US20020111225A1 - Portable, weather-resistant golf practice device - Google Patents
Portable, weather-resistant golf practice device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020111225A1 US20020111225A1 US10/131,305 US13130502A US2002111225A1 US 20020111225 A1 US20020111225 A1 US 20020111225A1 US 13130502 A US13130502 A US 13130502A US 2002111225 A1 US2002111225 A1 US 2002111225A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- platform
- practice device
- golf practice
- practice
- platform support
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3658—Means associated with the ball for indicating or measuring, e.g. speed, direction
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3623—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf for driving
- A63B69/3652—Inclined platforms for practising drives from slopes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3661—Mats for golf practice, e.g. mats having a simulated turf, a practice tee or a green area
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0021—Tracking a path or terminating locations
- A63B2024/0028—Tracking the path of an object, e.g. a ball inside a soccer pitch
- A63B2024/0031—Tracking the path of an object, e.g. a ball inside a soccer pitch at the starting point
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3667—Golf stance aids, e.g. means for positioning a golfer's feet
- A63B2069/367—Detection of balance between both feet, i.e. weight distribution
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/30—Speed
- A63B2220/34—Angular speed
- A63B2220/35—Spin
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3667—Golf stance aids, e.g. means for positioning a golfer's feet
- A63B69/3673—Foot inclining aids; Foot wobbling devices
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/36—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for golf
- A63B69/3691—Golf courses; Golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens
- A63B69/3694—Golf courses; Golf practising terrains having a plurality of driving areas, fairways, greens for driving only
Abstract
A portable, weather-resistant golf practice device is disclosed. The golf practice device of the present invention includes a multi-dimensionally adjustable practice platform that enables a golfer to repetitively practice shots under conditions that realistically simulate various combinations of uphill, downhill, or sidehill lies, as well as various grass lengths and sand trap conditions. The golf practice device of the present invention is user programmable, relatively inexpensive, lightweight, easily moved by one person, completely portable by two persons, and exhibits enhanced weather resistance. The golf practice device of the present invention minimizes height between the ground and the top of the practice platform, or “step-up” height to provide a golf practice device that is easily and comfortably used.
Description
- Under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §119(e), priority is claimed from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/179,952, filed on Feb. 2, 2000. This application is also a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/775,966, filed Feb. 2, 2001, pending.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a golf practice device. Specifically, the present invention relates to a portable, weather-resistant golf practice device including a practice platform capable of electronically controlled multi-dimensional adjustment.
- 2. State of the Art
- In order to improve the consistency, distance, and accuracy of their golf shots, it is essential for golfers to spend a considerable amount of time practicing. It is accepted by many that the best environment for such practice is the golf course itself. This is true because golf courses generally encompass a variety of terrain, including uphill, downhill, and sidehill grades, varying lengths of grass, and sand traps of diverse grades and shapes, and it is difficult to simulate such conditions in an off-course environment. However, playing a round of golf is time consuming and can be expensive. Moreover, because the objective in golf is to complete a round with the least amount of strokes, playing a round of golf does not provide the golfer an effective opportunity to repetitively practice shots made under particular combinations of course conditions.
- Practice ranges provide a partial solution to golfers' practice needs. In general, practice ranges are easily accessed, inexpensive, and enable the golfer to spend as much or as little time practicing as desired. Additionally, practice ranges provide an excellent environment for repetitive practice.
- However, practice ranges are not without disadvantages. For instance, practice ranges generally simulate only the most ideal conditions on a golf course (i.e., the tee-boxes provided on practice ranges are generally level and cannot simulate the varying grades, grass lengths, or sand traps encountered on a golf course). Even where practice ranges include practice areas providing some terrain diversity, the shots a golfer can practice at such facilities are still limited by the terrain provided, and where a practice range includes diverse practice areas, these areas are often surfaced with natural turf, which is difficult and expensive to maintain. Moreover, traveling to and from a practice range only to have to move from one practice area to another is inconvenient for many. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a device that enables a golfer to repetitively practice shots that accurately simulate the varying uphill, downhill, or sidehill lies, grass lengths, and sand traps encountered on a golf course without having to play a round of golf, move from area to area within a practice range, or even visit a practice range at all.
- Several devices have been developed in an attempt to answer this need. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,720,670, 5,470,074, 5,358,251, 5,340,111, 4,875,684, and 3,633,918 disclose golf practice devices incorporating adjustable platforms upon which a golfer may stand to repetitively practice shots simulating various combinations of course conditions. However, each of the devices taught in these patents suffers shortcomings which diminish its value to the user. In particular, none of the devices embodies a golf practice device that is comfortable to use, weather resistant, programmable, sufficiently lightweight and portable to be useful in practice range and backyard environments, and capable of simulating varying uphill, downhill, and sidehill grades, as well as varying grass lengths and sand trap conditions. Therefore, the devices disclosed in these patents have not enjoyed widespread commercialization, and a golf practice device which embodies all of these described characteristics would be an improvement in the art.
- The portable, weather-resistant golf practice device of the present invention includes a practice platform, an adjustable support assembly, and an electronic control unit. The practice platform is sized to provide a practice area wherein a user can address a golf ball and practice various golf shots. Due to the construction of the golf practice device of the present invention, the height between the ground and the top of the practice platform, or “step-up” height, is substantially reduced relative to existing devices, making the golf practice device of the present invention easier and more comfortable to use. Moreover, the practice platform may include a device allowing the simulation of various grass lengths or sand-trap conditions. Through adjustment of the adjustable support assembly, the practice platform may be moved multi-dimensionally to accurately simulate a wide variety of uphill lies, downhill lies, or sidehill lies, including combinations of uphill or downhill and sidehill lies. Adjustment of the adjustable support assembly is carried out using the electronic control unit and may be manually executed or automatically executed using a pre-programmed routine. Thus, the golf practice device of the present invention is weather resistant, portable, comfortable to use, accurately simulates a wide range of golf shots, including shots taken from a variety of uphill, downhill, or sidehill lies. The golf practice device of the present invention enables a user to practice such shots without playing a round of golf and without moving from one area to another within a practice facility or, when used in a home environment, without even visiting a practice facility.
- In the drawings:
- FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 through FIG. 5 illustrate adjustable support assemblies useful in conjunction with the first embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 6 and FIG. 10 illustrate a second embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 7 through FIG. 9 illustrate adjustable support assemblies useful in conjunction with the second embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 11 illustrates a practice platform of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 12 provides a cross-sectional view of a portion of the standing area of a practice platform of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 13 through FIG. 15 illustrate different inserts useful in conjunction with the practice platform of the golf practice device of the present invention;
- FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary user interface included in the electronic control unit of the golf practice device of the present invention; and
- FIG. 17 provides a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the golf practice device according to the present invention.
- A first embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. As in each of the embodiments of the present invention, the
golf practice device 10 according to the first embodiment includes anadjustable support assembly 12, apractice platform 14, and anelectronic control unit 16. As can be appreciated by reference to FIG. 1, theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention underlies thepractice platform 14, supporting thepractice platform 14 from underneath. - Exemplary
adjustable support assemblies 12 that may be used in the first embodiment of the present invention are illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. Theadjustable support assemblies 12 include abase 18, aplatform support 20, a centraluniversal joint 22, and at least twoindependent actuators platform support 20. The centraluniversal joint 22 is positioned between thebase 18 and theplatform support 20 and allows theplatform support 20 to move multi-dimensionally relative to the base. As it is used herein, the term “universal joint” refers to any joint or bearing which facilitates simultaneous movement about at least two different axes. - As is shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the
base 18 andplatform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment of the present invention may include frame structures constructed of structural members. The construction of thebase 18 andplatform support 20, however, is not so limited. For example, thebase 18 andplatform support 20 may also be constructed of a generally planar sheet of material. Moreover, thebase 18 may include any structure providing a suitable mounting point (i.e., sufficiently robust to withstand the significant stresses imposed during use of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention) for theactuators universal joint 22 of theadjustable support assembly 12. For instance, instead of a frame structure or generally planar sheet of material, thebase 18 may be a concrete slab, a metal or concrete post, or even the deck of a boat or ship. It is preferred, however, to construct thebase 18 andplatform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment of the present invention using frame structures, as such a construction yields a relatively lightweight, yet durable,adjustable support assembly 12. - In addition, any material or combination of materials may be used to construct the
base 18 orplatform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment, as long as such materials are weather resistant, corrosion resistant, and sufficiently robust to produce abase 18 andplatform support 20 capable of withstanding the stresses exerted during use of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. For example, coated steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, composite materials, polymer materials, or any combination thereof, may be used to fabricate the base 18 orplatform support 20, and where the base 18 or platform support are fabricated of generally planar sheet material, composite structural materials, such as those manufactured by M.C. Gill Corp. of El Monte, California, USA, for example, are preferably used. Moreover, thebase 18 andplatform support 20 may be fabricated using any suitable fabrication technique, such as any known cutting, welding, riveting, or bonding techniques. However, it is presently preferred to construct theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment using abase 18 andplatform support 20 constructed of welded steelstructural members 30 provided with a suitable corrosion resistant coating. - Where the
platform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 includes a frame structure, theplatform support 20 also preferably includes a platform member 32 (illustrated in FIG. 4). Theplatform member 32 may be affixed to the frame structure of theplatform support 20 by means known in the art, such as rivets, bolts, screws, or welds. As can be seen in FIG. 4, theplatform member 32 includes anupper surface 38 which is continuous and substantially planar, as well as an outer perimeter formed by aflange 42 extending downward and generally perpendicularly away from theupper surface 38. It is preferred that theflange 42 be continuous with the remainder of theplatform member 32. - The
platform member 32 may also be constructed using materials and methods known in the art and may be attached to the frame structure by any known means, provided that the materials and means used result in aplatform member 32 that is corrosion resistant, weather resistant, and able to withstand the stresses exerted during use of the golf practice device of the present invention. For example, theplatform member 32 may be constructed of separate pieces of metal stock that are cut and welded to form aplatform member 32 having a continuous and substantially planarupper surface 38 and an outer perimeter formed by a downwardly extendingflange 42, or substantially the same result may be achieved using a single piece of metal stock, which is cut, bent, and welded to the appropriate size and shape. Additionally, theplatform member 32 may be constructed of any suitable polymer or composite materials, such as the composite structural materials manufactured by M.C. Gill Corp. However, it is presently preferred to fabricate theplatform member 32 by welding multiple pieces of aluminum stock together. It is further preferred to mount theplatform member 32 to the frame structure of theplatform support 20 using stainless steel rivets. - The continuous nature of the
upper surface 38 andflange 42 of theplatform member 32 is significant. Such a design easily sheds water, dirt and debris away from electrical or mechanical systems underlying theplatform support 20. Several existing golf practice devices include platforms that are compromised by perforations or holes made to accommodate tees, ball holders, foot switches, grass adjusting mechanisms, and the like. Each such perforation or hole in the platform serves as an additional avenue for water, dirt, and debris to pass through the platform and contact the associated mechanical and electrical systems underlying the platform of these existing devices. Therefore, the substantially continuous,uncompromised platform member 32 surrounded by a downward extendingflange 42, as shown in FIG. 4, results in a golf practice device which is substantially resistant to incursions of water, dirt, and debris. - Where the
platform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment is formed from a generally planar sheet of material, there is no need to provide aplatform member 32. However, even where theplatform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment of the present invention is constructed using a generally planar sheet of material, it is preferred that theplatform support 20 include a flange that is continuous with a top surface of theplatform support 20, extends around the perimeter of theplatform support 20, and extends downward and generally perpendicularly away from the top surface of theplatform support 20. - As illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the central universal joint22 included in the
adjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment may be established by providing a joint which enables simultaneous pivoting about a firsthorizontal axis 44 and a secondhorizontal axis 46, thehorizontal axes base 18 and theplatform support 20 using pivotal orspherical bearings 48. However, theadjustable support assembly 12 may be fabricated using any combination of universal joint and mounting means known in the art that allows theplatform support 20 to simultaneously move about at least two axes (i.e., multi-dimensionally) relative to thebase 18. Also, the central universal joint 22 not only allows theplatform support 20 to move multi-dimensionally relative to thebase 18, but serves as a load bearing member supporting theplatform support 20, thepractice platform 14, and a golfer. Therefore, the central universal joint 22, as well as any mounting means, such as the pivotal orspherical bearings 48 used to affix the central universal joint 22 to thebase 18 and theplatform support 20, should be fabricated using materials providing a structure capable of adequately supporting theplatform support 20, thepractice platform 14, and a golfer as theplatform support 20 andpractice platform 14 are adjusted multi-dimensionally relative to thebase 18. - Though more may be used, the
adjustable support assembly 12 of the golf practice device of the first embodiment includes at least twoactuators adjustable support assembly 12. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, theactuators base 18 and theplatform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 using spherical orpivotal bearings 48. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, theactuators platform support 20 or thebase 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12. In such a design, thefirst actuator 24 a is mounted to the base 18 at itsproximal end 47 a and to the central universal joint 22 at itsdistal end 51 a, and thesecond actuator 24 b is mounted toplatform support 20 at itsproximal end 47 b and to the central universal joint 22 at itsdistal end 51 b. Where the design depicted in FIG. 3 is used, it is preferred to mount the distal ends 51 a, 51 b of theactuators type joints 49, while the proximal ends 47 a, 47 b are preferably mounted to thebase 18 andplatform support 20 using pivotal orspherical bearings 48. - The
actuators adjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment are bi-directional actuators and may be placed under independent electronic control. As theactuators platform support 20 is moved multi-dimensionally through the range of motion afforded by the centraluniversal joint 22. Moreover, as theplatform support 20 achieves a desired position, theactuators platform support 20 in place. Thus, theactuators practice platform 20 is moved and maintained in place during use of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. - Though several known actuators (e.g., actuators including hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, or mechanical drives) and mounting means may be used under such conditions, actuators including mechanical drives, particularly those comprising a lead screw and an electromagnetic motor, are presently preferred (SKF USA, Inc. of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA, distributes a range of such actuators that are well suited for application in the present invention). Actuators including mechanical drives are preferred over pneumatic or hydraulic actuators because they are capable of consistently providing precise linear adjustments of over wide temperature ranges without recalibration. This performance characteristic, in turn, results in precise angular adjustments to the platform support that are repeatable over wide temperature ranges without recalibration. In addition, actuators including mechanical drives result in a weight savings over pneumatic or hydraulic actuators, which generally must be significantly larger and heavier than actuators including mechanical drives in order to handle the same operational stresses.
- Though the
adjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment of the present invention has been described as including a central universal joint 22, theadjustable support assembly 12 is not limited by such a design. For example, where theadjustable support assembly 12 includes three ormore actuators 24 a-24 c (shown in FIG. 5), the need for a central universal joint may be obviated. - FIG. 5 illustrates an
adjustable support assembly 12 having threeactuators 24 a 24 c positioned between and mounted to thebase 18 and theplatform support 20, but as is easily appreciated, theadjustable support assembly 12 of FIG. 5 lacks a universal joint mounted to both theplatform support 20 and thebase 18. As before, theactuators 24 a-24 c are bi-directional actuators that may be independently electronically controlled. - The
actuators 24 a-24 c are preferably mounted to thebase 18 and theplatform support 20 using pivotal orspherical bearings 48. However, any mounting means known in the art allowing theactuators 24 a-24 c to move theplatform support 20 multi-dimensionally may be used. Further, theactuators 24 a-24 c are positioned about the adjustable support assembly to maximize multi-dimensional movement of theplatform support 20 relative to the base 18 while retaining stability. For example, as is illustrated in FIG. 5, thefirst actuator 24 a may be positioned and mounted near afirst end 50 of theplatform support 20 andbase 18, while the second andthird actuators second end 52 of theplatform support 20 andbase 18. In such a design, thefirst actuator 24 a may be used to control the elevation of thefirst end 50 of the platform support, and the second andthird actuators second end 52 of theplatform support 20 while simultaneously controlling the inclination or declination between thefront side 54 of theplatform support 20 and theback side 56 of theplatform support 20. Though only threeactuators 24 a-24 c are illustrated in FIG. 5, more than three actuators may be used as desired, and the relative positions of the actuators between the base 18 andplatform support 20 may be varied depending on the size and shape of theplatform support 20 orbase 18, or the amount of adjustability desired. - The
adjustable support assembly 12 of the first embodiment of the present invention also includes a protective curtain or bellows 60 mounted to and extending between theplatform support 20 and the base 18 (shown in FIG. 1). As is shown in FIG. 1, thebellows 60 preferably peripherally surrounds the electrical and mechanical systems of the adjustable support assembly, and may be mounted about the outer perimeters of the frames (hidden from view in FIG. 1) of both theplatform support 20 and thebase 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12. Further, thebellows 60 is preferably securely affixed to both thebase 18 and theplatform support 20, thereby minimizing the possibility of injury to the user of the present invention or passers-by which may result from contact with any electrical or mechanical system associated with theadjustable support assembly 12. The secure, substantially continuous affixation of thebellows 60 also protects such systems from fouling by weather, dust, debris, vandals, or small animals, problems which have been reported in existing devices lacking such a feature. - A variety of materials known in the art may be used to make the
bellows 60. For example, thebellows 60 is preferably fabricated using either a flexible polymer material or a fabric. The material used for thebellows 60 is preferably resistant to UV light degradation, durable, and weather resistant. Where fabric is used, it may be inherently weather resistant or it may be coated or laminated in order to achieve resistance to the elements. For example, a heavy-duty, coated synthetic fabric, such as nylon laminated with a breathable GORE-TEXT™ membrane or rubber coated nylon that is moisture and air impermeable, is suitable depending on the environment in which the golf device is to be used. Further, where polymer material is used to create thebellows 60, UV-stabilized, impact-modified ABS or high density polyethylene (HDPE) is preferred. In order to provide a durable area for attachment to thebase 18 and theplatform support 20, thebellows 60 may include reinforcing members, such as eyelets or grommets. Further, where fabric is used for thebellows 60, the area of attachment may be reinforced, for example, by a dual cloth layer, a rope, a cable, or other elongated element sewn into a hem. Alternatively, where thebellows 60 is made from a polymer material, reinforcement may also be provided by simply including areas of increased material thickness where thebellows 60 is to be attached to thebase 18 andplatform support 20. - Presently, the first embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention is provided with an
adjustable support assembly 12 having abellows 60 constructed of a synthetic fabric having polymer strips as reinforcing members. The polymer strips are sewn into the fabric of thebellows 60 in the areas where thebellows 60 is attached to thebase 18 and theplatform support 20. The bellows 60 is then permanently affixed to thebase 18 and theplatform support 20 by driving screws or rivets through the areas of thebellows 60 reinforced by the polymer strips and into thebase 18 and theplatform support 20. - A
practice platform 14 is attached to theplatform support 20 of the first embodiment of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention (shown in FIG. 1). Thepractice platform 14, therefore, may be articulated through the multi-dimensional range of motion of theplatform support 20 upon extension or retraction of one or more of the actuators (hidden from view in FIG. 1) included in theadjustable support assembly 12. Thepractice platform 14 is attached to theplatform support 20 by any suitable means known in the art. For example, thepractice platform 14 may be bolted, screwed, riveted, bonded, or welded to theplatform support 20. Riveting thepractice platform 14 to theplatform support 20 using stainless steel rivets is presently preferred because it provides a rugged, weather resistant, and permanent attachment of thepractice platform 14 to theplatform support 20. Riveting also results in apractice platform 14 that is less susceptible to vibration and less likely to partially or completely detach due to the loosening of screws or bolts over time. - A second embodiment of the
golf practice device 10 of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 6. The second embodiment also includes anadjustable support assembly 12, apractice platform 14, and anelectronic control unit 16. As can be seen in FIG. 7, theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment includes abase 18, aplatform support 20, and two ormore actuators adjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention is not contained entirely underneath thepractice platform 14. - The
base 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment includes a substantiallyhorizontal portion 89, a firstelevated portion 90, and a secondelevated portion 92 opposing the firstelevated portion 90. The substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18 extends between the firstelevated portion 90 and the secondelevated portion 92. Thus, the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18 serves to locate and maintain the first and secondelevated portions elevated portions platform support 20 during use of thegolf practice device 10. - As shown in FIG. 7, the first
elevated portion 90 of the base 18 may simply extend upward and away from the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18. Further, the first elevated portion includes afirst mounting point 96 a positioned at a desired distance above the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18. Thefirst mounting point 96 a includes auniversal joint 100, such as a spherical bearing or Heim joint. - While the second
elevated portion 92 of the base 18 also extends upwardly and away from the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18, the second elevated portion additionally includes afirst overhang 104 extending back over the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89. Twoactuators first overhang 104 in such a way that theactuators first overhang 104. Theactuators spherical bearings 48, but theactuators actuators platform support 20 is mounted to the base. The distal ends 108 a, 108 b of theactuators 24 provide second and third mounting points 96 a, 96 b, each including auniversal joint 100, such as a spherical bearing or Heim joint. - The
platform support 20 is mounted to thebase 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment using the mounting points 96 a-96 c. Theplatform support 20 includes afirst end 110 and asecond end 112, which opposes thefirst end 110. Thefirst end 110 is mounted tobase 18 via thefirst mounting point 96 a provided at the firstelevated portion 90, and thesecond end 112 is mounted to the base via the second and third mounting points 96 b, 96 c provided at the distal ends 108 a, 108 b of theactuators horizontal portion 89 of thebase 18, mounting theplatform support 20 to thebase 18 via the mounting points 96 a-96 c suspends theplatform support 20 above the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, controlled, independent extension and retraction of theactuators platform support 20, enabling theplatform support 20 to accurately simulate various uphill, downhill, and sidehill grades. - As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the
adjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment of the present invention may also utilize more than twoactuators 24 a-24 d. Instead of having a firstelevated portion 90 that simply extends upwardly and away from the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18, the firstelevated portion 90 of abase 18 of anadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment may also include asecond overhang 105 extending back over the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18. Three ormore actuators 24 a-24 d are mounted at the first andsecond overhangs actuators 24 a-24 d extend generally down and away from theoverhangs actuators 24 a-24 d are preferably mounted using pivotal orspherical bearings 48 but may be mounted by any means known in the art that enable theactuators 24 a-24 d to adjust theplatform support 20 multi-dimensionally relative to thebase 18. The distal ends 108 a-108 d of theactuators 24 a-24 d include mounting points 96 a-96 d, which include auniversal joint 100, such as a spherical bearing or a Heim joint. First and second opposing ends 110, 112 of theplatform support 20 are mounted to the mounting points 96 a-96 d to provide aplatform support 20 suspended above the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of thebase 18, theplatform support 20 being capable of multi-dimensional movement relative to the base 18 upon extension or retraction of one or more of theactuators 24 a-24 d. - The
actuators 24 a-24 d used in the adjustable support assembly of the second embodiment of the present invention are bi-directional actuators that may be placed under independent electronic control. Again, though any known bi-directional actuator capable of withstanding the operational stresses experienced during use of the golf practice device of the present invention may be used (e.g., actuators including hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, or mechanical drives), it is presently preferred to use actuators including mechanical drives for those reasons already explained. - Even though the
base 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 5 through FIG. 8 as including a frame structure, the construction of thebase 18 is not so limited. For instance, instead of a frame structure, thebase 18, or one or more portions thereof, may be constructed using generally planar sheets of material, or a combination of frame structures and generally planar sheets of material. Moreover, the substantiallyhorizontal portion 89 of the base 18 may comprise, for instance, a concrete slab or even the deck of a ship or boat having the first and secondelevated portions base 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment may be constructed using any materials or fabrication means known in the art, including, for example, those discussed in relation to the first embodiment. It is preferred that such materials and fabrication means result in a base 18 that is weather resistant, corrosion resistant and able to withstand the stresses exerted during use of the golf practice device of the present invention. - The
platform support 20 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment of the present invention may be constructed as a frame structure having a platform member fastened thereto, as is described in conjunction with the first embodiment. However, as is illustrated in FIG. 7 through FIG. 9, it is presently preferred to construct theplatform support 20 using a single substantially planar sheet of material. Though various metal alloys, composites, and polymer materials known in the art may be used to create a substantially planar sheet suitable for use as aplatform support 20, composite structural materials, such as those manufactured by M.C. Gill Corp., are preferred. - Where the
base 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment of the present invention is constructed of a frame structure, protective panels may be affixed to the first and secondelevated portions adjustable support assembly 12 and work to minimize or prevent injuries due to contact with such systems. - As a further protection, the
base 18 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment of the present invention also includesbellows 60 attached to and extending between theplatform support 20 and any overhangs having actuators mounted thereto. As is shown in FIG. 6, and FIG. 10, thebellows 60 preferably peripherally surround the electrical and mechanical systems (hidden from view in the figures) underlying theoverhangs bellows 60 may be mounted about the underside of theoverhangs platform support 20. Further, thebellows 60 is preferably securely affixed to theoverhangs platform support 20, thereby minimizing the possibility of injury which may result from contact with any electrical or mechanical system enclosed by thebellows 60. The secure, substantially continuous affixation of thebellows 60 also protects such systems from damage or fouling by weather, dust, debris, vandals, or small animals, problems which have been reported in existing devices lacking such a feature. - As is true of the
bellows 60 of the first embodiment, a variety of materials known in the art may be used to make thebellows 60 of theadjustable support assembly 12 of the second embodiment. For instance a flexible polymer material or fabric may be used. However, whatever material is used, it is preferably resistant to UV light degradation, durable, and weather resistant. As before, where fabric is used, it may be inherently weather resistant or it may be coated or laminated in order to achieve resistance to the elements. For example, a heavy-duty, coated synthetic fabric, such as nylon laminated with a breathable GORE-TEX™ membrane or rubber coated nylon that is impermeable to air and moisture, is suitable depending on the environment in which the golf device is to be used. Further, where a polymer material is used to create thebellows 60, UV-stabilized, impact-modified ABS or HDPE are preferred. Moreover, thebellows 60 may be attached to theplatform support 20 andoverhangs - Like the
practice platform 14 of the first embodiment, thepractice platform 14 of the second embodiment of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention is attached to the platform support 20 (shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 10). Thepractice platform 14, therefore, is articulated through the multi-dimensional range of motion of theplatform support 20 upon extension or retraction of one or more of the actuators (hidden from view in FIG. 6 and FIG. 10) included in theadjustable support assembly 12. As was true with regard to the first embodiment, thepractice platform 14 of the second embodiment is attached to theplatform support 20 by any suitable means known in the art. For example, thepractice platform 14 may be bolted, screwed, riveted, bonded, or welded to theplatform support 20. Again, riveting thepractice platform 14 to theplatform support 20 using stainless steel rivets is presently preferred. - Though each of the embodiments described herein includes advantages over prior art devices, the second embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention is presently preferred. A problem associated with prior art golf practice devices having adjustable practice platforms is that the height between the ground and the top of the practice platform, or “step-up height”, was often so large as to produce anxiety or sensations of imbalance in users. Advantageously, the design of the adjustable support assembly of the first embodiment of the present invention can reduce the step-up height to eleven inches or less. However, because the actuators included in the adjustable support assembly of the first embodiment are located underneath the platform support, the step-up height of a golf practice device according to the first embodiment must be at least as high as the underlying actuators. In contrast, the actuators included in the adjustable support assembly of the second embodiment of the present invention are positioned over the platform support, and, as a consequence, the minimum step-up height of the golf practice device according to the second embodiment is not limited by the minimum height of the actuators. For example, a golf practice device according to the second embodiment may be manufactured to have a step-up height of approximately seven inches while maintaining a practice platform capable of taking on a 5° slope about two different horizontal and substantially orthogonal axes of rotation. Therefore, the second embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention may be manufactured to have a step-up height that is significantly smaller than that of the first embodiment, resulting in a golf practice device that is relatively easier and more comfortable to use.
- The
practice platform 14 of the golf practice device of the present invention (illustrated alone in FIG. 11) is sized to allow a golfer to comfortably address a golf ball and repetitively practice shots in various platform orientations simulating uphill, downhill, or sidehill grades, or any combination thereof. Thepractice platform 14 comprises a continuous structure and is defined by a top surface and a bottom surface (not visible in FIG. 11) as well as an outside perimeter. Thepractice platform 14 may be fabricated in a variety of shapes, but a generally rectangular shape is preferred. Additionally, thepractice platform 14 is preferably constructed of a material that is corrosion resistant, insensitive to daily or seasonal temperature fluctuations, resistant to UV degradation, and of sufficient durability and strength to support a golfer and withstand regular use. For example, thepractice platform 14 may be fabricated from coated steel or a corrosion-resistant alloy, such as stainless steel, a titanium alloy, or an aluminum alloy. Alternatively, thepractice platform 14 may be constructed of a composite material, a resin, or a polymer, such as ABS or HDPE. It is presently preferred to construct thepractice platform 14 using thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized HDPE, as this material results in a durable, non-corrosive, lightweight, and relativelyinexpensive practice platform 14 that is resistant to UV degradation and is easily formed into a continuous structure of the appropriate shape. - The
practice platform 14 of the golf practice device of the present invention may include several features. Among these features aredrainage holes 126, a standingarea 128 to be used by a golfer while practicing, and atray 132 whereindifferent inserts 134 simulating varying grass lengths or sand trap conditions can be disposed. Further, thepractice platform 14 preferably includes at least onedepression 140 allowing easy storage of and access to a plurality of golf balls during a practice session. Thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized HDPE is easily formed through rotational or injection molding processes to produce apractice platform 14 including each of these features. - The drainage holes126 pass through the practice platform and allow water to easily drain off of the practice platform to the upper surface of the platform support. Because the upper surface of the platform support of each embodiment of the present invention is substantially continuous and planar, the draining water easily passes to one of the edges of the platform support where it is shed from the golf practice device.
- The standing
area 128 to be used by a golfer includes a series of raisedribs 130. Though any desirable dimensions may be used, the raisedribs 130 are preferably spaced on 2″ centers and are approximately 1″ wide by ½″ tall. The raisedribs 130 provide open avenues for water travel and thereby help to prevent the standingarea 128 from becoming waterlogged after the golf practice device of the present invention is exposed to precipitation. Moreover, the convoluted surface provided by the raisedribs 130 results in astronger practice platform 14 better able to withstand the compressive and angular forces exerted by a practicing golfer. - A mat142 (shown in place in FIG. 1, FIG. 6, and FIG. 10), which may be fabricated of synthetic grass and/or rubber, is removably placed over the series of raised
ribs 130 and covers the standingarea 128 to be used by a golfer while practicing. Themat 142 is preferably perforated or otherwise fabricated to allow the passage of water. Though various known materials may be used to fabricate themat 142, a commercial grade ASTROTURF™ surface with a rubberized backing is presently preferred. Themat 142 should be forgiving yet sufficiently rigid that when it is positioned over the series of raisedribs 130, avalley 144 is formed between each raisedrib 130, even when a golfer is standing on the mat 142 (illustrated in FIG. 12). Thesevalleys 144 are not so apparent to a golfer as to be intrusive or upsetting, yet they allow water to pass through themat 142, into thevalleys 144, and out of the standingarea 128 used by a golfer while practicing. - Removable placement of the
mat 142 over the series of raisedribs 130 may be achieved by means known in the art. For example, thepractice platform 14 may includeattachment areas 146 for the mat (illustrated in FIG. 11) whereon two sided adhesive tape is adhesively attached. Alternatively, one side of a two sided hook and loop adhesive system, such as VELCRO™, may be attached by known means such as adhesive, screws, or rivets, to theattachment areas 146 included on thepractice platform 14, and the second side of the two sided hook and loop system may be attached to themat 142 by similar means. Removable attachment of themat 142 is advantageous in that it allows removal of themat 142 for cleaning or replacement. - The
tray 132 included on thepractice platform 14 is structurally continuous with the remainder of thepractice platform 14 and facilitates the removable placement of a variety ofinserts 134 simulating various lengths of grass or sand trap conditions. Thetray 132 includes a recess defined by abottom surface 150 andsidewalls 152 a-152 d, and may include a depression (not illustrated in FIG. 11) in one of thesidewalls 152 a-152 d which allows easy removal of aninsert 134 disposed within thetray 132. Thevarious inserts 134 may be removably disposed within thetray 132 using any suitable means known in the art. For example, snap-fit connectors, VELCRO™, or other, larger hook and loop systems, may be used to removably place theinserts 134 within thetray 132. However, it is presently preferred to removably place theinserts 134 within thetray 132 using a friction-fit. Theinserts 134, therefore, are preferably sized such that, when aninsert 134 is placed within thetray 132, the outer perimeter of theinsert 134 abuts thesidewalls 152 a-152 d of thetray 132, thereby creating a pressure between theinsert 134 and thesidewalls 152 a-152 d which maintains theinsert 134 in place during use. - As was mentioned, a variety of
inserts 134 simulating varying grass lengths can be utilized in conjunction with the golf practice device of the present invention. Commercially available synthetic grass panels simulating several different grass conditions, such as tee box, fairway, or rough conditions, may be used to fabricatevarious inserts 134 by means known in the art. For example, as is shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 13, aninsert 134 may be produced by affixing asynthetic grass panel 160 of a given length to abacking 162 by any suitable means, such as bonding, gluing, screwing or riveting. Alternatively, as is illustrated in FIG. 6 and FIG. 14,synthetic grass panels single backing 162 to produce aninsert 134 simulating more than one grass length. The backing 162 of theinserts 134 is preferably fabricated of material that is impact resistant, substantially non-corrosive, UV resistant, and able to withstand normal daily and seasonal temperature extremes, such as thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized ABS or HDPE. - The
synthetic grass panels 160 used to create aninsert 134 may allow the face of a golf club (particularly a golf iron) to travel underneath a golf ball resting on theinsert 134 as a golf swing is executed and the golf ball is struck. For example, the synthetic hitting surfaces manufactured by FIBERBUILT® Manufacturing, Inc. of Shelby, Mont., USA, allow the face of a club to travel underneath a golf ball as the golf ball is struck and are well suited for fabricatinginserts 134 simulating various grass lengths.Synthetic grass panels 160 that allow a club face to travel underneath a golf ball as the golf ball is struck not only more accurately simulate golf shots taken on natural turf, but also substantially reduce or eliminate the hand shock, arm injury, and club damage often associated with synthetic grass mats. - Additionally, permanent or removable golf tees may be provided in the
inserts 134. For example, aninsert 134 having a permanently attached golf tee may be fabricated by providing asynthetic grass panel 160 having a small hole, passing a golf tee having a tee shaft and tee anchor through the small hole in thegrass panel 160, such that the tee shaft extends out from a top surface of the grass panel and the tee anchor prevents the tee from passing through the grass panel. The tee is then permanently incorporated into theinsert 134 by affixing thegrass panel 160 to abacking 162 as has already been discussed. Aninsert 134 having a removable tee may simply include a small hole passing through its entirety (i.e., through thesynthetic grass panel 160 and the backing 162). When tee shots are desired, a tee including a tee shaft and tee anchor may be passed through the small hole, and theinsert 134 positioned within thetray 132 of the practice platform, the tee anchor maintaining the tee in place during use. When tee shots are no longer desired, theinsert 134 may be removed from thetray 132, the tee removed, and theinsert 134 replaced. - An
insert 134 designed to simulate sand trap conditions may also be fabricated using materials and means known in the art. As illustrated in FIG. 15, such aninsert 184 includes four surrounding sides 180 a-180 d and abottom surface 182. Thesand trap insert 184, therefore, is itself substantially shaped like thetray 132 of thepractice platform 14, but its dimensions allow thesand trap insert 184 to fit within thetray 132. Thesand trap insert 184 may be fabricated of any suitable material known in the art, such as thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized ABS of HDPE. When asand trap insert 184 is positioned within thetray 132, the four surrounding sides 180 a-180 d of thesand trap insert 184 are preferably in contact with the sidewalls of the tray. Contact between the sidewalls of the tray and the surrounding sides 180 a-180 d of thesand trap insert 184 not only facilitates removable placement by a friction-fit, but also serves to inhibit the migration of large amounts of sand from thesand trap insert 184 to the bottom surface of thetray 132. - The
practice platform 14 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention may be designed for use by right handed golfers, left handed golfers, or right and left handed golfers. Apractice platform 14 designed to allow thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention to be used by both right and left handed golfers is illustrated in FIG. 1. Thepractice platform 14 includes anapproach side 190, atarget side 192, and first andsecond sides ridges first side 194 and first upwardly extendingridge 198 being behind the golfer as the golfer addresses the ball on the practice platform 14). Theapproach side 190 will generally be used by the golfer to step up onto thepractice platform 14 and is farthest from the intended target or intended direction of travel of the golf ball. Thetarget side 192 is opposite theapproach side 190 and is closest to the intended target or intended direction of travel of the golf ball. Neither theapproach side 190 nor thetarget side 192 of a practice platform intended for use by right-handed and left-handed golfers includes an upwardly extending ridge. The twosides ridges ridges sides practice platform 14. Moreover, one or both of the upwardly extendingridges depression 140 which allows storage of and access to a plurality of golf balls during a practice session. - As is easily appreciated, a
golf practice device 10 including apractice platform 14 having no upwardly extending ridges on either theapproach side 190 ortarget side 192 is easily converted from right handed to left handed use and vice-versa. To accomplish this conversion, thegolf practice device 10 need only be rotated 180°. If thegolf practice device 10 is positioned for right-handed use, the positions of thetray 132 and the standingarea 128 to be used by a golfer while practicing are the mirror opposite of what they should be for a left-handed golfer. However, by simply rotating thegolf practice device 10 through 180° relative to the target area or intended direction of travel of the golf ball, the positions of thetray 132 and the standingarea 128 to be used by a golfer while practicing are reversed. Therefore, where thepractice platform 14 is designed to enable use by right-handed and left-handed golfers, theapproach side 190 of thepractice platform 14 for a right-handed golfer simply becomes thetarget side 192 of thepractice platform 14 for a left-handed golfer and vice-versa. - The
practice platform 14 may also be fabricated for dedicated use by right-handed golfers or by left-handed golfers. For example, FIG. 6 shows agolf practice device 10 having apractice platform 14 fabricated and mounted for dedicated use by right-handed golfers, and FIG. 10 shows agolf practice device 10 having apractice platform 14 fabricated and mounted for dedicated use by left-handed golfers. - Where the
practice platform 14 is fabricated for use only by right-handed golfers or only by left-handed golfers, thepractice platform 14 includes a third upwardly extendingridge 201 along the edge of the intendedtarget side 194 of thepractice platform 14. This third upwardly extendingridge 201 intersects the first upwardly extendingridge 198 at the edge of thefirst side 194 behind a golfer as the golfer addresses the ball in preparation for a practice shot. However, in order to provide free space for the head of the swinging club and the exiting ball, the third upwardly extendingridge 201 on thetarget side 194 does not extend the entire length of thetarget side 194. The third upwardly extendingedge 201 may provide an added sense of security to a user of the golf practice device of the present invention, but it creates apractice platform 14 with adedicated target side 194 that cannot be properly used by right- and left-handed golfers. As is easily appreciated by reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 10, whether or not agolf practice device 10 is dedicated to right-handed or left-handed use depends entirely upon how thepractice platform 14 having a third upwardly extendingridge 201 is mounted to theadjustable support assembly 12. - It should be understood, however, that the practice platform of the golf practice device of the present invention may be fabricated using one, two, or three upwardly extending ridges at the edges of the practice platform. It is simply presently preferred to include only two upwardly extending ridges positioned in front of and behind a golfer as the golfer addresses a golf ball on the practice platform because doing so results in a golf practice device that is easily used by right- and left-handed golfers.
- As already mentioned, each embodiment of the
golf practice device 10 of the present invention also includes an electronic control unit (hereinafter an “ECU”)16. TheECU 16 is preferably housed in abody 330 that may be mounted to or formed as part of asupport 210 which extends up from theadjustable support assembly 12 and is preferably hollow. Moreover, thesupport 210 preferably extends out of theflange 42 of theplatform support 20 of agolf practice device 10 according to the first embodiment (so that the substantially continuous nature of the upper surface of theplatform support 20 is maintained), while thesupport 210 preferably extends out of thetop surface 107 of anoverhang base 18 of agolf practice device 10 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Because theECU 16 controls adjustment of thepractice platform 14, theECU 16 as well as itssupport 210 should be positioned to facilitate user access. Preferably, theECU 16 is located on the golf practice device so that it is positioned in front of or behind a golfer as the golfer addresses a golf ball on the practice platform. - A schematic illustration of a golf practice device of the present invention including an
exemplary ECU 16 is provided in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 16, theECU 16 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention includes auser interface 300, aprocessor 302, and, preferably, machinereadable memory 304, such as random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), or electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM). TheECU 16 may also include an outboard (to the processor 302)clock 305, such as an 8 MHZ crystal oscillator module, supplying clock signals to theprocessor 302. Further, the ECU may include acommunication port 306 enabling communication between theECU 16 and anexternal computer 308. Based on inputs provided from, for example, theuser interface 300, theactuators 24, or anexternal computer 308, theprocessor 302 controls theactuators 24 such that the practice platform of the golf practice device of the present invention is adjusted as desired by the user to simulate various golf course conditions. Though theECU 16 of the golf practice device of thepresent invention 10 is described herein as incorporating each of its various features within asingle body 330, the features ofECU 16 of the present invention need not be contained within asingle body 330 and may be located about thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention as desired. - Any
suitable processor 302 may be used in theECU 16 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. For instance theprocessor 302 may be any known microprocessor or digital signal processor capable of receiving data, processing data, and communicating output or control signals based on the data received. Presently, it is preferred to provide theECU 16 with a PIC 16C64/08 microcontroller manufactured by Microchip Technology Inc. of Chandler, Ariz., USA. However, theECU 16 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention is not limited to incorporation of such aprocessor 302. - The
user interface 300 of theECU 16 of the present invention includes any known interface that is not only capable of displaying to a user information output from theprocessor 302, but is also capable of communicating signals representing user inputs to theprocessor 302. For example, it is presently preferred to provide a user interface comprising a weather-resistant membrane keypad 310 incorporating a plurality of input switches 312-324 b and a plurality of LCD displays 326 a-326 c (illustrated in FIG. 16). Where such auser interface 300 is provided, a user activates and controls the golf practice device of the present invention by actuating one or more of the plurality of input switches 312-324 b, and themicroprocessor 302 directs the display of appropriate information in each of the plurality of LCD displays. A membrane-type control panel is preferred because the entire surface of the control panel is continuous and, therefore, provides enhanced protection from moisture, dust, dirt, and debris. However, as is easily appreciated, theuser interface 300 may include any known input device in combination with any known display device, provided that such input and display devices are capable of reliable operation under the anticipated operational stresses. - As is shown in FIG. 16, the input switches312-324 b of the
user interface 300 may control any desired function. The user interface may include an “ON/OFF”switch 312 for activating and deactivating the golf practice device. Theuser interface 300 also preferably includes a “CALIBRATE LEVEL”switch 314 and a “GO TO LEVEL”switch 316. The CALIBRATELEVEL switch 314 enables automatic or manual calibration of the level or “zero” position of the practice platform even when the golf practice device is positioned on a non-level surface, and actuation of the GO TO LEVEL switch 316 signals theprocessor 302 to control the automatic return of the practice platform to the calibrated zero position. Moreover, theuser interface 300 may include various input switches for manual or automatic adjustment of the practice platform. The “SELECT PRESET” switches 318 a, 318 b allow a user to scroll through a group of “presets”, each preset representing a preprogrammed practice platform position or a preprogrammed practice routine including a variety of practice platform settings. Significantly, where the machinereadable memory 304 of theECU 16 includes pre-programmed practice routines, such routines may simulate the terrain of various well-known golf courses, allowing a user to simulate a round of golf on a course of choice. Actuation of the “GO PRESET”switch 320 signals theprocessor 302 to adjust the practice platform in accordance with the preset selected by the user. To facilitate manual adjustment of the practice platform, theuser interface 300 may be provided with “MANUAL UP/DOWN” switches 322 a, 322 b and “MANUAL SIDEHILL” switches 324 a,324 b. Actuation of such switches directs the processor to control the uphill, downhill, or sidehill adjustment of the practice platform until a desired position is achieved. It must be noted, however, that theuser interface 300 illustrated in FIG. 16 is merely exemplary. Theuser interface 300 of theECU 16 of the golf practice device of the present invention may incorporate any number of input switches controlling any desired function of the golf practice device of the present invention. - The LCD displays326 a-326 c provided in the user interface illustrated in FIG. 16 serve to present useful information as the golf practice device of the present invention is used. The information presented in each LCD display 326 a-326 c is preferably controlled by the
processor 302 and dependent upon inputs received by the processor. For instance, as a user actuates one of the “SELECT PRESET” switches 318 a, 318 b, the microprocessor controls the display of anindicator 317 within thefirst LCD display 326 a. Theindicator 317 may be any desirable text and/or graphical message indicating the preset currently selected. Theprocessor 302 of theECU 16 also receives condition data from each of theactuators 24, and based on such condition data, theprocessor 302 controls the display of second andthird indicators third indicators MANUAL SIDEHILL third indicators actuators 24. Again, however, theuser interface 300 of theECU 16 of the present invention may include more or less than three displays, andprocessor 302 may be programmed to control such displays to provide any information deemed beneficial to a user. - The
processor 302 of theECU 16 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention may be configured as desired to facilitate operation of thegolf practice device 10 as described. However, a preferred configuration for agolf practice device 10 including two actuators is presently described in order to more completely illustrate the interaction between theuser interface 300, theprocessor 302, and theactuators 24 included therein. - Where the present invention includes two actuators and a user interface as illustrated in FIG. 16, it is preferred that input switches, except the ON/
OFF switch 312, be connected directly to an input/output pin of the processor, each of such input/output pins being configured as an input. Signals generated by actuation of the input switches 314-324 b are preferably processed internally by the processor to produce appropriate output signals. It is further preferred to designate two input/output pins of the processor for each axis of directional control and actuator control, such input/output pins being configured as outputs. Output signals generated by the processor and communicated via these directional pins drive field-effect transistors (FETs) which, in turn, drive the coils of cross-connected relays. When the directional pins are high, the coils of the cross-connected relays are energized and movement in the positive direction of each axis is facilitated. Two additional input/output pins are also preferably configured as outputs and designated for actuator control. When these two additional pins are high, optocouplers are energized and drive gates of high power metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs). For example, IRFP044N transistors manufactured by International Rectifier Corp. of El Segundo, Calif., USA, may be used. When energized, such MOSFETs provide a very low resistance return for the windings of the motors driving the actuators. It is further preferred that eight input/output pins be employed for transferring data to LCD display drivers included in the ECU. Finally, two input/output pins are preferably configured as inputs designated to receive signals generated by encoders included in the actuators. As the actuators are extending or contracting, signals sent by the encoders to the two dedicated pins indicate the exact extension of each actuator. The signals generated by the encoders are processed by the processor to produce output signals to the LCD drivers corresponding to the uphill, downhill, or sidehill position of the practice platform. - Though not necessary, a
communication port 306 enabling communication between theECU 16 and anexternal computer 308 expands the potential capabilities of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. In particular, an external computer may include one or more updated or additional pre-programmed practice routines not included within the machinereadable memory 304 included in theECU 16. Interaction between theexternal computer 308 and theECU 16 via thecommunication port 306 could, therefore, facilitate execution of such additional practice programs by thegolf practice device 10, thereby expanding its stand-alone capabilities. - As mentioned, the
support 210 for theECU 16 is preferably hollow. Moreover, thesupport 210 is preferably removably mounted to theadjustable support assembly 12 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention, with theECU 16 preferably being positioned near thetop end 209 of thesupport 210. Removable attachment of thesupport 210 may be achieved using any suitable means known in the art, such as bolts or screws. Removable attachment of thesupport 210 is preferred because easy detachment and re-attachment of thesupport 210 enhances the portability of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. - The
support 210 may be fabricated of any material that is durable, substantially non-corrosive, and UV resistant. For example, thesupport 210 may be fabricated of a polymer, such as thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized ABS or HDPE, or thesupport 210 may be fabricated of lightweight steel provided with a suitable corrosion-resistant coating. - Where a
hollow support 210 is provided, any electrical or communication lines necessary to power theECU 16 or to facilitate communication between theECU 16 and other internal or external components may be disposed within thesupport 210. In order to ease attachment and detachment of thesupport 210 and, when applicable, theECU 16, each electrical or communication line disposed within thesupport 210 may be provided with a suitable connector near thetop end 209 or thebottom end 211 of thesupport 210. Where such connectors are included, any one of a variety of commercially available wiring connectors may be used. - As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 6, and FIG. 10, the
electronic control unit 16 may be housed in abody 330 including a front surface, back surface, top surface, bottom surface (not visible), and two side surfaces. Thebody 330 is substantially weather resistant and may be fabricated using known materials which are durable, substantially non-corrosive, and resistant to UV degradation. For example, thebody 330 may be fabricated using aluminum alloy, stainless steel, coated steel, or thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized ABS or HDPE. - The
body 330 of theECU 16 may be removably fastened to thesupport 210 using any means known in the art, such as bolts or screws. Where thebody 330 is removably fastened to thesupport 210, thebody 330 is preferably fastened to thesupport 210 at the back or bottom surface of thebody 330. Moreover, where electrical or communication lines are disposed within thesupport 210, such lines preferably pass out of thebody 330 and into thesupport 210 through whichever side of thebody 330 is removably fastened to thesupport 210. - Alternatively, instead of mounting the
body 330 of theECU 16 to thesupport 210, thebody 330 of theECU 16 and thesupport 210 may be integrally formed of a single piece of a molded material, such as thermo-formed, impact-modified, and UV-stabilized ABS or HDPE. Such a design is desirable, as it simplifies construction ofsupport 210 andbody 330 of theECU 16, while eliminating the need to fasten thebody 330 of theECU 16 to thesupport 210. - As is schematically represented in FIG. 17,
pressure sensors 340 may be disposed within or under the standingarea 128 of thepractice platform 14 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. Such pressure sensors are of great value for determining the shift in weight which occurs between a golfer's feet during the golfer's swing. Thepressure sensors 340 output signals representing the weight born by each of a golfer's foot when addressing the golf ball as well as the shift in weight occurring during a swing. The output signals are received by theprocessor 302 which, in turn, processes the signals and produces outputs controlling the display of appropriate textual and/or graphical information at theuser interface 300. Thus, by includingpressure sensors 340 within or under the standingarea 128 of thepractice platform 14 of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention, a golfer can understand the shift in body weight which occurs during strokes taken at different grades representing various golf course conditions. Using such information, the golfer can make any adjustments necessary to arrive at a more ideal weight transfer for strokes taken under various combinations of course conditions. - As can also be appreciated by reference to FIG. 17, the golf practice device of the present invention may also include a
measurement module 342. Themeasurement module 342 includes one or more sensors configured to sense the speed, rotation, and/or direction of a golf ball after it is struck on the practice platform of the golf practice device of the present invention. Themeasurement module 342 may also include a sensor configured to sense club speed or angle as a golf swing is executed. The one or more sensors included in themeasurement module 342 may be digital or analog, and suitable digital and analog sensors capable of sensing ball speed, rotation, and direction, as well as club speed and angle, are known in the art. For example, American IR, Inc. of Las Vegas, Nev., USA, manufactures single beam, dual beam, and multi-array emitters which are suitable for application in themeasurement module 342. Based on sensed inputs from the one or more sensors, themeasurement module 342 preferably generates output signals representing an interpolated location of the struck golf ball in terms of distance and deviation from center. Such output signals are received by theprocessor 302 which, in turn, processes the output signals and controls the display of appropriate textual and/or graphical information at theuser interface 300 indicating the interpolated position of the struck golf ball. Communicating the interpolated position of a struck golf ball to a user is highly desirable, as it allows the user to readily appreciate the effects of various adjustments to the user's golf swing or stance. - Though any suitable power source may be used, the golf practice device of the present invention is preferably powered from 120 volt AC power source. However, the initial current draw of the actuators is very high (i.e., 30 amps or higher), and the 120 AC power circuits generally provided in homes and commercial establishments may not be able to support such a high current draw, even for a very short period. Thus, it is presently preferred to also provide the golf practice device of the present invention with a battery (preferably, a twelve-volt sealed lead-acid battery). The battery serves to buffer the initially high current draw of the actuators, protecting the 120 volt AC power source from sudden, unsupportable current loads. Moreover, where a battery is included in the golf practice device of the present invention, it is preferably continuously charged by a power supply when the golf practice device of the present invention is activated. Though the battery is used to supply electrical current required to operate the actuators included in the present invention, a low current supply is all that is necessary to maintain the battery at nearly full charge because the actuators are operated under a low duty cycle. However, in order to ensure that the battery remains adequately charged and operational, it is preferred that golf practice device of the present invention remain inoperable unless the power supply charging the battery receives AC power and is thus capable of charging the battery. For example, a sense line may indicate operation of the power supply, deactivating the golf practice device of the present invention in the absence of AC power to the power supply. Nevertheless, where necessary, the battery may provide power to operate the processor included in the ECU, even when the power supply is not receiving AC power, in order to preserve information stored in volatile machine readable memory.
- The electrical and communication lines of the golf practice device of the present invention may include any suitable, commercially available wiring, though heavy duty wiring is preferred. All of the electrical and communication lines necessary to the function of the golf practice device of the present invention may be incorporated into a suitable wiring harness routing the various electrical and communication lines to their proper destinations in such a way as to avoid the risk of damage due to interaction with moving parts and to ease transport, set up, and service of the golf practice device of the present invention. Moreover, surge and over-current protection is preferably incorporated into the wiring design of the golf practice device of the present invention. Surge protection will serve to minimize potential damage due to battery failure or “hot-swapping” of the battery. Over-current protection which may be provided, for example, by circuit breakers corresponding to each actuator included in the adjustable support assembly, works to prevent excessive power dissipation within the actuator motor, as well as within the driving FETs, in the unlikely event that an actuator is driven to its mechanical limit.
- Further, it is presently preferred that the base18 included in the
adjustable support assembly 12 of each embodiment of the golf practice device of the present invention includes one or more wheel assemblies. Each such wheel assembly includes at least one wheel or castor and at least one rigid arm, with each wheel or castor being affixed to each rigid arm using suitable means known in the art. For example, if the wheel assembly includes a rigid arm having a box-beam construction, a wheel or castor may be fitted with an attachment that may be inserted within a first end of the rigid arm. The wheel or castor may then be affixed by passing, for example, a pin or bolt, through the rigid arm as well as the attachment fitted to the castor or wheel. Alternatively, each wheel assembly may include two spaced rigid arms that are approximately 3½″×¼″ and made of ⅛″ thick stainless steel. Each spaced rigid arm of such an embodiment includes a hole through which a wheel axle, pin, or bolt may be disposed. A wheel may then be placed between the two spaced rigid arms and attached by disposing a wheel axle, pin, or bolt through the first rigid arm, the wheel, and the second rigid arm. The rigid arms of the wheel assemblies discussed herein may be secured to thebase 18 of anadjustable support assembly 12 using any means known in the art, such as welding, bonding, riveting, bolting, or screwing, that creates a rugged, permanent or removable attachment. - The
base 18 of anadjustable support assembly 12 of agolf practice device 10 of the present invention preferably includes at least one wheel assembly in order to facilitate at least short distance movement of thegolf practice device 10 by a single person. Thus, each component of the wheel assemblies should be fabricated by using materials and means resulting in wheel assemblies of sufficient strength to reliably support the entire weight of thegolf practice device 10 of the present invention. Further, materials that are lightweight and substantially non-corrosive are preferably used. - Each aspect of the golf practice device of the present invention is chosen to result in a device that is comfortable and easy to use as well as moveable by one person and portable by two people. For example, the adjustable support assembly and the practice platform are designed to result in a practice platform that is adjustable multi-dimensionally yet comfortable to approach, access and use. The adjustable support assembly and practice platform are, therefore, designed to minimize the step-up height between the ground and the top surface of the practice platform. Moreover, the size and weight of the golf practice device of the present invention should allow the device to be moved by one person using the one or more wheel assemblies provided on the base of the adjustable support assembly, and the entire device is lightweight and small enough to be lifted by two people and transported in a pick-up truck, sport utility vehicle, or small trailer.
- The golf practice device of the present invention is, therefore, ideally suited for commercial as well as private applications. As has been emphasized, the golf practice device of the present invention is programmable and enables a golfer to repetitively practice shots under conditions that realistically simulate various combinations of uphill, downhill, or sidehill lies, as well as various grass lengths and sand trap conditions. However, the golf practice device is also relatively inexpensive, comfortable to use, lightweight, easily moved by one person, completely portable by two persons, and can be left out of doors uncovered for extended periods of time.
- Though the golf practice device of the present invention is described herein using various embodiments and figures, the scope of the present invention is not limited to such embodiments and figures but is defined by the appended claims.
Claims (20)
1. A portable golf practice device comprising:
an adjustable support assembly including a base and a platform support, configured for multi-dimensional adjustment with respect to said base, said platform support including a substantially continuous and generally planar upper surface;
a practice platform attached to said platform support and including at least one drainage hole, a standing area including a series of raised ribs, and a tray;
a synthetic grass and rubber mat removably placed in said standing area over said series of raised ribs;
an insert removably placed in said tray, said insert simulating one or more lengths of grass or sand trap conditions; and
an electronic control unit (ECU) configured for control of the multi-dimensional adjustment of the platform support and said practice platform attached thereto.
2. The portable golf practice device of claim 1 , wherein said adjustable support assembly further includes at least two actuators operably coupled to said ECU that may be independently electronically controlled thereby, said actuators being positioned underneath said platform support and between said platform support and said base.
3. The portable golf practice device of claim 2 , wherein said adjustable support assembly further comprises a central universal joint, said central universal joint being positioned under said platform support and between said platform support and said base.
4. The portable golf practice device of claim 1 , wherein said base comprises a first frame and said platform support comprises a second frame with a platform member being attached to said second frame of said platform support.
5. The portable golf practice device of claim 2 , further comprising a bellows attached to and extending between said base and said platform support, said bellows substantially enclosing said at least two actuators.
6. The portable golf practice device of claim 2 , wherein said base further comprises at least one wheel assembly.
7. The portable golf practice device of claim 2 , wherein said ECU comprises a processor, machine readable memory, and a user interface.
8. The portable golf practice device of claim 7 , wherein said user interface is configured to generate signals corresponding to user inputs and said processor is operably coupled to said user interface to receive said generated signals, process said generated signals, and control said multi-dimensional adjustment of the practice platform responsive to the user inputs.
9. A portable golf practice device comprising:
a platform support configured for multi-dimensional adjustment, said platform support being generally planar and having a substantially continuous upper surface;
a base extending under said platform support and including a substantially horizontal portion extending between a first raised portion and an opposing second raised portion, said second raised portion including a first overhang;
a first mounting point located at said first raised portion of said base, said first mounting point including a first universal joint attached to a first end of said platform support;
at least two actuators overlying said platform support and attached to said first overhang, said at least two actuators including distal ends including additional universal joints, said additional universal joints serving as additional mounting points and being attached to a second, opposing side of said platform support;
a practice platform attached to said platform support; and
an electronic control unit (ECU) operably coupled to said at least two actuators and configured for controlling the multi-dimensional adjustment of the platform support and said practice platform attached thereto.
10. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , wherein said practice platform comprises at least one drainage hole, a standing area including a series of raised ribs, a tray, a mat removably placed over said series of raised ribs in said standing area, and an insert removably placed in said tray, said insert simulating one or more lengths of grass or sand trap conditions.
11. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , wherein said first raised portion of said base further comprises a second overhang, said second overhang having a third actuator mounted thereto, said third actuator having a distal end serving as said first mounting point incorporating said first universal joint.
12. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , wherein said first raised portion of said base further comprises a second overhang, said second overhang having third and fourth actuators mounted thereto, said third actuator having a distal end serving as said first mounting point incorporating said first universal joint and said fourth actuator having a distal end including one of said additional mounting points incorporating one of said additional universal joints.
13. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , wherein said base comprises a frame structure and said platform support comprises a generally planar and substantially continuous sheet of material.
14. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , further comprising a bellows attached to and extending between said first overhang and said platform support, said bellows substantially enclosing said at least two actuators.
15. The portable golf practice device of claim 11 , further comprising a first bellows and a second bellows, said first bellows attached to and extending between said first overhang and said platform support and said second bellows attached to and extending between said second overhang and said platform support.
16. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , wherein said base further comprises at least one wheel assembly.
17. The portable golf practice device of claim 9 , wherein said ECU comprises a processor, machine readable memory, and a user interface.
18. The portable golf practice device of claim 17 , wherein said user interface is configured to generate signals corresponding to user inputs and said processor is operably coupled to said user interface to receive said generated signals, process said generated signals, and control said multi-dimensional adjustment of the practice platform responsive to the user inputs.
19. The portable golf practice device of claim 17 , wherein said machine readable memory of said ECU includes a plurality of pre-programmed practice routines, each of said plurality of pre-programmed practice routines being selectable from said user interface and comprising a plurality of pre-programmed practice platform positions simulating various different golf course conditions.
20. The portable golf practice device of claim 7 , wherein said machine readable memory of said ECU includes a plurality of pre-programmed practice routines, each of said plurality of pre-programmed practice routines being selectable from said user interface and comprising a plurality of pre-programmed practice platform positions simulating various different golf course conditions.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/131,305 US20020111225A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2002-04-24 | Portable, weather-resistant golf practice device |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US17995200P | 2000-02-03 | 2000-02-03 | |
US09/775,966 US20010034272A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2001-02-02 | Portable, weather resistant golf practice device |
US10/131,305 US20020111225A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2002-04-24 | Portable, weather-resistant golf practice device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/775,966 Continuation US20010034272A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2001-02-02 | Portable, weather resistant golf practice device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020111225A1 true US20020111225A1 (en) | 2002-08-15 |
Family
ID=22658657
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/775,966 Abandoned US20010034272A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2001-02-02 | Portable, weather resistant golf practice device |
US10/131,305 Abandoned US20020111225A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2002-04-24 | Portable, weather-resistant golf practice device |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/775,966 Abandoned US20010034272A1 (en) | 2000-02-03 | 2001-02-02 | Portable, weather resistant golf practice device |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20010034272A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2001241444A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2001056668A1 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050045690A1 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2005-03-03 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Welding workpiece support structures |
US20050045691A1 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2005-03-03 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Workpiece support structures and system for controlling same |
US20100056289A1 (en) * | 2008-08-26 | 2010-03-04 | Desmond Yi Zhou | Golf platform with adjustable inclination |
USD777864S1 (en) * | 2015-09-24 | 2017-01-31 | Play Better Golf, Inc. | Golf practice platform |
USD855723S1 (en) * | 2017-01-30 | 2019-08-06 | Carl Sjostrom | Foldable golf practice platform |
USD982113S1 (en) * | 2020-12-22 | 2023-03-28 | Daniel E. Schmitt | Golf training apparatus |
Families Citing this family (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2002368224A (en) * | 2001-06-04 | 2002-12-20 | Sony Corp | Functional device and manufacturing method therefor |
KR100470703B1 (en) * | 2001-09-22 | 2005-03-09 | 권오석 | Simulation System for Golf Practice |
FR2838976B1 (en) * | 2002-04-29 | 2004-12-10 | Christian Lucien Vincen Lateur | MULTI-SERVICE ADVERTISING TERMINAL FOR GOLF PRACTICE |
KR100488289B1 (en) * | 2002-08-14 | 2005-05-11 | 이근용 | An apparatus for putting training |
DE20311917U1 (en) * | 2003-08-01 | 2003-10-16 | Engelmann Thomas | Tee mat for a golf ball |
US20050113182A1 (en) * | 2003-11-26 | 2005-05-26 | Kim Sung T. | Golf shot practice apparatus |
KR101251939B1 (en) * | 2010-12-17 | 2013-04-08 | 이재웅 | Golf mat for golf practice |
US20120304372A1 (en) * | 2011-06-03 | 2012-12-06 | Poseidon Concepts Partnership Limited | Container cover |
US10857421B2 (en) | 2017-05-31 | 2020-12-08 | Nike, Inc. | Treadmill with dynamic belt tensioning mechanism |
US10918904B2 (en) | 2017-05-31 | 2021-02-16 | Nike, Inc. | Treadmill with vertically displaceable platform |
CN110694262A (en) * | 2018-07-10 | 2020-01-17 | 深圳市衡泰信科技有限公司 | Golf game push rod control system |
KR101971640B1 (en) * | 2018-08-29 | 2019-04-23 | 주식회사 안다미로 | Ball launcher and amusement machine using it |
US10682569B1 (en) * | 2019-08-09 | 2020-06-16 | Tim Vale | Golf game system |
USD944911S1 (en) * | 2020-03-13 | 2022-03-01 | ALPION Co., Ltd | Frame for golf practice mat |
USD964494S1 (en) * | 2020-06-23 | 2022-09-20 | Dongguan Jun Shun Plastic Mold Co., Ltd. | Golf practice pad |
USD965719S1 (en) * | 2021-12-07 | 2022-10-04 | Haiying Chen | Golf hitting mat |
USD1009199S1 (en) * | 2022-03-30 | 2023-12-26 | Haiying Chen | Golf hitting mat |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3639923A (en) * | 1970-11-25 | 1972-02-08 | Albert A Stewart | Golf practice platform |
US5358251A (en) * | 1989-08-14 | 1994-10-25 | Ashton James T | Golf training aid/simulator |
CA2132264A1 (en) * | 1994-09-16 | 1996-03-17 | Bruce J. Oxley | Golf practice apparatus |
US5632689A (en) * | 1995-09-07 | 1997-05-27 | Golf Training Technologies, Inc. | Golf training apparatus and method |
US5820478A (en) * | 1997-07-11 | 1998-10-13 | Slopemaster Golf, Inc. | Powered tiltable platform |
KR20000004576U (en) * | 1998-08-11 | 2000-03-06 | 이범호 | Golf practice device with adjustable footrest |
-
2001
- 2001-02-02 WO PCT/US2001/003602 patent/WO2001056668A1/en active Application Filing
- 2001-02-02 AU AU2001241444A patent/AU2001241444A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2001-02-02 US US09/775,966 patent/US20010034272A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2002
- 2002-04-24 US US10/131,305 patent/US20020111225A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050045690A1 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2005-03-03 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Welding workpiece support structures |
US20050045691A1 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2005-03-03 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Workpiece support structures and system for controlling same |
US7347350B2 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2008-03-25 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Welding workpiece support structures |
US7357290B2 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2008-04-15 | Lincoln Global, Inc. | Workpiece support structures and system for controlling same |
US20100056289A1 (en) * | 2008-08-26 | 2010-03-04 | Desmond Yi Zhou | Golf platform with adjustable inclination |
USD777864S1 (en) * | 2015-09-24 | 2017-01-31 | Play Better Golf, Inc. | Golf practice platform |
USD855723S1 (en) * | 2017-01-30 | 2019-08-06 | Carl Sjostrom | Foldable golf practice platform |
USD982113S1 (en) * | 2020-12-22 | 2023-03-28 | Daniel E. Schmitt | Golf training apparatus |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2001241444A1 (en) | 2001-08-14 |
WO2001056668A1 (en) | 2001-08-09 |
US20010034272A1 (en) | 2001-10-25 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20020111225A1 (en) | Portable, weather-resistant golf practice device | |
US6663498B2 (en) | Tiltable golf platform | |
US5558604A (en) | Aquatic treadmill apparatus | |
US5409230A (en) | Booth for practicing golf indoors | |
US4826166A (en) | Football target assembly | |
US5460379A (en) | Golf practice platform with controllable tilt | |
US4561653A (en) | Portable softball pitching mound | |
US5632689A (en) | Golf training apparatus and method | |
WO2003080196A1 (en) | Moving practice golf green ball pickup and return apparatus | |
US20040214648A1 (en) | Golf practice target system | |
US4331332A (en) | Portable golf practice station | |
KR100672896B1 (en) | Golf training machine | |
US20050049069A1 (en) | Sub-surface multi-purpose golf practice mat | |
US5924386A (en) | Jumps for horses | |
KR100689618B1 (en) | Golf swing practice device | |
KR200373620Y1 (en) | Carrying putting practice device that is possible direction indicate of shot | |
KR200403042Y1 (en) | putting practice unit for golf | |
JP3062915U (en) | Indoor golf practice machine | |
JPS6151905B2 (en) | ||
JPS6377469A (en) | Golf exercise apparatus | |
KR100624250B1 (en) | golf training machine | |
KR102567356B1 (en) | Dual type batting zone and dual swing plate for golf screen having with the same | |
US5893807A (en) | Practice target for ball games | |
EP0039748B1 (en) | Movable golf green apparatus | |
JP3418753B2 (en) | Tennis volley training equipment |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |