EP1545720B1 - Golf ball dispenser - Google Patents

Golf ball dispenser Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1545720B1
EP1545720B1 EP03769579A EP03769579A EP1545720B1 EP 1545720 B1 EP1545720 B1 EP 1545720B1 EP 03769579 A EP03769579 A EP 03769579A EP 03769579 A EP03769579 A EP 03769579A EP 1545720 B1 EP1545720 B1 EP 1545720B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dispenser
arm
dispenser according
receptacle
ball
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP03769579A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1545720A1 (en
Inventor
Claude Pommereau
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Individual
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Individual
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B47/00—Devices for handling or treating balls, e.g. for holding or carrying balls
    • A63B47/002—Devices for dispensing balls, e.g. from a reservoir
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B57/00—Golfing accessories
    • A63B57/0006—Automatic teeing devices

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a golf ball dispenser. It finds a particularly interesting application on a practice golf training ground on which a golf player trains to successively hit the golf balls that are provided.
  • a golf ball dispenser essentially has the role of placing, at each action, a golf ball on the tee so as to prevent the golf player from bending down to pick up and place the golf ball in his hand.
  • Portable devices are also known for which the golf player may manipulate a distributor lever to slide a ball on the tee.
  • the document EP 0 272 001 relates to a hollow arm in vertical position. Bullets are stored in this arm.
  • the lower end is provided with a pivotally mounted retaining system having two projections, a first projection partially positioned in the arm for retaining the first lower bale, and a second projection adapted to be partially positioned within the arm. when the first projection pivots outward.
  • the second projection When the second projection is positioned in the arm, it prevents the second lower ball to go down while the first ball is released by the first protrusion.
  • the document DE 196 27 187 describes a horizontal pivoting distribution arm about a vertical axis.
  • the lower end of the arm includes an elbow to position the ball. This bent part is cut so as not to touch the ball when placed on the tee.
  • An elastic return system allows to bring the arm to a rest position for which a golf ball is conditioned for distribution.
  • the present invention aims a new distributor of golf balls robust and simple at a time.
  • Another object of the present invention is to use the gravity as much as possible in order to limit the manipulations of the golf player.
  • a golf ball dispenser according to claim 1 comprising an upper reservoir for holding the golf balls; a flange to receive the balls from the tank and feed bales, one by one, a distribution arm.
  • the dispensing arm is disposed substantially vertically in the rest position and comprises means, arranged in the upper part close to the collar, for pivoting about a horizontal axis during the dispensing of a ball of golf.
  • the pivoting is a rocking movement.
  • the distribution arm returns to its rest position by gravity. It is sufficient for the golf player to release the distribution arm so that the latter returns to its rest position.
  • the return is usually forced by means of a spring. But the spring is an element that can rust, fail, and requires maintenance and dosage of the restoring force.
  • the collar may comprise a tubular receptacle through which the golf balls pass from the reservoir and towards the dispensing arm.
  • the receptacle may include an upper portion having a diameter adapted to guide one by one golf balls from the reservoir, and a lower portion having a diameter greater than that of the upper portion.
  • the dispensing arm may be partially inserted into a lower part of the receptacle, the pivot axis of the dispensing arm being secured to this lower part of the receptacle.
  • the upper end of the dispensing arm may comprise a chamfer made on the side likely to come into contact with a receptacle. The chamfer is made at a predetermined angle corresponding to the maximum pivoting of the distribution arm for example.
  • the upper end of the dispensing arm comprises means for preventing a second bale from entering the dispensing arm when the dispensing arm pivots to release a first bale already present in the dispenser arm. distribution.
  • the prevention means consist of a flange of the end of the dispensing arm.
  • the receptacle may include a chamfer at its lower end to act as a stop for pivoting of the dispenser arm. This stop may be inclined and help to fix accurately the pivot angle of the arm for which the golf ball can go down.
  • the internal diameter of the dispensing arm may be substantially equal to the internal diameter of the upper part of the receptacle.
  • the distributor comprises a protruding cleat disposed on the inner face of the lower part of the receptacle and cooperating with an opening made in the dispensing arm, this cleat serving to block the ball introduced into the distribution arm, the next ball resting on the first ball.
  • This cleat is shaped to release the golf ball present in the dispensing arm when the arm pivots.
  • the distribution of the golf balls is performed by a simple mechanical binary divider, namely that when feeding the golf ball reservoir located above the collar, the arm of With the distribution upright, the golf balls descend into the collar and then pass through the receptacle and one enters the dispenser arm to the stopper where it is stopped. Then the player pulling on the dispensing arm, until the position above the chosen place (for example after a pivot of 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis), the cleat will fade to leave the ball golf down to the planned landing point (tee, carpet or floor).
  • the highest point of the upper edge of the dispensing arm will stop the next bale so that only one bale can be present in the dispensing arm.
  • the point the higher will be erased, which will allow the descent of a new golf ball to the cleat, and so on.
  • the distributor comprises magnets for locking the distribution arm either in the rest position or in the dispensing position. These magnets can be arranged in the receptacle.
  • the dispenser arm may comprise a retarder for depositing the golf ball accurately.
  • This retarder may consist of an "S" shaped elbow made close to the lower end of the distribution arm.
  • the flange may include a tripod for holding the dispenser in the up position.
  • the feet are telescopic.
  • the tripod may include two front legs arranged on a vertical plane perpendicular to the direction of movement of the dispensing arm, both feet facing a user; and a third rear leg disposed on the opposite side of the two front legs relative to the collar.
  • the two front feet can be such that the first foot is substantially vertical, and the second foot is tilted to ensure the balance of the tripod.
  • the third rear foot comprises a hook adapted to receive a weight so as to enhance the balance of the tripod.
  • the "putter” can serve as a counterweight, the “putter” being the only club never used at the driving range, but still being present in a golf bag. In place of the club or together with it one can use a bottle of water to counterbalance.
  • the three legs can be removable and have a diameter such that they can be accommodated in the distribution arm for transport.
  • the receptacle can be adjustable in height relative to the collar.
  • the height of adjustment can be 40mm, which is generally the height of the tee.
  • the upper reservoir consists of a vertical cylinder disposed above the collar.
  • the axis of rotation of this barrel is offset relative to the axis of the upper opening of the receptacle so that the balls stored in the peripheral cavities of the barrel can vertically fall into the receptacle.
  • the barrel may be capped with a disc comprising peripheral openings facing the cavities of said barrel so as to guide the balls in these cavities.
  • the disc also includes a central projection for guiding the balls to these peripheral openings.
  • the dispenser further includes a removable funnel, flared upward, engaging the edge of the disc. The balls are poured into the funnel that guides them into the cavities of the barrel.
  • the inside of the dispensing arm may comprise several non-concentric rings to slow down the fall of the golf ball. These rings are arranged so that the inter-distance between two consecutive rings decreases when approaching the lower end of the distribution arm.
  • FIG. 1 there is the distributor 1 of golf balls according to the invention.
  • This dispenser comprises a tank 2 in which the golf balls are introduced, the tank 2 being placed on a flange 3 to which is fixed a tripod composed of the front legs 6, 7 and a rear foot 5.
  • the flange 3 is associated to a receptacle 4 disposed through the collar 3 so that the reservoir 2 is in direct contact with the upper opening of the receptacle 4.
  • the lower part of the receptacle 4, under the collar 3, is pivotally engaged with an arm 8. This arm can bring a golf ball 10 from the tank 2 via the receptacle 4 on a tee 11 disposed on the ground.
  • the golf ball tank, placed above the collar has a capacity at least equal to the amount of a bucket of golf balls.
  • This tank is made of sufficiently flexible plastic cloth, so that it can wrap around the upper part of the receptacle protruding from the collar, and this to obtain a minimum size, in order to maintain easy transport of all .
  • the three legs (telescopic to adapt to all dimensional situations) supports the dispenser of balls can be housed in the distribution arm, for example three feet of diameter 19 mm forming a diameter 44 mm.
  • the distribution arm 8 In the rest position, the distribution arm 8 is vertically placed under the receptacle 4.
  • the receptacle comprises means for placing a single golf ball in the upper part of the dispensing arm 8 inserted in the receptacle 4.
  • the distribution arm 8 In dispensing position, the distribution arm 8 has pivoted by a predetermined angle so as to place its lower end above the tee 11, so the golf ball 10 can be deposited on this tee.
  • the pose is done precisely because the distribution arm 8 comprises a bend-shaped retarder 9 sufficiently accentuated to brake the golf ball falling from the upper end by gravity. On the retarder 9 is cut an opening 12 extending to the lower end of the dispensing arm 8 so that the dispensing arm 8 does not drive the golf ball 10 when returning to the rest position.
  • the user that is to say the golf player, can use a golf club by catching for example the retarder 9.
  • This allows the golf player to not not stoop to take a ball, either in a bucket of practice balls, or to position it on a specific spot on the ground or on a tee.
  • the player will be able to keep his previous "stance” (positioning of the feet relative to the tee) without changing his last position.
  • FIG 2 we see a schematic side view of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention. Most elements of Figure 1, are repeated here with the same references. We find in particular the front foot 6 and the rear foot 5.
  • the distribution arm 8 is in the rest position.
  • the tank 2 contains a set of golf balls including a first ball 13 and a second ball 14.
  • the receptacle 4 is tubular in shape so that the golf balls can penetrate one by one.
  • the distribution arm 8 comprises facing the this cleat 15 an opening allowing the cleat 15 to be partially inside this distribution arm 8.
  • the first golf ball 13 is therefore placed on an inclined plane of the cleat 15 and on an opposite inner edge of the arm 8.
  • the second golf ball 14, guided in the receptacle 4 is placed on the first golf ball 13.
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 show in more detail the mechanism operated within the receptacle 4.
  • FIG. 4 represents the distribution arm 8 in the rest position, the golf ball 13 is partially inserted in the upper part of the distribution arm 8.
  • the second golf ball 14 rests on the first golf ball 13 but on the outside the dispensing arm 8 and inside the receptacle 4.
  • the chamfer 18 in the receptacle 4 will serve as a stop to specify the degree of inclination of the dispensing arm 8 in its dispensing position in accordance with Figure 5.
  • the chamfer 17 made on an edge of the upper end of the distribution arm 8, on the side of the stopper 15, makes it possible to pivot this distribution arm 8 inside the lower part of the receptacle 4.
  • the magnet 19 placed at the lower end of the receptacle 4 keeps the dispensing arm 8 in the rest position and to avoid any rebound effect when the distribution arm 8 returns from a position of distribution.
  • This magnet 19 may extend on either side of the latch 15 so as to have an influence on the distribution arm 8.
  • the arm may comprise metal elements capable of cooperating magnetically with the magnet 19.
  • the magnet 20 disposed on the opposite side of the magnet 19 makes it possible to keep the dispensing arm 8 in dispensing position and to avoid premature return of this arm.
  • the two front feet are such that the first foot 21 is disposed almost vertically, that is to say perpendicular to the collar 3, and the second foot 22 is considerably inclined outwards with respect to the first foot 21.
  • the third hind foot still tilts backwards.
  • the golf ball 10 is placed on tee 11 between the golf player and the golf ball dispenser.
  • This mode is ideal when the golf player is training to send the ball in a lateral movement from the foot 22 to the foot 21. The player thus has a wide opening angle since the foot 21 is not in the field of play. shoot.
  • the flange 3 (or 33 as will be seen later) comprises a reversible wedge for positioning the two front feet in a first position where the left foot is inclined and in a second position where it is the right foot which is inclined.
  • the section 46 of the wedge is a quadrilateral whose left side 47 has an angle adapted to wedge the foot 36 inclined, and the right side 48 is vertical to maintain the foot 35 right.
  • the wedge 46 is rotated 180 ° so as to have the side 47 along the foot 35.
  • a rod 49 secured to the wedge 46 can s insert into openings made on the upper face of the flange, these openings serving as positioning marks.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 show a golf player 23 preparing to hit the golf ball 10 by means of a golf club 25.
  • This player is placed on a "practice" mat 27, the latter being placed on 24.
  • the dispenser is placed in front of the golf player 23.
  • This dispenser is positioned so that the dispensing position of the dispensing arm 8 makes it possible to place the golf ball above the tee 11.
  • the carpet 27 is placed on a flat floor 24.
  • the dispenser 1 can be placed on the carpet or on the floor 24.
  • the dispenser 1 according to the invention can be easily used because it includes telescopic legs. These telescopic legs can be used both in extreme cases of significant unevenness or under standard conditions of use. For example, each foot can extend about 200 mm to adapt to different floors. The receptacle can then be fixed.
  • the two front feet 5 and 6 can be inclined towards the golf player or remain vertical. When these feet are arranged vertically, the player has more room.
  • the barrel 29 is capped with an integral disc 32.
  • a funnel 41 is fixed on the disc 32 so that when filling the funnel 41 with balls, the latter are guided into the cavities 30 through the openings 42 and the projection 43 of the disc 32.
  • the lower end of the barrel can pivot about a second disc 31 eccentrically engaged with the flange 33 by means of a pin 34.
  • a cavity of the latter is concentric with an opening made in the second disc 31 and with the opening made in the collar 33.
  • the balls then slide directly vertically from the barrel to the distribution arm 40 through the receptacle 39.
  • the receptacle 39 is made very schematically here and may advantageously correspond to the implementation of Figures 4 and 5.
  • the funnel assembly 41 and barrel 29 are dismantled. These two elements can be integral with one another or removable relative to one another. We then nested the support 33,40,35,36,37 in all 41,29 by the top of the latter.
  • the barrel 29 comprises a central tunnel in which the dispensing arm 40 engages.
  • the feet 35 and 36 are wedged in two cavities 30 of the barrel.
  • the third foot 37 is pressed against the barrel.
  • Figure 11 shows the dispenser of Figures 9 and 10 in its transport position.
  • the tee 38 has a return protrusion 45 to prevent the escape of the golf ball during a substantially vertical fall of the bale from the distribution arm of the dispenser.
  • This protuberance extends upward from one side of the tee.
  • the protuberance 45 and the ball are spaced from each other, for example 2mm.
  • the player's club can then hit the ball without the protuberance gene and therefore does not change the trajectory of the ball.
  • FIGs. 12 and 13 the interior of the dispensing arm 40 is shown composed of a plurality of non-concentric rings.
  • Figure 12 shows an angled distribution arm. This elbow can rotate by means of a rotation joint so as to be straight, that is aligned with the assembly of the distribution arm as in Figure 13.
  • the angled position has an angle such that the elbow is vertical and the ball can fall vertically when the arm is in its dispensing position. This angle can be 160 ° when the arm is 20 ° relative to the vertical in its dispensing position.
  • Figure 14 is a top view illustrating the arrangement of the different rings in the arm. The closer you get to the lower end, the closer the rings are to each other. This arrangement makes it possible to slow the fall of the golf ball.
  • the lower end can be bent or no.
  • the inner diameter of the rings is slightly greater than the diameter of the golf balls.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)
  • Golf Clubs (AREA)
  • Packaging Of Annular Or Rod-Shaped Articles, Wearing Apparel, Cassettes, Or The Like (AREA)
  • Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
  • Pinball Game Machines (AREA)
  • Ignition Installations For Internal Combustion Engines (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
  • Branching, Merging, And Special Transfer Between Conveyors (AREA)
  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
  • Injection Moulding Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a golf ball dispenser having an upper container which houses the golf balls and a flange which receives the balls from the container and which supplies the balls individually to a dispensing arm. The dispensing arm, which is disposed such that it is essentially vertical in the rest position, includes structure for pivoting around a horizontal axis when a golf ball is being dispensed, the pivot structure is disposed in the upper part thereof close to the above-mentioned flange.

Description

La présente invention se rapporte à un distributeur de balles de golf. Elle trouve une application particulièrement intéressante sur un terrain d'entraînement de golf dit "practice" sur lequel un joueur de golf s'entraîne à frapper successivement les balles de golf qui lui sont fournies.The present invention relates to a golf ball dispenser. It finds a particularly interesting application on a practice golf training ground on which a golf player trains to successively hit the golf balls that are provided.

Un distributeur de balles de golf a essentiellement pour rôle de placer, à chaque action, une balle de golf sur le tee de façon à éviter au joueur de golf de se baisser pour ramasser et placer la balle de golf à la main.A golf ball dispenser essentially has the role of placing, at each action, a golf ball on the tee so as to prevent the golf player from bending down to pick up and place the golf ball in his hand.

On connaît des systèmes automatiques permettant une distribution automatique de la balle de golf sur le tee. Mais ces systèmes sont complexes, immobiles et coûteux. Ces systèmes peuvent être des installations électriques ou des installations mécaniques telles que celle décrite dans le document FR 2 625 442 . Ce document concerne un distributeur en forme de goulotte semi-enterrée. L'extrémité basse de la goulotte comprend un système de bielle et ressort pour alimenter un tee par une balle à chaque fois. Le tee est disposé au sous-sol lorsque alimenté par la goulotte. Une pédale d'actionnement permet de remonter le tee en surface. La goulotte est fixe.There are known automatic systems for automatic distribution of the golf ball on the tee. But these systems are complex, immobile and expensive. These systems may be electrical installations or mechanical installations such as that described in the document FR 2,625,442 . This document relates to a distributor in the form of a semi-buried chute. The lower end of the chute includes a rod system and spring to feed a tee with a bullet each time. The tee is placed in the basement when fed by the chute. An actuation pedal allows to raise the tee on the surface. The chute is fixed.

On connaît également des dispositifs portables pour lesquels le joueur de golf manipule éventuellement un levier du distributeur pour faire glisser une balle sur le tee.Portable devices are also known for which the golf player may manipulate a distributor lever to slide a ball on the tee.

Le document EP 0 272 001 concerne un bras creux en position verticale. Les balles sont stockées dans ce bras. L'extrémité inférieure est dotée d'un système de retenue monté sur pivot et comportant deux saillies, une première saillie partiellement positionnée dans le bras pour retenir la première balle inférieure, et une seconde saillie apte à se positionner partiellement à l'intérieure du bras lorsque la première saillie pivote vers l'extérieur. Lorsque la seconde saillie se positionne dans le bras, elle empêche la seconde balle inférieure de descendre alors que la première balle est libérée par la première saillie.The document EP 0 272 001 relates to a hollow arm in vertical position. Bullets are stored in this arm. The lower end is provided with a pivotally mounted retaining system having two projections, a first projection partially positioned in the arm for retaining the first lower bale, and a second projection adapted to be partially positioned within the arm. when the first projection pivots outward. When the second projection is positioned in the arm, it prevents the second lower ball to go down while the first ball is released by the first protrusion.

Le document DE 196 27 187 décrit un bras de distribution à pivotement horizontal autour d'un axe vertical. L'extrémité inférieure du bras comprend un coude pour positionner la balle. Cette partie coudée est taillée de façon à ne pas toucher la balle lorsque posée sur le tee. Un système de rappel élastique permet de ramener le bras à une position de repos pour laquelle une balle de golf est conditionnée pour la distribution.The document DE 196 27 187 describes a horizontal pivoting distribution arm about a vertical axis. The lower end of the arm includes an elbow to position the ball. This bent part is cut so as not to touch the ball when placed on the tee. An elastic return system allows to bring the arm to a rest position for which a golf ball is conditioned for distribution.

Un autre distributeur de balles de golf est décrit dans le document US 4 892 318 .Another golf ball dispenser is described in the document US 4,892,318 .

La présente invention a pour but un nouveau distributeur de balles de golf robuste et simple à la fois. Un autre but de la présente invention est d'utiliser au maximum la gravité de façon à limiter les manipulations du joueur de golf.The present invention aims a new distributor of golf balls robust and simple at a time. Another object of the present invention is to use the gravity as much as possible in order to limit the manipulations of the golf player.

On atteint au moins l'un des objectifs précités avec un distributeur de balles de golf selon la revendication 1 comprenant un réservoir supérieur pour contenir les balles de golf; une collerette pour recevoir les balles provenant du réservoir et alimenter en balles, une à une, un bras de distribution. Selon l'invention, le bras de distribution est disposé de façon sensiblement verticale en position de repos et comprend des moyens, disposés dans la partie supérieure proche de la collerette, pour pivoter autour d'un axe horizontal lors de la distribution d'une balle de golf.At least one of the above objects is achieved with a golf ball dispenser according to claim 1 comprising an upper reservoir for holding the golf balls; a flange to receive the balls from the tank and feed bales, one by one, a distribution arm. According to the invention, the dispensing arm is disposed substantially vertically in the rest position and comprises means, arranged in the upper part close to the collar, for pivoting about a horizontal axis during the dispensing of a ball of golf.

Avec le dispositif selon l'invention, le pivotement est un mouvement de balancement. Le bras de distribution revient à sa position de repos par gravité. Il suffit au joueur de golf de lâcher le bras de distribution pour que ce dernier retourne à sa position de repos. Dans la plupart des systèmes existants, le retour est forcé généralement au moyen d'un ressort. Or le ressort est un élément qui peut rouiller, faillir, et nécessite un entretien et un dosage de la force de rappel.With the device according to the invention, the pivoting is a rocking movement. The distribution arm returns to its rest position by gravity. It is sufficient for the golf player to release the distribution arm so that the latter returns to its rest position. In most existing systems, the return is usually forced by means of a spring. But the spring is an element that can rust, fail, and requires maintenance and dosage of the restoring force.

On utilise donc la force de gravitation pour descendre les balles de golf une à une sur le tee ou sur le tapis de practice, ou directement sur un sol. Le joueur peut tirer, au moyen d'un club de golf, la partie basse du bras de distribution pour l'amener en position de distribution au-dessus de l'endroit choisi.So we use the gravitational force to lower the golf balls one by one on the tee or on the carpet of practice, or directly on a floor. The player can pull, by means of a golf club, the lower part of the distribution arm to bring it in distribution position above the chosen place.

Plus précisément, la collerette peut comprendre un réceptacle tubulaire à travers lequel passent les balles de golf en provenance du réservoir et en direction du bras de distribution. Le réceptacle peut comprendre une partie supérieure présentant un diamètre adapté pour guider une à une les balles de golf provenant du réservoir, et une partie inférieure présentant un diamètre supérieur à celui de la partie supérieure.More specifically, the collar may comprise a tubular receptacle through which the golf balls pass from the reservoir and towards the dispensing arm. The receptacle may include an upper portion having a diameter adapted to guide one by one golf balls from the reservoir, and a lower portion having a diameter greater than that of the upper portion.

Avantageusement, le bras de distribution peut être partiellement inséré dans une partie inférieure du réceptacle, l'axe de pivot du bras de distribution étant solidaire de cette partie inférieure du réceptacle. Pour permettre le pivotement du bras de distribution dans le réceptacle, l'extrémité supérieure du bras de distribution peut comprendre un chanfrein réalisé du côté susceptible d'entrer en contact avec un le réceptacle. Le chanfrein est réalisé selon un angle prédéterminé correspondant au pivotement maximum du bras de distribution par exemple.Advantageously, the dispensing arm may be partially inserted into a lower part of the receptacle, the pivot axis of the dispensing arm being secured to this lower part of the receptacle. To allow pivoting of the dispensing arm in the receptacle, the upper end of the dispensing arm may comprise a chamfer made on the side likely to come into contact with a receptacle. The chamfer is made at a predetermined angle corresponding to the maximum pivoting of the distribution arm for example.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'extrémité supérieure du bras de distribution comprend des moyens pour empêcher une seconde balle de pénétrer dans le bras de distribution lorsque ce bras de distribution pivote pour libérer une première balle déjà présente dans le bras de distribution. De préférence, les moyens d'empêchement consistent en un rebord de l'extrémité du bras de distribution.According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper end of the dispensing arm comprises means for preventing a second bale from entering the dispensing arm when the dispensing arm pivots to release a first bale already present in the dispenser arm. distribution. Preferably, the prevention means consist of a flange of the end of the dispensing arm.

Le réceptacle peut comprendre un chanfrein à son extrémité inférieure pour servir de butée au pivotement du bras de distribution. Cette butée peut être inclinée et contribuer à fixer avec précision l'angle de pivotement du bras pour lequel la balle de golf peut descendre.The receptacle may include a chamfer at its lower end to act as a stop for pivoting of the dispenser arm. This stop may be inclined and help to fix accurately the pivot angle of the arm for which the golf ball can go down.

Par ailleurs, le diamètre interne du bras de distribution peut être sensiblement égal au diamètre interne de la partie supérieure du réceptacle.Moreover, the internal diameter of the dispensing arm may be substantially equal to the internal diameter of the upper part of the receptacle.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, le distributeur comporte un taquet protubérant, disposé sur la face interne de la partie inférieure du réceptacle et coopérant avec une ouverture réalisée dans le bras de distribution, ce taquet servant à bloquer la balle introduite dans le bras de distribution, la balle suivante reposant sur la première balle. Ce taquet est conformé de façon à libérer la balle de golf présente dans le bras de distribution lorsque le bras pivote. On peut notamment prévoir un taquet présentant une pente apte à libérer la balle présente dans le bras de distribution lorsque le bras de distribution atteint un angle de pivotement prédéterminé. Cet angle peut être conforme à l'inclinaison du chanfrein réalisé sur le réceptacle.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the distributor comprises a protruding cleat disposed on the inner face of the lower part of the receptacle and cooperating with an opening made in the dispensing arm, this cleat serving to block the ball introduced into the distribution arm, the next ball resting on the first ball. This cleat is shaped to release the golf ball present in the dispensing arm when the arm pivots. In particular, it is possible to provide a cleat having a slope capable of releasing the bale present in the distribution arm when the distribution arm reaches a predetermined pivoting angle. This angle may be in accordance with the inclination of the chamfer made on the receptacle.

En d'autres termes, la distribution des balles de golf, une à une, est réalisée par un diviseur binaire mécanique simple, à savoir que lorsqu'on alimente le réservoir de balles de golf situé au-dessus de la collerette, le bras de distribution étant en position verticale, les balles de golf descendent dans la collerette, puis ensuite traversent le réceptacle et l'une d'entre elles pénètre dans le bras de distribution, jusqu'au taquet où elle est arrêtée. Ensuite le joueur tirant sur le bras de distribution, jusqu'à le positionner au-dessus de l'endroit choisi (par exemple après un pivotement de 20 degrés par rapport à l'axe vertical), le taquet s'effacera pour laisser la balle de golf descendre jusqu'au point de pose prévu (tee, tapis ou sol). Comme le bras de distribution est incliné en position de distribution, le point le plus haut du bord supérieur du bras de distribution, arrêtera la balle suivante, afin qu'une seule balle puisse se trouver présente dans le bras de distribution. Au retour dans l'axe vertical du bras de distribution (par simple relâché de celui-ci), le point le plus haut s'effacera à son tour, ce qui permettra la descente d'une nouvelle balle de golf jusqu'au taquet, et ainsi de suite.In other words, the distribution of the golf balls, one by one, is performed by a simple mechanical binary divider, namely that when feeding the golf ball reservoir located above the collar, the arm of With the distribution upright, the golf balls descend into the collar and then pass through the receptacle and one enters the dispenser arm to the stopper where it is stopped. Then the player pulling on the dispensing arm, until the position above the chosen place (for example after a pivot of 20 degrees relative to the vertical axis), the cleat will fade to leave the ball golf down to the planned landing point (tee, carpet or floor). As the dispensing arm is inclined in dispensing position, the highest point of the upper edge of the dispensing arm will stop the next bale so that only one bale can be present in the dispensing arm. When returning to the vertical axis of the distribution arm (by simply releasing it), the point the higher will be erased, which will allow the descent of a new golf ball to the cleat, and so on.

Lorsque la balle de golf est déposée sur un tee, le retour du bras de distribution n'entraînera pas la balle de golf, puisqu'une ouverture, ou découpe, est réalisée à l'extrémité inférieure du bras de distribution.When the golf ball is placed on a tee, the return of the dispensing arm will not cause the golf ball, since an opening or cut is made at the lower end of the dispensing arm.

Suivant un mode particulier de réalisation, le distributeur comporte des aimants pour bloquer le bras de distribution soit dans la position de repos, soit dans la position de distribution. Ces aimants peuvent être disposés dans le réceptacle.According to a particular embodiment, the distributor comprises magnets for locking the distribution arm either in the rest position or in the dispensing position. These magnets can be arranged in the receptacle.

Avantageusement, le bras de distribution peut comprendre un ralentisseur permettant de déposer la balle de golf avec précision. Ce ralentisseur peut consister en un coude en forme de "S" réalisé proche de l'extrémité inférieure du bras de distribution.Advantageously, the dispenser arm may comprise a retarder for depositing the golf ball accurately. This retarder may consist of an "S" shaped elbow made close to the lower end of the distribution arm.

Par ailleurs, la collerette peut comprendre un trépied pour maintenir le distributeur en position haute. De préférence, les pieds sont télescopiques. Le trépied peut comprendre deux pieds avant disposés sur un plan vertical perpendiculaire à la direction de déplacement du bras de distribution, ces deux pieds étant face à un utilisateur; et un troisième pied arrière disposé du côté opposé des deux pieds avant par rapport à la collerette. Les deux pieds avant peuvent être tels que le premier pied est sensiblement vertical, et le second pied est incliné pour assurer l'équilibre du trépied. On peut également prévoir que le troisième pied arrière comprend un crochet apte à recevoir un poids de façon à renforcer l'équilibre du trépied. Le "putter" peut faire office de ce contrepoids, le "putter" étant le seul club n'étant jamais utilisé au practice, mais étant toujours présent dans un sac de golfeur. A la place du club ou ensemble avec celui-ci on peut utiliser une bouteille d'eau pour faire contrepoids.In addition, the flange may include a tripod for holding the dispenser in the up position. Preferably, the feet are telescopic. The tripod may include two front legs arranged on a vertical plane perpendicular to the direction of movement of the dispensing arm, both feet facing a user; and a third rear leg disposed on the opposite side of the two front legs relative to the collar. The two front feet can be such that the first foot is substantially vertical, and the second foot is tilted to ensure the balance of the tripod. It is also possible that the third rear foot comprises a hook adapted to receive a weight so as to enhance the balance of the tripod. The "putter" can serve as a counterweight, the "putter" being the only club never used at the driving range, but still being present in a golf bag. In place of the club or together with it one can use a bottle of water to counterbalance.

Selon l'invention, les trois pieds peuvent être amovibles et présenter un diamètre tel qu'ils peuvent se loger dans le bras de distribution pour le transport.According to the invention, the three legs can be removable and have a diameter such that they can be accommodated in the distribution arm for transport.

Pour faciliter le positionnement du distributeur sur le practice et déterminer aisément la distance entre le tee et le distributeur, le réceptacle peut être réglable en hauteur par rapport à la collerette. Par exemple, la hauteur de réglage peut être de 40mm, ce qui correspond généralement à la hauteur du tee. On peut donc aisément adapter le distributeur selon la taille du tee (petit pour les fers, grand pour les "drivers").To facilitate the positioning of the dispenser on the driving range and easily determine the distance between the tee and the dispenser, the receptacle can be adjustable in height relative to the collar. For example, the height of adjustment can be 40mm, which is generally the height of the tee. We can easily adapt the dispenser according to the size of the tee (small for irons, big for "drivers").

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le réservoir supérieur consiste en un barillet vertical disposé au-dessus de la collerette. L'axe de rotation de ce barillet est décalé par rapport à l'axe de l'ouverture supérieure du réceptacle de sorte que les balles stockées dans les cavités périphériques du barillet peuvent verticalement tomber dans le réceptacle.According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper reservoir consists of a vertical cylinder disposed above the collar. The axis of rotation of this barrel is offset relative to the axis of the upper opening of the receptacle so that the balls stored in the peripheral cavities of the barrel can vertically fall into the receptacle.

Par ailleurs, le barillet peut être coiffé d'un disque comprenant des ouvertures périphériques en regard des cavités dudit barillet de façon à guider les balles dans ces cavités. Le disque comprend également une saillie centrale pour guider les balles vers ces ouvertures périphériques. Le distributeur comprend en outre un entonnoir amovible, évasé vers le haut, venant en prise avec le bord du disque. Les balles sont versées dans l'entonnoir qui les guide dans les cavités du barillet.Furthermore, the barrel may be capped with a disc comprising peripheral openings facing the cavities of said barrel so as to guide the balls in these cavities. The disc also includes a central projection for guiding the balls to these peripheral openings. The dispenser further includes a removable funnel, flared upward, engaging the edge of the disc. The balls are poured into the funnel that guides them into the cavities of the barrel.

Avantageusement, l'intérieur du bras de distribution peut comporter plusieurs anneaux non-concentriques pour ralentir la chute de la balle de golf. Ces anneaux sont disposés de telle sorte que l'inter-distance entre deux anneaux consécutifs diminue lorsqu'on se rapproche de l'extrémité inférieure du bras de distribution.Advantageously, the inside of the dispensing arm may comprise several non-concentric rings to slow down the fall of the golf ball. These rings are arranged so that the inter-distance between two consecutive rings decreases when approaching the lower end of the distribution arm.

D'autres avantages et caractéristiques de l'invention apparaîtront à l'examen de la description détaillée d'un mode de mise en oeuvre nullement limitatif, et des dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • La figure 1 est une vue globale du distributeur de balles de golf selon l'invention;
  • La figure 2 est une vue latérale du distributeur de balles de golf selon l'invention en position de repos;
  • La figure 3 est une vue latérale du distributeur de balles de golf selon l'invention en position de distribution;
  • La figure 4 est une vue détaillée de la partie centrale du distributeur en position de repos;
  • La figure 5 est une vue détaillée latérale du distributeur en position de distribution;
  • La figure 6 est une vue de face d'un mode de réalisation particulier du distributeur de balles de golf selon l'invention;
  • La figure 7 est un mode d'application du distributeur selon l'invention dans le cas d'un terrain d'entraînement "practice" standard;
  • La figure 8 est un autre mode d'application du distributeur selon l'invention dans le cas d'un terrain d'entraînement "practice" présentant une dénivellation importante;
  • La figure 9 est une vue éclatée d'un dispositif selon l'invention avec un barillet comme réservoir;
  • La figure 10 est une vue du distributeur avec barillet en position de distribution;
  • La figure 11 est une vue du distributeur des figures 9 et 10 dans sa position de transport;
  • La figure 12 est un schéma illustrant l'intérieur d'un bras de distribution, dans sa position coudée, doté de ralentisseur sous forme d'anneaux non concentriques
  • La figure 13 est un schéma illustrant l'intérieur d'un bras de distribution, dans sa position droit de transport, doté de ralentisseur sous forme d'anneaux non concentriques;
  • La figure 14 est une vue schématique du dessus du bras de distribution de la figure 13; et
  • La figure 15 est une vue en coupe schématique illustrant une cale réversible dans la collerette.
Other advantages and features of the invention will appear on examining the detailed description of a mode of implementation in no way limiting, and the accompanying drawings, in which:
  • Figure 1 is an overall view of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention;
  • Figure 2 is a side view of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention in the rest position;
  • Figure 3 is a side view of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention in dispensing position;
  • Figure 4 is a detailed view of the central portion of the distributor in the rest position;
  • Figure 5 is a detailed side view of the dispenser in the dispensing position;
  • Figure 6 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention;
  • FIG. 7 is a mode of application of the dispenser according to the invention in the case of a standard practice driving ground;
  • FIG. 8 is another mode of application of the dispenser according to the invention in the case of a practice training ground having a significant difference in level;
  • Figure 9 is an exploded view of a device according to the invention with a cylinder as a reservoir;
  • Figure 10 is a view of the dispenser with cylinder in the dispensing position;
  • Figure 11 is a view of the dispenser of Figures 9 and 10 in its transport position;
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the inside of a distribution arm, in its bent position, provided with a retarder in the form of non-concentric rings.
  • Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the inside of a distribution arm, in its straight transport position, provided with a retarder in the form of non-concentric rings;
  • Figure 14 is a schematic top view of the dispenser arm of Figure 13; and
  • Figure 15 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a reversible shim in the collar.

Sur la figure 1 on distingue le distributeur 1 de balles de golf selon l'invention. Ce distributeur comprend un réservoir 2 dans lequel on introduit les balles de golf, le réservoir 2 étant placé sur une collerette 3 à laquelle est fixé un trépied composé des pieds avant 6, 7 et d'un pied arrière 5. La collerette 3 est associée à un réceptacle 4 disposé à travers la collerette 3 de sorte que le réservoir 2 est en prise directe avec l'ouverture supérieure du réceptacle 4. La partie inférieure du réceptacle 4, sous la collerette 3, est en prise de façon pivotante avec un bras de distribution 8. Ce bras permet d'amener une balle de golf 10 provenant du réservoir 2 via le réceptacle 4, sur un tee 11 disposé au sol. Le réservoir de balles de golf, placé au-dessus de la collerette, présente une contenance au moins égale à la quantité d'un seau de balles de golf. Ce réservoir est confectionné en toile plastique suffisamment souple, de façon à ce qu'elle puisse s'enrouler autour de la partie supérieure du réceptacle dépassant la collerette, et ce pour obtenir un encombrement minimum, afin de conserver un transport aisé de l'ensemble. Pour la même raison d'encombrement, les trois pieds (télescopiques pour s'adapter à toutes situations dimensionnelles) supports du distributeur de balles peuvent se loger dans le bras de distribution, par exemple trois pieds de diamètre 19 mm s'inscrivant dans un diamètre 44 mm.In Figure 1 there is the distributor 1 of golf balls according to the invention. This dispenser comprises a tank 2 in which the golf balls are introduced, the tank 2 being placed on a flange 3 to which is fixed a tripod composed of the front legs 6, 7 and a rear foot 5. The flange 3 is associated to a receptacle 4 disposed through the collar 3 so that the reservoir 2 is in direct contact with the upper opening of the receptacle 4. The lower part of the receptacle 4, under the collar 3, is pivotally engaged with an arm 8. This arm can bring a golf ball 10 from the tank 2 via the receptacle 4 on a tee 11 disposed on the ground. The golf ball tank, placed above the collar, has a capacity at least equal to the amount of a bucket of golf balls. This tank is made of sufficiently flexible plastic cloth, so that it can wrap around the upper part of the receptacle protruding from the collar, and this to obtain a minimum size, in order to maintain easy transport of all . For the same reason of space, the three legs (telescopic to adapt to all dimensional situations) supports the dispenser of balls can be housed in the distribution arm, for example three feet of diameter 19 mm forming a diameter 44 mm.

En position de repos, le bras de distribution 8 est verticalement placé sous le réceptacle 4. Le réceptacle comprend des moyens pour placer une seule balle de golf dans la partie supérieure du bras de distribution 8 insérée dans le réceptacle 4.In the rest position, the distribution arm 8 is vertically placed under the receptacle 4. The receptacle comprises means for placing a single golf ball in the upper part of the dispensing arm 8 inserted in the receptacle 4.

En position de distribution, le bras de distribution 8 a pivoté d'un angle prédéterminé de façon à placer son extrémité inférieure au-dessus du tee 11, ainsi la balle de golf 10 peut être déposée sur ce tee. La pose se fait avec précision car le bras de distribution 8 comprend un ralentisseur 9 en forme de coude suffisamment accentué pour freiner la balle de golf tombant depuis l'extrémité supérieure par gravité. Sur le ralentisseur 9 est taillée une ouverture 12 se prolongeant jusqu'à l'extrémité inférieure du bras de distribution 8 de sorte que ce bras de distribution 8 n'entraîne pas la balle de golf 10 lors de son retour en position de repos.In dispensing position, the distribution arm 8 has pivoted by a predetermined angle so as to place its lower end above the tee 11, so the golf ball 10 can be deposited on this tee. The pose is done precisely because the distribution arm 8 comprises a bend-shaped retarder 9 sufficiently accentuated to brake the golf ball falling from the upper end by gravity. On the retarder 9 is cut an opening 12 extending to the lower end of the dispensing arm 8 so that the dispensing arm 8 does not drive the golf ball 10 when returning to the rest position.

Pour faire pivoter le bras de distribution 8, l'utilisateur, c'est-à-dire le joueur de golf, peut se servir d'un club de golf en attrapant par exemple le ralentisseur 9. Cela permet au joueur de golf de ne pas se baisser pour prendre une balle, soit dans un seau de balles de practice, soit pour bien la positionner sur un endroit précis du sol ou sur un tee. Le joueur pourra ainsi conserver son précédent "stance" (positionnement des pieds par rapport au tee) sans modifier sa dernière position.To rotate the distribution arm 8, the user, that is to say the golf player, can use a golf club by catching for example the retarder 9. This allows the golf player to not not stoop to take a ball, either in a bucket of practice balls, or to position it on a specific spot on the ground or on a tee. The player will be able to keep his previous "stance" (positioning of the feet relative to the tee) without changing his last position.

Sur la figure 2 on voit une vue schématique latérale du distributeur de balles de golf selon l'invention. La plupart des éléments de la figure 1, sont repris ici avec les mêmes références. On retrouve notamment le pied avant 6 et le pied arrière 5. Le bras de distribution 8 est en position de repos. Le réservoir 2 renferme un ensemble de balles de golf dont une première balle 13 et une seconde balle 14. Le réceptacle 4 est en forme tubulaire de telle sorte que les balles de golf peuvent pénétrer une à une.In Figure 2 we see a schematic side view of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention. Most elements of Figure 1, are repeated here with the same references. We find in particular the front foot 6 and the rear foot 5. The distribution arm 8 is in the rest position. The tank 2 contains a set of golf balls including a first ball 13 and a second ball 14. The receptacle 4 is tubular in shape so that the golf balls can penetrate one by one.

En position de repos, on voit que la première balle 13 guidée par le réceptacle 4, est introduite dans la partie supérieure du bras de distribution 8, cette partie supérieure étant insérée dans le réceptacle 4. La balle 13, ne glisse pas le long du bras de distribution 8 car elle est retenue par le taquet 15. Ce taquet 15 en forme triangulaire suivant la présente vue, est solidaire du réceptacle 4. Avantageusement, le bras de distribution 8 comprend face à ce taquet 15 une ouverture permettant au taquet 15 de se trouver partiellement à l'intérieur de ce bras de distribution 8. La première balle de golf 13 vient donc se poser sur un plan incliné du taquet 15 ainsi que sur un bord intérieur opposé du bras de distribution 8. La seconde balle de golf 14, guidée dans le réceptacle 4, vient se poser sur la première balle de golf 13. Lorsque l'utilisateur fait pivoter le bras de distribution 8 de sa position de repos vers la position de distribution conformément à la figure 3, pour un angle prédéterminé, le taquet 15 s'efface et laisse glisser par gravité la balle de golf 13 jusqu'au ralentisseur 9 et jusque sur le tee 11. L'extrémité supérieure du bras de distribution 8 est conformée de telle sorte que le bord 16, diamétralement opposé au taquet 15, pivote de façon à bloquer la descente par gravité de la seconde balle de golf 14. Ainsi, le bras de distribution 8 ne peut véhiculer qu'une seule balle de golf à la fois. Sur les figures 4 et 5 on voit plus en détail le mécanisme opéré au sein du réceptacle 4.In the rest position, it is seen that the first bale 13 guided by the receptacle 4 is introduced into the upper part of the distribution arm 8, this upper part being inserted into the receptacle 4. The bale 13 does not slide along the distribution arm 8 because it is retained by the latch 15. This latch 15 in triangular shape according to this view, is secured to the receptacle 4. Advantageously, the distribution arm 8 comprises facing the this cleat 15 an opening allowing the cleat 15 to be partially inside this distribution arm 8. The first golf ball 13 is therefore placed on an inclined plane of the cleat 15 and on an opposite inner edge of the arm 8. The second golf ball 14, guided in the receptacle 4, is placed on the first golf ball 13. When the user rotates the dispensing arm 8 from its rest position to the dispensing position in accordance with FIG. In FIG. 3, for a predetermined angle, the cleat 15 disappears and allows the golf ball 13 to slide by gravity to the retarder 9 and onto the tee 11. The upper end of the distribution arm 8 is shaped such that the edge 16, diametrically opposite the stopper 15, pivots so as to block the descent by gravity of the second golf ball 14. Thus, the distribution arm 8 can convey only one golf ball at a time . FIGS. 4 and 5 show in more detail the mechanism operated within the receptacle 4.

La figure 4 représente le bras de distribution 8 en position de repos, la balle de golf 13 est partiellement insérée dans la partie supérieure du bras de distribution 8. La seconde balle de golf 14 repose sur la première balle de golf 13 mais à l'extérieur du bras de distribution 8 et à l'intérieur du réceptacle 4. Le chanfrein 18 dans le réceptacle 4 va servir de butée pour spécifier le degré d'inclinaison du bras de distribution 8 dans sa position de distribution conformément à la figure 5. Le chanfrein 17 réalisé sur un bord de l'extrémité supérieure du bras de distribution 8, du côté du taquet 15, permet de réaliser le pivotement de ce bras de distribution 8 à l'intérieur de la partie inférieure du réceptacle 4.FIG. 4 represents the distribution arm 8 in the rest position, the golf ball 13 is partially inserted in the upper part of the distribution arm 8. The second golf ball 14 rests on the first golf ball 13 but on the outside the dispensing arm 8 and inside the receptacle 4. The chamfer 18 in the receptacle 4 will serve as a stop to specify the degree of inclination of the dispensing arm 8 in its dispensing position in accordance with Figure 5. The chamfer 17 made on an edge of the upper end of the distribution arm 8, on the side of the stopper 15, makes it possible to pivot this distribution arm 8 inside the lower part of the receptacle 4.

L'aimant 19 placé à l'extrémité inférieure du réceptacle 4 permet de maintenir le bras de distribution 8 en position de repos ainsi que d'éviter tout effet de rebond lorsque ce bras de distribution 8 revient d'une position de distribution. Cet aimant 19 peut se prolonger de part et d'autre côté latéral du taquet 15 de façon à avoir une influence sur le bras de distribution 8. Le bras peut comprendre des éléments métalliques aptes à coopérer de façon magnétique avec l'aimant 19.The magnet 19 placed at the lower end of the receptacle 4 keeps the dispensing arm 8 in the rest position and to avoid any rebound effect when the distribution arm 8 returns from a position of distribution. This magnet 19 may extend on either side of the latch 15 so as to have an influence on the distribution arm 8. The arm may comprise metal elements capable of cooperating magnetically with the magnet 19.

De la même façon, l'aimant 20 disposé du côté opposé de l'aimant 19, permet de maintenir le bras de distribution 8 en position de distribution et d'éviter un retour prématuré de ce bras.In the same way, the magnet 20 disposed on the opposite side of the magnet 19 makes it possible to keep the dispensing arm 8 in dispensing position and to avoid premature return of this arm.

Sur la figure 5, en position de distribution, le taquet 15 s'efface de façon à laisser glisser la balle 13 à l'intérieur du bras de distribution 8. Le bord 16 maintient la seconde balle de golf 14 à l'extérieur du bras de distribution 8. Cette seconde balle de golf 14 ne pourra pénétrer à l'intérieur du bras de distribution 8 que lorsque ce dernier aura retrouvé sa position de repos.In FIG. 5, in the dispensing position, the stopper 15 is erased so as to let the ball 13 slide inside the dispensing arm 8. The edge 16 holds the second golf ball 14 on the outside of the arm 8. This second golf ball 14 can penetrate inside the distribution arm 8 when the latter has returned to its rest position.

Sur la figure 6, on voit un mode de réalisation du distributeur de balles de golf selon l'invention. Dans ce mode, les deux pieds avant sont tels que le premier pied 21 est disposé de façon quasiment verticale, c'est-à-dire perpendiculaire à la collerette 3, et le second pied 22 est considérablement incliné vers l'extérieur par rapport au premier pied 21. Le troisième pied arrière restant toujours incliné vers l'arrière. La balle de golf 10 est placée sur le tee 11 entre le joueur de golf et le distributeur de balles de golf. Ce mode est idéal lorsque le joueur de golf s'entraîne à envoyer la balle selon un mouvement latéral du pied 22 vers le pied 21. Le joueur possède ainsi un angle d'ouverture large puisque le pied 21 ne se trouve pas dans le champ de tir. Ce mode de réalisation permet également de limiter le risque que lors d'une "socket", c'est-à-dire une balle de golf mal frappée, la balle de golf aille toucher le pied du distributeur. Ce mode de réalisation peut également être réalisé de telle sorte que le pied 22 soit vertical et le pied 21 largement incliné, en fonction du fait que le joueur est droitier ou gaucher. Pour ce faire, conformément à la figure 15, la collerette 3 (ou 33 comme on le verra plus loin) comporte une cale réversible pour positionner les deux pieds avant dans une première position où c'est le pied gauche qui est incliné et dans une seconde position où c'est le pied droit qui est incliné. La coupe de la cale 46 est un quadrilatère dont le côté gauche 47 présente un angle adapté pour caler le pied 36 incliné, et le côté droit 48 est vertical pour maintenir le pied 35 droit. Pour inverser le positionnement, c'est à dire pied 36 droit et pied 35 incliné, on fait pivoter la cale 46 de 180° de façon à avoir le côté 47 le long du pied 35. Une tige 49 solidaire de la cale 46 peut s'insérer dans des ouvertures réalisées sur la face supérieure de la collerette, ces ouvertures servant de repères de positionnement.In Figure 6, we see an embodiment of the golf ball dispenser according to the invention. In this mode, the two front feet are such that the first foot 21 is disposed almost vertically, that is to say perpendicular to the collar 3, and the second foot 22 is considerably inclined outwards with respect to the first foot 21. The third hind foot still tilts backwards. The golf ball 10 is placed on tee 11 between the golf player and the golf ball dispenser. This mode is ideal when the golf player is training to send the ball in a lateral movement from the foot 22 to the foot 21. The player thus has a wide opening angle since the foot 21 is not in the field of play. shoot. This embodiment also limits the risk that during a "socket", that is to say a badly struck golf ball, the golf ball goes to touch the foot of the dispenser. This embodiment can also be realized such that the foot 22 is vertical and the foot 21 widely inclined, depending on whether the player is right-handed or left-handed. To do this, according to in Figure 15, the flange 3 (or 33 as will be seen later) comprises a reversible wedge for positioning the two front feet in a first position where the left foot is inclined and in a second position where it is the right foot which is inclined. The section 46 of the wedge is a quadrilateral whose left side 47 has an angle adapted to wedge the foot 36 inclined, and the right side 48 is vertical to maintain the foot 35 right. To reverse the positioning, ie foot 36 right and foot 35 inclined, the wedge 46 is rotated 180 ° so as to have the side 47 along the foot 35. A rod 49 secured to the wedge 46 can s insert into openings made on the upper face of the flange, these openings serving as positioning marks.

Sur les figures 7 et 8 on voit un joueur de golf 23 se préparant à frapper la balle de golf 10 au moyen d'un club de golf 25. Ce joueur est placé sur un tapis de "practice" 27, ce dernier étant posé sur un sol 24. Le distributeur de balles est posé devant le joueur de golf 23. Ce distributeur est positionné de telle sorte que la position de distribution du bras de distribution 8 permet de poser la balle de golf au-dessus du tee 11. Dans une disposition standard, le tapis 27 est posé sur un sol 24 plat. Dans ce cas, le distributeur 1 peut être placé sur le tapis ou sur le sol 24. Cependant, dans des configurations non-standards, c'est-à-dire lorsque le sol 24 présente une dénivellation importante 28 conformément à la figure 8, les systèmes actuels ne peuvent pas être utilisés. Le distributeur 1 selon l'invention par contre peut aisément être utilisé puisqu'il comprend des pieds télescopiques. Ces pieds télescopiques peuvent être utilisés aussi bien dans les cas extrêmes de dénivellation importante ou dans les conditions d'utilisation standard. A titre d'exemple, chaque pied peut s'allonger d'environ 200 mm pour s'adapter aux différents sols. Le réceptacle peut alors être fixe.FIGS. 7 and 8 show a golf player 23 preparing to hit the golf ball 10 by means of a golf club 25. This player is placed on a "practice" mat 27, the latter being placed on 24. The dispenser is placed in front of the golf player 23. This dispenser is positioned so that the dispensing position of the dispensing arm 8 makes it possible to place the golf ball above the tee 11. In a standard layout, the carpet 27 is placed on a flat floor 24. In this case, the dispenser 1 can be placed on the carpet or on the floor 24. However, in non-standard configurations, that is to say when the floor 24 has a significant difference in height 28 according to FIG. 8, current systems can not be used. The dispenser 1 according to the invention can be easily used because it includes telescopic legs. These telescopic legs can be used both in extreme cases of significant unevenness or under standard conditions of use. For example, each foot can extend about 200 mm to adapt to different floors. The receptacle can then be fixed.

D'une façon générale, les deux pieds avant 5 et 6 peuvent être inclinés vers le joueur de golf ou alors rester verticaux. Lorsque ces pieds sont disposés de façon verticale, le joueur dispose de plus de place.In general, the two front feet 5 and 6 can be inclined towards the golf player or remain vertical. When these feet are arranged vertically, the player has more room.

Bien sûr, l'invention n'est pas limitée aux exemples qui viennent d'être décrits et de nombreux aménagements peuvent être apportés à ces exemples sans sortir du cadre de l'invention. On peut notamment envisager de placer un club de golf sur un crochet réalisé sur le pied arrière 5, de façon à alourdir ce pied arrière 5 et équilibrer ainsi le distributeur si nécessaire. On peut aussi disposer une bouteille comme on peut le voir sur la figure 10.Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples that have just been described and many adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. One can consider placing a golf club on a hook made on the rear foot 5, so as to weigh down the rear foot 5 and balance the dispenser if necessary. We can also have a bottle as can be seen in Figure 10.

On peut également envisager de remplacer le réservoir 2 tel que décrit dans les figures précédentes par un barillet 29 comme on le voit sur les figures 9 et 10. L'avantage en est qu'on évite d'éventuels blocages de balles susceptibles d'arriver à l'étranglement du réservoir 2.One can also consider replacing the tank 2 as described in the previous figures by a barrel 29 as seen in Figures 9 and 10. The advantage is that it avoids possible blockages of bullets likely to happen to the constriction of the tank 2.

Sur les figures 9 et 10, le barillet 29 est coiffé d'un disque solidaire 32. Un entonnoir 41 se fixe sur le disque 32 de telle sorte que lorsqu'on remplit l'entonnoir 41 de balles, ces dernières sont guidées dans les cavités 30 grâce aux ouvertures 42 et la saillie 43 du disque 32. L'extrémité inférieure du barillet peut pivoter autour d'un second disque 31 venant en prise de façon excentrée avec la collerette 33 au moyen d'un picot 34.In FIGS. 9 and 10, the barrel 29 is capped with an integral disc 32. A funnel 41 is fixed on the disc 32 so that when filling the funnel 41 with balls, the latter are guided into the cavities 30 through the openings 42 and the projection 43 of the disc 32. The lower end of the barrel can pivot about a second disc 31 eccentrically engaged with the flange 33 by means of a pin 34.

Pour une position donnée du barillet 29, une cavité de ce dernier est concentrique avec une ouverture réalisée dans le second disque 31 et avec l'ouverture réalisée dans la collerette 33. Les balles glissent alors directement verticalement depuis le barillet jusqu'au bras de distribution 40 via le réceptacle 39. Le réceptacle 39 est réalisé ici de façon très schématique et peut correspondre avantageusement à la mise en oeuvre des figures 4 et 5.For a given position of the barrel 29, a cavity of the latter is concentric with an opening made in the second disc 31 and with the opening made in the collar 33. The balls then slide directly vertically from the barrel to the distribution arm 40 through the receptacle 39. The receptacle 39 is made very schematically here and may advantageously correspond to the implementation of Figures 4 and 5.

Pour le transport, on démonte l'ensemble entonnoir 41 et barillet 29. Ces deux éléments peuvent être solidaires l'un de l'autre ou amovibles l'un par rapport à l'autre. On imbrique ensuite le support 33,40,35,36,37 dans l'ensemble 41,29 par le dessus de ce dernier. Le barillet 29 comprend un tunnel central dans lequel s'engage le bras de distribution 40. Les pieds 35 et 36 sont calés dans deux cavités 30 du barillet. Le troisième pied 37 est plaqué contre le barillet. La figure 11 montre le distributeur des figures 9 et 10 dans sa position de transport.For transport, the funnel assembly 41 and barrel 29 are dismantled. These two elements can be integral with one another or removable relative to one another. We then nested the support 33,40,35,36,37 in all 41,29 by the top of the latter. The barrel 29 comprises a central tunnel in which the dispensing arm 40 engages. The feet 35 and 36 are wedged in two cavities 30 of the barrel. The third foot 37 is pressed against the barrel. Figure 11 shows the dispenser of Figures 9 and 10 in its transport position.

Sur la figure 10, on voit un étalon 44 permettant de placer le tee 38 à une distance appropriée. Avantageusement, le tee 38 comporte une protubérance de renvoi 45 pour faire obstacle à la fuite de la balle de golf lors d'une chute sensiblement verticale de la balle depuis le bras de distribution du distributeur. Cette protubérance s'étend vers le haut depuis un côté du tee. Lorsque la balle de golf est en position de repos sur la surface de réception, la protubérance 45 et la balle sont distantes l'une de l'autre, par exemple de 2mm. Ainsi la protubérance et la balle ne sont pas en contact, le club du joueur peut alors frapper la balle sans que la protubérance ne gène et ne modifie donc pas la trajectoire de la balle.In Figure 10, there is a standard 44 for placing the tee 38 at a suitable distance. Advantageously, the tee 38 has a return protrusion 45 to prevent the escape of the golf ball during a substantially vertical fall of the bale from the distribution arm of the dispenser. This protuberance extends upward from one side of the tee. When the golf ball is in the rest position on the receiving surface, the protuberance 45 and the ball are spaced from each other, for example 2mm. Thus the protuberance and the ball are not in contact, the player's club can then hit the ball without the protuberance gene and therefore does not change the trajectory of the ball.

Sur les figures 12 et 13, on voit l'intérieur du bras de distribution 40 composé d'une pluralité d'anneaux non concentriques. La figure 12 montre un bras de distribution coudé. Ce coude peut pivoter au moyen d'un joint de rotation de façon à être droit, c'est à dire aligné avec l'ensemble du bras de distribution comme sur la figure 13. La position coudée présente un angle tel que le coude est vertical et la balle peut ainsi tomber verticalement lorsque le bras est dans sa position de distribution. Cet angle peut être de 160° lorsque le bras est à 20° par rapport à la verticale dans sa position de distribution. La figure 14 est une vue de dessus illustrant la disposition des différents anneaux dans le bras. Plus on se rapproche de l'extrémité inférieure, plus les anneaux sont proches les uns aux autres. Cette disposition permet de ralentir la chute de la balle de golf. L'extrémité inférieure peut être coudée ou non. Le diamètre interne des anneaux est légèrement supérieur au diamètre des balles de golf.In Figs. 12 and 13, the interior of the dispensing arm 40 is shown composed of a plurality of non-concentric rings. Figure 12 shows an angled distribution arm. This elbow can rotate by means of a rotation joint so as to be straight, that is aligned with the assembly of the distribution arm as in Figure 13. The angled position has an angle such that the elbow is vertical and the ball can fall vertically when the arm is in its dispensing position. This angle can be 160 ° when the arm is 20 ° relative to the vertical in its dispensing position. Figure 14 is a top view illustrating the arrangement of the different rings in the arm. The closer you get to the lower end, the closer the rings are to each other. This arrangement makes it possible to slow the fall of the golf ball. The lower end can be bent or no. The inner diameter of the rings is slightly greater than the diameter of the golf balls.

Claims (29)

  1. Golf ball dispenser comprising an upper container to contain golf balls and a flange to receive the balls coming from the container and supply a dispenser arm with balls one by one, such dispenser arm being arranged substantially vertically in a rest position, characterised in that the dispenser arm comprises means, arranged in the upper part of this arm in a rest position, close to the flange, of pivoting around a horizontal axis when a golf ball is dispensed.
  2. Dispenser according to claim 1, characterised in that the flange comprises a tubular receptacle through which the golf balls from the container pass to reach the dispenser arm.
  3. Dispenser according to claim 2, characterised in that the receptacle comprises an upper part with a diameter designed to guide the golf balls from the container one by one, and a lower part with a larger diameter than the upper part.
  4. Dispenser according to claim 2 or 3, characterised in that the dispenser arm is partly inserted into a lower part of the receptacle, the pivot axis of the dispenser arm being securely attached to such lower part of the receptacle.
  5. Dispenser according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterised in that the upper end of the dispenser arm comprises a bevel to allow the dispenser arm to pivot in the receptacle.
  6. Dispenser according to claim 5, characterised in that the bevel is made along a predetermined angle corresponding to the maximum pivot of the dispenser arm.
  7. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the upper end of the dispenser arm comprises means of preventing a second ball from entering the dispenser arm when the dispenser arm pivots to release a first ball already present in the dispenser arm.
  8. Dispenser according to claim 7, characterised in that the prevention means consist of a rim of the end of the dispenser arm.
  9. Dispenser according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the receptacle comprises a bevel at its lower end acting as a stop for the pivoting of the dispenser arm.
  10. Dispenser according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterised in that the internal diameter of the dispenser arm is substantially equal to the internal diameter of the upper part of the receptacle.
  11. Dispenser according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterised in that it comprises a protruding wedge, arranged on the inner surface of the lower part of the receptacle and cooperating with an opening made in the dispenser arm, such wedge acting to block the ball inserted in the dispenser arm, with the next ball resting on the first ball; and in that the wedge is shaped so as to release the golf ball present in the dispenser arm when the said arm pivots.
  12. Dispenser according to claim 11, characterised in that the wedge has a slope designed to release the ball present in the dispenser arm when the said dispenser arm reaches a predetermined pivoting angle.
  13. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims characterised in that it comprises magnets to hold the dispenser arm either in the rest position or in the dispensing position.
  14. Dispenser according to claim 13, characterised in that the magnets are arranged in the receptacle.
  15. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the dispenser arm comprises a brake allowing for the golf ball to be deposited accurately.
  16. Dispenser according to claim 15, characterised in that the brake is an "S" shaped bend made close to the lower end of the dispenser arm.
  17. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the lower end of the dispenser arm has a cut-out to prevent it from taking with it a golf ball that has just been deposited.
  18. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the flange comprises a tripod to hold the dispenser in an upper position.
  19. Dispenser according to claim 18, characterised in that the tripod comprises telescopic legs.
  20. Dispenser according to claim 18 or 19, characterised in that the tripod comprises two front legs arranged on a vertical plane perpendicular to the direction of movement of the dispenser arm, these two legs facing the user, and a third rear leg arranged on the opposite side to the two front legs relative to the flange.
  21. Dispenser according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterised in that the two front legs are such that the first leg is approximately vertical and the second leg is sloping to balance the tripod.
  22. Dispenser according to claim 21, characterised in that the flange comprises a reversible block to position the two front legs in a first position in which the left leg is sloping and in a second position in which the right leg is sloping.
  23. Dispenser according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterised in that the third rear leg comprises a hook designed to receive a weight to increase the balance of the tripod.
  24. Dispenser according to any one of claims 18 to 23, characterised in that the three legs are removable and have a diameter such that they can be housed inside the dispenser arm for transport.
  25. Dispenser according to any one of claims 2 to 24, characterised in that the receptacle is height-adjustable relative to the flange.
  26. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the upper container consists of a vertical barrel arranged above the flange, the axis of rotation of the barrel being offset relative to the axis of the upper opening of the receptacle.
  27. Dispenser according to claim 26, characterised in that the barrel is topped with a disc comprising peripheral openings facing the cavities in the said barrel in order to guide the balls into these cavities, and a central protrusion to guide the balls towards these peripheral openings, and in that the dispenser also comprises a removable funnel, flared towards the top, that engages with the edge of the disc.
  28. Dispenser according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the inside of the dispenser arm comprises several non-concentric rings to slow down the drop of the golf ball.
  29. Dispenser according to claim 28, characterised in that the rings are arranged so that the distance between two consecutive rings decreases closer to the lower end of the dispenser arm.
EP03769579A 2002-09-06 2003-09-05 Golf ball dispenser Expired - Lifetime EP1545720B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0211090 2002-09-06
FR0211090A FR2844207B1 (en) 2002-09-06 2002-09-06 DISTRIBUTOR OF GOLF BALLS
PCT/FR2003/002655 WO2004022174A1 (en) 2002-09-06 2003-09-05 Golf ball dispenser

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1545720A1 EP1545720A1 (en) 2005-06-29
EP1545720B1 true EP1545720B1 (en) 2008-02-06

Family

ID=31725909

Family Applications (1)

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EP03769579A Expired - Lifetime EP1545720B1 (en) 2002-09-06 2003-09-05 Golf ball dispenser

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US (1) US8162173B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1545720B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4662770B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE385432T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003278271B2 (en)
DE (1) DE60319008T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2300618T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2844207B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2004022174A1 (en)

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US11260277B2 (en) * 2019-12-02 2022-03-01 Joel M. Solano Golf tee dispenser

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE385432T1 (en) 2008-02-15
FR2844207B1 (en) 2005-08-05
JP2005537836A (en) 2005-12-15
EP1545720A1 (en) 2005-06-29
US20060163273A1 (en) 2006-07-27
US8162173B2 (en) 2012-04-24
JP4662770B2 (en) 2011-03-30
DE60319008D1 (en) 2008-03-20
FR2844207A1 (en) 2004-03-12
AU2003278271A1 (en) 2004-03-29
AU2003278271B2 (en) 2009-10-08
DE60319008T2 (en) 2009-01-29
ES2300618T3 (en) 2008-06-16
WO2004022174A1 (en) 2004-03-18

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