TWI577425B - Simplified golf club swing training apparatus - Google Patents

Description

Simplified golf club swing training equipment

The present invention relates to a simplified golf club swing training device.

Golfers are always looking for ways to improve their grades. As a result, many different types of training devices have been disclosed in the approved U.S. patents for improving the skill of the golfer in various aspects. Some of these training devices are specially configured to improve the golfer's swing, making the golf ball he or she play farther, straighter or more precise. In general, such training devices are designed for use in the driving range, where repetitive use of the device will create muscle memory or other body effects, thereby altering the golfer's swing and being able to be more during a real golf game. Good use of custom golf clubs.

The summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in the following description This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, and is not intended to be an aid in determining the scope of the claimed.

The training device embodiment described in this specification relates to a Gaull Club swing training equipment. In an exemplary embodiment, the training device includes a golf club shaft and a sliding mechanism. The shaft has one end and one end and includes two separate and distinct portions that are spaced apart to form a gap therebetween, wherein the portions include an upper shaft portion and a lower shaft portion The upper shaft portion includes the root end of the shaft, and the lower shaft portion includes the head end of the shaft. A ball striking head is attached to the head end of the shaft. The sliding mechanism is inserted into the gap, and the sliding mechanism is coupled to the lower end of the upper shaft portion and the upper end of the lower shaft portion. The sliding mechanism is configured to allow a lateral offset of the upper end of the lower shaft portion relative to the lower end of the upper shaft portion during swinging of the club.

The training device embodiment described in this specification also relates to a method for manufacturing the training device. In an exemplary embodiment of the method, a golf club is provided, the golf club comprising a shaft including an end and a head end, the head end of the shaft being attached to a ball striking head . The shaft is then cut into the two parts described above. An axial alignment device is then used to connect the two portions to the opposing connectors of the sliding mechanism. The axial alignment device maintains an extension axis of the upper shaft portion substantially aligned with an extension axis of the lower shaft portion when coupled to the sliding mechanism. The sliding mechanism is configured to allow the upper end of the lower shaft portion to be laterally offset relative to the lower end of the upper shaft portion during the swinging of the club to strike a ball with the ball striking head.

10‧‧‧ golf clubs

11‧‧‧ ball

12‧‧‧ shaft

14‧‧‧ rods

16‧‧‧ head

18‧‧‧Sliding mechanism

20‧‧‧ upper part

22‧‧‧ Lower part

24, 26‧‧‧ connectors

27‧‧‧ interface

28, 30‧‧‧Sliding track

29‧‧‧Track interface

32, 34‧‧‧ Track stabilizer

36, 40‧‧‧Line guide block

37‧‧‧Tracking rim

38‧‧‧ yoke

39‧‧‧ hole

41, 74, 75, 114, 116, 152‧‧‧ screws

42‧‧‧Probe

44, 46, 66, 110, 111, 134‧‧‧ surface

45, 57, 76, 78, 122~125, 154, 176~179‧‧ ‧ threaded orifice

48‧‧‧ knob

49‧‧‧fasteners

50‧‧‧Modified sliding mechanism

51‧‧‧ convertible sliding mechanism

52‧‧‧Slide rails

53‧‧‧ orbital distance limiter

54, 68‧‧‧Upper connector

55, 80, 118~121‧‧ ‧ orifice

56‧‧‧Track guide block

58, 130, 148‧‧‧ connectors

59‧‧‧ Lower shaft part connector

60, 62, 67, 69, 150‧‧‧ orbital movement distance limiting parts

63‧‧‧Aligning parts

61, 64, 70, 84, 112, 132‧‧‧ cavity

65‧‧‧Aligning the cavity

71, 73‧‧‧ Conversion components

72‧‧‧ tube

77, 79, 81‧‧‧ lock washers

82‧‧‧ head

83, 85, 86‧‧ ‧ weight reduction orifice

90, 92, 94, 96, 98‧ ‧ corner points

100, 102‧‧‧Extended track slots

104, 106‧‧‧Tracking parts

108‧‧‧Line guide channel

126, 128, 156‧ ‧ vertical walls

136‧‧‧weight components

138‧‧‧ Bushing

140‧‧‧Internal

142‧‧‧Internal radial wall

144‧‧ head

146‧‧‧Threaded shaft

152‧‧‧Track moving distance limit screw

158‧‧‧Axial alignment equipment

160, 162‧‧‧L-beam

164‧‧‧ slot beam

166‧‧‧Resection area

168, 170‧‧ ‧ rim

172, 174‧‧‧ legs

180‧‧‧ root end

Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4, Y5, Y6, Y7‧‧‧ longitudinal axis

D1, D2‧‧‧ distance

D3‧‧‧radial outer radius

H1, H2‧‧‧ height

L1, L2, L3‧‧‧ length

T1‧‧‧ extended groove

Vertex of V1, V2‧‧‧

450, 452, 454, 456, 458, 460‧‧‧ action

462, 464, 466, 468‧‧‧ action

480, 482, 484, 486, 488, 490, 492, 494‧‧‧ actions

The above and other objects and advantages of the present invention, which are also referred to as the training device embodiments, will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments. include: 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the schematic shape of a training golf club of the present invention, which hits a golf ball in two different situations to produce two different trajectories, one being left To the right, the other is right to left.

Figure 3 illustrates a plan view of one embodiment of a sliding mechanism that is inserted into a golf club shaft in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 2.

4 through 7 illustrate a three dimensional view of an exemplary embodiment of various components of the sliding mechanism of Fig. 3.

Figure 8 illustrates a simplified plan view of another embodiment of a sliding mechanism that is shown inserted midway between the lower end of the upper portion of the golf club shaft and the upper end of the lower portion of the golf club shaft, wherein The slide rails of the sliding mechanism are located at a rightmost position such that the lower ends and the upper ends are substantially coaxial.

Figure 9 is a simplified plan view of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8, wherein the sliding rail of the sliding mechanism is in a leftmost position such that the upper end of the lower portion of the golf club shaft laterally deviates from the golf club The lower end of the upper part of the body has a predetermined distance.

Figure 10 is a simplified exploded plan view of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8.

Figure 11 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an embodiment of an upper connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 12 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of the connector rotated 90 degrees to the left above Figure 11. Figure 13 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the connector above Figure 11. Figure 14 shows the connection above Figure 11 Simplified transparent top view of the device.

Figure 15 illustrates a simplified, independent, transparent plan view of another embodiment of the upper connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 16 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of the connector rotated 90 degrees to the left above Figure 15. Figure 17 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the connector above Figure 15. Figure 18 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the connector above Figure 15.

Figure 19 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a slide rail of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 20 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the slide rail of Figure 19. Fig. 21 is a simplified transparent plan view showing the slide rail of Fig. 19 rotated 90 degrees to the left.

Figure 22 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a track guide block of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 23 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the track guide block of Figure 22. Figure 24 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the track guide block of Figure 22. Fig. 25 is a simplified transparent plan view showing the track guide block of Fig. 22 rotated 90 degrees to the left.

Figure 26 illustrates a simplified, independent, transparent plan view of an embodiment of the lower connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 27 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the connector under Figure 26. Figure 28 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the connector under Figure 26. Figure 29 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of the connector rotated 90 degrees to the left below Figure 26.

Figure 30 illustrates a simplified, independent, transparent plan view of another embodiment of the lower connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 31 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the connector under Figure 30. Figure 32 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the connector of Figure 30. Figure 33 shows the connector rotated to the left under Figure 30. Simplified transparent floor plan with 90 degrees.

Figure 34 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an axial alignment device that can be used during the manufacture of the golf club swing training apparatus described herein. Figure 35 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the axial alignment device of Figure 34 taken along line A-A. Figure 36 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the axial alignment device of Figure 34 taken along line B-B.

Figure 37 illustrates a simplified plan view of an exemplary embodiment of the axial alignment apparatus used to connect the upper portion and the lower portion of the golf club shaft to Figure 8 Sliding mechanism. Figure 38 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the axial alignment device of Figure 37 taken along line C-C.

Figure 39 illustrates a simplified exploded plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a weight member selectively attachable to the golf club shaft via a bushing inserted into the golf club shaft The root of the body. Figure 40 illustrates a simplified, independent, transparent top view of the weight member shown in Figure 39. Figure 41 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the bushing shown in Figure 39 taken along line D-D of Figure 39. Figure 42 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the root end of the golf club shaft shown in Figure 39 taken along line E-E of Figure 39.

Figure 43 illustrates a simplified independent plan view of yet another embodiment of the lower connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8. Figure 44 is a simplified exploded transparent plan view of the lower connector of Figure 43.

Figure 45 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the method for manufacturing the golf club swing training apparatus described herein.

Figure 46 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method for operating the golf club swing training apparatus described herein.

Figure 47 is a simplified exploded plan view showing still another embodiment of the lower connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8, the lower connector being composed of three separate components, that is, a track moving distance limiter And the shaft portion connector, and the screw moving distance limiter and the lower shaft portion connector are bolted together using a screw. Figure 47 also illustrates how the rail travel distance limiter can be bolted to the track guide block of Figure 8 using screws.

Figure 48 illustrates a simplified, independent, transparent plan view of the shaft portion connector of Figure 47. Figure 49 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the shaft portion connector of Figure 48. Figure 50 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the shaft portion connector of Figure 48.

Figure 51 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of the track travel distance limiter of Figure 47. Figure 52 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the track travel distance limiter of Figure 51. Figure 53 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the track travel distance limiter of Figure 51.

Figure 54 illustrates a simplified partial cross-sectional and partial plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a convertible slide mechanism that has been converted into a non-sliding mechanism that maintains the lower portion of the golf club shaft The upper end is generally coaxially aligned with the lower end of the upper portion of the shaft.

Figure 55 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method for converting the convertible slide mechanism from a sliding mechanism to a non-sliding mechanism.

In the following description of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the training device embodiment), reference will be made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this description, and the teaching device is shown by the drawing in the drawings Particular embodiments in which it can be implemented. It is to be understood that other embodiments can be utilized and structural changes can be made to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the embodiments.

It should also be noted that, for the sake of clarity, specific terms will be used to describe the training device embodiments described in this specification, and such embodiments are not limited by the particular terms selected. In addition, it should be understood that each of the specific terms includes all of its technical equivalents, and the technical equivalents are used in a broadly analogous manner to achieve a similar purpose. Reference is made to "an embodiment" or "another embodiment" or an "exemplary embodiment" or an "alternative embodiment" or "one implementation" or "another implementation" in this specification. Or an "exemplary implementation" or an "alternative implementation" means a particular feature, a particular structure, or a particular feature that can be included in at least one embodiment of the training device, the particular feature, This particular structure, or such specific features, will be described in conjunction with the embodiment or implementation. "In an embodiment", "in another embodiment", "in an exemplary embodiment", "in an alternative embodiment", "in an implementation", "in another embodiment" Terms such as "in an exemplary implementation" and "in an alternative practice" appear in various places in the specification and are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or implementation, and not necessarily Separate or alternative embodiments/implementations that are mutually exclusive with other embodiments/implementations. Furthermore, a process flow representing one or more embodiments or implementations of the training device The order is not an essential address in any particular order, nor does it imply any limitation on the training device.

The training device embodiments described herein are broadly related to the field of golf clubs, and more particularly to a golf club training device for improving the golfer's swing. In a disclosed embodiment, a golf club shaft is cut transversely along its length, removing a portion and inserting an offset sliding mechanism at the cutting portion such that the lower portion of the shaft is opposite during the swing. Moving laterally in the upper portion of the shaft. The natural elasticity of a golf club shaft is utilized to form a trajectory that appropriately strikes the golf ball to selectively bend the ball from left to right or from right to left. The training device of the present invention teaches a golfer to swing a golf club whose swing method utilizes the momentum conservation of the golf club head to achieve the desired shape of the ball track. In other words, the training device of the present invention is specifically configured to improve the ability of a golfer to selectively orient the ball trajectory such that the ball moves from right to left or left to right in a controlled manner. As will be understood from the more detailed description below, the sliding mechanism inserted between the upper and lower portions of the cut shaft allows for the portions by a force applied during a preferred swing. One moves laterally relative to the other.

1.0 Golf Club Swing Training Equipment

As will be explained in more detail below, the training device embodiments described herein relate to a golf club swing training device that is designed to assist a golfer in learning to selectively control the trajectory shape of a golf ball such that the ball is from the right "Bend" to the left or left to right. The device is configured to be used as a golf club, such as a driver (from other types of golf balls) Rod), but wherein it is bonded at a position along its length between the root end and the head end of the shaft. A sliding mechanism is inserted to match the upper and lower portions of the shaft after removing a short cut of the shaft to maintain the full length of the club. The sliding mechanism allows for limited lateral movement of the lower portion of the golf club head relative to the upper portion, including the root end or handle of the club. This action is generally in a direction orthogonal to the axis of extension of the shaft, and in a preferred embodiment of the invention, this action is limited to a maximum travel distance of about 0.25 inches. This action will occur during the successful use of the training device, that is, during a proper swing to achieve the desired control of the shape of the ball track. The desired action of the sliding mechanism is generally audible and felt by the golfer during the swing so that the golf club training device indicates that the desired swing contour has been reached, and he or she has Hearing and tactile feedback.

Referring now to the drawings, it can be seen in Figure 1 that the training device embodiment described herein relates to a golf club 10 having a shaft 12 that is inserted from a shaft (hosel) 14 is connected to a head 16. Unlike other golf clubs, however, the training apparatus embodiment employs a sliding mechanism 18 that has been inserted between an upper portion 20 and a lower portion 22 of the shaft 12 such that the sliding mechanism 18 interconnects the Wait for two parts 20 and 22. In the particular embodiment shown in Figure 1, the golf club 10 is a driver and the slide mechanism 18 has been inserted about two-fifths of the length of the club including the head 16. Thus, for example, in a driver with a full length of 45 inches, the slide mechanism 18 will be located approximately 18 inches from the root end of the shaft 12. The shaft will generally be cut at this position in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis of the shaft. Removing a short shaft from the lower portion To accommodate the length of the sliding mechanism approximately two inches, thereby maintaining the full length of the club, the sliding mechanism is then coupled between the upper and lower portions of the shaft. Preferably, the shaft attachment position is selected to be at or near the maximum bend point or apex of the shaft, the maximum bend point or apex being different depending on the length and type of the golf club. Thus, in a shorter club, such as a 3rd wood or a 2nd iron, the bond point may be slightly closer to the root end.

The sliding mechanism 18 is best understood by referring to Figures 3 through 7. As shown in FIG. 3, the sliding mechanism 18 allows lateral movement of the lower shaft portion 22 relative to the low friction of the upper shaft portion 20 when fully assembled and coupled. Connectors 24 and 26 are adhesively coupled to corresponding shaft portions 20 and 22 such that connectors 24 and 26 are perfectly coaxially aligned. However, the lower shaft portion 22 may be laterally slid or offset to the full swing by, for example, striking the force applied during the golf ball 11 supported by the tee shown in Figures 1 and 2. Up to about 0.25 inches to advance the head toward the ball 11 when hitting the ball (as shown in Figure 2). When the face of the head is vertically hitting the ball 11, this offset will result in a right-to-left trajectory contour. On the other hand, when the golfer controls his or her swing to avoid such an offset of the lower portion 22, the two portions remain substantially coaxial, and the head is on the shaft axis (as in Figure 1). The rear of the ball 11 is struck in a vertical forward direction, resulting in a shape from left to right.

Returning to Figures 3 through 7, it can be seen that the disclosed sliding embodiment 18 further includes an interface 27, sliding tracks 28 and 30, track interface sheets 29, track stabilizers 32 and 34, linear guide blocks 36 and 40, and A yoke 38. As shown in Figure 4, each of the sliding tracks 28 and 30 has an extended track slot 31 that receives a track running rim 37 in a sliding engagement (see Figure 5). It can be seen in Figures 3, 6 and 7 that the yoke 38 provides a plurality of vertical, cylindrical probes 42 on opposite surfaces 44 and 46. These probes 42 are adapted to allow for a stable mechanical interface with the linear guide blocks 36 and 40 by matching the alignment block holes 39 shown in FIG. As can be seen in Fig. 3, the upper linear guide block 36 has the holes 39 facing downward, and the lower linear guide block 40 has the holes facing upwards, so that the holes each match the yoke 38 in the opposite direction. Thus, they slide together along parallel and separate tracks 28 and 30 in the form of a unit. Moreover, the distance between the sliding rails 28 and 30 can be adjusted using the knob 48, and the distance can be fixed by the fastener 49, which together with the yoke 38 in the middle of the sliding rails Compress each other. This dual track assembly provides strong mechanical resistance for bending during swings and even possible breaks at the highest possible club head speed swing. Finally, the mechanical strength and consistent sliding action are ensured by the track stabilizers 32 and 34. As shown in Fig. 4, the track stabilizers are bolted into the corresponding ends of the sliding tracks by screws 41. Corresponding to the threaded opening 45. The fully assembled sliding mechanism 18 allows the sliding of the lower shaft portion 22 relative to the upper shaft portion 20 to be limited to a selected short distance with substantial mechanical integrity (ie, 0.25 miles).

It will be appreciated that by using the swing training club of the training apparatus embodiment described herein, the golfer will learn how to control and change the contour of the ball that has produced the desired right-to-left or left-to-right motion of the swing. line. Moreover, it should be understood that the sliding mechanism embodiment described in this specification can produce a sudden shift in the lower portion of the shaft that simultaneously produces an audible and tactile The impact is such that the golfer is made aware of whether and when this offset or slip has occurred during the swing, and the need to change the swing mechanism for a selected trajectory to create an offset or avoid offset.

It should be noted that the training golf clubs illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 are golf clubs for the right-handed person, and the golfer swings the club from left to right, when the golfer is used by the right-handed person. When the lever is swung from left to right, the lower shaft portion 22 is allowed to slide or shift laterally to the right relative to the upper shaft portion 20. The training device embodiments described in this specification are also compatible with golf clubs for left-handed use, which are swung from right to left. More specifically, the sliding mechanism embodiment described in this specification can also be inserted into the shaft of any golf club for the left-handed person. If the above is the case and referring to the example of the sliding mechanism 18 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, when the golf club for the left-handed person is swung from right to left, the sliding mechanism will surround the connector 24 and The longitudinal axis of the 26 is rotated 180 degrees such that the lower shaft portion is allowed to slide or offset laterally to the left relative to the upper shaft portion.

2.0 Modified sliding mechanism

Figures 8 through 14 and 19-29 illustrate briefly another embodiment of the sliding mechanism of the training device embodiment described in this specification. More specifically, FIG. 8 illustrates a simplified plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a modified slide mechanism 50 that is shown inserted into the lower end of an upper portion 20 of the golf club shaft. And the middle of the upper end of the lower portion 22 of one of the golf club shafts. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the modified sliding mechanism 50 includes an upper connector 54, a slide rail 52, and a track guide block. 56 and the connector 58 below. The slide rail 52 of the modified slide mechanism 50 shown in Fig. 8 is in a rightmost position such that the longitudinal axis Y1 of the lower end of the upper portion 20 of the golf club shaft is substantially aligned with the golf club The longitudinal axis Y2 of the upper end of the lower portion 22 is (e.g., when the slide 52 is in the rightmost position, the lower and upper ends are substantially coaxial). As will be appreciated from the following more detailed description of the modified slide mechanism 50, the momentum of the golfer's backswing will result in the track guide block 56, the lower connector 58, and the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft. The upper end naturally moves to the rightmost position. Figure 9 is a simplified illustration of the modified slide mechanism 50 with the slide rail 52 in a leftmost position such that the longitudinal axis Y2 of the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft laterally deviates from the golf club shaft The longitudinal axis Y1 of the lower end of the upper portion 20 of the body is a predetermined maximum orbital movement distance D1. Figure 10 illustrates a simplified exploded plan view of the modified slide mechanism 50. It should be noted that the magnitude of the maximum orbital movement distance D1 shown in the accompanying drawings, as well as the relative differences in lengths L1 and L2 (described in more detail below), are exaggerated to make them more visible.

From Figures 8 through 14, 19 to 29 and the following for a more detailed description of the figures, it will be understood that the design of the modified slide mechanism 50 is significantly more exemplified than that illustrated in Figure 3 and illustrated in the previous slide. The mechanism 18 is simple (e.g., the modified slide mechanism 50 has significantly fewer components than the slide mechanism 18). The design of the modified slide mechanism 50 is also advantageous because it minimizes the weight of the mechanism while maximizing structural integrity, and for swinging during swinging of the golf club, and even swinging at the highest possible club head speed Possible breaks provide strong mechanical resistance. As illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, when repaired The modified sliding mechanism 50 allows the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft to have substantial mechanical integrity when the sliding mechanism 50 is fully assembled and coupled to the upper portion 20 and the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft. There is limited, low friction lateral movement relative to the lower end of the upper portion 20 of the golf club shaft. In other words, during the swinging of the golf club toward a golf ball, the modified slide mechanism 50 allows for a low friction lateral movement (eg, lateral offset/sliding) of the upper end 22 relative to the lower end 20, wherein this lateral movement (or action or The offset is limited to a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis Y2 of the upper end 22 and the longitudinal axis Y1 of the lower end 20, and this lateral movement (or motion or offset) is limited to the maximum orbital movement distance D1.

Figure 11 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of one embodiment of the upper connector 54 of the modified slide mechanism 50 of Figure 8. Figure 12 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of connector 54 rotated 90 degrees to the left above Figure 11. Figure 13 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of connector 54 above Figure 11. Figure 14 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of connector 54 above Figure 11. Figure 19 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an exemplary embodiment of one of the slide rails 52 of the modified slide mechanism 50 of Figure 8. Figure 20 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the slide rail 52 of Figure 19. Fig. 21 is a simplified transparent plan view showing the slide rail 52 of Fig. 19 rotated 90 degrees to the left. Figure 22 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a track guide block 56 of the modified slide mechanism 50 of Figure 8. Figure 23 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the track guide block 56 of Figure 22. Figure 24 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the track guide block 56 of Figure 22. Figure 25 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of the track guide block 56 of Figure 22 rotated 90 degrees to the left. Figure 26 illustrates the modification of the sliding mechanism 50 of Figure 8 A simplified, independent, transparent plan view of one embodiment of connector 58. Figure 27 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of connector 58 under Figure 26. Figure 28 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of connector 58 below Figure 26. Figure 29 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of connector 58 rotated 90 degrees to the left below Figure 26.

As illustrated in Figures 8 through 14, the upper portion of the upper connector 54 is adapted to allow the lower end of the golf club shaft upper portion 20 to be securely coupled to the top of the connector 54 in a manner that ensures the lower end 20 It is substantially coaxial with the connector 54. In the above connector embodiment illustrated in Figures 11 through 14, such adaptation is configured in the following manner. The top end of the upper connector 54 includes a cylindrical cavity 64 that is generally coaxial with the connector 54. The cavity 64 has a radius that is sized to allow the lower end of the upper portion 20 to be snugly inserted into the cavity 64 while a strong adhesive is used to secure the radially outer surface of the bonded lower end 20 to the cavity 64. Radial wall. It should be understood that various types of adhesives can be used. In an exemplary implementation of the modified slide mechanism 50, the adhesive is an epoxy.

As illustrated in Figures 8-14 and 19-21, the lower portion of the upper connector 54 is adapted to allow the upper connector 54 to be securely coupled to a central location on the top surface 66 of the slide rail 52. The manner of attachment ensures that the longitudinal axis Y3 of the cylindrical cavity 64 is substantially perpendicular to the surface 66, thus ensuring that the longitudinal axis of the lower end of the upper portion 20 is substantially perpendicular to the surface 66 when the lower end of the upper portion 20 is coupled to the top of the connector 54. . In the exemplary upper connector and rail embodiment illustrated in this specification, such adaptation is configured in the following manner. The slide rail 52 is latched by a screw 74 that is inserted through an aperture 80 that passes horizontally through the slide rail 52 and into a mating threaded aperture. 76. The mating threaded aperture is located on the bottom of the upper connector 54. As exemplified in Figures 19-21, there is an extended cavity 84 in the middle of the bottom end of the slide rail 52, the extended cavity having a circular opposing wall through which the aperture 80 is substantially center. The cavity 84 is intended to reduce the weight of the modified slide mechanism 50, and the cavity has a height and overall volume sufficient to allow the head 82 of the screw 74 to become visible when the screw 74 is fully secured into the mating threaded bore 76. It is recessed below the bottom surface of the slide rail 52.

As illustrated in Figures 8, 9, and 19 through 25, the lower portion of the slide rail 52 includes a pair of opposing extended track slots 100 and 102. The upper portion of the track guide block 56 includes a linear guide channel 108 having parallel vertical sidewalls and a pair of opposing track travel features 104 and 106, wherein one of the track travel components 104 is disposed in the channel One of the walls of 108 is on, and the other 106 of the orbital traveling parts is disposed on the other of the walls of the channel 108. The extended track slot 100 is adapted to match the matched track travel feature 104, and the extended track slot 102 is adapted to match the matched track travel feature 106. Accordingly, when the slide rail 52 is slidably inserted into the linear guide passage 108 of the track guide block 56, the pair of opposite extended track slots 100 and 102 are adapted to receive the pair in a low friction sliding engagement manner. The opposing tracks travel parts 104 and 106.

As illustrated in Figures 8 through 10 and 22 through 29, the lower portion of the track guide block 56 is adapted to allow the track guide block 56 to be securely coupled to the central top surface 110 of the lower connector 58, which is connected The manner ensures a longitudinal axis Y5 of a cylindrical cavity 112 at the bottom end of the lower connector 58 (and thus also the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft inserted into the cylindrical cavity 112) The extended axis of the upper end is substantially perpendicular to the opposing track-traveling features 104 and 106. In the exemplary track guiding block and lower connector embodiments described herein, this adaptation is configured as follows. The lower connector 58 is latched by a plurality of screws (e.g., 114 and 116) that are inserted through the apertures 118-121 that pass horizontally through the lower connector 58 and into the mating threaded apertures. 122 to 125, the matching threaded apertures are located on the bottom of the track guide block 56. As can be understood from the eighth and ninth drawings and the aforementioned functional operation of the modified slide mechanism 50, the lower connector is not inserted until the slide rail 52 has been slidably inserted into the linear guide passage 108 of the track guide block 56. 58 is latched to the track guide block 56.

Referring again to Figures 8-10 and 26-29, the upper portion of lower connector 58 includes a pair of opposing track travel distance limiting members 60 and 62 that are adapted to limit travel of slide rail 52 (e.g., to limit the foregoing The lateral offset is shifted by the distance D1 from the maximum orbit. In the exemplary lower connector embodiment described in this specification, such adaptation is configured as follows. The lower connector 58 includes a right side track moving distance limiting member 60 having a predetermined length L1, and a left side track moving distance limiting member 62 having a predetermined length L2 greater than one of the lengths L1. As can be understood from Figures 8 and 9, the difference between the length L2 and the length L1 defines the maximum orbital movement distance D1. When the slide rail 52 is in the rightmost position as described above, the right side of the slide rail contacts the right vertical wall 126 of the right rail moving distance limiting member 60. When the slide rail 52 is in the aforementioned leftmost position, the left side of the slide rail contacts the left vertical rail 128 of the left rail moving distance limiting member 62. In general, the lengths L1 and L2 can be selected such that the distance D1 can have any value, wherein the selection of this value can be based on the rigidity of the shaft. Make By way of example and not limitation, in a implementation of the modified sliding mechanism 50, the lengths L1 and L2 are selected such that the distance D1 is approximately 0.25 inches. In another implementation of the modified sliding mechanism 50, the lengths L1 and L2 are selected such that the distance D1 is between 0.55 mm and 0.75 mm.

Referring again to Figures 8 through 10 and Figures 26 through 29, the lower portion of the lower connector 58 is adapted to allow the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft to be securely coupled to the bottom of the connector 58, which The manner of attachment ensures that the axis of extension of the upper end 22 is substantially perpendicular to the central top surface 110 of the connector 58. In the connector embodiment illustrated in Figures 26-29, such an adaptation is configured as follows. The bottom end of the lower connector 58 includes a cylindrical cavity 112 having a longitudinal axis Y5 that is generally perpendicular to the central top surface 110 of the connector 58. The cavity 112 has a radius sized to allow the upper end of the lower portion 22 to be inserted into the cavity 112 in a snugly upward or downward direction, while using the aforementioned strong adhesive to secure the radially outer end of the bonded upper end 22. The surface is to the radial wall of the cavity 112. It should be noted that the radius of the cavity 112 will generally be slightly less than the radius of the cavity 64 because the upper end radius of the lower portion 22 of a conventional golf club shaft will be slightly less than the lower end radius of the upper portion 20 of the shaft.

As illustrated in Figures 19-21, and referring again to Figure 8, the slide rail 52 can optionally include one or more weight reduction apertures 83 and 85 for further purposes. The weight of the modified sliding mechanism 50 is alleviated. The size of the apertures 83 and 85 and the extended cavity 84 are set to be as large as possible without negatively affecting the structural integrity of the rail 52. Similarly, as illustrated in Figures 22-25, the track guide block 56 can selectively include another weight loss aperture 86 that is further mitigated by the purpose of the weight reduction aperture The weight of the sliding mechanism 50. The size of the aperture 86 is set to be as large as possible without negatively affecting the structural integrity of the track guide block 56. As exemplified in Figures 8-10, 23, 26 and 27 (and others), the outer corner points on the modified sliding mechanism 50 can be rounded to avoid injury to the golfer and further mitigate the modifications. The weight of the sliding mechanism 50. By way of example and not limitation, four outer corner points (e.g., corner points 90) on the track guide block 56 can be rounded. The 12 outer corner points (e.g., corner points 92, 94, and 96) on the lower connector 58 can also be rounded.

Referring again to Figures 8 and 22-25, it will be understood that the track guide block 56 can be implemented in a variety of ways. In an exemplary implementation of the modified slide mechanism 50, a block of a commercially available compact linear guide product (manufactured by Chieftek Precision Company, Ltd., part number CPC-MR7WL) is used as a track. Guide block 56, wherein weight loss orifice 86 can be selectively incorporated into this commercially available block. In this particular implementation, the matching track travel components 104 and 106 each comprise a lubricated small stainless steel ball bearing endless chain.

As previously mentioned, it will be further appreciated that the modified sliding mechanism embodiment described in this specification can be inserted into the shaft at any desired location along the golf club shaft. The decision to insert the position along the aforementioned cutting position of the shaft and the modified sliding mechanism embodiment involves consideration of various factors including, but not limited to, those listed below. The placement of the modified sliding mechanism on the handle closer to the root end of the shaft maximizes the flexibility of the lower portion of the shaft when the club is swung, which is advantageous. However, it is disadvantageous that the inherent weight of the modified sliding mechanism embodiment can also change the ball. The balance point of the rod, wherein the degree of change varies depending on the actual weight of the mechanism and the particular position in which the mechanism is inserted along the shaft. In an exemplary implementation of the modified sliding mechanism embodiment, when the golf club is a driver having a graphite shaft and having a total length of about 45 inches, the gap in which the modified sliding mechanism is inserted Located at the root of the club about 30 percent of the length of the club (including the head of the club).

Referring again to Figures 1, 2, 8, 9 and 26, similar to the sliding mechanism 18, the modified sliding mechanism 50 is more advantageous in that it allows the golfer to hear and feel modified during the swing of the golf club 10. The desired action of the sliding mechanism 50. In other words, when the modified sliding mechanism 50 is inserted into the golf club shaft as previously described, the mechanism 50 simultaneously provides the golfer's audible and accessible feedback indicating whether they have achieved the desired swing. Rod outline. For example, when the golf club is swung, the upper end of the golf club shaft lower portion 22 is laterally offset to the right with respect to the lower end of the golf club shaft upper portion 20, so that the rail 52 reaches the foregoing The leftmost position and the left side of the slide rail 52 impacts the left rail of the lower connector 58 to move the distance from the inner vertical wall 128 of the restraining member 62. The modified slide mechanism 50 will produce an identifiable sound (eg, the golfer will hear one) "click" sound, while also producing a tactile sensation at the root end of the shaft (eg, the golfer will feel the vibration entering the hand from the modified sliding mechanism 50 through the upper portion 20) .

Figure 46 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method for operating the golf club swing training apparatus described herein. Although this method is described in this specification, it is inserted into the golf club shaft The description of the modified slide mechanism 50 embodiment is also applicable to the embodiment of the slide mechanism 18 described in this specification that is inserted into the shaft. As illustrated in Fig. 46, and referring again to Figs. 8 and 9, as the golfer begins to lift the lever, the modified slide 52 of the slide mechanism 50 will be in the leftmost position such that the lower portion 22 of the shaft The longitudinal axis Y2 of the upper end is laterally offset from the longitudinal axis Y1 of the lower end of the upper portion 20 of the shaft as shown in Fig. 9 by the maximum orbital movement distance D1 (act 462). When the golfer lifts his wrist as he raises his arm and the body turns to the apex of the upper pole, the modified rail 52 of the sliding mechanism 50 will be in the rightmost position such that the longitudinal axis Y2 of the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the shaft The longitudinal axis Y1 of the lower end of the upper portion 20 of the shaft is substantially aligned as shown in Fig. 8 (act 464). Then, according to the manner in which the golfer performs the downswing in such a manner that the ball striking the ball, the modified sliding mechanism 50 during the lower bar will not maintain the arrangement shown in FIG. 8 (act 466), that is, It will move to the arrangement shown in Figure 9 (act 468).

2.1 Convertible sliding mechanism

This section describes an alternative embodiment of the modified sliding mechanism described in this specification that can be freely converted by a golfer into a non-sliding mechanism that maintains the golf club regardless of how the golfer swings the club The upper end of the lower portion of the golf club shaft is generally coaxially aligned with the lower end of the upper portion of the golf club shaft. Alternative embodiments described in this section will be referred to below simply as convertible slip mechanism embodiments.

Figure 47 is a simplified exploded plan view showing still another embodiment of the lower connector of the sliding mechanism of Figure 8, the lower connector being separated by three The assembly is constructed, that is, a track moving distance limiter 53 and a lower shaft portion connector 59, and the track moving distance limiter 53 and the lower shaft portion connector 59 are bolted together using a screw 75. Figure 47 also illustrates how the rail travel distance limiter 53 can be bolted to the track guide block 56 of Figure 8 using additional screws (e.g., 114 and 116). Figure 48 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of the shaft portion connector 59 at the bottom of Figure 47. Figure 49 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of the shaft portion connector 59 at the bottom of Figure 48. Figure 50 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of the shaft portion connector 59 at the bottom of Figure 48. Fig. 51 is a diagram showing a simplified independent transparent plan view of the track moving distance limiter 53 of Fig. 47. Fig. 52 is a simplified transparent plan view of the track moving distance limiter 53 of Fig. 51. Fig. 53 is a simplified transparent bottom view of the track moving distance limiter 53 of Fig. 51.

As illustrated in Figures 48 to 50, and referring again to Figure 8, the lower portion of the lower shaft portion connector 59 is adapted to allow the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft to be securely coupled to the connection. The bottom of the device 59, this connection ensures that the upper end 22 is substantially coaxial with the connector 59. In the embodiment of the shaft portion connector illustrated in Figures 48 to 50, such adjustment is configured as follows. The bottom end of the lower shaft portion connector 59 includes a cylindrical cavity 61 that is generally coaxial with the connector 59. The cavity 61 has a radius sized to allow the upper end of the lower portion 22 to be inserted snugly into the cavity 61 while a strong adhesive is used to secure the radially outer surface of the bonded upper end 22 to the cavity 61. Radial wall.

As illustrated in Figures 47 to 53, the upper portion of the lower shaft portion connector 59 is adapted to allow the lower shaft portion connector 59 to be securely coupled. The bottom surface of the track moving distance limiter 53 is connected in such a manner as to ensure that the longitudinal axis Y7 of the cylindrical cavity 61 is substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface, thus ensuring that when the upper end of the lower portion 22 is connected to the bottom of the connector 59, the golf The longitudinal axis of the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the club shaft is generally perpendicular to the bottom surface. In the exemplary lower shaft portion connector and track travel distance limiter embodiments described herein, such adjustments are configured in the following manner. The track moving distance limiter 53 is latched by a screw 75 that is inserted through an aperture 55 that passes horizontally through the track travel distance limiter 53 and into a mating threaded aperture 57, which The mating threaded aperture is located on top of the lower shaft portion connector 59. The lower shaft portion connector 59 includes an alignment member 63 that is securely disposed to the center of the top surface of the connector 59. The track travel distance limiter 53 includes an alignment cavity 65 that is adapted to fully match the alignment feature 63. In other words, when the track moving distance limiter 53 is latched to the lower shaft portion connector 59, the alignment cavity 65 is adapted to snugly receive the entire alignment member 63.

As illustrated in Figures 22 through 25 and 47 through 53, and again with reference to Figures 8 and 26, the lower portion of the track guide block 56 is adapted to allow the track guide block 56 to be securely coupled to the track travel distance. The central top surface 111 of the restrictor 53 is connected in such a manner as to ensure that the longitudinal axis Y7 of the cylindrical cavity 61 (and thus the extension axis of the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft inserted into the cavity 61) is substantially vertical The opposing tracks of the track guide block 56 travel the components 104 and 106. In the exemplary track guiding block and track moving distance limiter embodiments described herein, this adaptation is configured as follows. The track moving distance limiter 53 is composed of a plurality of screws (for example, 114 and 116) to latch the screws, which are inserted through the apertures 176 to 179, which pass horizontally through the track to move the distance limiter 53 into the matching threaded apertures 122 to 125, the matching threaded apertures being located On the bottom of the track guide block 56. The track travel distance limiter 53 includes a pair of opposing track travel distance limiting members 67 and 69 that are adapted to limit the travel of the slide rails 52 in a manner that is limited to the track travel distance limiting component 60 on the lower connector 58. Same as 62.

Figure 54 illustrates a simplified partial cross-sectional and partial plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a convertible slide mechanism 51 that has been converted into a non-sliding mechanism that maintains the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft The upper end is generally coaxially aligned with the lower end of the upper portion 20 of the shaft. The switchable slide mechanism 51 illustrated in Fig. 54 assumes that the lower end of the upper portion 20 has been securely coupled to the top of the upper connector 54, and the upper end of the lower portion 22 has been securely coupled to the lower shaft portion connector as previously described. 59. The switchable slide mechanism 51 further assumes that the slide rail 52 has been unlocked and removed from the bottom of the upper connector 54. Instead of the slide rail 52, an up-converting member 71 has been used to lock the slide. The same screw 74 of the rail 52 to the upper connector 54 is latched onto the bottom of the upper connector 54. A lock washer 77 can be selectively provided to the threaded rod of the screw 74 prior to latching. The switchable slide mechanism 51 further assumes that the track travel distance limiter 53 (and thus the track guide block 56 that is latched thereon) has been unlocked and removed from the top of the lower shaft portion connector 59, Instead of the track moving distance limiter 53 (and therefore the track guide block 56 that is latched thereon) is a lower switching member 73 that has been used to previously lock the track to move the distance limiter The same screw 75 of the lower shaft portion connector 59 is latched to the top of the lower shaft portion connector 59. Another lock washer 79 can be selectively provided to the threaded rod of the screw 75 prior to latching.

As illustrated in Fig. 54, the radially outer threaded upper portion of the downshift member 73 is adapted to allow the downshift member 73 to be threadedly coupled to the radially inner threaded lower portion of the upconverting member 71, the manner of which ensures that The two conversion members 73 and 71 are removably fastened to the interconnection, and the two conversion members are coaxial when the connection is made. According to this, after the up-conversion member 71 has been latched to the bottom of the upper connector 54 as described above and the down-converting member 73 has been latched onto the top of the lower shaft portion connector 59, the down-converting member 73 can pass It is screwed to the up-converting member 71, wherein the down-converting member 73 is axially rotated until the down-converting member 73 is fixed to the up-converting member 71. In an exemplary embodiment of the switchable slide mechanism 51 described in this specification, the threads on both the down conversion member 73 and the upshift member 71 are formed in a counterclockwise arrangement, which is advantageous because it results in The interconnection between the down conversion member 73 and the up-conversion member 71 during the golfer swinging the golf club remains fixed. A lock washer 81 can be selectively provided to the upper portion of the radially outer thread of the down conversion member 73 before the connection is made. When the down-converting member 73 is completely fixed into the up-converting member 71, the interconnection structure between the down-converting member 73, the up-converting member 71, and the lock washer 81 sandwiched therein has a combined height H3 which is equivalent to when slipping The rail 52 is slidably inserted into the linear guide passage of the rail guide block 56, and when the rail travel distance limiter 53 is bolted to the rail guide block 56, the slide rail 52, the rail guide block 56, and the rail movement The combined height of the distance limiter 53.

Figure 55 is a simplified illustration of the use of the convertible slide mechanism of the present specification from a slide mechanism that allows the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft relative to the upper portion 20 of the shaft An exemplary embodiment of a method of converting a lower end lateral offset into a non-sliding mechanism as described above. As exemplified in Fig. 55, the method begins by removing a screw that is used to latch the track travel distance limiter to the track guide block (act 480). Next, the screw used to latch the rail to the upper connector is removed (act 482). The slide rail and the track guide block are then removed together from the upper connector by a unit (act 484). Next, the screw for latching the track travel distance limiter to the lower shaft portion connector is removed (act 486). The track movement distance limiter is then removed from the lower shaft portion connector (act 488). The down conversion member is then latched to the lower shaft portion connector using the same screw that latches the track travel distance limiter to the lower shaft portion connector (act 490). The upconverting member is then latched to the upper connector using the same screw that locks the rail to the connector (act 492). A lock washer can then be selectively added to the upper portion of the down conversion member (act 494). The up-converting member and the down-converting member are then fixed in a counterclockwise manner (act 496).

3.0 weight component

In general, Figures 39 to 42 simplistically illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a weight member that can be selectively coupled to the golf ball via a bushing inserted into the golf club shaft. The root end of the club shaft. More specifically, FIG. 39 illustrates a simplified exploded plan view of the weight member 136 that can be inserted into an internal snail of the golf club shaft portion 20 A collar 138 is attached to the root end 180 of the golf club shaft portion 20. Figure 40 illustrates a simplified, independent, transparent top view of the weight member 136 shown in Figure 39. Figure 41 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the internal threaded bushing 138 shown in Figure 39 taken along line D-D of Figure 39. Figure 42 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the shaft portion 20 shown in Figure 39 taken along line E-E of Figure 39. As illustrated in Figures 39-42, the bushing 138 has a radially outer radius D3 that is sized to allow the bushing 138 to be removably inserted (e.g., pressed) to the root end 180 of the shaft portion 20. The inner portion 140 is such that the bushing 138 is bonded to the radially inner wall of the shaft portion 20. The inner radial wall 142 of the bushing 138 is threaded. The weight member 136 includes a head 144 and a short threaded shaft 146 that is adapted to be threadedly coupled to the threaded inner radial wall 142 of the bushing 138. One end of the threaded shaft 146 is securely disposed to the bottom of the head 144. The other end of the threaded shaft 146 is rotatably and threadedly coupled to the inner radial wall 142 of the bushing 138. The weight member 136 can be screwed into the bushing 138 until the bottom of the head 144 contacts the root end 180.

Referring again to Figures 1, 8, and 39, it will be understood that the bushing 138, to which the weight member 136 is extremely associated, can be used in conjunction with the sliding mechanism 18 or the modified sliding mechanism 50 embodiment described herein. It is advantageous to use the weight members 136 and the bushings 138 because their purpose is to periodically counterbalance the weight of the sliding mechanism 18 or 50 by inserting into the golf club shaft, thus allowing the golfer to feel the Golf clubs are less top-heavy. In other words, the purpose of the weight member 136 and the bushing 138 is to re-establish the original balance point of the club after the sliding mechanism 18 or 50 has been inserted into the shaft. The weight member 136 can have a variety of different weights, wherein the specific weight The choice of amount varies depending on various factors, such as the type of golf club into which the sliding mechanism 18 or 50 is inserted, the weight of the golf club, the particular position along the shaft in which the sliding mechanism 18 or 50 is inserted, and the sliding mechanism 18 Or the weight of 50 (for example only). In an exemplary embodiment of the training apparatus described herein, the weight member 136 can have any weight greater than or equal to 3 grams and less than or equal to 53 grams.

4.0 axial alignment device

Figures 34 through 36 simplistically illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an axial alignment apparatus that can be used during the manufacture of the golf club swing training apparatus described herein. More specifically, FIG. 34 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an axial alignment device 158. Figure 35 illustrates a simplified cross-sectional view of the apparatus 158 along line A-A of Figure 34. Figure 36 illustrates a simplified cross-sectional view of the apparatus 158 along line B-B of Figure 34. As will be understood from the following more detailed description and again with reference to Figure 8, the device 158 can be used to maintain the golf club when the modified slide mechanism 50 is being coupled to the upper portion of the upper portion 22 and the lower portion of the portion The axis of extension of the upper portion 20 of the shaft is generally aligned with the axis of extension of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft.

As illustrated in Figures 34 through 36, the axial alignment device 158 includes a channel beam 164, a left L-shaped beam 160, and a right L-shaped beam 162 having a pair of rims 168 and 170. The left L-shaped beam 160 has an extended apex V1 and defines an extended groove T1 having an extended apex V2 and forming another extended groove, wherein the groove beam 164 acts as a base for the device 158. Those skilled in the art of manufacturing materials will understand that the L-shaped beam is A beam having an L-shaped profile, so the L-shaped beam is also referred to as an L-shaped profile beam. In the apparatus embodiment illustrated in Fig. 35, the left L-shaped beam 160 is a square L-shaped beam having legs (e.g., or ears) 172 and 174 having the same width. An alternative embodiment (not shown) of the axial alignment apparatus is also possible, wherein the left L-shaped beam can be a rectangular L-shaped beam having different leg widths. Likewise, the right L-shaped beam 162 can be square or rectangular. In the apparatus embodiment illustrated in Figure 35, the channel beam 164 is a U-shaped beam having rims 168 and 170 having a common height H1. An alternative embodiment (not shown) of the axial alignment apparatus is also possible, wherein the channel beam can be an I-beam (as exemplified by other types of beams), and wherein the rim of the channel beam can have Different heights.

Referring again to Figures 34 through 36, the channel beam 164 includes a cut-out region 166 in which the height of the rims 168 and 170 is reduced (e.g., the rims 168 and 170 have a height H2 that is substantially less than the height H1). In general, the left L-shaped beam 160 is securely disposed on the top edge of the rims 168 and 170 of the channel beam 164 to the left of the cut-out region 166 such that the extended groove T1 faces upward. The right L-shaped beam 162 is securely disposed to the top edge of the right side of the cut-out region 166 such that the other extended groove faces upward and the extended apex V2 of the right L-shaped beam 162 is substantially aligned with the left L-shaped beam 160 The extension vertex V1. More specifically, and as exemplified in Figures 34 and 35, one of the legs 172 of the left L-shaped beam 160 is securely disposed to the top of the left portion 176 of one of the rims 168 of the channel beam 164. The edge, while the other of the legs 174 of the left L-shaped beam 160 is securely disposed to the top edge of the left portion 176 of the other of the rims 170 of the channel beam 164. Similarly, one of the legs of the right L-shaped beam 162 is securely disposed to the top edge of the right portion 178 of one of the rims 168 of the channel beam 164, while the right side L The other of the legs of the beam 162 is securely disposed to the top edge of the right portion 178 of the other of the rims 170 of the channel beam 164.

Figure 37 illustrates a simplified plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an axial alignment device 158 of Figure 34, the axial alignment device 158 being used to connect the upper portion 20 and the lower portion of the golf club shaft Modified slide mechanism 50 of portions 22 through 8. Figure 38 is a simplified cross-sectional view taken along line 37-C of Figure 37 of Figure 37. As illustrated in Figures 37 and 38, and referring again to Figure 34, the upper portion 20 of the golf club shaft is placed in an extended recess T1 of the left L-shaped beam 160, the golf club shaft The lower portion 22 is placed in another extended groove of the right L-shaped beam 162, and the sliding mechanism 50 is placed in the cut-out region 166 of the channel beam 164.

Figure 45 is a simplified illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the method for manufacturing the golf club swing training apparatus described herein. As exemplified in FIG. 45, the methods begin with providing a golf club that includes a shaft having an end and a head end (action 450), wherein the head end is attached to One hit the ball. To make the manufacture of the training device simpler and more precise, the ball striking head can be selectively removed from the head end of the shaft (act 452). The shaft is then cut into two parts (action 454), namely an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion including the root end, the lower portion including the head end. The length of a shaft can then be selectively removed from at least one of the two portions (act 456), wherein the length is selected such that after the two portions are coupled to the opposing connector of the sliding mechanism, the The length of the shaft is equal to the length of the shaft before it is cut. The axial alignment device is then used to connect the two portions to the opposing connectors of the sliding mechanism (act 458). when In the event that the selective action 452 is performed, the ball striking head is then coupled back to the head end of the shaft (act 460). As previously described, the sliding mechanism is configured to allow the upper end of the lower portion of the shaft to be laterally offset relative to the lower end of the upper portion of the shaft during swinging of the club with the ball striking a ball.

5.0 Additional Examples

Although specific embodiments have been disclosed herein, those skilled in the art of golf clubs and mechanical interconnection devices will appreciate that various alternative embodiments can be utilized to achieve the same function and results. By way of example and not limitation, and referring again to Figures 10 and 44, the upper connector 54 and the slide rail 52 can be fabricated as a single piece, in which case the screw 74 is not necessary. A lock washer (not shown) can also be provided to the threaded rod of the screw before each of the screws 74, 75, 114, 116 and 152 is inserted into the mating threaded orifice.

15 through 18 are simplified diagrams showing another embodiment of the upper connector of the modified slide mechanism 50 of Fig. 8. More specifically, FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of another embodiment of the upper connector 68. Figure 16 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of connector 68 rotated 90 degrees to the left above Figure 15. Figure 17 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of connector 68 above Figure 15. Figure 18 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of connector 68 above Figure 15. As illustrated in Figures 15-18, the upper portion of the upper connector 68 is adapted to allow the lower end of the golf club shaft upper portion 20 to be securely coupled to the top of the connector 68 in a manner that ensures The lower end 20 is substantially coaxial with the connector 68. In the above connector embodiment illustrated in Figures 15-18, such adaptation is configured as follows. The top end of the upper connector 68 includes a cylindrical cavity 70 that is generally coaxial with the connector 68. The radius of the cavity 70 has been set to allow The lower end of the upper portion 20 is inserted snugly into the cavity 70. The upper connector 68 also includes a tube 72 that projects upwardly from the bottom of the cavity 70 by a predetermined distance D2 and that is also generally coaxial with the connector 68. The lower end of the upper portion 20 of the golf club shaft is securely coupled to the upper connection by using the aforementioned strong adhesive for fastening the radially outer surface of the lower end 20 to the radial wall of the cavity 70. The top of the device 68, and the adhesive is also used to securely bond the radially inner surface of the lower end 20 to the radially outer surface of the tube 72. It will be appreciated that the use of an adhesive to securely bond the lower end of the upper portion 20 to the radial wall of the cavity 70 and the radially outer surface of the tube 72 is advantageous because it further increases the strength of the joining of the lower end 20 and the sliding mechanism 50. . The lower portion of the upper connector 68 is adapted to allow the upper connector 68 to be securely coupled to a central position on the top surface 66 of the slide rail 52 in a manner that ensures that the longitudinal axis Y4 of the cylindrical cavity 70 is substantially perpendicular to Surface 66. More specifically, the rail 52 can be latched to a mating threaded aperture 78 by a screw 74 that is located on the bottom of the upper connector 68.

Figures 30-33 are a simplified illustration of another embodiment of the lower connector of the modified slide mechanism 50 of Figure 8. More specifically, FIG. 30 illustrates a simplified independent transparent plan view of another embodiment of the lower connector 130. Figure 31 illustrates a simplified transparent top view of connector 130 below Figure 30. Figure 32 illustrates a simplified transparent bottom view of connector 130 below Figure 30. Figure 33 illustrates a simplified transparent plan view of connector 130 rotated 90 degrees to the left below Figure 30. As illustrated in Figures 30-33, the lower portion of the lower connector 130 is adapted to allow the upper end of the lower portion 22 of the golf club shaft to be securely coupled to the bottom of the connector 130 in a manner that ensures The extension axis of the upper end 22 is substantially vertical At the central top surface 134 of the connector 130. In the connector embodiment illustrated in Figures 30-33, such adaptation is configured as follows. The bottom end of the lower connector 130 includes a truncated conical cavity 132 having a longitudinal axis Y6 that is substantially perpendicular to the central top surface 134 of the connector 130 and having the conical cavity The radius decreases radially inward as the cavity goes down. The radius is selected such that the shape and size of the cavity 132 generally conforms to the shape and size of the upper end of the lower portion 22, and the radius is selected such that when the lower portion 22 is fully inserted downwardly into the cavity 132, and using the foregoing When a strong adhesive is applied to bond the radially outer surface of the upper end to the radial wall of the cavity 132, the top of the upper end is not flush with the central top surface 134, or slightly below the central top surface 134. It should be understood that it is advantageous to describe that the radius of the cavity 132 is slightly reduced inwardly as it assists in avoiding the golf club shaft lower portion 22 from slipping out of the lower connector 130 when the adhesive loses viscosity.

Figures 43 and 44 are simplified illustrations of yet another embodiment of the lower connector of the modified slide mechanism 50 of Figure 8. More specifically, FIG. 43 illustrates a simplified independent plan view of yet another embodiment of the lower connector 148. Figure 44 is a simplified exploded transparent plan view of the connector 148 of Figure 43. In general, the lower connector 148 includes a track travel distance limiting screw 152 that is adapted to allow the golfer to selectively reduce the aforementioned maximum track travel distance D1. More specifically, and as illustrated in Figures 43 and 44, and referring again to Figures 8 and 9, the left track moving distance limiting member 150 of the lower connector 148 includes a track moving distance limiting screw 152 which can Rotatingly and threadedly coupled to a mating threaded aperture 154 that is generally perpendicular to and through the inner vertical wall 156 of the part 150. The length of the screw 152 The degree L3 is generally sufficient to allow the right end of the screw 152 to be rotatably positioned to the left of the wall 156 or at various predetermined points to the right of the wall 156. As such, the golfer can use the screw 152 to selectively reduce the distance D1. In an exemplary implementation of the lower connector 148, the length L3 of the screw 152 is sufficient to allow the right end to contact the left side of the slide rail 52 when the lower connector 148 is in the rightmost position illustrated in FIG. 8, thus allowing the golfer to The distance D1 is reduced to zero. Accordingly, the screw 152 can be used to completely offset the upper end of the golf club shaft lower portion 22 from being laterally offset relative to the lower end of the golf club shaft upper portion 20. In other words, the screw 152 can be used to avoid lateral offset of the upper end 22 relative to the lower end 20, and the upper end 22 is maintained substantially coaxially aligned with the lower end 20, regardless of how the golfer waves the golf club.

Moreover, the training device embodiments (e.g., various sliding mechanism embodiments, weight member embodiments, and axial alignment device embodiments) described herein can be adapted for use on other types of sports equipment, such as the net. Rackets, baseball bats, hockey sticks, etc.

It should be noted that any or all of the foregoing embodiments can be used in any desired combination to form additional hybrid embodiments. Although the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification have been described in terms of the specific features of the invention, the scope of the invention is not limited to the specific features or actions described. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as an exemplary form of the claimed application.

10‧‧‧ golf clubs

11‧‧‧ ball

12‧‧‧ shaft

14‧‧‧ rods

16‧‧‧ head

18‧‧‧Sliding mechanism

20‧‧‧ upper part

22‧‧‧ Lower part

Claims (10)

A golf club swing training device, the device comprising: a golf club shaft having an end and a head end, the shaft comprising two separate and distinct portions, the portions being separated Forming a gap therebetween, the portions including an upper shaft portion and a lower shaft portion, the upper shaft portion including the root end of the shaft, the lower shaft portion including the head end of the shaft; a ball striking head connected to the head end of the shaft; and a sliding mechanism, the sliding mechanism is inserted into the gap, and the sliding mechanism is coupled to the lower end of the upper shaft portion and the At an upper end of the lower shaft portion, the sliding mechanism is configured to allow a lateral offset of the upper end relative to the lower end during swinging of the club. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sliding mechanism comprises a pair of parallel linear guiding blocks and a pair of fastening assemblies, the pair of parallel linear guiding blocks being spaced apart, the pair of fastening assemblies guiding the guiding The lead blocks are compressed towards each other. The device of claim 1, wherein: the sliding mechanism comprises a slide rail and a track guiding block, and the upper portion of the rail guiding block comprises a straight guiding channel, the linear guiding channel comprises a pair of opposite tracks a traveling part, the lower portion of the rail including a pair of opposing extended track slots adapted to receive the parts in a sliding engagement when the track is slidably inserted into the channel, and The lower portion of the track guide block is adapted to allow it to be coupled to the central upper surface of the lower connector in a manner that ensures that the extension axis of the upper end is substantially perpendicular to the parts and also ensures that when the slide rail is at the rightmost The lower end and the upper end are substantially coaxial when in position. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein: the sliding mechanism includes a lower connector, the upper portion of the lower connector including a pair of opposing track movement distance limiting members, the pair of parts being adapted to limit the lateral offset to A maximum track sliding distance and a lower portion of the lower connector are adapted to allow the upper end to be coupled to the bottom of the lower connector in a manner that ensures that the upper end has an axis of extension that is substantially perpendicular to a central upper surface of the lower connector. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the pair of opposing orbital movement distance limiting parts comprises: a right side track moving distance limiting part comprising a prescribed length L1; and a left side track moving distance limiting part comprising a prescribed length L2, The length L2 is greater than the length L1, and the difference between the length L2 and the length L1 defines the maximum orbital movement distance. The device of claim 4, wherein the adaptation of the lower portion of the lower connector comprises one of: The bottom end of the lower connector includes a cylindrical cavity having a longitudinal axis that is substantially perpendicular to the central top surface, and the cylindrical cavity has a radius that is sized to allow the upper end to be tight Inserting into the cavity in abutment while using an adhesive to bond the radially outer surface of the upper end to the radial wall of the cavity; or the bottom end of the lower connector comprises a truncated conical air a cavity having a longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the central top surface, and wherein the conical cavity has a radius that decreases radially inward as the cavity is downward, the radius being selected such that The shape and size of the cavity substantially conforms to the shape and size of the upper end, and the radius is selected such that when the lower shaft portion is completely inserted downward into the cavity, and an adhesive is used to bond the upper end of the diameter When the outer surface is to the radial wall of the cavity, the top of the upper end is not flush with the central top surface, or slightly below the central top surface. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a weight member coupled to the root end of the shaft via a bushing, the bushing being inserted into the root end of the shaft. The device of claim 1, wherein the sliding mechanism simultaneously produces an identifiable sound and a touch at the root end of the shaft after the lateral shift. The device of claim 1, wherein: the lateral offset is limited to a maximum orbital travel distance, and the sliding mechanism includes a lower connector, the lower connector including a rail The track moves a distance limiting screw that is adapted to allow a player to selectively reduce the maximum track travel distance. A method for manufacturing a golf club swing training apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: providing a golf club, the golf club comprising a shaft, the shaft including an end and a head end, the shaft The head end is attached to a ball striking head; the shaft is cut into two parts, the two parts including an upper shaft portion and a lower shaft portion, the upper shaft portion including the root end of the shaft body The lower shaft portion includes the head end of the shaft; and an axial alignment device is used to connect the two portions to an opposing connector of a sliding mechanism, the axial pair being performed when the connecting action is performed A quasi-device is used to maintain an extension axis of the upper shaft portion substantially aligned with an extension axis of the lower shaft portion, the sliding mechanism configured to allow a ball to be struck by the ball striking the ball during the ball striking the ball The upper end of the lower shaft portion is laterally offset with respect to the lower end of the upper shaft portion.