JP2012526618A - Shaft reinforcement device - Google Patents

Abstract

A golf club shaft reinforcement device having a flexible tubular body including an inner circumference and a length forming a tubular lumen is described. The inner circumference of the shaft reinforcement device surrounds and engages the outer surface of the shaft and increases the stiffness characteristics of the shaft so that the position of the kick point can be changed or to change other characteristics of the golf club Sized and configured. The shaft reinforcement device may be provided in various parts of the shaft and may be slidably adjusted or positioned on the shaft. A related method for fitting a shaft reinforcement device to a golf club is also described. A shaft reinforcement device may be provided in the kit to facilitate fitting a shaft reinforcement device suitable for a golf club.

Description

The present invention relates to a golf club attachment device, an associated golf club having the attachment device, and a method of fitting the device to a golf club. In particular, the present invention relates to a shaft reinforcement device, a golf club having a shaft reinforcement device, and related methods of fitting a shaft reinforcement device to a golf club.

Background Golfer swings, including golfer backswings and downswings, are often associated with golfer performance on golf courses. A golfer who can swing a golf club consistently in a preferred manner can hit the golf ball farther, straighter and more consistently. If a golfer's swing has certain attributes associated with a preferred swing direction, club direction and swing motion path, accuracy, control and direction may be improved. However, many golfers have difficulty swinging a golf club according to certain preferred swing directions, club directions, and motion paths. Also, golfers sometimes strive to strike golf balls with golf club heads in preferred positions, orientations, and directions. Similarly, the golf club head speed also affects the ball flight path and the distance and direction that the golf ball flies after being hit by the golf club head. Golfers are physically different in ergonomic dimensions, strength, and other characteristics, and also show various differences in swing characteristics, including swing speed and the like. Golf club components and golf clubs generally exhibit various characteristics based on the characteristics of individual components such as shafts, club heads, and grips. The shaft is an important structure when performing a golf swing and may affect the golfer's swing, including the position, direction, and speed of the golf club and golf club head at various points during the swing. The shaft affects the performance for the club, and preferred golf club performance, including preferred improved part characteristics, is particularly desirable in parts such as the shaft.

SUMMARY An aspect of the invention relates to a golf club shaft reinforcing device. The shaft reinforcement device may be a flexible tubular body including an inner circumference and a length forming a tubular lumen. The inner circumference is sized and configured to surround and engage the outer surface of the shaft and increase the stiffness characteristics of the shaft. The shaft may be removable. In certain configurations, the tubular body may be a unitary member. The shaft reinforcement device may be slidably adjustable on the shaft.

  In another aspect, an aspect of the invention includes a golf club head, a shaft connected to the golf club head and provided with a grip, and a shaft reinforcement device slidably provided on the outer surface of the shaft so as to be outside the shaft. The present invention relates to a golf club having. The shaft reinforcement device may be dimensioned, formed, or otherwise configured to be in tight engagement with a particular region of the shaft.

  In another aspect, a method for fitting a shaft reinforcement device to a golf club shaft is described. A method includes determining a stiffness characteristic of a golf club shaft, determining a desired stiffness characteristic of the shaft based on a golf club swing using a measurement device, and a plurality of available shaft reinforcement devices. Selecting a particular shaft reinforcement device. The selected shaft reinforcement device may be disposed on the shaft such that it is in tight engagement with the outer surface of the shaft over a predetermined area of the shaft.

  In another aspect, a kit having a series of shaft reinforcement devices is described. The shaft reinforcement device has various characteristics for fitting to various portions of the shaft and / or causes the shaft to exhibit certain characteristics when one or more of the shaft reinforcement devices are in tight engagement with the shaft. It may have various characteristics.

The foregoing summary and the following detailed description are better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings.
1 is a schematic front view of various configurations of a golf club. 1 is a schematic toe side end view of various configurations of a golf club. FIG. 2A to 2B are explanatory diagrams depicting characteristics including shaft characteristics of a golf club. 3A-3C depict side, perspective, and end views of an exemplary configuration of a shaft reinforcement device. It is explanatory drawing of the other structure of some shaft reinforcement apparatuses. 5A-5D depict exemplary effects of various shaft reinforcement devices on a golf club. It is explanatory drawing of application of the shaft reinforcement apparatus with respect to a golf club. It is explanatory drawing of application of the shaft reinforcement apparatus with respect to a golf club. It is a schematic explanatory drawing of one structure of the kit of a shaft reinforcement member. FIG. 6 exemplarily illustrates aspects of a method for fitting a golf club and related devices. FIG. 6 exemplarily illustrates aspects of a method for fitting a golf club and related devices. FIG. 6 exemplarily illustrates aspects of a method for fitting a golf club and related devices.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following description of various aspects, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that depict exemplary configurations in which the invention may be practiced. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  1A to 1B are a schematic front view and a toe side end view of three configurations of the golf club 199, respectively. The three configurations may be generally referred to as “iron”, “driver”, and “hybrid” golf club 199. This term is known by those skilled in the art. The driver golf club and the hybrid golf club 199 have differences among them, including the golf club head size, shape, and loft, among other possible exemplary potential differences, More generally, it may be classified as a “wood type” golf club having a wood type golf club head. Fairway woods, rescue clubs, numerically referenced woods, such as 3 wood, 5 wood, 7 wood, and other terms may also be characterized as “wood” golf clubs That is. The iron 199 may be generally regarded as an “iron-type” golf club having an iron-type golf club head. Long irons, middle irons, and short irons (or irons indicated by numerical values such as 3 irons, 7 irons, 9 irons, etc.) may be regarded as iron type golf clubs. Various wedges, such as loft wedges, sand wedges, pitching wedges and gap wedges may also be considered “iron-type” golf clubs. Putters and other types of golf clubs also exist and are known in the art.

  As can be seen, the golf club head 100 may be considered to include, for example, a top 110, a front surface 120, a toe end 130, a back surface 140, a heel end 150, and a bottom (or sole) 160. . Golf club 100 also generally includes a hosel 180 formed to facilitate connection of golf club head 100 to shaft 190, among others. Depending on whether the golf club 199 is a “wood” or “iron” golf club, the golf club head 100 may have a variety of forms and sizes, including the materials, shapes, and parts of the aforementioned portion, and Other features can be varied as is known in the art. The hosel 180 is generally formed with the rest of the golf club head 100 and is generally part of the golf club head 100 that couples the shaft 190 to the golf club head 100. The hosel 180 structure may affect the balance, feel, and power of the club. Hosel 180, however, is generally not considered in detail by end users of golf equipment, but more generally is considered by golf club designers and manufacturers, and similar entities. The main function of the hosel 180 can be to connect the shaft to the rest of the gulf club head 100, but it is configured with a specific shape, size, orientation, and connection direction and angle The hosel 180 places a minimum amount of mass above the top edge of the front 120 of the golf club, thereby providing a lower center of mass for the club so that the golfer hits the golf ball farther Desired characteristics including facilitating the golf club 199 can be imparted to the golf club 199.

  The front surface 120 generally includes a striking surface 125 that is configured to strike a golf ball. The striking surface 125 may include any of a variety of features, forms, shapes, surfaces, and details. For example, the striking surface 125 may include a series of horizontal grooves that facilitate the desired flight of the golf ball when the striking surface 125 impacts the golf ball. The spacing, size, depth, shape, contour and direction of these grooves may be varied based on the type of club (and / or the specific club manufacturer) to obtain the desired ball flight characteristics. Many other forms of surface treatment and decoration may be incorporated into the striking surface 125, ranging from hardened materials to holes, grooves, and ridges and a variety of other well-known striking materials, structures, and configurations. .

  The shaft 190 of the golf club 199 is an elongate member typically formed from steel or graphite that connects the golfer's hand to the golf club head 100. Golfers often hold the golf club 199 by holding or gripping a grip 195 provided at the end of the shaft 190 that is remote from the golf club head 190. One of the functions of the golf club shaft 190 is to facilitate the golfer to hit or hit the golf ball to fly the golf ball at the desired flight path and distance. The shaft allows the golfer to add a golf club 199 configuration, including the configuration and characteristics of the shaft 190, to the golf ball through the golf club head 100 and a centrifugal force applied to the golf ball when the golf club head 100 strikes the golf ball. A golf ball can be hit to allow and facilitate a sexual force to be generated by a golfer. The shafts 190 may vary in their particular dimensions, particularly their length, but may vary in other characteristics such as diameter. In many cases, the shaft 190 is a tapered tube. In one form, the shaft has a diameter of about ½ inch near the grip, and the end opposite the grip 195 (which is provided in the hosel 180) is generally the diameter near the grip. Taper down continuously over the length of the shaft until its narrowest portion has a smaller diameter (eg, less than 0.5 inches).

  The shaft 190 may vary in length, material, composition, stiffness, bending and other properties and characteristics, as is also known in the art. For example, a golfer may select shafts formed from various materials in light of the properties of those materials. One characteristic of the shaft 190 is its composition material. In general, modern shafts for golf clubs are made of either steel or graphite. Steel shafts are generally heavy and have a lower torque rating than graphite shafts. Also, steel is generally more durable and less susceptible to breakage than graphite. Conversely, graphite is generally lightweight and has a high torque rating and torque range available for selection depending on the particular graphite chosen. Early graphite shafts were often formed by a single layer of composite fiber that sometimes impeded performance by allowing shaft bending. Modern graphite shafts often have three layers of wound fiber that provide high stiffness and performance. More common graphite shafts include those formed by various shaft manufacturers, including Fujikura, UST, Grafalloy, Mitsubishi, Aldila and other known manufacturers. Both steel shafts and graphite shafts are known to include the specific steels and graphites utilized in shafts for golf clubs 199.

  Also, exemplary properties that can be considered when selecting a particular shaft or shaft material include bending and stiffness. This is because the preferred shaft stiffness may vary from golfer to golfer depending on skill, strength and swing characteristics including swing speed or swing path. Bending is an indicator of shaft flexibility. The measurement of bending may be a relative measurement. Stiffness is an indicator of how much deflection occurs on the shaft for a given tangential force applied to the golf club head 100 (eg, the face or striking surface 125 of the golf club head 100). An exemplary demonstration of various shaft stiffness between two golf clubs that are substantially identical except for different shafts can clamp the end of the golf club opposite the golf club head to support weight This may be done by holding the golf club in a predetermined fixed position. At this time, a predetermined weight may be hung from the end of the golf club having the golf club head. In particular, the weight may be applied to the front surface of the golf club head or suspended from the front surface. With one end firmly clamped and the weight suspended from the opposite end of the golf club 199, the golf club forms a cantilever member. However, the shaft does not remain rigid, but instead golfes as much as the fishing rod bends when a force is applied to the end opposite the end where the user is holding the fishing rod firmly. As the club head approaches the place where the weight is suspended from the golf club 199 so that the club head can be regarded, the bending increases. By the way, the same demonstration may be performed using a second golf club 199 that is substantially identical except that the shaft forms a stiffer shaft. Here, the second golf club used in the demonstration does not flex or bend to the same degree as the first golf club due to the high stiffness characteristics of the shaft 190. From another point of view, if the two given shafts differ only in stiffness, they will apply a greater force to the higher stiffness shaft and deflect the shaft to the same size as the less rigid shaft Or bendable (see Figure 2B).

  The foregoing demonstration may be associated with a golfer's swing. As the golfer begins the downswing, the golfer begins to bring his hand holding the golf club 199 out of the grip 195 and the shaft 190 causes the golf club head 100 to first fall back to the golfer's hand at the beginning of the downswing. Exhibits a bend. The golfer's hand is swinging the shaft 190 (and the golf club head 100 at the opposite end of the shaft) around the golfer 10, but the shaft 190 is slightly delayed. However, this shaft delay causes energy to be stored on the shaft 190 in the form of shaft bending. As the golfer continues downswing, the shaft 190 continues to bend to a greater degree, and due to its physical stiffness characteristics, the shaft can bend further. At a particular point in time, the shaft 190 reaches its maximum bend based on its stiffness compared to the golfer's swing speed, so that the shaft 190 begins to release its stored energy and begins to straighten. In certain cases, it may be preferable for the shaft 190 to reach its maximum bend when the golfer's left elbow begins to straighten (assuming a right-handed golfer). As described above, at this point, the shaft 190 begins to straighten, thereby increasing the speed of the golf club head 100. Needless to say, the high club head speed at which the club head 100 impacts the golf ball results in a large initial speed for the golf ball, so that the ball generally flies farther. This is often desirable in golf games. In order to maximize or optimize the speed of the golf club head 100 upon impact of the striking surface 125, the shaft 190 is configured so that the shaft ends straight straight simultaneously with the impact of the golf club head 100 and the golf ball, or You can choose. In general, the golf club head 100 is moved at the maximum swing speed at the same time that the shaft 190 is straight because all of the energy stored as potential energy at the time of bending is released. However, if the golf club head 100 (and shaft 190) continues to move for a certain distance / time after the shaft has straightened and before the golf club head 100 impacts the golf ball, it is again the first time Since energy begins to be stored by the shaft 190 that bends in the opposite direction to that during the downswing, energy is lost. Accordingly, it is desirable that the shaft be consistently straight when the golf club head 100 impacts the golf ball.

  Thus, a golfer may desire to have a golf club 199 with a shaft 190 that straightens at the moment of impact so as to optimize the force the swing provides, and thus maximizes the flight distance of the golf ball. Therefore, the golf club head 100 moves as fast as possible with respect to the swing of a predetermined golfer. As a result, the shaft 190 is often selected to achieve the optimal timing and linearization of the shaft 190 described above depending on the golfer's swing characteristics. For example, if a golfer has a very fast swing but has a golf club with a flexible shaft, the golfer's shot will be as high as he can fly if the golfer has optimized his swing energy. Don't fly far away. This is because the shaft 190 absorbs energy in the form of bending of the shaft 190, and the shaft does not fully release its already stored energy at the moment of impact, and the speed of the golf club head 100 at impact is maximized. Because it will not be. Swing energy is wasted and the resulting shots do not achieve maximum flight distance. On the other hand, if the golfer has a slow swing but chooses a very stiff shaft, the opposite reason results in an inefficient similar shot that cannot maximize swing energy. In this case, the shaft straightens while the golfer is still downswing, and the golf club head moves ahead of the shaft, thereby bending the shaft forward. In this case as well, the bent shaft at the time of impact is wasted swing energy, and the speed of the golf club head 100 is reduced at the time of impact. Similarly, the flight distance of a golf ball after impact is not maximized. Accordingly, it is desirable for a golfer to have a golf club 199 that includes a shaft having a complementary stiffness characteristic to the golfer's swing to maximize the golfer's swing and swing energy to optimize the golfer's shot. The premature or slow linearization of the club shaft 190 may change the direction of the golf shot considerably. This is because the direction and flight path taken when the golf club head 100 moves over the hitting area and contacts the golf ball may be changed. Therefore, the golf ball may not be hit at the sweet spot on the hitting surface. In some cases, the golf ball may take an initial route in a direction obliquely off the desired flight route. Also, the ball may be spun, which may cause the golf ball to fly unexpectedly with a “hook” or “slice” flight path. Further, a hit golf ball does not fly with the desired initial ball flight angle with respect to the ground, so that the ball is “tempered” or hit at the top, thereby rolling, jumping, or , Not in the middle of flying over the surface of the ground, but in the air rather than flying with a high loft through the air where most of the ball's flight distance occurs while moving in the air Sometimes fly.

  Another characteristic that may be considered when selecting a golf shaft 190 for the golf club 199 is a flex point or kick point 205. The flex point or kick point 205 is a place that spans the entire length of the golf club 199 where the club is defined, configured and / or positioned to bend. Various shaft models may be designed with kick points 205 at various respective locations along their length. In some cases, the shaft 190 may be generalized to have a low, medium or high kick point 205. The kick point 205 of the shaft 190 often affects the orientation of the golf club head 100 when the golf club head 100 strikes the golf ball 201. Therefore, the position of the kick point may change the shot tendency. Thus, a golfer may select a golf club with a kick point 205 in a particular position to complement his swing tendency, swing speed and golf skill. Generally speaking, a shaft 190 having a high kick point 205 (near the golf club grip 195 end, eg, 205B in FIG. 5B) results in a lower launch golf shot and a lower spin golf shot. Often, high-skilled and low-handicap golfers desire these characteristics when high-skilled golfers want to maximize the distance and accuracy of their golf shots. These golfers are generally able to consistently hit the ball in the air and do not have a hard time making positive contact with the ball. Rather, these golfers tend to desire increased distance and accuracy to “make” their golf shots more accurately and to maximize the power and distance of their swings. On the other hand, a low kick point 205 (eg, 205B in FIG. 5D) may be particularly desirable for golfers who are immature and have a high handicap. This is because these golfers tend to feel difficulty in hitting the golf ball and may endeavor to “get the ball into the air”. Accordingly, a golf club shaft 190 having a low kick point 205 near the club head end of the golf club 100 generally results in higher launch golf shots and higher spin golf shots. As is well known, high launch (or tempura) golf shots may result in golf shots that do not maximize the distance of the golf shot. Also, increased spins may result in less accurate golf shots, and the ball may fly to the left or right of the desired flight path (hooks or slices for right-handed golfers, respectively). . However, these immature / high handicap golfers, especially when using certain clubs with small lofts, including certain woods that include drivers such as high iron or long irons or third wood, You may have a hard time “raising in the air”. Shots where a golfer does not “raise the ball” into the air can be “duffing” or useless shots, so immature golfers often do not hit the ball firmly or play a significant amount of the ball Sacrificing some distance by having higher ball flight in exchange for reducing the frequency of wasted or dull shots that fail to launch the ball with enough trajectories to fly in the air over distance Hope to do. Thus, a golfer who falls between these two skill ranges will have an intermediate kick point 205 (eg, 205A in FIG. 5A) located in the middle of the golf club and exhibiting a fused or average tendency of the shafts of the intermediate and low kick points. ) May be desired. In general, a golfer may choose a shaft 190 with a kick point 205 in a position based on the above-mentioned criteria, but the golfer relies on "feel" or personal preference to provide an aspect that counters the above-described characteristics. A shaft 190 having the same may be selected. For example, despite the above-mentioned trends and generalizations, an immature handicap golfer may choose a shaft with a high kick point 205B, while a very skilled golfer chooses a shaft with a low kick point 205D May be.

  Due to the different swings of each golfer, the golfer has different preferences regarding the shaft 190. In at least one categorization system, the shafts can be very rigid (X), rigid (S), regular (R), senior (A), ladies (L), etc., depending on the specific bending properties. It may be classified. However, there are non-constant industry standards for shaft stiffness, and shafts classified as “hard” by one shaft manufacturer are the same as “regular” by other shaft manufacturers in certain cases. Or have similar stiffness characteristics. Regardless, generally speaking, golfers may generally select a shaft based on the distance they can generally hit a golf ball with a given club. For example, golfers and golf technologists look at the distance a golfer hits a driver shot with a driver as a guide in selecting shaft stiffness. If a golfer hits a driver shot beyond 250 yards, the golfer may want a hard shaft, 230-250 yards-Regular shaft, 200-230 yards-Senior shaft, Less than 200 yards-Ladies shaft . Very stiff shafts are generally not used except for professional players, very low handicap golfers, or very strong and fast swinging golfers. As before, these characterizations are merely exemplary generalizations, and each golfer exhibits desirable features as desired, including shaft stiffness, length 290, kick point 205 position, and various other characteristics. There may be a desire for a given golf club having a given shaft.

  The golf club 199 generally includes a shaft 190 that is coupled to the head 100 by a hosel 180. A grip 195 where the golfer holds or grips the golf club is attached to the end of the shaft 190 opposite the head 100. The grip 195 is known and can vary considerably depending on preference, ergonomic characteristics, and golfer's tendency, eg, the tendency to hit a slice or fade. For example, grips differ in “grip size” and perimeter. Also, these grips differ in the specific texture and grip pattern of the grip outer surface. The grip can be circular or may have lines or ribs on the back to help the golfer place his hand. Other shapes are also conceivable. The grip may consist of many materials including rubber, polymer, and leather, to name a few. The grip characteristics may be altered, for example, by tying the grip or by selecting any of a variety of materials based on the friction characteristics of the material.

  2A-2B are illustrations of a golf club 199 showing various shaft stiffnesses and kick points 205A-E of the golf club. FIG. 2A shows the bending characteristics of a golf club configured with five different stiffness characteristics consistent with the principles described above. Thus, the golf club 199 and in particular the shafts 190A-E can exhibit a maximum bending state as shown, and each golf club 199 configuration is associated with five different shafts 190A-E of varying stiffness. Oriented to have a respective maximum bend 255A-E. For example, shafts 190A-E may be illustratively shown in a maximum bend state, and may be exemplified as very stiff shaft 190A, stiff shaft 190B, regular shaft 190C, senior shaft 190D, and ladies shaft 190E. . These indications are also exemplary and are for ease of understanding and clarity, but may vary greatly. For example, in other configurations, all of the same five shafts 190A-E shown in the maximum bend state may be characterized or labeled as “regular” shafts, and all as “regular” shafts. Despite being characterized, it may have various specific stiffness characteristics. Shaft 190A may be characterized as the stiffest shaft and shaft 190E may be characterized as the stiffest shaft, so shafts 190B-D enter the line between shaft 190A and shaft 190E for stiffness . Also shown in FIG. 2A is a curved length 290 equivalent to a golf club and / or shaft length 210 that can be bent when force is applied to the golf club 199 in this configuration. Also, each of the five configurations of golf club 199 and golf club 199 with various shafts 190A-E is shown having the same kick point 205 where the shaft bends as shown. Although these shafts 190A to 190E have a common kick point 205, various positions of the kick points 205 are conceivable between the shafts 190A to 190E having various rigidity, which will be described later.

  FIG. 2B further illustrates the effect of the golf club shaft on a given golf club 199 having various stiffnesses. FIG. 2B illustratively depicts a golf club 199 clamped at the grip end 195 of the golf club 199. Clamp 299 (drawn as a golfer's grip for illustrative purposes) holds grip 195 and the portion of shaft 190 provided within the grip firmly in a strict fixed position. Therefore, the region of the shaft held by the clamp with the grip 195 does not exhibit bending or bending even when a force in the form of a weight 260 suspended from the end of the opposite club head 100 is applied. As before, the golf club 199 is shown with a series of five shafts 190A-190E shown in a bent state as a result of the application of force in the form of a weight 260 as described above. Here, since the grip end 195 of the golf club is clamped and does not exhibit bending or bending, the curved length 290 and the actual length of the shaft are different. Accordingly, the curved length 290 of the golf club 199 exemplarily shown in FIG. 2B is a length 290 extending from one end of the grip 195 to the opposite end of the shaft 190 in the gulf club head 100.

  The differences in the behavior of the golf club 199 between various shaft 190A-E configurations having various stiffnesses are shown. As before, shaft 190A is the stiffest shaft, while shaft 190E is the stiffest shaft, so the other shafts will each fall between them. As is apparent from FIG. 2B, the higher the stiffness of the shaft 190, the less deflection or bending that the shaft 190 will exhibit when a predetermined force 160 is applied at a predetermined position. In addition, the example of FIG. 2B shows that the position of the kick point 205 is similarly different among the shafts 190 including the shafts 190A to 190E having various rigidity. Here, shaft 190A has the lowest kick point 205A, shaft 190E has the highest kick point 205E, and shafts 190B-D have associated kick points 205B-D that fall between them. In this case, the difference in the specific position of the kick point 205 is small compared to the curved length 290 and the length 210 of the golf club 190, respectively. The predetermined golf club shafts 190A-E may be formed with specific predetermined stiffness characteristics and kick points 205A-E. However, it may be preferred that the shaft 190 has a different stiffness or the position of the kick point 205 is different. It may also be desirable to change the stiffness of only a portion of the shaft 190 while maintaining the initial stiffness of the remaining portion of the shaft 190. For example, more customized stiffness, kick points and related properties can be achieved as desired by increasing the stiffness of a portion of shaft 190 but allowing the rest of the shaft to continue to exhibit the original stiffness properties May be. For example, the overall stiffness may be changed and / or the location of the kick point 205 may be transitioned. Specifically, the kick point 205 is shifted further up the shaft 190 toward the grip 195 so that the kick point 205 tends to be higher and the golf club 199 has a higher launch trajectory / ball flight when used. Alternatively, the kick point 205 may be shifted further down the shaft 190 so that the golf club 199 has a tendency to provide a lower launch trajectory / ball flight. By changing the stiffness of the shaft 190 in a particular region, the kick point may eventually be shifted and the curved length 290 of the shaft 190 may be changed, thereby changing where the bending occurs.

  3A-3C depict a side view, perspective view, and end view of one exemplary configuration of a shaft reinforcement device 300 provided in a notch in the shaft 190 of a golf club 199. FIG. This form of shaft reinforcement device 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3C includes an elongate tubular body 310 having two hollow opposing ends 311, 312. The shaft reinforcement device has a length 330 that extends from one end 311 to the other end 312. Opposing end portions 311 and 312 have inner peripheries 321 and 322, respectively. The shaft reinforcing device is hollow between the inner peripheries 321 and 322 in the radial direction. Accordingly, the shaft reinforcing device 300 includes a hollow cylindrical channel (not shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C because the channel is filled with the shaft 190) extending between the opposite end portions 311 and 312. The channel is configured to include a shaft 190 of the golf club 199 for tight engagement. Thus, the shaft reinforcement device 300 fits snugly around the shaft 190, but not so tight that it prevents the shaft reinforcement device 300 from being slidably adjustable and operable on the shaft 190 of the golf club 199. It does n’t fit. The shaft reinforcement device 300 may be adjusted to a particular desired position on the shaft 190. The opposing ends 311, 312 may have the same size inner peripheries 321, 322, or further include a tapered shape including a common shape such as a continuously tapered circular shape of the shaft 190 of the golf club 199 The size of the inner circumference may be changed to complement.

  The shaft reinforcement device 300 may be formed from a variety of materials including a variety of plastics, rubbers, elastomers, and a variety of other known materials. In order to allow the shaft to be applied to the golf club shaft 190, the shaft reinforcement device 300 is formed from a flexible material in which the shaft 190 in that region is highly rigid when applied over the upper end of the other surface of the shaft 190. May be. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the shaft reinforcement device may comprise a longitudinal tape formed to have a high rigidity in the longitudinal direction extending up and down the shaft 190. In other exemplary embodiments, the shaft reinforcement device may be a polymer or plastic. Many other materials and combinations of materials may be used in shaft reinforcement devices consistent with those described herein. If the shaft reinforcement device 300 is applied over the grip 195, the material needs to be flexible to allow the device 300 to expand on the grip 195 and still be in tight engagement with the shaft 190. As will be described in more detail in connection with FIG. 6, the shaft reinforcement device is disposed over the shaft prior to complete assembly of the golf club 199, including before the golf club head 100, the grip 195, or both. May be. In configurations where the shaft reinforcement device is disposed over the outer surface of the shaft 190 prior to full assembly of the golf club 199, other portions of the golf club head (e.g., the outer circumference (perimeter) greater than the shaft 190) (e.g., A material that is harder and less elastic than may be envisaged when the shaft reinforcement device needs to be slid over the grip 195) may be used. Changing or replacing a golf club grip 195 is common. Accordingly, it is known that the removal of the grip 195 for applying the shaft reinforcing device 300 is known to be simple, so that the shaft reinforcing device can be stretched and pulled on the obstacle part of the golf club 199. It may be desirable to remove the golf club grip 195 even if the shaft reinforcement device 300 is configured (including being made of a sufficiently elastic material). However, as described above, the repair parts market does not disassemble any part of the golf club 199 when the specific form of the shaft reinforcing device 300 is configured to be applicable to the assembled golf club 199. Thus, once the golfer realizes that different shaft characteristics can further complement his swing after purchase and / or use of the golf club 199, the shaft reinforcement device 300 is applied, possibly increasing overall shaft stiffness, shaft Shaft characteristics including some stiffness increase or shift of the kick point 205 of the golf club 199 may be interpolated.

  Since the inner peripheries 321 and 322 of the shaft reinforcing device 300 in the disengaged state are smaller than the outer surface of the shaft 190, the shaft reinforcing device 300 can be tightly engaged with the outer surface of the shaft 190. As the shaft reinforcement is pulled over the outer surface of the shaft 190, the structural integrity of the shaft as a solid steel or graphite material retains its shape and size. Thus, the shaft reinforcement device 300 is expanded to include inner peripheries 321, 322 that pass between it to such an extent that its material properties allow a certain amount of expansion and “extension” in the radially outward direction. As a result, a part of the shaft reinforcing device 300 is extended. The shaft reinforcement device is placed under expansion stress and exerts opposing forces on the outer surface of the shaft 190. This is because the material integrity of the shaft reinforcement device 300 resists deformation. The shaft reinforcing device 300 is tightened and engaged with the shaft 190 by these opposing forces. The shaft stiffener 300 is configured to withstand the forces applied during the golfer's swing and to remain at the specific location where it is located. In short, the raising / lowering force of the club shaft 190 during the swing is not larger than the resistance friction engagement force as a result of the shaft reinforcing device 300 being tightened and engaged with the outer surface of the shaft 190. However, the shaft stiffener 300 may be used on the shaft 190 when the golfer 10 or other user applies sufficient direct force to the ends 311, 312 and / or the outer surface 340 of the shaft stiffener 300. It is also configured to slide in one or both directions over a certain distance. In certain configurations, the shaft reinforcement device 300 may be slid over the entire length of the golf club shaft 190 or at least between the hosel 180 and the bottom of the grip 195. In other forms, the shaft reinforcement device 300 can more specifically be adjusted so that it can be adjusted within a specific range of the shaft (eg, 400A-C) but cannot slide to any position on the shaft, It may be configured to be adjustable only within the lower 400A portion, middle 400B portion, and higher 400C portion of shaft 190 (see FIGS. 4 and 5A-5D).

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of some configurations of the shaft reinforcing device 300. FIG. For reference, the shaft of the golf club 199 may have a low portion 400A, a middle portion 400B, and a high portion 400C. The illustrated lower portion 400A is the portion of the shaft that is adjacent to the golf club head 100 (the hosel 180 to the extent that the golf club 199 of a particular configuration includes the hosel). The lower portion 400A is the portion of the shaft 190 that generally has the smallest circumferential diameter, particularly when the shaft 190 continuously tapers from the grip end 195 to the golf club head 100 at the opposite end of the shaft 190. . The high portion 400C is the portion of the shaft 190 adjacent to the grip end 195 of the golf club 199, while the middle portion 400B is the portion between the low portion 400A and the high portion 400C. The shaft reinforcement device 300 may be specifically configured and dimensioned with respect to one of the lower portion 400A, the middle portion 400B, and the higher portion 400C. With specific dimensions, the shaft reinforcement device 300 can be more specifically tailored to each portion 400A-C, including length and circumference. As shown, the shaft stiffeners 300A, 300B, 300C are each dimensioned, shaped and shaped to be in tight engagement with each of the portions 400A, 400B, 400C of the shaft 190. In at least one configuration, the shaft reinforcement device has a length 330A, 330B, 330C that is shorter than the respective length of the shaft portions 400A, 400B, 400C. Since the shaft reinforcement devices 300A, 300B, 300C are shorter than their corresponding portions 400A, 400B, 400C on the shaft 190, the shaft reinforcement devices 300A, 300B, 300C are slidably adjusted with the portions 400A, 400B, 400C, Thereby, the shaft rigidity changing action of the shaft reinforcing device 300 may be finely adjusted such that the rigidity of a specific portion of the shaft 190 is increased or the position of the kick point 205 is moved.

  5A-5D are illustrations depicting exemplary effects of shaft reinforcement devices 300A-300C on golf club shaft bend, stiffness, and kick point attributes. FIG. 5A depicts a golf club 199 without the shaft reinforcement devices 300A-C. Also, in FIG. 5A, golf club 199 has a curved length 290A shown as extending from golf club head 100 to grip 195. As in FIG. 2B, where the portion of the shaft 190 with the grip 195 did not show bending or bending, the grip 195 is also almost straight and stiff. Also, as if the grip 195 was clamped in place and therefore did not bend, the golfer would grip the golf club grip 195 and the golfer's hand would prevent the shaft from bending at the grip 195 (clamp Act as a fixing force. As will be appreciated, the golfer may grip the shaft at various locations on the grip 195, and thus the curved length 290 may actually include the lower end portion of the grip 195. However, for purposes of illustration and description, FIGS. 5A-5D assume that the grip 195 is firmly held over the entire length of the grip 195, for example, by an external force by a golfer's hand.

  5B-5D exemplarily show a golf club 199 in which shaft reinforcement devices 300A-300C are provided on the lower portion 400A, the middle portion 400B, and the higher portion 400C of the shaft 190. 5B-5D also show the effect that shaft reinforcement devices 300A-300C have on the characteristics of various golf clubs 199 including the curved lengths 290B-290D and the positions of kick points 205B-205D. FIG. 5B exemplarily shows a golf club 199 in which the shaft reinforcing device 300A is provided in the lower portion 400A of the shaft 190 adjacent to the golf club head 100. The shaft reinforcing device is tightened and engaged with the outer periphery of the shaft 190. The reinforcing device 300A may be made of many of the materials described above, including rubber, polymers, plastics, and other materials. Due to the shaft reinforcement device 300A being tightly engaged with the lower shaft portion 400A, the region of the shaft radially inside the shaft reinforcement device has high rigidity characteristics over the length 330A between the ends 311A and 312A of the shaft reinforcement device 300A. Present. Here, the rigidity characteristic has been changed so that the shaft 190 becomes hard at the lower portion 400A of the shaft of the golf club 199. Thus, the portion of the shaft that exhibits bending or bending can be varied over the associated curved length 290B. Also, the kick point 205B is shifted further upward toward the grip 195 and the high portion 400C of the golf club. FIG. 5C exemplarily shows a golf club 199 in which the shaft reinforcing device 300B is provided in the intermediate portion 400B of the shaft 190 of the golf club head 100. Similarly, the shaft reinforcement device 300B is shown by its clamping engagement, so that the intermediate portion 400B exhibits high stiffness properties, particularly fairly rigid properties. Accordingly, the shaft 190 in this case has two curved length regions 205C. 5C also has a pair of kick points 205C on both sides of the shaft reinforcing device. Finally, FIG. 5D exemplarily shows a golf club 199 in which the shaft reinforcing device 300C is provided in the high portion 400C of the shaft 190. The high portion 400C of the golf club shaft is shown to have high stiffness characteristics. This is because the shaft in this region is shown to be kept almost rigid by the shaft reinforcement device 300C. Accordingly, the curved length 290D extends to the vicinity of the end of the golf club head 100 of the lower golf club head 100 and the grip 195. Further, the kick point 205D has various positions.

  As illustrated and described, the shaft reinforcement devices 300A-300C can be formed into various flexible but tightening structures that press the shaft downward in a particular region. Thus, the shaft 190 can be further supported and the shaft in that particular region exhibits high stiffness characteristics. The degree to which the stiffness characteristics can be changed depends on the initial shaft rigidity, the length of the shaft reinforcement devices 330A to 330C, the material composition of the shaft reinforcement devices 300A to 300C, and the fitting engagement of the shaft reinforcement devices 300A to 300C Fit, depending on various characteristics including the swing characteristics of the golfer 10 and other specific characteristics. Also, as shown, the shaft reinforcement device 300 may be further configured to engage the shaft 190 to change the shaft characteristics as desired without changing other features of the golf club 199. For example, if the shaft reinforcement device 300C is specifically configured for the high shaft portion 400C to give the golfer a continuous and smooth feel, the shaft reinforcement device 300C has one configuration, the end 312 grips The outer surface of the grip 198 may be formed so as to be flush with the lower end 196 of the 195 and be flush with the shaft reinforcing device 300C. Thus, when positioned as shown, shaft reinforcement device 300C provides the feel of a single elongated grip 195 near the upper end of shaft 190 rather than a separate structure. Therefore, it is possible to improve the feel characteristics while still achieving the shaft characteristic changing function as desired.

  Although the regions of the shaft 190 within the shaft reinforcement device 300 are shown not to bend in the illustrations of FIGS. 5A-5C for purposes of illustration, the shafts 190 in these regions are not bent but are May have a small bend in form. Thus, shaft properties, including shaft stiffness properties, can be achieved consistent with the properties described herein. This is because the “small bend” region has similar effects on the shaft properties and functionality as the “non-bend” region, possibly only with certain degree and degree of characteristic differences. Similarly, in FIGS. 5A-5D, the region of the shaft 190 in the grip 195 is shown as having a bend region, but this region is also shown when the golfer swings the club in the form of FIGS. 5A-5D. As a result of gripping this area with one's hand, it has a small bending characteristic (or does not bend). This is because the golfer's hand can act as a clamp that matches that shown in FIG. 2B.

  FIG. 6A exemplarily illustrates one configuration for placing the shaft reinforcement device 300 on the shaft 190 of the golf club 199. FIG. In this configuration of the golf club, three parts are shown: a golf club head 100, a grip 195, and a shaft 190. These three parts are joined together to form a golf club 199. The application of the shaft reinforcing device 300 is more easily performed before the golf club 199 is assembled. As shown in FIG. 6A, when the golf club 199 has not yet been fully assembled, and therefore one or both of the grip 195 and / or the golf club head 100 is not attached to the rest of the golf club 199 In this case, the shaft reinforcing device 300 can be pulled onto the shaft 190 and slid to a desired position. In certain configurations, the shaft reinforcement device 300 may be applicable only from one of the ends. This is because the tolerances are tight enough so that the wider diameter of the shaft encountered during sliding prevents the shaft reinforcing device 300 from moving and the shaft reinforcing device cannot slide upwards over the length of the shaft. In the configuration of FIG. 6A, the shaft reinforcing device 300 is applied to the shaft and positioned at a desired position. The golf club head 100 and grip 195 are then coupled to the shaft 190 accordingly using securing processes and bonding techniques and adhesives known in the art. Alternatively, as described above, the golf club 199 may be retrofitted to a golf club 199 in which a specific form of the shaft reinforcing device is completely assembled. Generally, in such a retrofit situation, if the golf club 199 is not disassembled to any degree, a shaft reinforcement device is applied on the grip 195 and slid further down the shaft 195. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6B, the shaft reinforcement device 300 may be formed such that the shaft reinforcement device 300 is a configuration of two split halves 610, 620, and in one form the half is The size and shape of the halves may be equivalent, or the size and shape of the halves may be different. The halves 610, 620 can fit into each other, whether similarly sized or different, so that the halves 610, 620 wrap around the shaft 190 and snap into engagement Forming a shaft-reinforcing sleeve that press-fits or otherwise holds together when tightened with the shaft 190. Mechanisms that can be utilized include snap fitting, compression fitting, bonding, bonding and various other techniques for holding the two structures and / or the two materials together. FIG. 6B shows a snap fit, in which a metal connector 611 is provided on the half 610, thereby engaging and connecting with a half 620 having a complementary female connector 612. Although illustrated and described as a half, the shaft reinforcement device 300 may be three, four or more to form a structure for tight engagement with the shaft 190 consistent with that described herein. It should be understood that it may consist of more structures of the same or various shapes and sizes. These exemplary connections shown are merely exemplary, and many other specific connection configurations and configurations are possible.

  FIG. 7 is an exemplary schematic diagram of one configuration of a shaft reinforcement device kit 700. Here, the kit 700 includes a series of shaft reinforcing devices 300A, 300B, and 300C. Each of the shaft reinforcement devices 300A, 300B, 300C is specifically formed for a particular portion of the shaft 190. Here, the shaft reinforcement device 300A is dimensioned to fit specifically into the lower shaft portion 400A, and the shaft reinforcement device 300B is dimensioned to fit specifically into the shaft middle portion 400B. The shaft reinforcement device 300C is formed and dimensioned to specifically fit into the high portion 400C of the shaft. Due to the specific characteristics of the shaft, the shaft reinforcement devices 300A-300C differ in cross section and length, in which case the shaft reinforcement device 300A has the shortest and smallest cross section, while the shaft reinforcement device 300C is the most It has a long and largest cross section. In this particular form, kit 700 includes a housing 750 that is configured to include three shaft stiffeners 300A, 300B, 300C within visible holders 710A, 710B, 710C. The kit 700 and the housing 750 can in particular be hung on a shelf or viewed, displayed, suspended for viewing, selection and / or purchase. The kit 700 may be utilized in the same manner as a club inspection cart so that a plurality of shaft reinforcement devices 300 may be provided in the kit, and golfers, golf technicians and potential purchasers may The shaft reinforcement device may be viewed and selected from a series of shaft reinforcement devices available for inspection. For example, a single shaft reinforcement device 300 such as the shaft reinforcement device 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B and a composite part shaft reinforcement device 300 such as the shaft reinforcement device shown in FIG. 6B, and various other forms of shaft reinforcement device 300 May be included in the kit 700 to allow the golfer to select a shaft reinforcement device that has the features that are most desirable for the golfer and most beneficial for the golfer's swing. Using the illustrated kit 700 or other similar kits consistent with those described herein, a golfer, golf technician or other user or distributor of golf equipment may use a shaft reinforcement specific to the golfer. The device 300 can be fitted.

  By working with golfers, golf technicians analyze golfer trends, give instructions and suggestions on correcting their swings, and recommend various items, including club choices, Known to help improve their golf game, including their swing and associated play. Also, a golf technician at a particular golf manufacturer may provide a selection of features that a golfer can choose alone or with the assistance of a golf technician. Features that vary from golf club to golf club include various shaft characteristics including length, stiffness, kick point, grip type feel and many others. Each golfer may have a different swing tendency than other golfers. Thus, a golfer may desire and enjoy the benefits of an individualized golf club in advance so that the golfer's swing characteristics and swing tendencies are noted and considered. During the fitting process, the golfer may analyze his swing either visually by a professional or using any of a variety of measurement and analysis devices known in the art, as further described below. .

  8A-8C exemplarily depict one embodiment for fitting a golf club 199 that includes a shaft 190. FIG. As is known, the golfer 10 may perform many swings in front of one or more golf technicians or golf club fitters. Operations involving golf swings may be observed, recorded, and / or measured by a measurement device that includes a video graphics device, such as a digital video camera. FIGS. 8A and 8B show a top view and a back view, respectively, of a golfer swinging a golf club and hitting a golf ball at an exemplary fitting station 1000. The fitting station 1000 may have any number of configurations and features. The fitting station 1000 shown in FIGS. 8A-8C is an indoor fitting station. However, the fitting station 1000 may be indoors or outdoors, and in golf driving ranges or other practice facilities, including in or near a pro shop and various other known locations, It may be installed on a golf course. The fitting station 1000 may include a ball striking mat 1010, particularly when the fitting station is an indoor station or when the station is part of a driving range. However, the fitting station may be present on a lawn tee box or other outdoor natural golf environment. Here, the indoor fitting station 1000 also includes a net 1030 where the golfer 10 may hit a ball when making his shot, swinging, and swinging in front of a golf technician or golf club fitter . With the net 1030, fitting can be performed in a more limited space, for example, indoors, a pro shop, or a golf driving range where available land is limited. Behind the net 1030 may be a background 1040 or other structure that allows the golfer to feel as if they are on a golf course. Also, although not specifically shown, the background may include or protect additional measuring devices including speed or force sensors, video graphics devices, and other devices that may be utilized in golfer fittings. .

  A golfer's shot ball flight may be monitored by looking at the entire ball flight at a golf driving range fitting station that has sufficient space to fly until the ball reaches a natural stopping point / lie. The golfer may also strike in a closed space, as monitored by a digital video camera or other computer device that can determine the flight path based on the initial characteristics of the shot including speed, trajectory, spin, and the like. Additional measuring devices may be used to further understand the golfer's swing path and associated trends. In one form example, a digital video camera device 1060 may be used to photograph a golfer's swing. In particular, the golfer's swing may be photographed when viewed from the toe end side so that the golfer has a square-facing posture with respect to the camera. In another form, alternatively or in addition, the golfer's swing may be photographed by a measuring device in which the measuring device 1061 is positioned at a predetermined position, such as the position shown by way of example. By filming a golfer's swing from a square direction, such as behind or toe side, the video can be compared with the recorded swing path and images performed by a golfer with the preferred technique as shown in Figure 8C. Good.

  Some of the devices and tests that can be used to monitor the swing path, contact direction and related characteristics of golfer swings are video recording, radar tracking including Doppler radar technology, motion detection devices, velocity radar devices, balls A flight tracking device and monitoring system, and similar golf swing analysis devices as are known in the art. These measuring devices may be positioned such that the illustrated measuring devices 1060, 1061 are positioned and shown. These devices may be located in front of the golfer 10 so that the golfer is hitting with the measuring device or on the heel side of the golfer behind the golfer's back. Furthermore, the measuring device may be placed overhead, or in fact the measuring device can record data such as a video image of a golfer's movement or other characteristics such as speed, direction, orientation, etc. It may be located anywhere so that data or characteristics associated with a portion of the golf club or the movement of the ball can be tracked. Other devices focused on determining the direction of the golf club during the swing, particularly the direction of the golf club over the striking zone when the golf club head strikes the golf ball may be utilized. These devices may be the same or similar devices as video graphics, radar, or other motion tracking devices, or the devices may operate where the bottom surface of the golf club contacts the ground and across the club's range. It may be as simple as a lie board device that draws directions and orientations. A golf ball is also used to determine whether the ball is struck at a sweet spot or off-center using a basic tape device located on the golf club head striking surface 125. Data regarding the portion of the striking surface 125 that is being struck may be provided, which may require the swing or club to adjust to optimize the results.

  After a sufficient number of swings and “practice” or “sample” shots have been made to provide a sample of the desired shot that results in a reliable fitting, the golf and / or fitting technician uses the collected data. Thus, a specific golf club head 100 having a visible swing indicator 400 that helps a golfer perform golf swings more regularly according to a conventional preferred swing mechanism can be recommended. Some of the characteristics collected or measured include, for example, swing path data, trajectory, golf club direction at impact, ball spin, ball flight, and golfer body dimensions and ergonomics. Characteristics. Analysis of the swing, including the swing pattern, determines the desired swing path, the trend of the golfer's swing, and changes to the golfer's current swing path that can make the specific changes needed more visually noticeable Can be used to Flexural and flexural properties are determined and shown so that the club shaft of the club can be analyzed to determine if it is suitable for maximizing the golfer's ability with a particular swing tendency Also good. For example, preferred stiffness, preferred kick point position and the effect of a shaft reinforcement device located at a particular location.

  FIG. 8C shows a display 1050 depicting two respective swing characteristic outputs 1051, 1052 that illustratively depict a golfer's two swings in a video graphics form such as digital video. In one configuration, the displayed swing 1051 may be a video graphic image of the preferred swing of another golfer, including a professional golfer or a “virtual golfer” with a preferred swing mechanism. The right golf swing 1052 may be an actual swing of the golfer 10 currently analyzed at the fitting station 1000. Specific golf, such as visible swing indicators, shaft characteristics, and alignment aids and other features to make it easier for golfers to swing in the preferred way to achieve the desired performance through split screen comparison on the display 1050 A golfer may be analyzed and fitted for club features. For example, golfer's backswing paths 1055A, 1055B may be compared during swings 1051, 1052. Similarly, golf club heads 1056A, 1056B orientation, golfer arm and hand positions 1057A, 1057B, and head positions 1058A, 1058B may be visually compared. Other comparisons and analyzes may be performed as known. Here, the display 1050 shows video graphic information regarding the golfer's swing, but the display 1050 may be utilized during other analysis phases, including the output of various other characteristics utilized in fitting the golfer 10. . Also, as shown in FIG. 8B, the display 1050 may be used to facilitate the fitting experience and may appear to the golfer during the fitting process. However, various forms of output can be used to perform swing analysis and provide output data regarding the golfer's swing to the golfer or golf technician.

  In the foregoing description and accompanying drawings relating to various embodiments, exemplary aspects of the invention have been disclosed. However, the purpose served by the disclosure of the embodiments is to provide an example of the various aspects embodied in the present invention and not to limit the scope of the invention. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, many variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (22)

  A flexible tubular body including an inner circumference and a length forming a tubular lumen, the inner circumference surrounding and tighteningly engaging the outer surface of the shaft and increasing the stiffness characteristics of the shaft A golf club shaft reinforcement device sized and configured.   2. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to claim 1, wherein the golf club shaft reinforcing device is configured to be removably engaged with the shaft.   2. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular body is a single member.   2. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to claim 1, wherein the bending point of the shaft is changed when the shaft reinforcing device is tightened and engaged at different points along the shaft.   The flexible tubular body is specifically constructed and dimensioned to be slidably adjustable with a tight fit on one of the lower, middle and higher portions of the shaft. 1. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to 1.   The flexible tubular body is specifically constructed and dimensioned so that it can be slidably adjusted by being tightly fitted to a high portion of the shaft, the flexible tubular body having an end portion of the tubular body 2. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the flexible tubular body is flush with the outer surface of the grip when contacting the end of the grip.   2. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible tubular body includes one of rubber, plastic, and polymer.   An initial shaft state and a shaft reinforcement device engagement state in which the shaft reinforcement device is clamped and engaged around a portion of the shaft, wherein the shaft is provided between two opposing ends of the shaft reinforcement device. 8. The golf club shaft reinforcing device according to claim 7, wherein the region has higher rigidity in the shaft reinforcing device engaged state than in the initial shaft state. With a golf club head;
A shaft coupled to the golf club head and having a grip;
And a shaft reinforcing device slidably provided on an outer surface of the shaft so as to be outside the shaft.   10. A golf club according to claim 9, wherein the shaft reinforcing device includes a hollow tubular body, the hollow tubular body having an inner periphery configured to be in tight engagement with the shaft over its length.   11. The golf according to claim 10, wherein the inner circumference of the shaft reinforcing device continuously increases along the length from the first end of the hollow tubular body to the second end opposite to the hollow tubular body. club.   The hollow tubular body is sized and configured to be in tight engagement with one of a lower portion, a middle portion, and a higher portion of the shaft, the length of the hollow tubular body being the lower portion of the shaft; 11. The golf club according to claim 10, wherein the golf club is shorter than the length of the one of the middle part and the high part. A method of fitting a shaft reinforcement device to a shaft of a golf club, including the following steps:
Determining the rigidity characteristics of the shaft of the golf club;
Determining a desired stiffness characteristic of the shaft based on a swing of the golf club using a measuring device; and identifying a plurality of available flexible tubular shaft reinforcement devices based on the determined desired stiffness characteristic Selecting a flexible tubular shaft reinforcement device, and placing the specific flexible tubular shaft reinforcement device on the shaft such that an inner periphery of the specific flexible tubular shaft reinforcement device is in tight engagement with an outer surface of the shaft. Applying a specific shaft reinforcement device to the shaft by positioning.   14. The method of fitting a shaft reinforcement device to a shaft of a golf club according to claim 13, further comprising the step of determining a desired bending point of the shaft.   14. The golf club of claim 13, further comprising positioning a particular flexible tubular shaft reinforcement device in one of a lower portion, a middle portion, and a higher portion of the shaft based on the determination of a desired stiffness characteristic. To attach the shaft reinforcement device to the shaft of the machine.   15. The method of claim 14, further comprising locating a particular flexible tubular shaft reinforcement device in one of the lower, middle and higher portions of the shaft based on the determination of the desired bending point of the shaft. A method of fitting a shaft reinforcing device to a shaft of a golf club.   16. The golf club shaft of claim 15, further comprising the step of slidably adjusting the flexible tubular shaft reinforcement device at one of a lower portion, a middle portion, and a higher portion of the shaft. How to put on. A kit providing a series of shaft reinforcement devices,
First, second, and third separate shaft reinforcement devices, each of the first, second, and third shaft reinforcement devices includes a hollow tubular body having an inner periphery, the first, second And a hollow tubular body and an inner periphery of the third shaft reinforcement device are each dimensioned and configured to be in tight engagement with the lower, middle and higher portions of the golf club shaft.   The first shaft reinforcement device is sized and configured to be slidably adjustable at a lower portion of the golf club shaft, and the second shaft reinforcement device is slid at an intermediate portion of the golf club shaft. The third shaft reinforcement device is sized and configured to be slidably adjustable at a lower portion of the golf club shaft, wherein the third shaft reinforcement device is sized and configured to be movably adjustable. Item 19. A kit for providing a series of shaft reinforcing devices according to Item 18.   20. A kit for providing a series of shaft reinforcement devices according to claim 19, wherein each of the first, second, and third shaft reinforcement devices is comprised of one of rubber, plastic, and polymer.   20. A kit for providing a series of shaft reinforcement devices according to claim 19, wherein each of the shaft reinforcement devices is configured to increase the rigidity characteristics of the golf club shaft when in tight engagement with the golf club.   21. A kit for providing a series of shaft reinforcement devices according to claim 19, wherein each of the shaft reinforcement devices is configured to provide a different bending point with respect to the golf club shaft when in tight engagement with the golf club. .

Images