JP2024009868A - Improved putter grip for supporting golf club matching - Google Patents

Abstract

To obtain a system for taking aim by appropriately fitting a putter.SOLUTION: A grip 2506 includes: a butt end 25061 that is adjacent to an end edge part of a shaft when it is attached to a shaft; a distal end 25071 on the opposite side of the butt end; and a front surface part 25081 which is turned in a direction separated from a user in a normal address position. A front part includes a left edge 25087 extending for a length of the grip 2506 and a right edge 25089. The left edge and the right edge are symmetrical along a central line 25009 of the front part. The left edge and the right edge are tapered to be away from the central line of the front part in a direction from the butt end of the grip to the distal end, and then, become thicker toward the central line of the front part. The left edge and the right edge of the front part are useful to improve feeling of the user gripping the grip and positioning.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 26

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to golf club fitting, and more specifically to an apparatus for properly fitting a putter.

The point of golf is to get the ball into the hole with as few strokes as possible. Every stroke counts the same on the scorecard, whether it's a 300-yard drive or a one-foot putt. Not everyone can hit a ball 300 yards, but everyone can hit a 1-foot putt. Therefore, one of the best ways to improve your golf score is to improve your putting.

While practice is one way to improve your putting, it's not the only way. It is also possible to improve your putting by making sure your putter is properly fitted and properly aligned.

Even if the putting stroke is technically perfect, golfers will struggle to putt toward the hole if the putter is not properly fitted or unable to hit the intended target. There are many ways to tailor a putter to a golfer.

FIG. 1 shows the components of a conventional putter. As shown in FIG. 1, putter 100 includes a striking face 101, a sole 102, and a hosel or neck 103 for connecting a putter head 104 to a shaft 105.

FIG. 1 shows several different ways in which the putter can be oriented at address. Note that like reference numbers have been omitted. The putter 100 is shown tilted forward or delofted (A), in a neutral address position (B), and tilted back (C).

Loft is the angle between the hitting face and a vertical plane perpendicular to the ground plane G when the putter is held in its normal address position. Effective loft is the angle between the striking face at the actual address position and a vertical plane perpendicular to the ground plane G. Thus, while the loft of putter 100 is static based on the shape of the putter, the effective loft can change depending on how putter 100 is tilted when addressing the ball.

A putter needs to have some effective loft, typically between about 4 degrees, in order to most effectively roll a golf ball. This angle is enough to lift the ball slightly off the ground and cause it to immediately go into a roll. Each of the putters 100 shown in (A), (B), and (C) has a loft of approximately 4 degrees. However, each of the putters 100 illustrated by (A), (B), and (C) have different effective lofts. Since the putter 100 shown in (B) is in the normal address position, the effective loft αB is equal to 4°, which is the loft of the putter.

If the effective loft of the putter is too low, the putted ball will be driven into the ground, as shown by (A) in FIG. The putter 100 shown in (A) has an effective loft αA of approximately −1°. This causes the putted ball to bounce and then roll, making it difficult to hit the ball consistently in terms of distance and direction.

If the effective loft of the putter is too high, the putted ball will likely be driven into the air with backspin, as shown in FIG. 1C. The putter 100 shown in (C) has an effective loft αC of approximately 9°. These conditions also make it difficult to hit the ball consistently with respect to distance and/or direction.

It is important to use a putter with the proper loft, as small differences in loft angle can have a dramatic effect on how the putt rolls. However, without special equipment, correctly identifying the appropriate loft for a putter is difficult.

FIG. 2 shows another structure of a conventional putter. As shown in FIG. 2, putter 100 also includes a heel 106, a toe 107, and a lie angle.

The lie angle is the angle between the center of the shaft 105 and the ground plane G when the putter 100 is soleled in its normal address position. The effective lie angle is the angle between the center of the shaft and the ground plane G when the putter is held at its actual address position. According to the Rules of Golf, the putter's lie angle must be less than 80 degrees. Like loft, it is important for golfers to use a putter with the proper lie angle.

FIG. 2 illustrates the effect of lie angle and effective lie angle on a putted golf ball by showing several different ways that a putter can be oriented at address. As shown in FIG. 2, putter 100 is shown with toe 107 higher than heel 106 (A), in a neutral address position (B), and heel 106 higher than toe 107 (C). .

When putting a ball using a putter 100 with a lie angle that is too upright (A), the putter 100 is oriented such that the toe 107 is higher than the heel at impact, as shown in (A). The putter 100 shown in (A) has an effective lie angle βA of approximately 65°, which is approximately 5° smaller than the actual lie angle of the putter 100. In this position, the loft of the putter 100 causes the ball to miss to the left of where the putter is aiming. As shown in Figure 2, the aiming line is shown as a solid black line, and the arrow indicates where the ball will actually be hit.

If you putt the ball using a putter with the correct lie angle (B), the lie angle and the effective lie angle will be equal. The putter 100 shown in (B) has an effective lie angle βB of approximately 70°, which is equal to the lie angle. The putter 100 shown in (B) is oriented substantially parallel to the ground plane G upon impact, and the ball rolls in the direction that the putter is aiming.

When a ball is putted using a putter with a lie angle that is too flat (C), the putter is oriented such that the toe 107 is lower than the heel 106 at impact. The putter 100 shown in (C) has an effective lie angle βC of approximately 75°, which is approximately 5° greater than the actual lie angle of the putter 100. In this position, the loft of the putter will cause the ball to go to the right of where the putter is aiming.

Therefore, it is important to use a putter with an appropriate lie angle, as even small differences in lie angle can have a dramatic effect on how the putt rolls. However, without special equipment, it is difficult to correctly identify the appropriate lie angle.

FIG. 3 shows the ideal path that the putter head should follow during the putter stroke. It is important to swing the putter properly. Since all putters are required by regulation to have a lie angle, the ideal putting stroke is not a pendulum stroke, but one in which the putter head 104 follows an arcuate path 310 that is influenced by the putter's lie angle. become. This deviates from the target line 311. FIG. 3 is a "toe flow" 312 of the putter, where the putter head 104 remains square with respect to the arcuate path 310 during the stroke, rather than remaining square with respect to the target line 311, like a gate. Shows how to open and close. The arcuate path 310 may also be facilitated by the viewing line 313 being inside the target line 311. The viewing line 313 corresponds to a vertical plane extending downward from the eye to the ground plane G. Swinging the putter without a proper arcuate path will make it difficult to hit the putt accurately and the putting stroke will need to be corrected and adjusted.

When hitting a putter, it is also very important to properly aim the putter. Even if a putter has the perfect loft and lie angle and is swung along a perfect arcuate path, it is still difficult to putt if the putter is not properly oriented. It is not uncommon for golfers to aim their putter to the right or left of their intended target multiple times. The longer the putt, the more such misplaced aim will affect the outcome of the putt. For example, aiming just once to the right or left of a target from 10 feet away corresponds to missing the target by 2.1 inches. A standard golf cup is only 4.25 inches wide, so this one degree error can be the difference between a putt for par and a missed putt resulting in bogey.

Therefore, a system is needed to properly fit and aim a putter. The present invention provides such a system and fitting method.

US Patent Application Publication No. 2021/0154552

The systems, methods, and devices described herein have innovative aspects, none of which, alone, are essential to or solely responsible for their desired attributes. It's nothing. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some advantageous features are summarized here.

TECHNICAL FIELD The present technology relates generally to club fitting devices and golf club fitting methods, and more specifically to devices and methods related to putter-type golf clubs. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods that allow players to adjust their putter or putter orientation to achieve an optimal set-up position. By improving setup position, players essentially improve their putting efficiency.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a fitting device for a golf club. The fitting device may include a first device body, the first device body having a first opening formed in the first device body for receiving a shaft of a golf club; a first angle indicator coupled to the first device body and exposed to the upper surface of the first device body; a second angle indicator coupled to the first device body and exposed to the upper surface of the first device body; a stroke surface indicator coupled to one device body and exposed through a lower surface of the first device body.

According to embodiments, the first opening may be formed in the first device body at a first predetermined angle relative to the normal to the lower surface of the device.

The first predetermined angle may be between about 0° and about 30° relative to a normal to the lower surface of the first device body.

The first predetermined angle may preferably be between about 15° and about 25° relative to the normal to the lower surface of the first device body.

The first predetermined angle is most preferably about 20° relative to the normal to the lower surface of the first device body and corresponds to the lie angle of the golf club.

The first angle indicator may be configured to measure a corresponding change in the effective lie angle of the golf club, where the effective lie angle of the golf club is when the club is held at the address position. It is the angle between the shaft of a golf club and the ground.

The second angle indicator can be configured to measure a corresponding change in the effective loft angle of the golf club, the effective loft angle of the golf club being the impact of the golf club when the club is held in the address position. It is the angle between the face and the ground normal.

The fitting device may further include a second opening formed in the first device body at the first predetermined angle, and the second opening may be configured to receive a stroke surface indicator therein. .

The stroke surface indicator may include a collimated light source, and when received within the second aperture, the collimated light source may emit collimated light.

The fitting device may include a fastener securable through a side of the first device body adjacent the first opening.

The fastener may be lockable through the side of the first device body at a complementary angle to the first predetermined angle.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a system for fitting a putter, the system including a putter having a body, a striking face, a back surface opposite the striking face, and a heel. a toe opposite the heel, a sole, an upper surface opposite the sole, and a shaft coupled to the golf club head. The system may further include a fitting device, the fitting device including a first device body and a first opening formed in the first device body to receive the shaft of the putter, the fitting device comprising: the first aperture formed at a first predetermined angle; a fastener configured to apply a force to the shaft within the first aperture; the fastener attachable through the outer surface and adjacent the first opening; and a first angle indicator coupled to the first device body and exposed on the upper surface of the first device body. the first angle indicator configured to measure a difference between an effective lie angle of the putter and a prescribed lie angle of the putter when the putter is held in an address position; a second angle indicator coupled to the first device body and exposed on the upper surface of the first device body, the indicator indicating an effective loft angle of the putter when the putter is held in the address position; the second angle indicator configured to measure a difference between a prescribed loft angle of the putter; and a first groove formed in the lower surface of the first device body. , the first groove configured to receive the collimated light source, and a reflective member removably attached to the striking face. In a first configuration, the fitting device is coupled to the shaft of the putter such that the collimated light source directs a beam of light toward the ground in a direction parallel to the shaft; A collimated light source emits a light beam in a direction parallel to a target line toward the reflective member.

The first predetermined angle may be between about 0° and about 30° with respect to the vertical direction of the lower surface of the first device body.

The first predetermined angle may be between about 15° and about 25° with respect to the vertical direction of the lower surface of the first device body.

The first predetermined angle may be approximately 20 degrees with respect to the vertical direction of the lower surface of the first device body, and may correspond to a lie angle of the golf club.

A fastener may be attachable through the outer surface of the first device body at a supplementary angle to the first predetermined angle.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method of fitting a putter using a fitting device includes the steps of: attaching the fitting device to the shaft of the putter; and, when the putter is held in an address position, fitting the putter. measuring at least one of an effective lie angle, an effective loft angle, and a stroke plane of the putter with a device; and modifying at least one of the putter and the address position to measure the effective lie angle and the effective loft angle. , and modifying at least one of the stroke surfaces.

The effective loft angle may be measured using a first angle indicator exposed through the upper surface of the fitting device, and the effective lie angle may be measured using a second angle indicator exposed through the upper surface of the fitting device. The stroke plane is measured using an angle indicator, and the stroke plane is measured using a collimated light source exposed through the lower surface of the fitting device to direct a beam of collimated light in a direction parallel to the shaft. .

The above method of fitting a putter using a fitting device further includes the steps of: removing the fitting device from the shaft; positioning the fitting device in a ground plane; and collimating the putter in a direction substantially parallel to the ground plane. placing the collimated light source on the fitting device so as to irradiate a beam of light; and a reflective surface on which the beam of collimated light irradiated parallel to the upper ground plane is deposited on the hitting face of the putter. directing the putter to target the collimated light source such that the putter is in contact with the collimated light source; measuring the position of a reflected beam from the reflective surface; and adjusting at least one of the putter and the address position to bring the putter into contact with the reflective surface. adjusting the position of the collimated beam reflected from the collimated beam.

According to other aspects of the invention, a shaft defines a shaft axis, a golf club head coupled to a first end of the shaft, and a golf club head coupled to the shaft at a second end opposite the first end. A fitting device for a golf club including a combined golf grip includes a lower surface, an upper surface opposite the lower surface, and an outer surface connecting the lower surface and the upper surface. a first device body; and an angle indicator connected to the first device body and exposed on the upper surface of the first device body, wherein the lower surface of the first device body is at the tip of the grip. The first device body is connected to the grip such that the angle indicator is in a neutral position when the golf club is in a normal address position. It is arranged at a predetermined angle to a plane extending perpendicular to the shaft axis.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method for adjusting a putter using a fitting device includes the steps of: attaching the fitting device to a grip of the putter; and the fitting device holds the putter at an address position. and modifying at least one of the putter and the address position to determine at least one of the effective lie angle and the effective loft angle. and adjusting.

According to another aspect of the invention, a grip for a golf club includes a shaft forming a shaft axis and a golf club head connected to a first end of the shaft, the grip comprising: a shaft forming a shaft axis; and a golf club head connected to a first end of the shaft. the grip connected to an opposite second end of the shaft, the grip having a butt end furthest from the golf club head; and a distal end opposite the butt end; and/or the distal end is arranged on the shaft axis such that the top surface of the butt end and/or the bottom surface of the distal end are substantially parallel to the ground when the golf club is in a normal address position. is angled with respect to a plane perpendicular to .

According to another aspect of the invention, a grip having the butt end and/or the distal end angled relative to the plane perpendicular to the shaft axis can be combined with a device body; The device body is coupled to the grip such that the bottom surface of the device body contacts the butt end of the grip, and the top surface of the device body is in contact with the butt end of the grip when the golf club is in the normal address position. An angle indicator positioned above is substantially parallel to the upper surface of the butt end of the grip such that it is in a neutral position.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a grip for a golf club including a shaft forming a shaft axis and a golf club head connected to a first end of the shaft, the grip comprising: a shaft forming a shaft axis; Oppositely connected to a second end of the shaft, the grip includes a butt end furthest from the golf club head, a distal end opposite the butt end, a forward portion, a rearward portion, a left side portion, and a right side portion, the forward portion, the rearward portion, the left side, and the right side extending along the length of the grip from the butt end to the distal end; a left edge and a right edge extending along the length of the grip, the left edge and the right edge being symmetrical to each other along a centerline of the forward portion and distal to the butt end of the grip; moving endward, the left edge and the right edge gradually move away from the centerline of the front section, and then gradually approach the centerline of the front section near the distal end of the grip; A plane including the right edge and the left edge may be formed parallel to the target line at the normal address position.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, explain the principles of the invention and further serve to enable those skilled in the relevant art to make and use the invention.

A putter is shown varying the shaft inclination angle which changes its effective loft. A putter is shown varying the shaft inclination angle which changes its effective lie angle. Shows an arc-shaped putting stroke. 1 shows an exploded perspective view of a golf club fitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a golf club fitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 shows an overhead view of a golf club fitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a shaft, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 illustrates an overhead view of a golf club fitting device attached to a right-handed golf club, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 illustrates an overhead view of a golf club fitting device attached to a left-handed golf club, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the bottom of a golf club fitting device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a golf club fitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a putter with a reflective member attached thereto for use in conjunction with a golf club fitting device, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method of fitting a putter to a golf club fitting device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. 1 illustrates a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a grip, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a golf club fitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method of fitting a putter to a golf club fitting device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 20 shows a side view of a grip attached to a golf club according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 21 shows a side view of a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 22 shows a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 23 shows a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of a golf club fitting device according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 26 shows a front view of a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 27 shows a top view of a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 28 shows a top view of a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 29 shows a top view of a grip according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this disclosure. The illustrative examples described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. The aspects of the disclosure generally described herein and illustrated in the figures can be arranged, permuted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated and disclosed. It will be easily understood that it forms part of the . For example, any number of the aspects described herein can be used to implement a system or device, or to practice a method. Furthermore, such a system or device may be implemented using or incorporate other structures, features, or structures and features in addition to or in addition to one or more of the aspects described herein. Such a method may be implemented. Changes and further modifications of the features of the invention set forth herein, as well as additional applications of the principles of the invention set forth in this disclosure, may be effected by those skilled in the relevant art and in possession of this disclosure. It should be considered as within the scope of this invention.

Except for operating examples or unless otherwise noted, all numerical ranges, quantities, values, and percentages, including amounts of materials, moments of inertia, center of gravity locations, loft and bounce angles, power spectra, frequencies, refer to "approximately" Even if a term does not explicitly appear as a value, amount, or range, it can be read as if it were preceded by the word "about." Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and appended claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the invention. At the very least, each numerical parameter should be construed at least in light of the reported number of significant digits and by applying normal rounding techniques, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims. .

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters expressing the broad scope of this invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. However, the numbers inherently contain certain errors due to the standard deviation found in each test measurement. Additionally, it is noted that when numerical ranges of various ranges are described herein, any combination of these values including the recited values may be used.

The following terms may be used in describing the present technology. The singular form (corresponding to the original words "a," "an," and "the") includes plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to one item includes reference to one or more items. The term "plurality" refers to two or more items. The term "substantially" does not require that the recited property, parameter, or value be precisely achieved, but is subject to, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, limitations on measurement accuracy, and others known to those skilled in the art. means that deviations or variations involving factors of may occur in amounts that do not eliminate the effect that the characteristic is intended to provide. For convenience, multiple items may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be interpreted as if each member of the list were individually identified as a separate, unique member. Accordingly, no individual member of such list should be construed to be effectively equivalent to other members of the same list based solely on presentation in a common group, without an indication to the contrary. Further, when the terms "and" and "or" are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are to be construed broadly and any one or more of the listed items alone or in conjunction with a list of Good to be used in combination with other items. The term ``alternatively'' refers to selecting one of two or more options, and unless the context clearly indicates, only the listed options or one of the listed options at a time. It is not intended to limit the selection only.

The features of the disclosure will be more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. After reviewing this discussion, and especially after reading the section titled "Detailed Description," you will understand how the illustrated features serve to explain certain principles of the present disclosure.

4-7, an embodiment of a golf club fitting device 400 is disclosed in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the golf club fitting device 400. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the golf club fitting device 400. FIG. 6 is an overhead view of the golf club fitting device, and FIG. 7 is a side view of the golf club fitting device 400.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the golf club fitting device 400 includes a first device body 401, a first opening 402, a first angle indicator 403, a second angle indicator 404, one or more 2 apertures 405 , one or more third apertures 406 , a stroke surface indicator 407 , a fastener 408 , and a first groove 410 .

As shown in FIG. 5, a first opening 402 is formed through an upper surface 412 and a lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400 and through a side surface 414 of the golf club fitting device 400. It includes a slot portion 402a and an arcuate portion 402b connected to the distal end of the slot portion 402a.

Referring to FIG. 6, the upper surface of golf club fitting device 400 is shown to better illustrate relative dimensions. According to one embodiment of the invention, golf club fitting device 400 may have a width W between approximately 2.0 inches and 5.0 inches. Preferably, the width W of golf club fitting device 400 is between about 2.5 inches and about 3.5 inches. Golf club fitting device 400 may have a length L between about 1.5 inches and about 4.0 inches. Preferably, the length L of golf club fitting device 400 is between about 2.0 inches and about 3.0 inches.

Slot portion 402a of first opening 402 may have a width W1 that is between about 0.5 inch and about 1.0 inch to accommodate insertion of a shaft. Preferably, slot portion 402a has a width W1 that is between about 0.5 inches and about 0.75 inches.

The arcuate portion 402b may have a width greater than the width of the slot portion 402a to facilitate proper alignment of the golf club fitting device 400 on the shaft. According to one embodiment of the invention, arcuate portion 402b of first opening 402 may have a width W2 that is between approximately 0.75 inches and 1.5 inches. Preferably, arcuate portion 402b has a width W2 that is between approximately 0.75 inches and 1.0 inches.

Second opening 405 may have a diameter D between about 0.1 inch and about 1.0 inch. Preferably, the diameter D of second opening 405 is between 0.25 inches and about 0.75 inches.

According to an embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 7, golf club fitting device 400 may have a height H between about 0.1 inches and about 1.5 inches. Preferably, the height H of golf club fitting device 400 is between about 0.25 inches and about 1.0 inches. Most preferably, the height H of the golf club fitting device is about 0.5 inches.

The first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400 may be formed of any suitable material. Preferably, the first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400 is formed of a lightweight material so as not to unduly affect the balance of the golf club when installed. The first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400 may be made of metal, wood, plastic, or composite material. According to an illustrative example, the first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400 may be formed of anodized 6061 aluminum.

Referring to FIG. 7, golf club fitting device 400 is shown from the side to clearly show the unique aspect of first opening 402. Referring to FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, both the slot portion 402a and the arcuate portion 402b of the first opening 402 are formed at a first angle θ with respect to the normal to the lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400. It's good. The first angle θ ensures that the golf club fitting device 400 is substantially in the ground plane G when the club fitting device 400 is attached to the putter shaft 105 held in the normal address position. Make them parallel. The first angle θ may range from about 0° to about 30° relative to the normal to the lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400. Preferably, the first angle θ may range from about 15° to about 25° relative to the normal to the lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400. Most preferably, the first angle θ may be approximately 20° relative to the normal to the lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400, which is the putter's lie angle α.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the fastener 408 is configured to protrude into the first opening 402 and apply a force to secure the shaft 105 within the arcuate portion 402b of the first opening 402. . According to embodiments of the invention, fasteners 408 may be threaded fasteners that fit into corresponding threads on golf club fitting device 400. Alternatively, fastener 408 may be a friction fit into a corresponding opening formed in golf club fitting device 400.

According to one example, as shown in FIG. 7, the fastener 408 can pass through the side 414 of the golf club fitting device 400 at an angle complementary to the first angle θ. That is, the central axis of the fastener 408 can extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sloped surface of the first opening 402. Alternatively, fastener 408 may pass through side 414 of golf club fitting device 400 at an angle that is not complementary to first angle θ. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the fastener 408 may pass through the side 414 of the golf club fitting device 400 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the side 414 of the golf club fitting device 400.

As shown in FIG. 7, when the shaft is secured within the golf club fitting device 400, the fastener 408 is configured such that the shaft 105 contacts the angled surface of the arcuate portion 402b opposite the fastener 408. Apply force to shaft 105. The first angle θ of the surface of arcuate portion 402b ensures that golf club fitting device 400 is substantially parallel to ground plane G when secured to shaft 105.

4 and 5, a second opening 405 is formed through the upper surface 412 and lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400. Referring to FIGS. Stroke plane indicator 407 may be secured within second opening 405 and exposed through lower surface 413 of golf club fitting device 400 by any number of known securing methods. For example, the stroke surface indicator 407 may include an increased diameter that is greater than the diameter of the second opening 405 such that the stroke surface indicator 407 cannot completely pass through the second opening 405. Alternatively, the stroke surface indicator 407 may have a tapered diameter and the second opening 405 may have either a uniform diameter or a correspondingly tapered diameter, such that the stroke surface indicator 407 completely prevents it from passing through.

The second opening 405 is formed at a first angle θ such that an axis passing through the center of the stroke plane indicator 407 is substantially parallel to the shaft angle of the putter secured within the first opening 402. , may be arranged to intersect the ground plane G in front of the striking face. According to one embodiment, stroke plane indicator 407 may be a collimated light source, such as that emitted from a minimal power laser (ie, solid state laser, laser pointer), typically less than about 3 mW. The axis passing through the center of the stroke plane indicator 407 may be the beam of the laser.

According to one embodiment of the invention, golf club fitting device 400 may include two second openings 405 for accommodating both right-handed and left-handed putters. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, one of the second openings 405 is set to the left of where the shaft contacts the arcuate portion 402b of the first opening 402; The other is set to the right of where the shaft contacts the arcuate portion 402b of the first opening 402.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the golf club fitting device 400 is attached to a right-handed putter, the shaft 105 of the right-handed putter is secured within the first opening 402 and the stroke plane indicator 407 is located on the shaft 105. is fixed within the second opening 405 located to the left of the location where it contacts the arcuate portion 402b of the first opening 402.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the golf club fitting device 400 is attached to a left-handed putter, the shaft 105 of the left-handed putter is secured within the first opening 402, and the stroke plane indicator 407 indicates that the shaft 105 is is fixed within a second opening 405 located on the right side of the location where it contacts the arcuate portion 402b of the opening 402.

As shown in FIGS. 8-11, whether the golf club fitting device 400 is attached to a right- or left-handed golf club, an axis passing through the center of the stroke plane indicator 407 is located within the first opening 402. and intersects the ground plane G in front of the striking face at or near the center of the striking face. This relationship is independent of the height at which golf club fitting device 400 is attached to the shaft. Although various shapes of putter shafts and putter necks/hose may result in the axis passing through the center of the stroke plane indicator 407 and intersecting the ground plane G at slightly different locations, advantages of the present invention remains as is, as explained below.

Referring back to FIGS. 4-6, golf club fitting device 400 may include one or more angle indicators. According to one example, golf club fitting device 400 includes a first angle indicator 403 and a second angle indicator 404. As shown in FIG. 6, first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to each other. The first angle indicator 403 may be positioned parallel to the leading edge of the putter's striking face when the putter's shaft is secured within the first opening 402. The second angle indicator 404 may be positioned parallel to the line of sight when the putter shaft is secured within the first opening 402.

According to one example, first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 may be secured within third opening 406 such that they are exposed through upper surface 412 of golf club fitting device 400. The third opening 406 may be formed partially or completely through the first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400. Preferably, the third opening 406 is formed completely through the first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400. The first angle indicator 403 and the second angle indicator 404 are either from above through the upper surface 412 of the golf club fitting device 400 or from below through the lower surface 413 of the putter fitting device 400. It may be secured within the third opening 406 . Preferably, first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 are secured to third opening 406 through lower surface 413 of golf club fitting device 400 by a press fit or snap fit.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, when the golf club fitting device 400 is attached to a right-handed or left-handed putter, the first angle indicator 403 can indicate the effective lie angle of the putter; Angle indicator 404 can indicate the effective loft angle of the putter.

Referring to FIG. 6, markings 409 may be formed on first device body 401 of golf club fitting device 400 proximate first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404. Referring to FIG. The markings 409 may be formed on the first device body 401 in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, being etched into the first device body 401 of the golf club fitting device 400, embossing, Or it can be drawn out and formed. Markings 409 preferably indicate effective lie angles and effective loft angles in fractions of a degree over a range of greater than 10 degrees. Alternatively, markings 409 may be formed directly on first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404.

Additionally, first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 may be provided in a number of different configurations such that the scale and range of markings 409 may vary depending on the precision required for a particular fit. It's good to be different. For example, as a golfer's skill level changes, different first angle indicators 403 and/or second angle indicators 404 may be utilized that measure smaller or larger overall ranges of angles, thus marking 409 can represent larger or smaller increments, respectively.

By way of example, if the putter shaft 105 is fixed within the first opening 402, then when the putter shown in FIG. 8 is tilted more vertically or "more upright", the first angle Indicator 403 will indicate this change in angle. Similarly, when the putter shown in FIG. 7 is tilted downward, or "flatter", first angle indicator 403 will indicate this change in angle.

Similarly, if the putter shaft is fixed within the first opening 402, the putter shown in FIG. Indicator 404 will indicate this change in angle. Similarly, if the putter shown in FIG. 8 were to lean to the right, or "lean back," second angle indicator 404 would indicate this change in angle.

Referring to FIG. 9, golf club fitting device 400 is shown when attached to a left-handed putter. The shaft of the left-handed putter is secured within the first opening 402, and a first angle indicator 403 and a second angle indicator 404 are used to indicate the effective lie angle and effective loft angle, respectively. In this configuration, although the effective lie angle can be measured on the same scale as in the configuration on the right, the effective loft angle is measured using a second set of markings because the loft angles for right-handed and left-handed clubs are opposite. Ru.

The first angle indicator 403 and the second angle indicator 404 include a level, a tilt sensor, a tilt indicator, a tilt meter, a tilt gauge, a slope meter, a slope gauge, a level meter, a level gauge, a curved gas-filled inclinometer, and Any angle indicator may be used, including, but not limited to, a curved fluid-filled inclinometer. Preferably, the first angle indicator 403 and the second angle indicator 404 are curved vial-type fluid-filled slopes having a radius of curvature and filled with damping fluid to ensure a smooth response angle indication. It is a total. The radius of curvature of the inclinometer affects the measurement range of the inclinometer. Thus, the curvature may be adjusted according to the desired range, for example based on the skill of the player.

If the inclinometer includes a bubble indicator, the ends of the first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 are oriented to be lower than their central portions. Conversely, if the inclinometer includes a ball indicator, the ends of the first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 are oriented higher than their central portions.

10 and 11, a golf club fitting device 400 according to the present invention is shown attached to the shaft 105 of a golf club. FIG. 10 is a front view of a golf club fitting device 400 implemented according to an embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 11 is a side view of this golf club fitting device 400.

As a result of the unique construction of golf club fitting device 400, golf club fitting device 400 can be installed on any straight portion of shaft 105. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the golf club fitting device is attached progressively lower to each of the golf clubs (A), (B), and (C). However, despite the different configurations, the axis of the stroke path indicator 407 intersects the ground plane G at substantially the same location. Note that putters can include different types of shafts with different bending profiles. However, regardless of the bending profile of the shaft or its installed location on the shaft, the axis of stroke path indicator 407 intersects ground plane G at substantially the same location for a given putter. If the putter is held away from the proper address position, the point of intersection will also move slightly and this helps the golf club fitting device 400 ensure that the putter is properly fitted. Provide additional ways to help.

12 and 13, golf club fitting device 400 is shown in a second configuration. In a second configuration, a ground-located golf club fitting device 400 and a collimated light source are mounted on the club fitting device such that an axis through its center is emitted substantially parallel to the ground plane G. The collimated light source may be the stroke plane indicator 407 or a different collimated light source. Preferably, the collimated light source is a stroke plane indicator 407 that is defined on the lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400 when the golf club fitting device 400 is inverted as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The first groove 410 is located within the first groove 410 .

Referring to FIG. 14, light emitted by the stroke plane indicator 407 may be directed toward the hitting face of the putter to ensure proper alignment of the putter with respect to the putting line. Stroke plane indicator 407 is oriented perpendicular to the striking face of putter head 104 . Putter head 104 includes a reflective surface 1401 attached to hitting face 101 . The incident beam 1301 emitted by the stroke surface indicator 407 hits a reflective surface 1401 and leaves the reflective surface 1401 as a reflected beam 1302, directed to an opaque surface such as a ruler or paper, a grid such as graph paper, or a photodetector e.g. Return to an indexed reference device, such as a Coupling Device (“CCD”). Reflective surface 1401 may be any reflective surface, but is preferably a mirror or highly polished glass fused silica. Spacers or shims may be used to orient the reflective surface at the appropriate angle to return the collimated light source to the reference device.

When the golfer addresses the golf ball before making a putting stroke, the reflected beam 1302 is returned to the reference device. The position of the reflected beam 1302 on the reference device assists the golfer in determining the orientation of the putter face before making a putting stroke. For example, if the putter face of a right-handed putter is held in the "open" orientation, the laser beam spot will be reflected to the right of center of the reference device. Conversely, if the putter face of a right-handed putter is held in the closed orientation, the laser beam spot will be reflected to the left of the center of the reference device. Of course, if the putter face is square, the laser beam spot will be reflected directly to the center of the reference device.

The invention also relates to a method of fitting and aligning golf clubs. The method includes providing a golf club having a head having a loft angle and a shaft extending from the head at a lie angle, attaching a golf club fitting device to the shaft of the golf club, and measuring an effective loft and an effective lie angle. include. The length and/or position of the golf club is then adjusted based on the effective lie angle and effective loft. The method also includes swinging the club, measuring a swing plane of the golf club using a golf club fitting device, and adjusting the swing plane in response to the measured swing plane. The method also includes aiming the golf club at the target, measuring an actual aiming point of the golf club, and adjusting the aiming based on the measured aiming point.

Referring to FIG. 15, a flowchart diagram illustrates a preferred method of mounting and adjusting a club according to the present invention. The approach and techniques illustrated by the flowcharts are sufficient to explain at least one implementation of this method. However, other implementations of this method may utilize approaches and techniques derived from those shown. It is to be understood that the method steps outlined in the flowcharts are not limited to the order listed; rather, these steps can be performed in any order and still be within the scope of this disclosure. .

As shown in FIG. 15, first, at 1501, a club fitting device 400 is attached to the shaft 105 of a golf club. Club fitting device 400 can be secured to shaft 105 with fasteners. Golf club fitting device 400 is positioned on shaft 105 such that the leading edge (left end in FIG. 8, right end in FIG. 9) is substantially parallel to the leading edge of the putter's striking face.

Next, at 1502, stroke plane indicator 407 is secured to the golf club fitting device. The stroke plane indicator may be a collimated light source, such as a laser, that emits a collimated beam. Stroke plane indicator 407 may be mounted differently based on whether the putter is right-handed or left-handed.

Next, at 1503, the golf club is held in the address position and the first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 are read to determine the effective lie angle and effective loft angle of the putter. In particular, first angle indicator 403 and second angle indicator 404 indicate the degree of deviation of the putter from its normal address position.

Next, at 1504, the position of the putter and/or the putter itself may be adjusted based on the readings of 1503. For example, if the readings of the first angle indicator 403 and the second angle indicator 404 indicate that at least one of the effective lie angle and effective loft angle is not at a specified level, the putter may be repositioned to The loft angle can be set to a specified level. If a golfer feels uncomfortable addressing the ball in a manner that ensures that the effective lie angle and effective loft are at the specified levels, the actual putter may be adjusted or replaced. Putter adjustments or replacements include either changing the putter's lie angle, changing the putter's loft angle, or changing the putter's shaft length to bring the effective lie angle and effective loft angle to specified levels. Do it like this.

Next, in 1505, the swing surface of the putter is evaluated. In particular, the stroke plane indicator 407 is turned on and the light emitted therefrom is focused at or near the area in front of the putter's striking face. While light is emitted from the stroke plane indicator 407, the putter is swung as if in use. When the putter is swung, the light emitted from the stroke plane indicator 407 indicates the swing plane of the ground. When the putter is swung on the proper plane, the path followed by the stroke plane indicator 407 on the ground will be parallel to the intended target line. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the light emitted by the stroke plane indicator 407 is focused on the target line 311 at address, the appropriate arc-shaped path 310 causes the stroke plane indicator 407 to Trace the target line 311 inside. It will be appreciated that depending on the type of shaft attached to the putter, the stroke plane indicator 407 may be focused on the target line, the heel direction of the target line, or the toe direction of the target line. Regardless of where the stroke plane indicator 407 is focused, the stroke plane indicator 407 is substantially parallel to the target line 311 when the stroke is on a plane and follows the appropriate arcuate path 310. Trace a straight line.

Next, at 1506, the stroke and/or putter may be adjusted based on the tracing of the stroke plane indicator 407 at 1505. Many different adjustments may be made based on the traces, including the golfer's eye movement, body alignment, grip, weight distribution, the shape of the putter itself, and the like.

Next, at 1507, the golf club fitting device 400 is removed from the shaft and placed on the ground. A stroke plane indicator 407 is located on the golf club fitting device 400.

Next, at 1508, the putter is placed at an address position such that the stroke surface indicator 407 illuminates toward the hitting face 101 of the putter 100 while the stroke surface indicator 407 is illuminated. When you, as a golfer, address the golf ball before making a putting stroke, the beam emitted from the stroke plane indicator 407 is directed back to the reference device. The position of the reflected light beam on the reference device helps the golfer determine the orientation of the putter face before making a putting stroke. For example, if a right-handed putter face is held in the "open" orientation, the laser beam spot will be reflected to the right of the center of the reference device. Conversely, if the putter face of a right-handed putter is held in the closed orientation, the laser beam spot will be reflected to the left of the center of the reference device. Of course, if the putter face is square, the laser beam spot will be reflected directly to the center of the reference device.

Next, at 1509, the setup position and/or putter may be adjusted based on how the laser beam spot is reflected. These adjustments may include the golfer's eye movement, body alignment, grip, weight distribution, the shape of the putter itself, and the like.

16-18, a golf club fitting device according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. FIG. 16 is a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club grip. FIG. 17 is a side view of the grip and golf club fitting device. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club grip.

As shown in FIG. 16, putter 160 includes a putter head 1604. Shaft 1605 is attached to putter head 1604. A shaft axis 1609 extends from putter head 1604 through the center of shaft 1605. When the putter is held in its normal address position (e.g., held such that the putter's prescribed loft and lie angles are equal to the putter's effective loft and lie angles), the shaft axis 1609 is It is arranged at a lie angle β with respect to the plane G. A grip 1606 is attached to the end of the shaft 1605 opposite the putter head 1604. Golf club fitting device 1600 is attached to putter 160 at the abutting end of grip 1606.

Referring to FIG. 17, grip 1606 and golf club fitting device 1600 attached thereto are shown in more detail to illustrate some of the unique features of golf club fitting device 1600.

As shown in FIG. 17, grip 1606 includes a prong 16061 at its terminal end. Although the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 may be formed at any angle with respect to the shaft axis 1609, preferably the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 is formed substantially perpendicular to the shaft axis 1609. Golf club fitting device 1600 includes a second device main body 1601. The second device body 1601 may be made of metal, wood, plastic, or composite material. According to an exemplary embodiment, the second device body 1601 of the golf club fitting device 1600 may be formed from anodized 6061 aluminum.

The second device body 1601 includes a lower surface 16013, an upper surface 16012 opposite the lower surface 16013, and a side surface 16014 connecting the lower surface 16013 and the upper surface 16012. The lower surface 16013 of the second device body 1601 is in contact with the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 when the golf club fitting device 1600 is attached thereto. According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower surface 16013 and the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 are such that the transition from the grip 1606 to the golf club fitting device 1600 is substantially seamless. It's good that it's structured like this.

As shown in FIG. 17, the lower surface 16013 and upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601 may be formed to be angularly offset from each other. That is, the lower surface 16013 of the second device body 1601 may be substantially parallel to the tip 16061 of the grip 1606, and the upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601 may be substantially parallel to the tip 16061 of the second device body 1601 while the putter 160 is held in the normal address position. It may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G when

Although the lower surface 16013 and upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601 may be offset from each other, the critical dimensions are actually the upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601 and the plane 1611 perpendicular to the shaft axis 1609. is the first angle θ between According to embodiments of the invention, the first angle θ may be between about 0° and about 30°, and preferably the first angle θ is between about 15° and about 25°. The angle may be approximately 20°, most preferably approximately 20°, and may be a supplementary angle to the lie angle β.

When the first angle θ is in this range, the upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601 is substantially parallel to the ground plane G when the putter 160 is held in the normal address position.

Note that the first angle θ is the same as the first angle θ described above with respect to FIG. The first angle θ is measured with respect to the shaft axis 1609 rather than the lower surface 413 of the golf club fitting device 400 in the case shown in FIG. , controls the orientation of golf club fitting device 400 and golf club fitting device 1600 in a similar manner.

Note that shaft axis 1609 may not pass exactly through the center of grip 1606. According to the Rules of Golf, putter grips may be asymmetrical. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, the grip 1606 may be pistol-shaped, where the circumference of the grip 1606 is greatest near the tip 16061 and where the majority of the grip 1606 is near the tip 16061. , located on the underside of the grip 1606 from the golfer's perspective.

Referring to FIG. 18, a perspective view of a golf club fitting device 1600 allows some additional features to be more clearly shown. As shown in FIG. 18, the angle indicator 1603 is coupled to the second device body 1601 and exposed on the upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601. The angle indicator 1603 may be fixed to the second device body 1601 by press fitting, snap fitting, gluing, mechanical fixing, etc.

Angle indicator 1603 may further include level indicator 16034. Angle indicator 1603 may be any angle indicator, including a bubble level, a tilt sensor, a slope indicator, a slope meter, a slope gauge, a gradient meter, a gradiometer, a level gauge, and a level meter. However, it is not limited to these.

Preferably, level indicator 16034 is a ball or bubble configured to move around angle indicator 1603 to indicate both the effective loft angle and effective lie angle of putter 160.

Angle indicator 1603 is configured to indicate both the putter's effective loft angle and effective lie angle. Angle indicator 1603 may further include markings 16033 defined thereon to provide a scale for measuring the effective lie angle and effective loft angle of putter 160 when held at address. Markings 16033 may be formed by any suitable method including, but not limited to, etching, molding, printing, or painting angle indicator 1603.

According to an example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, marking 16033 may include a first axis 16031 and a second axis 16032. When the club fitting device 1600 is installed, the first axis 16031 may be oriented such that an imaginary vertical plane containing the first axis 16031 extends parallel to the leading edge of the hitting face of the putter 160. The second axis 16032 is perpendicular to the first axis 16031 such that when the golf club fitting device 1600 is attached to the putter 160, an imaginary vertical plane containing the second axis 16032 extends parallel to the line of sight. Good to have.

The intersection of the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032 represents the neutral position of the putter 160 when the effective lie angle and effective loft angle are equal to the prescribed lie angle and prescribed loft angle, respectively. When the level indicator 16034 is located at the intersection of the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032, the putter 160 is positioned at its normal address position and exhibits both a prescribed lie angle and a prescribed loft angle. I can do it.

Movement of the level indicator 16034 along the first axis 16031 corresponds to a change in the effective lie angle of the putter 160. Movement of the level indicator 16034 along the second axis 16032 corresponds to a change in the effective loft angle of the putter 160. Therefore, movement of level indicator 16034 in the other direction corresponds to a change in both the effective loft angle and effective lie angle of putter 160.

As an example, level indicator 16034 as shown in FIG. 18 is not centered on the intersection of first axis 16031 and second axis 16032. From the golfer's perspective, in FIG. 18, the level indicator 16034 is offset from the second axis 16032 and is therefore positioned such that the effective lie angle of the putter is too large (i.e., the putter is too upright). has been done. The level indicator 16034 is also offset from the first axis 16031 and is therefore positioned such that the effective loft angle is too small (i.e., the putter is pushed too far forward and the grip is too close to the target). ing).

By adjusting the address position of the putter 160 to center the level indicator 16034 about the intersection of the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032, the putter 160 is consistently positioned at the normal address position. It's good to be done. By practicing positioning the putter 160 in this manner, a golfer can become skilled at consistently and accurately addressing a golf ball. As detailed above, even the slightest deviation from the normal address position can result in a missed putt. Golf club fitting device 1600 therefore greatly assists golfers in improving their setup and therefore their performance.

As shown in FIG. 18, in addition to or as an alternative to the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032, the markings 16033 include a line centered on the intersection of the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032. May contain one or more concentric circles. The markings 16033 include a grid centered at the intersection of the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032 or a series of individual marks arranged along the first axis 16031 and the second axis 16032. good. As yet another example, marking 16033 may include a single point corresponding to a point corresponding to the intersection of first axis 16031 and second axis 16032.

The markings 16033 on the angle indicator 1603 are between about -10 degrees and about 10 degrees, preferably between about -5 degrees and about 5 degrees, and most preferably between about -3 degrees and about 5 degrees, for both lie and loft angles. It may be configured to indicate a range of deviation from the normal address position of between 3 degrees.

Another feature of the invention is a protrusion 16015, shown more clearly in FIG. 18, that extends from the lower surface 16013 of the second device body 1601. Protrusion 16015 is configured to secure golf club fitting device 1600 to tip 16061 of grip 1606. Protrusion 16015 may be tapered or have a constant diameter. One or more ribs 16016 may be included that have an increased diameter relative to adjacent portions of protrusion 16015. Protrusion 16015 is dimensioned to fit snugly within a hole formed in tip 16061 of a conventional golf grip, such as grip 1606.

Although not shown in the drawings, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the first magnet may be fixedly attached to the lower surface 16013 of the second device body 1601 and the second magnet may be attached to or formed integrally with the tip 16061 of the bore pp 1606. The first and second magnets can have opposite polarities so that the golf club fitting device 1600 can be removably coupled to the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 via magnetic forces.

According to other alternative embodiments, the golf club fitting device 1600 may be removably coupled to the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 using an adhesive or a mechanical fastener, such as a screw.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the golf club fitting device can be quickly and easily installed on a golf club for use during practice, since the Rules of Golf do not permit moving parts to be attached to a golf club during play. It's good to be done. The configuration of the golf club fitting device, specifically, the angular offset between the upper and lower surfaces of the second device body is such that the angle indicator can be centered relative to the ground when installed. Offset the lie angle of the golf club. The central position of the angle indicator allows for accurate and consistent installation and allows the angle indicator to accurately and consistently measure both effective loft angle and effective lie angle. As a result, golf club fitting devices according to embodiments of the present invention can uniquely improve a golfer's accuracy and consistency in setup and, therefore, in play.

The invention also relates to a method of fitting a golf club. The method includes the steps of: preparing a golf club including a head having a loft angle and a shaft extending from the head having a lie angle; attaching a golf club fitting device to a grip of the golf club; determining an effective loft angle; and adjusting the length and/or position of the golf club based on the effective lie angle and the effective loft angle.

Referring to FIG. 19, a flowchart diagram illustrates a preferred method of club fitting and adjustment according to the present invention. The approach and techniques illustrated by the flowcharts are sufficient to explain at least one implementation of this method. However, other implementations of this method may utilize different approaches and techniques than those shown. It is to be understood that the method steps outlined in the flowcharts are not limited to the order listed; rather, these steps can be performed in any order and still be within the scope of this disclosure. .

As shown in FIG. 19 and understood with reference to the golf club fitting device of FIGS. 16-18, first, at 1901, the club fitting device 1600 is attached to the grip 1606 of the putter 160. Club fitting device 1600 may be secured to grip 1606 with protrusions 16015, adhesive, or other mechanical fasteners, as described in detail above. The golf club fitting device 1600 is positioned on the tip 16061 of the grip 1606 such that the upper surface 16012 of the second device body 1601 is parallel to the ground when the putter 160 is held in the normal address position.

Next, at 1902, the putter 160 is held at the address position and the angle indicator 1603 is read to determine the effective lie angle and effective loft angle of the putter 160. In particular, angle indicator 1603 may indicate a deviation of putter 160 from its normal address position.

Next, at 1903, the position of putter 160, and/or putter 160 itself, may be adjusted based on the readings at 1902. For example, if the angle indicator 1603 reading indicates that at least one of the effective lie angle and effective loft angle is not at a predetermined level, the putter 160 Good to be rearranged to ensure level. If the golfer feels uncomfortable dealing with the ball in a manner that ensures that the effective lie angle and effective loft are at the prescribed levels, the actual putter 160 may be adjusted or replaced. Adjustment or replacement of the putter 160 can be made by changing the lie angle of the putter 160, changing the loft angle of the putter 160, or changing the shaft length of the putter 160 so that the effective lie angle and effective loft angle are within the specified range. This may include any of the following:

20 and 21, a grip according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed to assist in fitting a golf club. FIG. 20 is a side view of a grip attached to a golf club in a normal address position. FIG. 21 is a side view of the grip.

As shown in FIG. 20, putter 200 includes a putter head 2004. A shaft 2005 is attached to the putter head 2004. A shaft axis 2009 extends from putter head 2004 through the center of shaft 2005. When putter 200 is held in a normal address position (e.g., the putter's predetermined loft and lie angles are held equal to the putter's effective loft and lie angles), shaft axis 2009 is It is arranged at a lie angle β with respect to the ground plane G. Grip 2006 is attached to the end of shaft 2005 opposite putter head 2004 . The grip 2006 includes a butt end 20061 adjacent the terminal portion of the shaft 2005 and a distal end 20071 opposite the butt end 20061. The butt end 20061 has an upper surface 20063 that is substantially planar. The distal end 20071 of the grip 2006 includes a bottom surface 20073 that is substantially planar.

Referring to FIG. 21, grip 2006 is shown in more detail to detail some of the unique features of grip 2006.

As shown in FIG. 21, grip 2006 includes a butt end 20061 at its terminal end. The upper surface 20063 of the butt end 20061 is formed at an angle to a plane 2011 extending perpendicular to the shaft axis 2009. The bottom surface 20073 of the distal end 20071 may be formed at an angle to a plane 2021 that extends perpendicularly to the shaft axis 2009. When the putter 200 is held in the normal address position, the upper surface 20063 of the butt end 20061 may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G, and when the putter 200 is held in the normal address position, The bottom surface 20073 of the distal end 20071 may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G. The top surface 20063 of the butt end 20061 provides a visual indication of the effective lie angle and effective loft angle of the putter head 2004. Similarly, the bottom surface 20073 of the distal end 20071 provides a visual indication of the effective lie angle of the putter head 2004.

When the upper surface 20063 of the butt end 20061 and/or the lower surface 20073 of the distal end 20071 are parallel to the ground plane G, the putter 200 is positioned at a normal address position and achieves both a prescribed lie angle and a prescribed loft angle. Then you can say.

Referring to FIG. 21, the critical dimension is the first angle θ1 between the top surface 20063 of butt end 20061 and a plane 2011 extending perpendicular to shaft axis 2009. According to embodiments of the invention, the angle θ1 may be from about 10° to about 30°, preferably the first angle θ1 may be from about 15° to about 25°, and most preferably , the first angle θ1 is approximately 20° and may be complementary to the lie angle β.

If the first angle θ1 is within this range, the upper surface 20063 of the butt end 20061 will be approximately parallel to the ground plane G when the putter 200 is at the normal address position.

The bottom surface 20073 of the distal end 20071 of the grip 2006 is oriented such that a second angle θ2 is formed between the bottom surface 20073 of the distal end 20071 of the grip 2006 and a plane 2021 extending perpendicular to the shaft axis 2009. good. According to embodiments of the invention, the second angle θ2 may be from about 10° to about 30°, preferably, the second angle θ2 may be from about 15° to about 25°; Most preferably, the second angle θ2 may be complementary to the lie angle β, with β being approximately 20°. Accordingly, the top surface 20063 of butt end 20061 and the bottom surface 20073 of distal end 20071 may be parallel to each other.

22-24, a golf club fitting device according to an embodiment of the invention is disclosed. FIG. 22 is a side view of a golf club fitting device attached to a golf club grip. FIG. 23 is a side view of the grip and golf club fitting device. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the golf club fitting device.

As shown in FIG. 22, putter 220 includes a putter head 2204. A shaft 2205 is attached to putter head 2204. A shaft axis 2209 extends from putter head 2204 through the center of shaft 2205. When the putter 220 is held in a normal position (e.g., the putter's stated loft and lie angles are held equal to the putter's effective loft and lie angles), the shaft axis 2209 is in the ground plane. It is arranged at a lie angle β with respect to G. A grip 2206 is attached to the end of the shaft 2205 opposite the putter head 2204. The grip 2206 includes a butt end 22061 adjacent the terminal portion of the shaft 2205 and a distal end 22071 opposite the butt end 22061. Butt end 22061 has a top surface 22063 that is substantially planar. The distal end 22071 of the grip 2206 includes a bottom surface 22073 that is substantially planar. Golf club fitting device 2200 is attached to putter 220 at butt end 22061 of grip 2206.

Referring to FIG. 23, grip 2206 and golf club fitting device 2200 attached thereto are shown in more detail to elaborate some of the unique features of grip 2206 and golf club fitting device 2200.

As shown in FIG. 23, grip 2206 includes a butt end 22061 at its terminal end. The upper surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 is formed at an angle to a plane 2211 extending perpendicular to the shaft axis 2209. The bottom surface 22073 of the distal end 22071 may be formed at an angle to a plane 2221 that extends perpendicularly to the shaft axis 2209. The top surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G when the putter 220 is held in the normal address position, and the bottom surface 22073 of the distal end 22071 may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G when the putter 220 is held in the normal address position. When held in position, it may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G. The bottom surface 22073 of the distal end 22071 may provide a visual indication of the effective lie angle and effective loft angle of the putter head 2204. Golf club fitting device 2200 includes a device main body 2201. The device body 2201 may be made of metal, wood, plastic, or composite material. According to an exemplary embodiment, the device body 2201 of the golf club fitting device 2200 may be formed from anodized 6061 aluminum.

The device main body 2201 includes a lower surface 22013, an upper surface 22012 on the opposite side of the lower surface 22013, and a side surface 22014 connecting the lower surface 22013 and the upper surface 22012. When the golf club fitting device 2200 is attached to the grip 2206, the bottom surface 22013 of the device body 2201 may contact the top surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 of the grip 2206. According to embodiments of the invention, the lower surface 22013 of the device body 2201 and the upper surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 are arranged with respect to each other such that there is little or no gap between the grip 2206 and the golf club fitting device 2200. They may be configured to substantially match.

As shown in FIG. 23, the lower surface 22013 and the upper surface 22012 of the device main body 2201 may be formed substantially parallel. Further, the lower surface 22013 of the device body 2201 may be substantially parallel to the upper surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 of the grip 2206. Accordingly, the top surface 22012 of the device body 2201 may be substantially parallel to the ground plane G when the putter 220 is held in the normal address position.

Since the lower surface 22013 and upper surface 22012 of the device body 2201 are substantially parallel to the upper surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 of the grip 2206, the critical dimension is perpendicular to the surface 22063 of the butt end 22061 and the shaft axis 2209. A first angle θ21 with respect to the extending plane 2211. According to embodiments of the invention, the first angle θ21 may be from about 10° to about 30°, preferably the first angle θ21 may be from about 15° to about 25°, and most preferably The first angle θ21 may be approximately 20° and is complementary to the lie angle β.

When the first angle θ21 is within this range, the upper surface 22012 of the device main body 2201 is approximately parallel to the ground plane G when the putter 220 is at the normal address position. The first angle θ21 ultimately controls the orientation of the golf club fitting device 2200 with respect to the ground plane G.

The bottom surface 22073 of the distal end 22071 of the grip 2206 may be oriented such that a second angle θ22 is formed between the bottom surface 22073 of the distal end 22071 of the grip 2206 and a plane 2221 extending perpendicular to the shaft axis 2209. . According to embodiments of the invention, the second angle θ22 may be from about 10° to about 30°, preferably the second angle θ22 may be from about 15° to about 25°, and most preferably the second angle θ22 may be from about 15° to about 25°. Angle θ22 may be approximately 20° and is complementary to lie angle β. Accordingly, the top surface 22063 of butt end 22061 and the bottom surface 22073 of distal end 22071 may be parallel to each other.

Note that shaft axis 2209 may not pass exactly through the center of grip 2206. According to the rules of golf, putter grips may be asymmetrical. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, the grip 2206 may have a pistol shape where the outer circumference of the grip 2206 is greatest near the butt end 22061, where a larger percentage of the grip 2206 Located on the underside of grip 2206 from the golfer's perspective.

Referring to FIG. 24, a perspective view of a golf club fitting device 2200 more clearly shows some additional features. As shown in FIG. 24, the angle indicator 2203 is coupled to the device main body 2201 and exposed on the top surface 22012 of the device main body 2201. Angle indicator 2203 may be secured to device body 2201 by press fit, snap fit, adhesive, mechanical fastener, or the like.

Angle indicator 2203 may further include level indicator 22034. Angle indicator 2203 may be any angle indicator including, but not limited to, a bubble level, a tilt sensor, a tilt indicator, a slope meter, a slope gauge, a gradient meter, a gradiometer, a level gauge, and a level meter. include.

Preferably, level indicator 22034 is a ball or bubble configured to move around angle indicator 2203 to indicate both the effective loft angle and effective lie angle of putter 220.

Angle indicator 2203 is configured to indicate both the effective loft angle and effective lie angle of the putter. Angle indicator 2203 may further include markings 22033 formed thereon to provide a scale for measuring the effective lie angle and effective loft angle of putter 220 at address. Markings 22033 may be formed by any suitable method including, but not limited to, etching, molding, printing, or painting onto angle indicator 2203.

According to an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, marking 22033 may include a first axis 22031 and a second axis 22032. The first axis 22031 may be oriented such that an imaginary vertical plane including the first axis 22031 extends parallel to the leading edge of the striking face of the putter 220 when the club fitting device 2200 is attached. The second axis 22032 is perpendicular to the first axis 22031 such that when the golf club fitting device 2200 is attached to the putter 220, an imaginary vertical plane including the second axis 22032 extends parallel to the line of sight. Good to have.

The intersection of the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032 represents the neutral position of the putter 220, where the effective lie angle and effective loft angle are equal to the prescribed lie angle and prescribed loft angle, respectively. When the spirit level 22034 is located at the intersection of the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032, it can be said that the putter 220 is located at a normal address position and exhibits both a specified lie angle and a specified loft angle.

Movement of the level indicator 22034 along the first axis 22031 corresponds to a change in the effective lie angle of the putter 220. Movement of the level indicator 22034 along the second axis 22032 corresponds to a change in the effective loft angle of the putter 220. Therefore, movement of level indicator 22034 in the other direction corresponds to a change in both the effective loft angle and effective lie angle of putter 220.

As an example, the level indicator 22034 shown in FIG. 24 is not centered on the intersection of the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032. From the golfer's perspective, the level indicator 22034 of FIG. 24 is offset from the second axis 22032 and is therefore positioned such that the effective lie angle of the putter is too large (i.e., the putter is too upright). . The level indicator 22034 is also offset from the first axis 22031 and is therefore positioned such that the effective loft angle is too small (ie, the putter is pushed too far forward and the grip is too close to the target).

By adjusting the address position of the putter 220 to center the level indicator 22034 around the intersection of the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032, the putter 220 can be consistently placed at the normal address position. . By practicing positioning the putter 220 in this manner, the golfer can become more proficient at consistently and accurately addressing the golf ball. As detailed above, even the slightest deviation from the normal address position can lead to a missed putt. Therefore, the golf club fitting device 2200 may be of great help in improving a golfer's set-up and therefore the golfer's performance.

As shown in FIG. 24, in addition to or in place of the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032, the markings 22033 are arranged on one or more It may contain concentric circles. As another example, the markings 22033 may include a grid centered at the intersection of the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032, or a series of discrete marks arranged along the first axis 22031 and the second axis 22032. May be included. As yet another example, marking 22033 may include a single point corresponding to the intersection of first axis 22031 and second axis 22032.

The markings 22033 on the angle indicator 2203 are between about -10 degrees and about 10 degrees, preferably between about -5 degrees and about 5 degrees, and most preferably between about -3 degrees and about 5 degrees, for both lie and loft angles. It may be configured to indicate a range of deviation from the normal address position of between 3 degrees.

Another feature of the invention, as more clearly shown in FIG. 24, is a protrusion 22015 extending from the lower surface 22013 of the device body 2201. Protrusion 22015 is configured to secure golf club fitting device 2200 to butt end 22061 of grip 2206. Protrusion 22015 may be tapered or have a constant diameter and may include one or more ribs 22016 of increased diameter relative to adjacent portions of protrusion 22015. Protrusion 22015 is sized to securely fit within a hole formed in butt end 22061 of grip 2206.

Although not shown, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, a first magnet is fixedly attached to the lower surface 22013 of the device body 2201 and a second magnet is attached to the lower surface 22013 of the device body 2201. or may be formed integrally. The first and second magnets may have opposite polarities such that the golf club fitting device 2200 may be removably coupled to the butt end 22061 of the grip 2206 via magnetic forces.

According to other alternative embodiments, golf club fitting device 2200 may be removably coupled to butt end 22061 of grip 2206 using adhesive or mechanical fasteners such as screws.

25-29, a grip according to one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed to assist in fitting a golf club. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the grip, FIG. 26 is a front view of the grip, FIG. 27 is a top view of the grip, and FIG. 28 is a top view of the grip in a first offset orientation. and FIG. 29 is a top view of the grip in a second offset orientation.

As shown in FIG. 25, a grip 2506 configured to attach to a shaft having a shaft axis includes a butt end 25061 adjacent a terminal portion of the shaft when attached to the shaft, and a grip 2506 on the opposite side of the butt end 25061. It includes a distal end 25071 and a front portion 25081 that is oriented away from the user in the normal address position.

As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the grip further includes a rear portion 25083, a left side 25084, and a right side 25085. The front 25081, rear 25083, left side 25084, and right side 25085 extend along the length of the grip 2506 from the butt end 25061 to the distal end 25071. Front portion 25081 includes a left edge 25087 and a right edge 25089 that extend the length of grip 2506. Left edge 25087 and right edge 25089 are symmetrical to each other along centerline 25009 of front portion 25081. Moving from the butt end 25061 to the distal end 25071 of the grip 2506, the left edge 25087 and right edge 25089 taper away from the centerline 25009 of the anterior portion 25081 and then taper toward the centerline 25009 of the anterior portion. It's getting fatter towards the end. Left edge 25087 and right edge 25089 of front portion 25081 help improve feel and alignment for a user grasping grip 2506. Left edge 25087 and right edge 25089 of front portion 25081 may be smooth and continuous along the length of grip 2506.

Referring to FIG. 27, a plane 25011 may be formed that includes at least a portion of the left edge 25087 and at least a portion of the right edge 25089. Plane 25011 is parallel to target line 25022 at the normal address position. Grip 2506 may be attached to the putter such that plane 25011 is perpendicular to a plane containing the leading edge of the putter's striking surface. The orientation of plane 25011 relative to target line 25022 provides a visual indication of whether the putter's striking surface is perpendicular, open, or closed to the target line.

As shown in FIG. 28, plane 25011 is angled relative to target line 25022. This orientation represents the putter's striking face in a closed position for a right-handed golfer, resulting in the ball being hit to the left of the target line 25022. For a left-handed golfer, the orientation shown in FIG. 28 represents an open position and the ball will be hit to the left of target line 25022.

As shown in FIG. 29, plane 25011 is angled relative to target line 25022 in the opposite direction from that shown in FIG. The orientation shown in FIG. 29 represents the hitting face of the putter in an open position for a right-handed golfer, resulting in the ball being hit to the right of the target line 25022. For a left-handed golfer, the orientation shown in FIG. 29 represents a closed position and the ball will be hit to the right of target line 25022.

According to another embodiment of the invention, in the grip described in FIGS. 25-29, the butt end has a substantially planar upper surface and extends in a plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, as shown in FIGS. 20-21. It's nice that it's at an angle. Additionally, the grips described in FIGS. 25-29 may be at the end of the butt, as illustrated in FIGS. 16-18 or 22-24.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the golf club fitting device can be quickly and easily attached to a golf club for use during practice, since the rules of golf do not allow moving parts to be attached to a golf club during play. can do. The configuration of the golf club fitting device, specifically, the top surface of the device body, which is substantially parallel to the ground in the normal address position, is such that the angle indicator is centered with respect to the ground when the golf club fitting device is installed. Offset the lie angle of the club. The central location of the angle indicator allows for accurate and consistent placement, thereby allowing the angle indicator to accurately and consistently measure both effective loft angle and effective lie angle. As a result, golf club fitting devices according to embodiments of the present invention can uniquely improve the accuracy and consistency of a golfer's setup, and thus the golfer's accuracy and consistency during play.

In describing this technology herein, certain features that are described in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented in multiple implementations individually or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, even if a technical feature is previously described and originally claimed as operating in a particular combination, one or more features from the claimed combination may in some cases be cut out of the combination. The claimed combination may be directed to subcombinations or modifications of subcombinations.

Various modifications to the implementations disclosed herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. good. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein, but are accorded the broadest scope consistent with this disclosure and the principles and novel features disclosed herein. It should be done.
The technical features described here will be explained below.
[Technical feature 1]
A grip for a golf club including a shaft forming a shaft axis, and a golf club head connected to a first end of the shaft, the grip comprising: a second end of the shaft opposite the first end; In the above grip to be connected,
a butt end adjacent a terminal portion of the second end of the shaft, the butt end having a substantially planar upper surface;
a distal end opposite the butt end;
the upper surface of the butt end is formed at a first angle with respect to a first plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, the first angle being between about 10° and about 30°;
A grip wherein the upper surface of the butt end is substantially parallel to the ground when the golf club is held in a normal address position.
[Technical feature 2]
Grip according to technical feature 1, wherein the first angle is about 20°.
[Technical feature 3]
The grip according to technical feature 1, wherein the first angle is complementary to a predetermined lie angle of the shaft axis.
[Technical feature 4]
the distal end has a substantially flat bottom surface, the bottom surface of the distal end being formed at a second angle with respect to a second plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, the second angle being about 10 and approximately 30°;
The grip of technical feature 1, wherein the bottom surface of the distal end is substantially parallel to the ground when the golf club is held in the normal address position.
[Technical feature 5]
Grip according to technical feature 4, wherein the second angle is about 20°.
[Technical feature 6]
further comprising a golf club fitting device attached to the butt end,
The above golf club fitting device is
a device main body comprising a lower surface, an upper surface opposite to the lower surface, and a side surface connecting the upper surface and the lower surface;
an angle indicator coupled to the device main body and exposed on the top surface of the device main body,
the device body is adapted to be coupled to the grip such that the lower surface of the device body is adjacent to the upper surface of the butt end;
the upper surface of the device body is oriented substantially parallel to the ground when the golf club is held in the normal address position;
Grip according to technical feature 1, wherein when the golf club is in the normal address position, the angle indicator is in a neutral position.
[Technical feature 7]
The grip of technical feature 6, wherein the angle indicator is configured to measure both an effective lie angle of the golf club head and an effective loft angle of the golf club head.
[Technical feature 8]
The device main body further includes a protrusion extending from the lower surface,
Grip according to technical feature 6, wherein the protrusion is adapted to removably couple the device body to the butt end.
[Technical feature 9]
Grip according to technical feature 6, wherein a first magnet is fixedly attached to the lower surface of the device body, the first magnet removably coupling the device body to the bat end via magnetic force.
[Technical feature 10]
Grip according to technical feature 6, wherein the angle indicator is a bubble level.
[Technical feature 11]
Grip according to technical feature 6, wherein the angle indicator includes a bubble level, and the bubble level is a ball.
[Technical feature 12]
In a grip configured to be attached to a shaft having a shaft axis,
a butt end adjacent to the distal end portion of the shaft;
a distal end opposite the butt end;
a front, a rear, a left side portion, and a right side portion extending the length of the grip from the butt end to the distal end;
a left edge and a right edge of the front portion extending over the length of the grip;
the left edge and the right edge are symmetrical to each other along a centerline of the front portion;
Moving in a direction from the butt end to the distal end, the left edge and the right edge gradually move away from the centerline of the anterior section and then move toward the centerline of the anterior section. A grip featuring
[Technical feature 13]
Grip according to technical feature 12, wherein a plane including at least a portion of the left edge and at least a portion of the right edge is parallel to the target line in the normal address position.
[Technical feature 14]
The grip of technical feature 12, wherein the left edge and the right edge are smooth and continuous along the length of the grip.
[Technical feature 15]
As the portion moves in the direction from the butt end to the distal end, the left edge and right edge gradually move toward the center line of the front portion at a position closer to the distal end than the butt end. The grip according to technical feature 12, which approaches .
[Technical feature 16]
the butt end has a substantially planar upper surface;
the upper surface of the butt end is formed at a first angle with respect to a first plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, the first angle being between about 10° and about 30°;
The grip of technical feature 12, wherein the upper surface of the butt end is substantially parallel to a ground plane when the grip is held in a normal address position.
[Technical feature 17]
Grip according to technical feature 16, wherein the first angle is about 20°.
[Technical feature 18]
17. The grip of technical feature 16, wherein the first angle is complementary to a defined predetermined lie angle of the shaft axis.
[Technical feature 19]
The distal end has a bottom surface that is substantially planar, and the bottom surface of the distal end is formed at a second angle with respect to a second plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, and the second angle is between about 10° and about 30°,
17. The grip of technical feature 16, wherein the bottom surface of the distal end is substantially parallel to the ground plane when the grip is held in the normal address position.
[Technical feature 20]
Grip according to technical feature 19, wherein the second angle is about 20°.

1600 Golf club fitting device 1601 Device body 16012 Upper surface 16013 Lower surface 16014 Side surface 16015 Protrusion 16016 Rib 1603 Angle indicator 16031 First shaft 16032 Second shaft 16033 Marking 16034 Level indicator 1604 Putter head 1605 Shaft 1606 Grip 16061 Tip 1 609 Shaft Axis 1611 A plane perpendicular to the shaft axis 1609

Claims (9)

In a grip configured to be attached to a shaft having a shaft axis,
a butt end adjacent to the distal end portion of the shaft;
a distal end opposite the butt end;
a front, a rear, a left side portion, and a right side portion extending the length of the grip from the butt end to the distal end;
a left edge and a right edge of the front portion extending over the length of the grip;
the left edge and the right edge are symmetrical to each other along the centerline of the front portion;
Moving in a direction from the butt end to the distal end, the left edge and the right edge gradually move away from the centerline of the anterior section and then move toward the centerline of the anterior section. A grip featuring 2. The grip of claim 1, wherein a plane including at least a portion of the left edge and at least a portion of the right edge is parallel to a target line in a normal address position. The grip of claim 1, wherein the left edge and the right edge are smooth and continuous along the length of the grip. As the portion moves in the direction from the butt end to the distal end, the left edge and right edge gradually move toward the center line of the front portion at a position closer to the distal end than the butt end. 2. A grip according to claim 1, wherein the grip approaches . the butt end has a substantially planar upper surface;
the upper surface of the butt end is formed at a first angle with respect to a first plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, the first angle being between about 10° and about 30°;
The grip of claim 1, wherein the upper surface of the butt end is substantially parallel to a ground plane when the grip is held in a normal address position. 6. The grip of claim 5, wherein the first angle is about 20[deg.]. 6. The grip of claim 5, wherein the first angle is complementary to a defined predetermined lie angle of the shaft axis. The distal end has a bottom surface that is substantially planar, and the bottom surface of the distal end is formed at a second angle with respect to a second plane perpendicular to the shaft axis, and the second angle is between about 10° and about 30°,
6. The grip of claim 5, wherein the bottom surface of the distal end is substantially parallel to the ground plane when the grip is held in the normal address position. 9. The grip of claim 8, wherein the second angle is about 20[deg.].

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