26e that is configured as a water brush. Magnetic accessory 26e includes a body 28e and one or more magnets 50 coupled to (e.g., integrated with) the body. As shown, one or more components associated with a water brush can be coupled to body 28c, such as a container for storing fluid, a cap, a brush head, other brushing components, or combination thereof. In some configurations, magnets 50 are disposed on a planar side of body 28e so that magnets can be positioned closer to a magnetic device (e.g., planar magnetic plate).
Referring now to FIGS. 6G and 6H, shown is a magnetic accessory 26f that is configured as a can opener. Magnetic accessory 26f includes a body 28f and one or more magnets 50 coupled to (e.g., integrated with) the body. As shown, magnet 50 can be positioned on an exterior of body 28f. In some configurations, body 28f can include a sharp edge that is configured to pierce a can, such as an aluminum can. As depicted, body 28f can include a protrusion that is configured to engage an annular ridge on the bottom of a drinking can and a sharp edge that is positioned such that rotation of the body while the protrusion is engaged with the can will cause the sharp edge to pierce the sidewall of the can. The pierced opening can then be utilized to “shotgun” the liquid from the drinking can. The magnetic accessories 26a-f depicted are not limited to the embodiments shown and can include other configurations that enable a user to secure a golfing accessory to the magnetic devices (e.g., magnetic hub and golf bags), as described herein.
Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7D, shown is a first side view, a back view, a front view, and a second side view of a golf bag 14a of golf accessory system 10. Golf bag 14a may include or correspond to golf bag 14 and components that are similar (e.g., in structure and/or function) to components discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-2 are labeled with the same reference numerals and a suffix “a.”
As depicted in FIG. 7A, golf bag 14a includes a magnetic plate 30a, such as a ferromagnetic plate, coupled to (e.g., integrated with) a first side 52a of a shell 34a. As shown, magnetic plate 30a extends along substantially the entire width of first side 52a (e.g., greater than 75% of the width of the first side) to provide a large magnetic storage area. Magnetic plate 30a may also extend at least 10% of a length of first side 52a and, in some configurations, the magnetic plate has a surface area that is greater than or equal to 20% (such as 25%, 30%, or more) of a surface area of the first side. In the configurations depicted in FIGS. 7A-7D, golf bag 14a includes a plurality of pockets 120. The pockets 120 can be opened and closed via any conventional means, such as, for example, zippers, clasps, buttons, magnets, snap fasteners, or the like. In some configurations, at least one pocket 120 (e.g., shown on first side 52a and second side 54a) includes a zipper that surrounds the pocket and extends around at least three sides of the pocket to provide greater visibility within the pocket. As shown, each of first side 52a (FIG. 7A), second side 54a (FIG. 7C), and third side 56a (FIG. 7B) can include pockets 120. In some configurations, pockets 120 are positioned on golf bag 14a at a point closer to base 60a than to top end 62a. Additionally, or alternatively, magnetic plate 30a may be positioned on golf bag 14a at a point closer to top end 62a than to base 60a. In an illustrative example, first side 52a of golf bag 14a may not include pockets (e.g., 120) on a top half (e.g., nearest top end 62a) of the golf bag to create a larger area for magnetic plate 30a. First side 52a may also include a fastener 42 configured to couple to magnetic hub 18. As described above, golf bag 14a can provide as much or more storage than a conventional golf bag and provide greater accessibility to selected items (e.g., 26).
As shown in FIG. 7C, golf bag 14a may include a cushioned portion 124 that is configured to contact a user while the user carries the golf bag. In some configurations, cushioned portion 124 can overlie, or be replaced with, a second magnetic plate (e.g., 30a) for additional storage. In some configurations, golf bag 14a may include additional components configured to assist a user in handling golf bag 14a. For example, golf bag 14a is depicted having a handle 128 disposed on third side 56a and deployable legs 132 disposed on fourth side 58a of shell 34a. Of course, is should be understood golf bag 14a may include one or more additional known components, such as, back straps, wheels, additional handles, or the like.
Referring now to FIGS. 7E and 7F, golf bag 14a is shown resting on deployable legs 132. In FIG. 7E, a first accessory 26a is shown and is secured by holder 22f, which is configured to hold the first accessory such that the first accessory is secured to golf bag 14a while the holder is coupled to magnetic plate 30a. A second accessory 26b is also shown coupled to magnetic plate 30a. Second accessory 26b may be a magnetic accessory or, in other configurations, the second accessory can be coupled to a second holder (e.g., 22) that is configured to hold the second accessory such that the second accessory is secured to golf bag 14a while the second holder is coupled to the magnetic plate. As shown in FIG. 7E, each of first and second accessories 26a, 26b can be coupled to golf bag 14a via magnetic plate 30a.
In other configurations, at least one of the accessories (e.g., 26a, 26b) is coupled to a magnetic hub (e.g., 18) via fastener 42a. For example, as depicted in FIG. 7F, first accessory 26a and magnetic holder 22f are coupled to the magnetic hub 18 (not shown—hidden behind first accessory 26a) and second accessory 26b is coupled to magnetic plate 30a. In some configurations, additional accessories may be coupled to magnetic plate 30a. For example, a third accessory (e.g., 26b) is coupled to magnetic plate 30a (e.g., via a magnetic hub 18). As described herein, golf accessory system 10 (e.g., magnetic golfing ecosystem) enables easy access to accessories (e.g., 26a, 26b) which is not available in conventional golf bags.
Referring now to FIG. 7G, another image of golf bag 14a is shown with three magnetic holders 22 coupled to a magnetic plate 30a. FIG. 7H depicts magnetic plate 30a removed from golf bag 14a and coupled to other magnetic holders 22. As shown, magnetic plate 30a is sized to accommodate a plurality of magnetic devices (e.g., holders 22 or accessories 26) at the same time. Magnetic plate 30a is also sized to have sufficient room to arrange and use various magnetic components in a manner suitable to the user. As illustrated, magnetic plate 30a within golf bag 14a enables quick access to accessories that is not available with conventional golf bags. In the depicted configuration, magnetic plate 30a is planar and includes curved edges to fit within golf bag 14a and extend along a majority of (up to and including all of) a side of golf bag 14a.
Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8E, shown are additional examples of golf bags 14a of golf accessory system 10. For example, FIG. 8A shows a side view of a second example of a golf bag 14a, FIG. 8B shows a side view of a third example of a golf bag 14a, FIG. 8C shows a side view of a fourth example of a golf bag 14a, and FIGS. 8D and 8E show a side and front view, respectively, of a fifth example of a golf bag 14a.
As depicted in FIGS. 8A-8C, golf bag 14a includes a magnetic plate 30a coupled to (e.g., integrated with) a side (e.g., first side 52a) of a shell 34a. As shown, magnetic plate 30a extends along substantially the entire width shell 34a (e.g., 75% of the width of the first side) to provide a large magnetic storage area. Magnetic plate 30a is shaped to conform to a surface of shell 34a and can range in width and height to fit the layout of golf bag 14a. For example, sin some configurations, magnetic plate can include a perimeter with one or more curves or contours that match a boundary of a compartment of side of shell 34a. In the depicted configurations, magnetic plate 30a is positioned on golf bag 14a at a point closer to top end 62a than to base 60a. First side 52a may also include a fastener 42 configured to couple to magnetic hub 18. As described above, golf bag 14a can provide as much or more storage than a conventional golf bag and provide greater accessibility to selected items (e.g., 26).
Referring to FIGS. 8D and 8E, golf bag 14a may be configured to be placed on a cart, where a player is configured to interact with the bag while the bag is coupled to the cart. In such configurations, magnetic plate 30a can be positioned on a different side (e.g., front side) of shell 34a. In the depicted configuration, magnetic plate 30a can be partially covered by another component of golf bag 14a, such as a pocket 120. For example, pocket 120 can be hingedly coupled to golf bag 14a such that the pocket covers a first portion and can be moved to access the first portion of magnetic plate 30a. During travel, go accessories (e.g., 26) can be engaged with magnetic plate 30a and covered by pocket 120, or other component, and shielded from the elements. When needed, pocket 120 can be lifted by a player and the golf accessories can be accessed. In some configurations, a second portion of magnetic plate 30a can be uncovered to provide easier access to certain accessories, such as weather-resistant or frequently used accessories. In other configurations, golf bag 14a can include multiple magnetic plates (e.g., 30a) each disposed on a different side (e.g., 52a, 56a, 54a, 58a). For example, as described herein, a magnetic plate can be disposed on a first side, second side, and third side of a golf bag 14, 14a.
In some configurations, the golf bags (14, 14a) can include one or more additional magnetic plates (e.g., 30, 30a) located at different location on the golf bag, such as integrated with the shell (e.g., 34, 34a) of the golf bag, pockets (e.g., 120) of the golf bag, or both. For example, FIG. 9A shows a first side 52a of golf bag 14a with a magnetic plate 30a that is disposed on an upper half (e.g., nearer top end 62a than to base 60a) and FIG. 9B shows a second side 54a of the golf bag with a separate magnetic plate 30a that is disposed on a lower half (e.g., nearer top end 62a than to base 60a. In some such configurations, the magnetic plate 30a that is disposed on a lower half may be on the same side as cushioned portion 124, so that a user can access the magnetic portion when carrying golf bag 14a. Magnetic plate 30a on second side 54a can be sized similarly to magnetic plate 30a on first side 52a (e.g., greater than, equal to, or between any two of 40, 50, 60, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 99% of width D2 of second side 54a). Additionally, or alternatively, golf bags (14, 14a) can include one or more golfing storage options within a pocket 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 9C, a tee holder 96 (e.g., such as that shown in FIG. 3H) can be integrated with, or coupled to, a portion of pocket 120. In this example, tee holder 96 can be disposed on an interior of pocket 120 on a third side 56a and can be accessed by flipping over the outer cover of the pocket. Such an embodiment, allows for additional storage and an improved means for organizing golfing accessories (e.g., golf tees) within pocket 120.
As shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, system 10 can include a push cart 142. Push cart 142 is configured to support a golf bag (e.g., 14, 14a) and includes a plurality of wheels 146 coupled to a frame 150. Although push cart 142 is shown with three wheels 146, other configurations of the push cart can include more or less wheels. Frame 150 is sized to accommodate a golf bag and includes a magnetic portion 154 having a magnetic plate 156 that is configured to engage one or more magnetic accessories (e.g., 26) or accessory holders (e.g., 22). As shown in FIG. 10A, frame 150 can include a base and one or more fasteners (e.g., straps) to couple the bag to the frame or frame 150 can be configured to be coupled to bag in other manners as known in the art. Magnetic portion 154 may include a width between 10 cm and 60 cm and a length between 10 and 75 cm. In some configurations, magnetic portion 154 can include a handle 158 configured to be grasped by a user when moving push cart 142. As magnetic portion 154 can securely engage accessories (e.g., 26), handle 158 can be angled relative to a ground surface to allow a user to interact with the handle in an ergonomic manner. Accordingly, push cart 142 can provide increase maneuverability and additional storage for any desired accessories.
Referring now to FIG. 11A-11C, system 10 can include a magnetic dock 162 configured to secure one or more magnetic accessories (e.g., 26) or accessory holders (e.g., 22). Magnetic dock 162 can include a magnetic portion 166 (e.g., magnetic plate) and a mounting frame 170. In some configurations, magnetic portion 166 may include a width between 10 cm and 25 cm and a length between 20 and 50 cm. Magnetic portion 166 includes a magnetic component configured to interact with a magnetic field to secure an accessory or accessory holder to magnetic dock 162. Magnetic portion 166 can make up at least 50% of a surface of magnetic dock 162, such as for example, 60, 70, 75, 80, 90, 95, 100% or any range therebetween.
In some configurations, mounting frame 170 is moveable between a stowed position (e.g., FIG. 11C) and an engaged position (e.g., FIGS. 11A and 11B) in which the mounting frame is configured to engage a component 180 (e.g., portion of a golf cart or push cart) to hold magnetic portion 166 in place. For example, mounting frame can include a base 172 and one or more arms 174. In some configurations, arms 174 can be coupled to base via hinges. As shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, mounting frame 170 has two arms 174 movably coupled to opposing ends of base 172. Arms 174 can fold over base while the mounting frame is in the stowed position and the arms can extend away (e.g., at a substantially orthogonal angle, as shown in FIG. 11B) from the base while the mounting frame is in the engaged position. In some configurations, arms 174 can have clamps 176 coupled thereto. As depicted, clamps 176 are configured to releasably engage with a post (e.g., 180) of a golf cart. However, in other configurations, arms 174 can include another means of removably coupling to a component of a golf cart or a push cart, such a reusable adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, or the like.
Referring now to FIG. 12A, a magnetic dock 162a is shown and includes a magnetic portion 166 configured to interact with one or more magnetic holders or accessories and a mounting frame 170a. In the depicted configuration, mounting frame 170a includes a base 172a sized to fit within a cup holder, such as a cup holder of a golf cart. Base 172a can be cylindrical and may be tapered to fit within a cup holder. In some configurations, base 172a can include a threaded rod that extends from a bottom side of the base. The threaded rod can be configured to extend through a bottom of a cupholder and can be secured via a threaded nut or screw disposed on the other side of the cupholder as base 172a.
As shown, base 172a is coupled to magnetic portion 166 via arm 174a. In some configurations, arm 174a can include two separate components (e.g., bars or tubes) that are configured to be releasably coupled to one another. In this way, magnetic portion 166 can be removed from base 172a. In some configurations, arm 174a is adjustable to change a distance between base 172a and magnetic portion 166. For example, in an illustrative limitation, arm 174a can include a bar having a retractable protrusion and a tube that is configured to receive the bar and that defines a plurality of apertures that are configured to receive the protrusion. In other configurations, arm 174a can include other adjustable components to change the distance between base 172a and magnetic portion 166.
Referring now to FIGS. 12B and 12C, magnetic dock 162a can include a plurality of bases 172a and a plurality of arms 174a. In the depicted configuration, arms 174a can be coupled to an adjustment rod 178 that is coupled to magnetic portion 166. Each arm 174a can be movable relative to adjustment rod 178 to move the magnetic portion 166 relative to base 172a. In some such configurations, each base 172a can be secured in existing cup holders and magnetic portion 166 can be adjusted both laterally (e.g., via adjustment rod 178) or vertically (e.g., via arms 174a) to place the magnetic portion in a convenient and ergonomic position for a driver or rider of the vehicle. In some configurations, base 172a, arm 174a, or both, can be configured to rotate relative to magnetic portion 166 so that a user can adjust a tilt of the magnetic portion.
Referring now to FIGS. 13A-13C, an illustrative example of a magnetic golf ball holder 210 is shown. Golf ball holder 210 can include or correspond to one or more components of holders 22a-22k. As depicted, golf ball holder 210 can have a body 212 having a magnetic portion 214 that is configured to interact with a magnetic device (e.g., magnetic hub 18, magnetic plate 30, or other magnetic portion of golf bag 14) and define a plurality of receptacles 216 configured to receive a golf ball. Each receptacle 216 may be spherical and configured to accommodate a portion of a golf ball and leave a portion of the golf ball exposed for access by a user. In some configurations, body 212 may define a channel 218 extending between one or more of the receptacles 216. Channel 218 can be sized to accommodate a user's fingers for removal of the ball from receptacle 216. Additionally, or alternatively, body 212 can define one or more openings 220 at a bottom of receptacle 216. In such configurations, openings 220 can mitigate any pressure differential in receptacle 216 when a golf ball is disposed therein. Although not shown, golf ball holder 210 can include one or more other components that assist in keeping the golf balls disposed within receptacles 216. For example, a flexible material, such as rubber, may be disposed at a top portion of receptacle 216 to prevent golf balls from falling out of the receptacles.
Referring now to FIGS. 14A-14C, an illustrative example of a magnetic towel holder 230 is shown. Magnetic towel holder 230 can include or correspond to one or more components of holders 22a-22k. Magnetic towel holder 230 includes magnetic portion 232, a first strap 234 and a second strap 236 that cooperate to move the towel holder between an open configuration (shown in FIG. 14A) and a closed configuration (shown in FIG. 14B). Magnetic portion 232 is configured to interact with a magnetic device (e.g., magnetic hub 18, magnetic plate 30, or other magnetic portion of golf bag 14). In some configurations, towel holder 230 may include a ring 238 that is configured to enable multiple coupling arrangements, as described herein.
As shown in FIG. 14A, towel holder 230 is shown in the open configuration and defines a gap between first strap 234 and second strap 236 that is configured to receive a portion of a towel, such as a towel handle. Referring to FIG. 14B, towel holder 230 is shown in the closed configuration in which first strap 234 and second strap 236 cooperate to define an opening 240. In some configurations, second strap 236 can have a length that is greater than first strap 234 such that the second strap may overlap the first strap to form opening 240. First strap 234 and second strap 236 can include respective portions of a snap fastener to couple the ends of the straps together; however, in other configurations, alternative fasteners can be used to couple the straps together. Referring to FIG. 14C, towel holder 230 is shown in the closed configuration in which a towel handle is disposed within opening 240 and magnetic portion 232 can be coupled to a magnetic device to attach the towel to a golf bag. In configurations having ring 238, towel holder 230 can be configured to attach to different towel configurations. For example, ring 238 can be utilized to couple towels without handles (e.g., having eyelet and carabiner) and opening 240 can be configured to couple towels with handles.
In some aspects, the present disclosure includes a golf bag having a shell, a magnetic device coupled to the shell and configured to interact with another magnetic object such that when the object is disposed on an outer surface of the shell. Although the magnetic plate may be disposed or included in the outer surface of the shell, some preferred configurations include the magnetic plate disposed within the shell, such as within an interior cavity defined by the shell. In some aspects the shell includes a first surface that defines a chamber configured to accommodate a plurality of golf clubs and a second surface spaced apart from the first surface and configured to cooperate with first surface to define an interior cavity. In some aspects, the magnetic plate may have a surface area that is greater than or equal to 100 square centimeters (e.g., 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 950, 1000 or more square centimeters). In some aspects, a vertical midpoint of the magnetic plate can be positioned closer to a top end of the shell than a bottom of the shell or closer to the top end of the shell than the vertical midpoint of the shell. In some aspects, the magnetic plate may have a width that is greater than or equal to 50% of a width of a side of the shell (e.g., 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95% of the width of a side of the shell). In some aspects, the magnetic plate may include a surface area that is greater than or equal to 25% of a surface area of the side of the shell. In some aspects, the golf bag can include a single magnetic plate or multiple magnetic plates. In some aspects, the bag can include a first magnetic plate on a first side and a second magnetic plate on a second side of the bag. In some further aspects, the bag can include a third magnetic plate on the first, second, or a third side of the bag. In some aspects, the magnetic object can be a magnetic holder (e.g., 22a-22k), magnetic accessory (e.g., 26a-f), or other magnetic device. The magnetic object may include a magnetic portion configured to interact with the magnetic plate. In some aspects, the magnetic object can include or define one or more receptacles, magnets, straps, covers, cover portions, lids, hinges, cavities, clips, bodies, channels, openings, other features described or depicted herein, or combination thereof.
In some aspects, the present disclosure includes a golf accessory system that can include one of a golf bag, a magnetic dock, a push cart, a magnetic hub, a magnetic holder, a magnetic accessory, or combination thereof. In some aspects, a push cart can include a frame that is configured to accommodate a golf bag and includes a magnetic portion configured to interact with a magnetic object. The magnetic portion of the frame may be disposed adjacent to or coupled to a handle of the push cart. In some aspects, magnetic portion can be sized greater than 75 square centimeters (e.g., 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800 square centimeters or greater). In some aspects, a magnetic dock can include a magnetic portion configured to interact with a magnetic object and a mounting frame configured to couple the dock to another object, such as a frame of a cart or a cup holder. The magnetic portion of the dock may be planar. In some aspects, the magnetic portion can be sized greater than 75 square centimeters (e.g., 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800 square centimeters or greater). In some aspects, the mounting frame may be movable relative to the magnetic portion (e.g., via hinges or sliding fasteners). In some aspects, the mounting frame may include a base and one or more arms. Base can be coupled to magnetic portion or to another object. In some aspects, the system can include any number of magnetic holders or magnetic accessories described herein. The magnetic holders or magnetic accessories can be utilized with one or more of the golf bags, magnetic docks, or push carts described herein. In some aspects, the golf bags, magnetic docks, or push carts can be configured to accommodate three or more magnetic holders or magnetic accessories at the same time.
The above specification and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of illustrative configurations. Although certain configurations have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual configurations, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed configurations without departing from the scope of this invention. As such, the various illustrative configurations of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and configurations other than the one shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted configurations. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, connections may be substituted, or both. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one configuration or may relate to several configurations. Accordingly, no single implementation described herein should be construed as limiting and implementations of the disclosure may be suitably combined without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.
The previous description of the disclosed implementations is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed implementations. Various modifications to these implementations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope possible consistent with the principles and novel features as defined by the following claims. The claims are not intended to include, and should not be interpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) “means for” or “step for,” respectively.
Patent Application
20230211215
