TRAINING DEVICE

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a training device and, more particularly, to a training device which improves accuracy and consistency of a putting stroke in the game of golf and methods of use. The training device includes: a stationary base; and a laser guide coupled to the stationary base and having at least three degrees of freedom of independent movement with respect to the stationary base.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a training device and, more particularly, to a training device which improves accuracy and consistency of a putting stroke in the game of golf and methods of use.

Golfers commonly use training aids to improve their golf game. Many types of training aids are available to the golfer. These training aids range from videos to actual devices that help improve a golfer's swing, distance, etc. For example, training aids may include golf swing training aids such as alignment sticks, putter training aids such as mats, etc.

SUMMARY

In an aspect of the disclosure, a training device comprises: a stationary base; and a laser guide coupled to the stationary base and having at least three degrees of freedom of independent movement with respect to the stationary base.

In an aspect of the disclosure, a training device comprises: a base; a pole extending from the base; a rotatable coupling mechanism attached to the pole on an end opposing the base and which allows for independent movement with respect to both the base and the pole; and a laser guide mounted to the rotatable coupling mechanism which is independently movable with respect to the base or pole in multiple different axes.

In an aspect of the disclosure, a training device comprises: a stationary base with a target area; a clamp mechanism moveable independently in two different directions with respect to the stationary base; and an adjustable laser guide mounted to the coupling mechanism which is moveable in three independent directions with respect to the stationary base, the three directions including a first rotating direction with respect to the clamp mechanism, a second rotating direction with respect to the stationary pole, and an upward direction and downward direction with respect to the clamp mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is described in the detailed description which follows, in reference to the noted plurality of drawings by way of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the training device in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2A shows a top view of a base using in the training device in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2B shows a side view of the base in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows the laser guide 16 attached to a pole used in the training device in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of the pole and a coupling mechanism in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows a coupling mechanism in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of a laser guide in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows the training device in use in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows the training device on a tripod stand in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show the tripod stand in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows a remote control used with the training device in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to a training device and, more particularly, to a training device which improves accuracy and consistency of a putting alignment in the game of golf and methods of use. More specifically, the training device includes a laser mounted guide that is adjustable to not only change the angle and aim, but also adjustable to change the size of the line itself. For example, by moving the laser up and down, it is now possible to change the length of the putting line, e.g., from 2-3 inches to 20-30 feet. Advantageously, the training device addresses the need for refined accuracy and unwavering consistency when attacking a putting line in golf. For example, by using the training device, the user (e.g., golfer) will generate the putting line through a meticulous analysis of various factors, including the slope, break, grain, distance to the hole, and green conditions. Subsequently, golfers can utilize their training with the training device described herein to attain exceptional results on the course.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the training device in accordance with aspects of the present invention. The training device 10 includes, for example, a base 12, a pole 14 and a laser guide 16. In embodiments, the base 12 may be coupled to the pole 14 or multiple poles by a screw or other coupling mechanism, e.g., friction fitting, threaded connection, etc. In addition, the laser guide 16 may be mounted to the pole 14 by a coupling mechanism, e.g., friction fitting, as generally depicted at reference numeral 18. The laser guide 16 may be independently movable along four axes or degrees of freedoms, i.e., slide within the coupling mechanism along the “Y” axis, rotate within the coupling in the “Z” axis (e.g., while the coupling remains stationary), rotate around the vertical axis of the pole 14 (e.g., Y1 axis) and move up and down along the “X” axis. In this way, the laser guide can be adjusted in any direction. In embodiments, the base 12 and pole 14 will remain stationary during any of the independent movements of the laser guide 16. Also, in one embodiment, the height of the pole 14 and base 12 may be at such a height to ensure that the laser emitted from the laser guide is above a golf ball. For example, the height of the laser guide 16 should be approximately eight (8) inches in order to provide the features of the present invention.

In preferred embodiments, the laser guide 16 is aligned with a midpoint of the base 12. In further embodiments, the laser guide 16 may be aligned with respect to other locations. For example, in embodiments, the training device 10 may be placed behind the user and, more specifically, the laser guide 16 may be located behind the putter such that a laser light can be emitter from behind the putter to a front of the putter.

In a use case for this example, the laser will provide a guide from over the putter to a side of a golf hole such that the golfer can practice putting on undulating or uneven surfaces. For example, in use, the laser can be aligned to a side of the golf hole so that the golfer may practice putting in which the golf ball may roll along the laser line and as it approaches the golf hole on an undulating surface start to move right to left or left to right, as an example, into the golf cup. That is, the golf ball will start to deviate from the laser line. In another example, the laser guide 16 may be placed on a side of the user to ensure that the club head of the putter is properly “squared” to the golf ball. For example, the laser guide 16 may be aligned with and over the putter head along its length, perpendicular to the ball and anticipated path of the golf ball. As should be understood by those of skill in the art, any of these positions are possible to the different degrees of independent movement of the laser guide 16.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the base 12 may act as a target cup 12a that mimics the size of a regulation golf cup. By way of example, the base 12 may be substantially U-shaped with an arc (e.g., a part of the circumference of a circle or other curve) having dimensions approximately equal to a standard diameter golf hole, e.g., 4.25 inches. The opening 12b of the base 12 may be about 4.25 inches, although such opening 12b may be smaller such as slightly larger than a diameter of a standard sized golf ball, e.g., a diameter not less than 1.680 inches. For example, the opening 12b may be narrower than a diameter of the regulation golf hole in order to train center putting, but also to steer misaligned putts for success to build confidence. The opening 12b and the inner portion of the base 12 may be the target area (e.g., inner portion of the target cup 12a). Also, in embodiments, the laser guide 16 should be aligned with a center or midpoint of the opening 12b. Alternatively, the laser guide 16 may be aligned with a side of the base 12 or other locations as described herein.

The material used for the base 12 may provide a pleasing audible feedback. These materials are manufactured a single piece computer numeric controlled (CNC) solid aluminum alloy or other metal or metal alloys including steel or aluminum, or plastics with a certain hardness that can withstand a golf ball hit.

In embodiments, the base 12 may include a collar 12b, which allows the pole 14 to be inserted therein. Accordingly, the collar 12b has an interior diameter that is approximately equal to an exterior diameter of the pole 14. In embodiments, the pole 14 may be attached to the base 12 by a screw or other attachment mechanism, e.g., a threaded connection or friction fitting between the pole 14 and the collar 12c. In the screw embodiment, a hole (not shown in this view) may be provided within the collar 12c which is aligned with a threaded hole extending into the interior of the pole 14. Moreover, in embodiments, the pole 14 may include an adjustable height. For example, the pole 14 may include a telescoping feature which may have a varying length in the “Y” axis.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show different views of the base 12. In particular, FIG. 2A shows a top view of the base 12 and FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of the base 12. As shown in these views, the base 12 includes a collar 12c. In the collar 12c is a screw hole 12d which accommodates a screw that can be used to attach the base 12 to the pole 14. The base 12 also includes a ridge profile 12e. In embodiments, the ridge may be beveled, rounded, square, etc. In embodiments, the ridge profile 12e will be of such height to ensure that a rolling ball of the proper speed remains within the confines of the base 12, e.g., target cup 12a. Likewise, the profile 12e will allow a ball that is hit too strongly to exit target area, akin to a ball rolling over a golf cup if hit too strongly.

FIG. 3 shows the laser guide 16 attached to the pole 14 by a coupling mechanism 18. In embodiments, the coupling mechanism 18 may be attached to the upper end of the pole 14. For example, and as shown in FIG. 4, the pole 14 may have a threaded screw portion 14a that couples to a threaded portion 18a extending within an underside of the coupling mechanism 18. FIG. 4 also shows the coupling mechanism 18 which has independent movements. For example, the coupling mechanism 18 may rotate independently from an up and down and swivel rotation and vis-versa. Accordingly, as the coupling mechanism 18 rotates in a “Y” axis as shown in FIG. 1, the laser guide will still remain in a same position in the “X” axis as shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the coupling mechanism 18 may include a clamp portion comprises opposing arms 18b. In embodiments, the opposing arms 18b may be resilient or flexible in order to hold the laser guide 16 in a particular position by a friction fit. In embodiments, the opposing arms 18b will have an arc or curvature that substantially matches to an outside diameter or shape of the laser guide 16. The opposing arms 18b will also allow the laser guide 16 to slide along axis “Y” of the laser guide 16 within the opposing arms 18b and rotate along the “Z” axis. In embodiments, the laser guide 16 may have a stop mechanism 16a, e.g., protuberance extending from the surface of the laser guide 16, to ensure that the laser guide 16 will not slide out of the clamp portion, e.g., the opposing arms 18b.

Also, the clamp portion 18b is attached in a swivel manner to the lower, threaded portion 18a in order to allow the laser guide 16 to swivel in the vertical direction “X”, up and down. This allows the distance of the laser of the laser guide 16 to be adjusted, e.g., from about 2 inches to about 30 feet (although other distances are contemplated herein). By adjusting the laser line, it is now possible to practice putting from many different distances.

As shown more clearly in FIG. 5, the coupling mechanism 18 includes the clamp portion 18b (e.g., opposing arms) mounted to the threaded screw portion 18a by a swivel mounting mechanism 18c. In embodiments, the swivel mounting mechanism 18c may be an arm 18d of the clamp portion 18b sandwiched between two opposing arms 18e of the threaded screw portion 18a. A screw and nut assembly 20 may extend through the arms 18d, 18e to allow the clamp portion 18b (e.g., opposing arms) to swivel up and down. In an alternative embodiment, the swivel mount may be a joint and socket mounting mechanism which allows the clamp portion 18b to move in any direction.

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the laser guide 16. In embodiments, the laser guide 16 includes a housing 16b which houses a laser 16c. In embodiments, the laser 16c includes a lens which emits an alignment mark (e.g., laser beam), which can be of any desired color and length. In embodiments, an elevated vivid green laser assists in aligning a putter and confirms alignment with the target cup, i.e., base 12.

The housing 16b may be cylindrical; although other shapes are contemplated herein. The housing 16b also includes an interior portion which houses a battery for powering of the laser 16c. In embodiments, the battery is rechargeable. Multiple batteries may be included in a kit such that when one battery runs out of energy it can be immediately replaced with another battery. This allows the continuous use of the training device 10 and also allows the battery that has been removed to be recharged while still allowing use of the training device 10.

The interior portion may be accessed and/or closed though a lid or cap 16d. The lid or cap 16d may be threaded onto the housing 16b, as an example. As also shown, the housing 16b includes the stop mechanism 16a. In embodiments, the stop mechanism 16a may be a protuberance provided completely about or partially about a circumference of the housing 16b.

FIG. 7 shows the training device 10 in use. In this example, the base 12 is placed about, e.g., behind, a standard golf hole 50. It should be understood, though, that the base 12 can be used as a free-standing device without the use of a golf hole. In this latter embodiment, the base 12 will act as a target cup. In the former embodiment, the opening of the base 12 will expose a portion of the golf hole 50, allowing a golf ball to roll into the golf hole. For example, in embodiments, the target, e.g., base 16, may be golf regulation size with a narrow opening to train center putting, but also to steer misaligned putts for success to build confidence. The laser may be turned on and turned off by control 16d., e.g., control button. In an alternative embodiment, for example, the laser may be turned on and off by a remote device 100 which includes an on/off switch 102 as shown in FIG. 10. In this way, the user can turn on the training device 10 from a remote location from the training device 10 and, more specifically, the user may turn on the training device when they are standing over a golf ball and preparing to hit the golf ball.

As further shown in FIG. 7, the laser guide 16 mounted to the pole 14 is positioned such that the laser 16c emits an alignment mark 60 extending from within the golf hole 50 to outside of the golf hole 50. In this way, the laser height and placement at the target (e.g., golf hole) provides a line on top of the ball 70 and the whole path during the putt. As already described herein, the laser 16c is adjustable up, down, left and right and rotates for alignment purposes. In this way, the laser 16c is adjustable to not only change the angle and aim, but it is also adjustable to change the size of the line itself. By moving the laser up and down, it is possible, for example, to change the length of the line from 2-3 inches to 20-30 ft. In this way, it is possible to practice putting from many different distances. The target height is sized so putting distance control is enforced to train lag putting. By rotating the laser, it is also possible to practice similar to an uneven or undulating putting surface as already described herein.

The training device 10 incorporates a range of innovative strategies designed to accomplish the primary objective of getting a golf ball as close to the golf hole as possible, thereby setting up a straightforward and manageable second putt. For example, the training device 10 can employ the following key strategies of alignment, distance control, confidence and repetition to achieve this goal.

FIG. 8 shows an alternative training device 10a with an alternative stand 12′ in accordance with aspects of the invention. In embodiments, the alternative stand 12′ is a tripod stand comprising a plurality of legs 12f. In embodiments, the legs 12f in the extended position form a base section at the bottom for stabilizing the assembly in a stationary manner while also providing the requisite height for the laser guide, with the legs 12f being the pole(s). An opening 12b′ and the interior between the legs 12f may be the target area. In embodiments, the opening 12b′ may be between any of the legs 12f. In further embodiments, the coupling mechanism 18 and laser guide 16 are mounted to the alternative stand 12′, similar to that which is already discussed with reference to, for example, FIGS. 1-7 and with its independent movements as described herein.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show the alternative stand 12′ in a collapse state in FIG. 9A and an extended state in FIG. 9B. The alternative stand 12′ may include a coupling mechanism 12f which may be attached to the pole (not shown). In embodiments, the coupling mechanism 18 may be a threaded rod 12g in which a threaded hole of the pole may attach thereto. The remaining feature of the laser guide and its several degrees of independent freedom are similar to that already described and shown herein.

Alignment

The training device 10 features a target cup (e.g., base 12) that mimics the size of a regulation golf cup. The base 12 includes an opening target to facilitate precise aiming. The target cup 12a can be other sizes and includes an opening at one end for entry of a ball that may be rolled therein. The laser's height enables the golfer to track the ball as it rolls toward the target, facilitating the evaluation of its trajectory. The primary aim is to roll the ball straight along the intended path, e.g., along the laser line. The ball does not always have to follow the laser line in its entirety. For example, on an undulating or uneven putting surface, the ball may follow the laser line for a period of time, after which it will deviate (e.g., break) from the laser line towards the golf hole, in conformity with the undulating surface of the putting surface.

Distance Control

The base 12 of the training device 10 encompasses a regulation-sized area enclosed by a ridge 12e (e.g., bevel, etc.), ensuring that properly hit balls remain within the cup's boundaries. The ridge 12e is of such a height and design, though, that hitting the ball too strongly will result in the ball exiting the target area 12a, akin to a ball rolling over a golf cup if hit too strongly. Adjusting of the laser distance will also allow the user to practice putting from many different distances and angles.

Confidence

The target cup 12a (e.g., the curvature of the base 12) of the training device 10 is a regulation-sized area strategically designed to steer more balls into the successful target area, fostering confidence in the golfer's abilities.

Repetition

By integrating confidence, rhythm, feedback, and alignment, the training device 10 effectively trains golfers to practice with precision. As shorter putts become effortless, golfers can gradually increase the distance, ensuring continuous improvement.

In conclusion, the training device 10 as described herein, revolutionizes putting skill development in golf. By emphasizing accuracy and consistency when attacking the putting line, and incorporating strategies such as alignment, distance control, repetition, confidence, feedback, and rhythm, the training device 10 optimizes a golfer's putting proficiency.

The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A training device, comprising: a stationary base; anda laser guide coupled to the stationary base and having at least three degrees of freedom of independent movement with respect to the stationary base.

2. The training device of claim 1, wherein the stationary base includes a target area and the laser guide projects a laser line from within the target area to outside of the target areas.

3. The training device of claim 2, wherein the target area comprises an arc shape with an opening sized to allow passage of a golf ball.

4. The training device of claim 2, wherein the target area is U-shaped with an opening sized to allow passage of a golf ball and further includes a ridge to stop the golf ball from exiting the target area.

5. The training device of claim 2, further comprising a pole extending between the base and the laser guide and which comprises a length such that a laser emitter from the laser guide projects over a golf ball.

6. The training device of claim 5, wherein the pole is telescoping between a first position and a second position.

7. The training device of claim 1, wherein the laser guide is rotatably mounted to a pole.

8. The training device of claim 1, wherein the laser guide rotates in a vertical orientation such that moving the laser guide upwards lengthens a distance of a laser beam projected onto a surface and moving the laser guide downwards shortens a distance of the laser beam projected onto the surface.

9. The training device of claim 1, wherein the laser guide comprises at least three degrees of freedom of independent movement along three axes with respect to the stationary base.

10. The training device of claim 9, wherein the three axes include independently rotating within a coupling member, rotating around a vertical axis of the stationary base and movement up and down with respect to the stationary base.

11. The training device of claim 1, further comprising a coupling mechanism that couples holds the laser guide, the coupling mechanism including a clamp that friction holds the laser guide to the coupling mechanism.

12. The training device of claim 11, wherein the coupling member includes a mechanism to independently rotate the laser guide along a vertical axis of the stationary base and to move the laser guide up and down independently of the rotation.

13. A training device, comprising: a base;a pole extending from the base;a rotatable coupling mechanism attached to the pole on an end opposing the base and which allows for independent movement with respect to both the base and the pole; anda laser guide mounted to the rotatable coupling mechanism which is independently movable with respect to the base or pole in multiple different axes.

14. The training device of claim 13, wherein the base includes a cup shape which is substantially U-shaped.

15. The training device of claim 14, wherein the base and the pole comprise a tripod configuration.

16. The training device of claim 13, wherein the laser guide rotates in a vertical orientation such that moving the laser guide upwards lengthens a distance of a laser beam projected onto a surface and moving the laser guide downwards shortens a distance of the laser beam projected onto the surface.

17. The training device of claim 13, wherein the rotatable coupling mechanism including a clamp that friction holds the laser guide to the coupling mechanism.

18. The training device of claim 13, wherein the coupling mechanism is structured to provide movement of the laser guide independently by allowing rotation of the laser guide with respect to the coupling mechanism, a rotation of the laser guide with respect to the base and an up and down movement of the laser guide with respect to the base.

19. A training device comprising: a stationary base with a target area;a clamp mechanism moveable independently in two different directions with respect to the stationary base; andan adjustable laser guide mounted to the coupling mechanism which is moveable in three independent directions with respect to the stationary base, the three directions including a first rotating direction with respect to the clamp mechanism, a second rotating direction with respect to the stationary pole, and an upward direction and downward direction with respect to the clamp mechanism.

20. The training device of claim 19, wherein the clamp mechanism is rotatable in the upward direction and the downward direction and the laser guide which comprises a laser emitted therefrom provides an alignment mark on a surface, the alignment mark extending within or to a side of the target area.