Secure golf club holder device

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT PROTECTION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its figures contain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

I. Field

The present invention relates to golf club holders.

II. Background

When golfing, it common for the golfer to extract one or more clubs from the golf bag to play the golf game. The golfer may be undecided about which club to use during the game and places a club back in the bag only to grab the club again until a decision is made. Golfers may want to have one or more clubs readily accessible for rapid retrieval and to eliminate hunting for a frequently used club nestled among many clubs as well as reduce crowding in the golf bag while golfing.

The putter is the only club to be used at each hole, with the “wedges” being second most used in a round. Thus, for an 18 hole golf game, the putter is used 18 times. Although, the putter is most frequently used, the putter can be the most challenging to quickly retrieve from the golf bag as the putter is generally recessed lower in the bag then other clubs.

The putter size or length is specific to the user and the user's height. In many instances, the putter may be shorter (e.g., 33 inches or less) than the golf bag height (e.g., 35 inches). As a consequence, the putter is not easily accessible within the golf bag. Access to a golfer's putter becomes even more problematic for short golfers, children and midgets, as the length of putters becomes shorter and shorter and thus lowering the putter even further in the golf bag.

Some golfers, when using a golf cart to travel from one hole to another, wedge the putter in the cart's apparatus used to secure a golf bag to the golf cart. However, this expedient only leads to lost putters as the putter dislodges from impact forces exerted on the cart traveling over and engaging the hilly and bumpy golf course terrain. Other putters, like the “belly” length and the “broom stick” length have longer lengths than traditional putters to accommodate golfers with bad backs or other physical ailments or limitations.

Golf holders, such as for putters, are available to hold a putter or club outside of the golf bag. However, many of these golf holders are not very secure. Other golf holders may hold the club shaft with friction which can over time affect such shaft after repeated removal and insertion in the golf holder.

Some golf club holders also hold the club head upright. Thus, retrieving the club when held in the holder is cumbersome as the handgrip is not oriented for rapid grabbing by the user. This arrangement is problematic as the head of the putter may affect the location of the other clubs with a large head mass (with or without head covers). For example, some club heads that have an enlarged head mass with an associated head cover may be the size of a softball.

Thus, the present invention provides a golf club holder device configured and arranged to secure a club in the device while eliminating damage to the shaft of the club when inserting the club in the holder. The golf club holder device of the present invention is configured to orient the handgrip upright so that the putter or club can be quickly grabbed and removed from the device.

SUMMARY

The aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced, according to exemplary embodiments, by the golf club holder device.

In an exemplary embodiment, a golf club holder device is provided. The golf club holder device comprises a club holder having a body with a quasi-spherical shape and a recessed internal seat. The device includes an opening formed in a front of the body, the opening configured to receive a diameter of a shaft of a golf club therethrough. The device has a through hole formed in the body to the seat, the through hole being configured to recess a portion of a handgrip of a golf club within the club holder while suspending a remaining length of the golf club from the body.

In the exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder device includes a manual locking or self-locking configuration.

In the exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder device accommodates a variety of shaft diameters and secures the golf club in the holder using the handgrip.

In one of the exemplary embodiments, the golf club holder device may include one or more club holders for supporting multiple clubs simultaneously.

Other systems, methods, and/or products according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings, and further description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or products be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The exemplary embodiments, objects, uses, advantages, and novel features are more clearly understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying figures wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C illustrates a top view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device along the plane 1D-1D of FIG. 1C;

FIG. 1E illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 1D with a golf club being inserted through the opening in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 1F illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 1D with a golf club seated in the device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device along the plane 2B-2B of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C illustrates a side view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D illustrates the perspective view of FIG. 2A with a strap installed in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of still yet another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C illustrates a front view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3D illustrates a top view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device along the plane 3E-3E of FIG. 3C;

FIG. 3F illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device along the plane 3F-3F of FIG. 3C;

FIG. 4A illustrates an exploded view of yet another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4B illustrates a front view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C illustrates a rear view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a secure golf club holder system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device along the plane 5B-5B of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder in an open state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder in a closed state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and

FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder along the plane 6B-6B of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 7B illustrates a top view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 9B illustrates a top view of the yet another secure golf club holder device of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 10A illustrates a top view of yet another secure golf club holder device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 10B illustrates a rear perspective view of the yet another secure golf club holder device of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag with a secure golf club holder attached thereto in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag with a secure golf club holder attached thereto in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a golf club holder device, with an alternate embodiment of the attachment mechanism (with a portion removed) in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13B illustrates side cross-sectional view of the golf club holder device of FIG. 13A with a strap installed in the attachment mechanism in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 14A illustrates a front cross section view of a golf club holder device, with an alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism and with a strap installed, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 14B illustrates a partial rear view of the attachment mechanism in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 14A; and

FIG. 15 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of yet another golf club holder device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any configuration or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other configurations or designs. Furthermore, use of the words “present invention” is used herein to convey only some of the embodiments of the invention. For example, the word “present invention” would also include alternative embodiments and equivalent systems and components that one of ordinary skill in the art understands. An example is that the materials used for the exemplary embodiments may be made out of man-made materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof. A further example is that the apparatus or components of the apparatus may be manufactured by machine(s), human(s) and combinations thereof.

Some of the embodiments of the invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).

According to some exemplary embodiments, a golf club holder (GCH) device is provided. The GCH device includes a club holder having an exterior perimeter surface configured to simulate a golf ball. A front opening of the club holder is configured to receive a club shaft therethrough. A golf club, generally, has a head at one end of the club shaft (hereinafter referred to as a “first club end”) and a handgrip at an opposite end (hereinafter referred to as a “handgrip end”). A conventional club shaft is tapered with the handgrip end having the larger diameter and the first end nearest the club head having the smaller diameter. The GCH device is configured to recess a portion of the handgrip within the club holder while suspending the remaining length of the golf club from the device. The shaft may be made of a lightweight metal, graphite, or other metal composites.

The GCH device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, includes an attachment mechanism configured to attach to a golf club bag, person, or other structures. The attachment mechanism may include a clip, a snap, and a slot for attachment of a band, strap or other fastening members.

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C illustrate perspective, front and top views of a GCH device 100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 100 includes an attachment mechanism 110 configured to attach to a golf club bag, person, or other structures. The GCH device 100 further includes a club holder 130 coupled to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 110.

In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 130 includes a body 132 configured to simulate a golf ball. The body 132 is quasi-spherically shaped structure with a plurality of indentions or dimples 134 formed in the exterior perimeter surface 142 of the body 132.

The quasi-spherically shaped of the body 132 includes a spherical structure having a truncated upper portion 136A and a truncated bottom portion 136B. Additionally, a rear portion of the spherical structure may not track a generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear side of the spherical structure is integrated with a connection bridge 125 so as to integrate the body 132 with the attachment mechanism 110.

The body 132 has a through hole 150 formed through the truncated upper portion 136A down to and through the truncated bottom portion 136B. Furthermore, a front of the body 132 has an opening 138 configured to receive a shaft 6 of a golf club 5 therethrough as will be described in more detail in relation to FIG. 1E. The body 132 includes an internal seat 160 to support within the body 132, a portion of a handgrip 8 of the golf club 5, as best seen in FIG. 1F.

FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device along the plane 1D-1D of FIG. 1C. The through hole 150 includes an inner diameter (ID) which varies. At the truncated upper portion 136B, the ID is larger than the ID nearest to the truncated bottom portion 136B. The through hole 150 of the body 132 has a first portion 152 with a first ID, denoted as ID1, a second portion 154 with a varying second ID, denoted as ID2, and a third portion 156 with a third ID, denoted as ID3. The first ID ID1 is larger than the third ID ID3. The second ID ID2 gradually slopes or tapers from the first ID ID1 to the third ID ID3. The opening 138 has a clearance of approximately that of the third ID ID3. The opening 138 includes two parallel surfaces spaced apart to provide a clearance dimensioned to receive the shaft 6 of the golf club 5. The two parallel surfaces track the curvature of the body 132 from the beginning of the through hole 150 to the curvature of the exterior perimeter surface 142.

The internal seat 160 is shown to denote the upper end of the second portion 154. However, as the handgrip diameter varies from one club to another club, the seat may be further down the second portion 154 or anywhere in the through hole.

Returning again to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, in the exemplary embodiment, the attachment mechanism 110 is a U-shaped clip configured to attach to a rim of a golf bag, as will be described in relation to FIG. 12. When the GCH device 100 is attached to a rim or other suitable location of a golf bag, the club holder 130 is configured to hold and retain a golf club (e.g., putter) within the body 132. In one exemplary embodiment, the club holder 130 is positioned outside of the golf bag. Thus, the club holder 130 suspends the putter or golf club 5 vertically and parallel to a longitudinal axis of the golf bag.

The U-shaped clip includes a top arch 112 terminating into a first leg 114 and a second leg 116. The second leg 116 is essentially straight. The first leg 114 has a curved end 118 which curves in a direction opposite that of the second leg 116. A bottom end of the second leg 116 has rounded edges 120. The curved end 118 of the first leg 114 may-permit easier installation of the clip as the rim of the golf bag is received between the first leg 114 and the second leg 116.

The first leg 114 extends above the body 132 so that a front surface on the first leg 114 is provided. This front surface is configured to have logos and advertisements in graved, embossed, etched, painted, applied or otherwise integrated with the front surface.

The GCH device 100 is configured to be attached to a belt, strap, band, pocket, fabric, plate or other thin structures which can slip through the first and second legs 114 and 116. If the GCH device 100 was clipped to a belt worn about the waist, the club seated in the club holder 130 would hang down along a leg of the person wearing the belt.

FIG. 1E illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 1D with a golf club 5 being inserted through the opening 138 (FIG. 1D) of body 132 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The through hole 150 and opening 138 are configured to receive any portion of the shaft of the putter or golf club 5 by moving the shaft through opening 138 toward the attachment mechanism 110.

The through hole 150 is sized to receive any portion of the shaft 6. During installation, the handgrip end of shaft 6 is slipped through the opening 138 while the handgrip 6 is kept above the top end of the body 132. Once, the shaft 6 is fully received through the opening 138 and is within the though hole 150, the handgrip 8 can be released to slide under the force of gravity into the internal seat 160.

Nonetheless, in lieu of gravity acting on the golf club 5 to seat the handgrip 8, the user can direct the handgrip 8 into the seat once the shaft 6 has cleared the opening 138 and is fully in the through hole 150.

The opening is sized to receive the first end (smaller diameter), other reduced diameter or the handgrip end (larger diameter) of the shaft 6 of the golf club 5. Once the shaft 6 has cleared the opening 138, the golf club 5 can slide or move under the force of gravity downward such that the handgrip 8 is seated within the body 132.

FIG. 1F illustrates the cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder device of FIG. 1D with the golf club 5 seated in the device in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. After the putter or golf club 5 is inserted through opening 138, the putter or golf club 5 is then allowed to slide down into the seat 160 to engage. The putter or golf club 160 will not become unseated from the GCH device 100 until the putter or golf club 5 is lifted upward so that a reduced diameter of the shaft 6 can pass through the opening 138.

In FIG. 1F, the dashed line represent the hidden opening 138. A portion of the handgrip 8 of the golf club 5 is recessed or seated within the club holder 130 and secured as the handgrip 8 has a larger diameter than the clearance of opening 138.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag 1202 with a secure GCH device 1200 attached thereto in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 1200 is essentially the same as the GCH device 100 with a U-shaped clip (e.g., attachment mechanism 110). The golf bag 1202 has a top rim 1204 and handle 1206. Near the top rim 1204, the golf bag 1202 includes a plurality of snaps 1208 spaced around the golf bag in proximity to the top rim 1104. The plurality of snaps 1208 may be used to install a golf bag cover used to close the opening into the golf bag 1202. Nonetheless, the golf bag may include snaps at other locations. The GCH device 1200 is clip onto or over the top edge of the rim 1204 such that the club holder is positioned outside of the golf bag 1202.

FIGS. 2A and 2C illustrate perspective and side views of another golf club holder (GCH) device 200 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 200 includes a club holder 230 and attachment mechanism 210. The club holder 230 is connected to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 210 via a connection bridge 225. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 230 is essentially the same as the club holder 130 described in detail above. Thus, no further description is necessary. The description below will focus on the details of the attachment mechanism 210.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the GCH device 200 along the plane 2B-2B of FIG. 2A. In FIGS. 2A and 2B, the attachment mechanism 210 includes a connector plate 212 which is essentially straight. An upper portion 214 of the connector plate 212 has wall 216 coupled to and integrated therewith. The wall 216 is parallel to the upper portion 214 and spaced therefrom to form a hollow passage 226 having aligned slots 218 being elongated vertically. The slots 218 are configured to pass therethrough a strap, band, belt, etc., in a horizontal or first plane, as best seen in FIG. 2D. A bottom end of the connector plate 212 has rounded edges 220.

The upper portion 214 is connected to and integrated with the wall 216 via top and bottom spacer sections 222A and 222B. The top and bottom spacer sections 222A and 222B have aligned slots 224A and 224B, respectively, being vertically separated, as best seen in FIG. 2B. The slots 224A and 224B are configured to feed or receive therethrough a strap, belt, band, etc. The slots 224A and 224B are open to the hollow passage 226.

The upper portion 214 extends above the body 232 so that a front surface on the upper portion 214 is provided. This front surface is configured to have logos and advertisements in graved, embossed, etched, painted, applied or otherwise integrated with the front surface.

The attachment mechanism 210 is a multi-directional band coupler which includes a first pair of aligned slots (e.g., slots 218) to receive a strap or band in a horizontal direction or first direction. The multi-directional coupler further includes a second pair of aligned slots (e.g., slots 224A and 224B) configured to receive a strap or band 20 in the first direction or the second direction wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular.

In FIG. 2B, the hatched section includes portions of the attachment mechanism 210 and connection bridge 225. The through hole 250 extends through the body 232 (FIG. 2A).

FIG. 2D illustrates the perspective view of the GCH device 200 of FIG. 2A with a strap 20 inserted in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The attachment mechanism 210 is shown with a strap 20. The strap 20 has free ends 22A and 22B which are configured to be secured together with fastener members 40A and 40B, such as a hook and loop type fastening system. The fastener members 40A and 40B may include a buckle type system, button, snap, Velcro, etc. The strap 20 may be a belt, strap, band, etc. configured to be secured to structures or a person's body (e.g., wrist). The strap 20 may be looped around a belt or belt loop of the user. The strap 20 is shown slipped through the hollow passage 226 (FIG. 2A) via aligned slots 218. However, the strap 20 may be slipped through slots 224A and 224B.

The strap 20 can be placed vertically or horizontally so that the attachment mechanism 210 can be readily adaptable to a variety of attachment structures. Attachment structures may include, without limitation, belts, belt loops, wrists, golf bags, hooks, golf cart and pegs. The strap 20 can be used to hang from a variety of attachment structures the GCH device 200.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D illustrate perspective, side, front and top views of still yet another secure GCH device 300 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 300 includes a club holder 330 and attachment mechanism 310. In the exemplary embodiment, the attachment mechanism 310 is essentially the same as the attachment mechanism 110 described in detail above. Thus, no further description is necessary. Nevertheless, other attachment mechanisms described herein may be substituted.

The club holder 330 differs from club holder 130 in that the opening 338 is angled with respect to a center longitudinal axis LA (FIG. 3B) of the through hole 350. The angled profile allows the shaft 6 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) to be inserted at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis LA (FIG. 3B) of the through hole 350. During insertion of the club, the shaft 6 of club 5 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) enters the body 332 at an angle. As the shaft 6 clears the opening 338, the shaft is automatically manipulated to orient the longitudinal axis of the shaft to align with the longitudinal axis LA of the through hole 350.

There are at least two angled opening configurations. In one configuration, the opening is angled with respect to the longitudinal axis LA of the through hole, but the channel of the opening (passage) is straight toward the through hole 350. Inserting the club requires two motions. The first motion is translation at an acute angle and then rotation of the shaft to or toward a vertical orientation. The opening is straight as the acute angle of the opening with respect to the through hole 350 is substantially the same.

In another configuration, the opening is curved and angled. With specific reference to the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3A-3F, the opening 338 has a curved and angled profile. The curved and angled profile creates an opening 338 that at any given distance from the center (longitudinal axis LA) of the through hole 350, the opening 338 makes a straight line at some acute angle. In other words, the acute angle varies in a curved fashion. As the club moves further back in the body 332, the angle changes but there is still a straight path for passage or clearance of the shaft. Thus, motion of the shaft is blended in two dimensions. As the shaft moves or slides through the angled and curved profile of opening 338, the shaft, when moving, is both translated backward toward the through hole 350 and manipulated to be oriented in or toward a vertically upright position at the end of the opening 338 and in the through hole 350.

As best seen in FIGS. 3A-3D, a first half 382A of the front of body 332 is not symmetrical with a second half 382B of the front of body 332. The curvature of the first half 382A along the opening 338 has a first curvature and the curvature of the second half 382B along the opening 338 has a second curvature, the first curvature and second curvature track each other. The surfaces 384A and 384B indicate a spiraling, waving or snaking curvature of the passage or clearance of opening 338 to translate the shaft toward the through hole 350 and vertically orient the shaft toward the vertical plane so that a handgrip of the club can be seated in internal seat 360.

The surface 384B toward the truncated upper portion 336A on the second half 382B has a curvature which is flared outward so as to receive or slide the shaft into the opening 338. The surface 384A toward the truncated bottom portion 336B has a curvature which is curved inward toward the through hole 350.

With reference also to FIG. 3E, a cross-sectional view of the secure GCH device 300 along the plane 3E-3E of FIG. 3C is shown. The curvature of surface 384A along the path of opening 338 is shown. The top portion 386 (shown hatched) is a portion of the first half 382A. The U-shaped clip of the attachment mechanism 310 is shown hatched.

FIG. 3F illustrates a cross-sectional view of the secure GCH device 300 along the plane 3F-3F of FIG. 3C. The surface 384B along the path of opening 338 is shown. The top element 388 (shown hatched) is a portion of the first half 382A. The top element 388 is that portion of the first half 382A which is displaced from a mid-point of the body 332 along the plane 3F-3F of FIG. 3C. The U-shaped clip of the attachment mechanism 310 is shown hatched.

FIG. 4A illustrates an exploded view of yet another GCH device 400 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 400 includes a club holder 430 and attachment mechanism 410. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 430 is essentially the same as the club holder 330 described in detail above. Thus, no further description is necessary. As can be appreciated, the attachment mechanism 410 may be used with any of the club holders described herein.

In FIG. 4A, the attachment mechanism 410 includes a connector plate 412 which is essentially straight. An upper portion 414 of the connector plate 412 has a snap element 418 on a backside of the connector plate 412. The snap element 418 is configured to snap onto existing snaps on the golf bag, such as those used to secure a golf bag cover, other snaps placed at various locations on the golf bag, garments, or other structures with a suitable snap.

Referring also to FIGS. 4B and 4C, front and rear views of the GCH holder device 400 are shown. A back surface 416 of the connector plate 412 has a recess 411 configured to receive, support, affix or have integrated therewith a snap element connector 422. The snap element 418 includes a connector 424 (FIG. 4A) to connect with snap element connector 422. As be seen in FIG. 4C, the club holder 430 bellows out from the sides defined by the connector plate 412. A logo or advertisement can be placed or integrated on the front surface of the upper portion 414.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a golf bag 1102 with a secure GCH device 1100 attached thereto in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 1100 is essentially the same as the GCH device 400 with a snap element (e.g., snap element 418). The golf bag 1102 has a top rim 1104 and handle 1106. Near the top rim 1104, the golf bag 1102 includes a plurality of snaps 1108 spaced around the golf bag in proximity to the top rim 1104. The plurality of snaps 1108 may be used to install a golf bag cover used to close the opening into the golf bag 1102. Nonetheless, the golf bag may include snaps at other locations.

The snap element (e.g., snap element 418) of the GCH device 400 would snap on or snap to at respective one snap of the plurality of snaps 1108.

FIG. 5A illustrates perspective view of a golf club holder (GCH) system 500 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH system 500 includes a GCH device 501 and club shaft adaptor 570. The GCH device 501 includes a club holder 530 and attachment mechanism 510. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 530 is essentially the same as the club holder 330 described in detail above. However, the club holder 530 may be configured and arranged as any of the other club holders described herein.

Referring also to FIG. 5B, a cross-sectional view of the GCH device 501 along the plane 5B-5B of FIG. 5A is shown. The quasi-spherically shaped of the body 532 includes a truncated upper portion 536A and a truncated bottom portion 536B. The body 532 has a through hole 550 formed through the truncated upper portion 536A down to and through the truncated bottom portion 536B. The truncated upper portion 536A includes a narrower rim (top edge of body 532) as compared to that of body 132 (FIG. 1A).

Furthermore, a front of the body 532 has an opening 538 configured to receive a shaft 6 of a golf club 5 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) therethrough. The body 532 includes an internal seat 560 to support within the body 532, a portion of a handgrip 8 of the golf club 5 (FIG. 1F).

The through hole 550 includes an inner diameter (ID) which varies. At the truncated upper portion 536A, the ID is larger than the ID nearest to the truncated bottom portion 536B. The through hole 550 of the body 532 has a first portion 552 with a first ID, denoted as ID11, a second portion 554 with a varying second ID, denoted as ID12, and a third portion 556 with a third ID, denoted as ID13. The first ID ID11 is larger than the third ID ID13. The second ID ID12 gradually slopes or tapers from the first ID ID11 to the third ID ID13. The opening 538 has a clearance of approximately that of the third ID ID13.

In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the third portion 556 is longer in length than the length of the third portion 156 of the device of FIG. 1D. Additionally, the first portion 552 has a shorter length than the length of the first portion 152 of FIG. 1D. The second portion 554 has a longer length then the length of the second portion 154 of FIG. 1D.

The narrower rim is achieved by increasing the first ID ID11 compared to the first ID ID1 of FIG. 1D. The first ID ID11 can be reduced by the club shaft adaptor 570. The club shaft adaptor 570 may be interchanged with different size club shaft adaptors. The club shaft adaptor 570 reduces the through hole 550 for different sized clubs.

The adaptor 570 may be used with other GCH devices described herein. The adaptor 570 may be used to reduce the diameter of the through hole of any GCH device so as to provide a better handgrip fit or to hold the handgrip of a putter with a broom stick length above the club holder or body. In this embodiment, the putter with a broom stick length would not drag the ground when supported in the GCH device with an adaptor (e.g., adaptor 570).

In another embodiment, the adaptor may be configured to be rotated within the body so that the opening is closed.

Referring also to FIG. 5C, a cross-sectional view of the secure GCH system 500 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown. As best seen in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the club shaft adaptor 570 includes a cup 572 configured to be received within the body 532. The cup 572 is configured to track contours of the through hole 550. More specifically, the cup 572 is configured to track the diameter and length of the first portion 552 with the first ID ID11; the second portion 554 with the varying second ID ID12; and the third portion 556 with the third ID ID13. Thus, the cup 572 has a first portion 574 configured to track the first portion 552 of the through hole 550; a second portion 576 configured to track the second portion 554 of the through hole 550; and a third portion 578 configured to track the third portion 556 of the through hole 550.

The club shaft adaptor 570 further includes a pair of flanges 580 configured to track the contour of the opening 538. The pair of flanges 580 line or track the opening 538 and reduces the opening 538 into the through hole 550 and the cup 572. The flanges 580 track the contour of the front curvature of the body 532.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate perspective views of a GCH 630 in an open state and closed state, respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The golf club holder 630 may be used with any of the attachment mechanisms 110, 210 and 410, described above. The GCH 630 has a manual locking mechanism. In the exemplary embodiment, the golf club holder 630 may be used and configured without an attachment mechanism, as shown. If the attachment mechanism is omitted, the rear side of the golf club holder 630 can be rounded to track a spherical shape instead of being truncated when integrated with a connection bridge.

Referring also to FIG. 6C, a cross-sectional view of the secure golf club holder along the plane 6B-6B of FIG. 6A is shown. The golf club holder 630 includes a body 632 which is quasi-spherically shaped with a truncated upper portion 636A and a truncated bottom portion 636B.

The body 632 has a through hole 650 formed through the truncated upper portion 636A down to and through the truncated bottom portion 636B. The body 632 includes an internal seat 660 to support within the body 632, a portion of a handgrip of the golf club. The inner diameter (ID) of the through hole 650 varies, such as previously described in relation to the body 132. Thus no further description is necessary.

The exterior perimeter surface 642 of the body 632 has indentations or dimples 634 so that the golf club holder 630 simulates a golf ball. In the exemplary embodiment, the golf club holder 630 can be handheld and cradled in the palm of a golfer's hand in a manner a golf ball would be held.

The quasi-spherical shape of the golf club holder 630 without an attachment mechanism may be more comfortable to hold in a user's hands when walking or carrying the club. The larger diameter of the golf club holder 630 in comparison with the handgrip 8 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) may also allow the golf club holder 630 to be suspended from structures configured to cradle the golf club holder 630 and still allow the club 5 to be hung downward.

In the exemplary embodiment, when the GCH 630 is held in a hand of a golfer, the club holder 630 is configured to hold and retain a golf club (e.g., putter) within the body 632. More specifically, a portion of the handgrip of the golf club is recessed or seated within the club holder 630.

In another embodiment, the club holder 630 can be used to lay the club down on the ground. The larger diameter of the body 632 would slightly raised the handgrip 8 (FIGS. 1E and 1F) above the ground.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body 632 is divided into two portions which include a top rotatable section 670 and a bottom section 672. The bottom section 672 includes neck 674 to rotatably connect to the top rotatable section 670 via an upper lip 674A protruding from a top edge of the neck 674. Furthermore, the front of the bottom section 672 has an opening 638 configured to receive a shaft of a golf club therethrough. Likewise, the front of the top section 670 has an opening 638A configured to receive the shaft of the golf club therethrough. The clearance of the opening 638A tracks the clearance of the opening 638.

Top rotatable section 670 includes a groove 676 contoured to receive therein the upper lip 674A. An interior side of the top rotatable section 670 is configured to mate with an exterior side of the neck 674. The top rotatable section 670 rotates from an open states (FIG. 6A) to a closed state (FIG. 6B). When the top rotatable section 670 rotates, the opening 638A moves in relation to the opening 638 to close the openings (and especially opening 638).

In the exemplary embodiment, the top rotatable section 670 and the bottom section 672 are configured to be snapped together.

In the exemplary embodiment, a snap-on connector is defined by the top rotatable section 670 includes a circumferential groove to receive the lip 674A. Nevertheless, other snap-on connector configurations may be used. Other connectors that provide for rotation may be substituted. The top rotatable section 670 serves as a locking mechanism for opening 638 to prevent the dislodgement of the putter or golf club being supported by the GCH 630. In an exemplary embodiment, the top rotatable section 670 may be removable.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate perspective and top views of yet another secure GCH device 700 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH 700 is similar in design as GCH device 100 and includes a club holder 730 and an attachment mechanism 710. The attachment mechanism 710 includes a U-shaped clip, as previously described in relation to FIG. 1A. The GCH device 700 includes a plurality of ridges or ribs 701 within an interior of the body 732 of the GCH 700. The ridges 701 are spaced equidistantly from the other (adjacent) around the inner circumference of the through hole 750 of the body 732. The ridges or ribs 701 are elongated and may reduce movement or slippage when the handgrip (rubber or leather) is recessed in seat 760 of the GCH device 700. The ridges or ribs 701 taper or narrow in proximity to the bottom end of the through hole 750.

The diameters of the through hole 750 and opening 738 may be the same as any of the pervious through holes described above. The ridges or ribs 701 are separated by elongated grooves or recesses 703.

As can be appreciated, the GCH device 700 may also be modified to include any one of the attachment mechanisms described herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of yet another secure GCH device 800 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 800 includes an attachment mechanism 810 and club holder 830. The body 832 is integrated with the attachment mechanism 810 via a connection bridge 825. The body 832 has a smooth exterior perimeter surface 842. The attachment mechanism 810 is similar to the attachment mechanism 110 previously described. Additionally, the club holder 830 is similar to the club holder 130 except that the exterior perimeter surface 842 is smooth.

In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 830 may be contoured to resemble a bowl of a tobacco pipe. The exterior perimeter surface 842 may be smooth or may be textured to resemble a bowl of a tobacco pipe. The through hole 850 resembles the chamber of the bowl. The opening 838 in the body 832 provides access into the bowl/chamber. The attachment mechanism 810 is configured to have a logo or advertisement integrated or applied to the front surface.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrates perspective and top views of yet another secure GCH device 900 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 900 includes an attachment mechanism 910 configured to attach to a golf club bag, person, or other structures. The GCH device 900 further includes at least one club holder 930A and 930B coupled to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 910. The attachment mechanism 910 is a U-shaped clip similar to the attachment mechanism 110 previously described. However, other attachment mechanisms may be substituted. Each club holders 930A and 930B is similar to the club holder 130 previously described. However, other club holder designs may be substituted.

In the exemplary embodiment, there are two club holders 930A and 930B in side by side relation. Each club holder 930A and 930B includes a body 932A and 932B, respectively, configured to simulate a golf ball. Each body 932A and 932B is quasi-spherically shaped structure with a plurality of indentions or dimples formed in the exterior perimeter surface of the body 932A and 932B.

A rear portion of the quasi-spherically shaped structure does not track a generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear side of the spherical structure is integrated with a connection bridge 925 so as to integrate the bodies 932A and 932B with the attachment mechanism 910. The quasi-spherically shaped structure also truncates a side of the bodies 932A and 932B, as such bodies are joined or integrated together. The connection bridge 925 has a triangular-shaped hole formed therein.

Each body 932A and 932B has a through hole 950A and 950B, respectively, formed therethrough. Furthermore, a front of each body 932A and 932B has an opening 938A and 938B, respectively. Each opening 938A and 938B is configured to receive a different shaft of a different golf club. Opening 938A is offset from opening 938B such that so that each body 932A and 932B are a separate path though the opening 938A or 938B, respectively, and into the through hole 950A and 950B, respectively. The path through each opening 938A and 938B is at an angle with respect to the attachment mechanism 910.

Each body 932A and 932B includes an internal seat 160 to support within the body each body 932A or 932B, a portion of a handgrip of a golf club.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate top and rear views of yet another secure GCH device 1000 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 1000 includes a club holder 1030 without an attachment mechanism. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 1030 includes a body 1032 configured to simulate a golf ball. The body 1032 is quasi-spherically shaped structure with a plurality of indentions or dimples 1034 formed in the exterior perimeter surface of the body 1032.

The quasi-spherically shaped of the body 1032 includes a spherical structure having a truncated upper portion 1036A and a truncated bottom portion 1036B. Additionally, a rear portion of the spherical structure does not track a generally spherical shape as a portion of the rear side of the spherical structure is truncated to form a flat surface 1014 for placement of a logo or advertisement.

The body 1032 includes a through hole 1050 extending through the truncated upper portion 1036A down to and through the truncated bottom portion 1036B. Additionally, the body 1032 has an opening 1038 formed therein for inserting a shaft of a golf club through the body 1032 so that a handgrip can be seated in seat 1060.

FIG. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a GCH device 1300, with an alternate embodiment of the attachment mechanism 1310 (with a portion removed) in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 13B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the GCH device 1300 of FIG. 13A with a band, belt or strap 60 installed in the attachment mechanism 1310 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. The GCH device 1300 includes a club holder 1330 and an attachment mechanism 1310. The club holder 1330 is connected to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 1310 via a connection bridge. In the exemplary embodiment, the club holder 1330 is essentially the same as the club holder 1330 described in detail above in relation to FIG. 8. However, club holder 1330 may be substituted with any of the other club holder designs previously described. Thus, no further description is necessary. The description below will focus on the details of the attachment mechanism 1310.

The attachment mechanism 1310 is multi-mode arrangement with a U-shaped clip for clipping on to a bag, belt, structures; and elongated slots for attachment of band, belt or strap 60. The U-shaped clip includes a top arch 1312 terminating into a first leg 1314 and a second leg 1316. The second leg 1316 is essentially straight. The first leg 1314 has a curved end 1318 which curves in a direction opposite that of the second leg 1316. A bottom end of the second leg 1316 has rounded edges. The curved end 1318 of the first leg 1314 may-permit easier installation of the clip as the rim of the golf bag is received between the first leg 1314 and the second leg 1316.

The top arch 1312 has a first elongated slot 1324A. The first leg 1314 has a second elongated slot 1324B. The elongation of the first and second slots 1324A and 1324B are in a first direction. The first and second slots 1324A and 1324B are configured to receive a band, belt or strap 60 therethrough. The ends of the band, belt or strap 60 includes fasteners 65A, 65B such as Velcro. However, other fasteners such as snaps, buttons, etc. may be used.

FIG. 14A illustrates a front cross section view of a GCH device 1400, with an alternate embodiment of an attachment mechanism 1410 and with a strap 70 installed, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 14B illustrates a partial rear view of the attachment mechanism 1410 in accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 14A. The GCH device 1400 includes a club holder 1430 and an attachment mechanism 1410. The club holder 1430 is connected to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 1410 via a connection bridge. The club holder 1430 may be any one of the other club holder designs previously described. Thus, no further description is necessary. The description below will focus on the details of the attachment mechanism 1410.

The attachment mechanism 1410 is multi-mode arrangement with a U-shaped clip for clipping on to a bag, belt, structures; a first set of elongated slots for attaching a band, belt or strap in a first direction; and a second set of elongated slots for attaching the band, belt or step in a second direction (the second direction being different from the first direction). The U-shaped clip includes a top arch 1412 terminating into a first leg 1414 and a second leg 1316. The second leg 1316 is essentially straight.

The top arch 1412 has a first elongated slot 1424A. The first leg 1414 has a second elongated slot 1424B. The elongation of the first and second slots 1424A and 1424B are oriented in a first direction. The first and second slots 1424A and 1424B are configured to receive a band, belt or strap 70 (shown in phantom in FIG. 14A) therethrough. The ends of the band, belt or strap 70 includes fasteners 75A, 75B such as Velcro. However, other fasteners such as snaps, buttons, etc. may be used.

The first leg 1414 further includes third and fourth elongated slots 1426A and 1426B (shown in phantom in FIG. 14A) in spaced and parallel arrangement. The direction of elongation of the third and fourth elongated slots 1426A and 1426B is different from the direction of elongation of the first and second slots 1424A and 1424B. In the exemplary embodiment, the direction of elongation of first and second slots 1424A and 1424B is perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the third and fourth elongated slots 1426A and 1426B.

In operation, the user may selective employ any mode of attachment. A first mode of attachment may use the U-shaped clip for a clip-on attachment mode. A second mode of attachment may selective use a band, belt or strap 70 with fasteners 75A, 75B feed through the first and second elongated slots 1424A and 1424B to strap or hang the GCH device 1400 from structures, belt, wrist, etc. A third mode of attachment may selective use a band, belt or strap 70 with fasteners 75A, 75B feed through the third and fourth elongated slots 1426A and 1426B to strap or hang the GCH device 1400 from structures, belt, wrist, etc.

FIG. 15 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of yet another GCH device 1500 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In the embodiments of the club holder previously described, the club holder has an internal seat. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the club holder 1530 has a through hole 1550 with varying diameters and at least one internal seat 1560A and 1560B. In the exemplary embodiment, only two internal seats are shown. However, one or more seats may be provided. The seats serve to cradle the handgrip. The varying diameters may help to each handgrip of varying sizes. The attachment mechanism 1510 is attached to the club holder 1530. The front surface of the attachment mechanism 1510 is suitable for engraving, painting, applying or affixing a Logo, advertisement, Trade name, Trademark or other decals thereto.

The GCH devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1300, 1400 and 1500 may be made of natural material, man-made material, recycled material or a combination of natural, man-made or recycled materials. In one embodiment, the GCH device, systems or golf club holders described herein is made of “green” (environmentally friendly) materials.

In an exemplary embodiment, the GCH devices, systems and golf club holders are lightweight and made of molded plastic. The GCH devices, system and golf club holders described herein may be made of a variety of colors.

In an exemplary embodiment, the GCH devices, systems and golf club holders or portions thereof may be coated with a coating to resemble or simulate a golf ball texture or smoothness.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present invention provide a club holder for attachment to the rim of a golf bag or other structures for separately retaining a putter or golf club to make such putter or club readily obtainable or easily accessible.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present invention provide a club holder for attachment to the rim of a golf bag or other structures for separately retaining a putter or golf club on the outside of the golf bag or along side of a leg of a user with the handgrip upright and immediately accessible for lifting directly from the holder's internal seat.

Accordingly, the GCH devices and systems of the present invention provide a club holder that securely holds a club such as with a rotatable locking mechanism or a self-locking angled opening.

As can be appreciated, any of the attachment mechanisms may be interchanged with another attachment mechanism described herein or other quick-release attachment mechanisms.

Furthermore, any one of the club holders described herein may be integrated with a different attachment mechanism or other quick-release attachment mechanism.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle an umbrella so that the handle of the umbrella remains dry.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat(s) one or more golf balls.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat many other objects, tools, supplies, and coins for use by the golfer.

The device may be configured to hold and cradle in the seat a beverage container.

The device is described such that the handgrip is recessed in the seat. Thus, the club head is oriented vertically below the handgrip with the handgrip oriented vertically upright. However, the device can support the club head vertically upright with the handgrip vertically below the club head. In this embodiment, the manual locking mechanism would be beneficial to secure the club within the body.

The spherical dimension or diameter of the club holder may vary. The spherical diameter may closely track the size of a golf ball. The width of the attachment mechanism may be bigger than the diameter of the club holder such that from a rear view, the club holder would not be seen.

While the present invention has been described with respect to various features, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in the art will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Secure golf club holder device

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Description

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