US20090149273A1 - Modular golf putter - Google Patents
Modular golf putter Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090149273A1 US20090149273A1 US12/315,927 US31592708A US2009149273A1 US 20090149273 A1 US20090149273 A1 US 20090149273A1 US 31592708 A US31592708 A US 31592708A US 2009149273 A1 US2009149273 A1 US 2009149273A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- large hollow
- cup
- center piece
- modular
- putter head
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0487—Heads for putters
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0441—Heads with visual indicators for aligning the golf club
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/06—Heads adjustable
- A63B53/065—Heads adjustable for putters
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B60/00—Details or accessories of golf clubs, bats, rackets or the like
- A63B60/02—Ballast means for adjusting the centre of mass
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B2053/0491—Heads with added weights, e.g. changeable, replaceable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B53/00—Golf clubs
- A63B53/04—Heads
- A63B53/0433—Heads with special sole configurations
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to golf clubs, and more specifically, to a modular golf putter.
- U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0172816 to Johnson discloses a modular putter head comprising a front face and a back face that are removably secured to a central body.
- the putter head can be adapted to left-handed and right-handed clubs by altering the face plate.
- the face plate can be configured to various shapes, and can be affixed to the putter head with any loft angle.
- the body includes one or more recesses for receiving two or more removable weight inserts.
- the present invention provides an improvement over conventional golf clubs by presenting a novel golf club that is configurable to accommodate a multitude of individual needs.
- the golf club comprises a modular golf putter head characterized by three primary components.
- the modular golf club head includes a center piece disposed between a large hollow front cup and a large hollow back cup.
- the center piece includes means such as a hosel for attaching a shaft, wherein the shaft may be shaped to be positioned in accordance with a golfer's preference (e.g., over the center of the putter head, or over the front cup).
- the center piece is defined by a thin wall including a front side and an opposite back side.
- the large hollow front and back cups are selectively securable to the front and back sides, respectively.
- the secured arrangement provides a large hollow front cup and a large hollow back cup extending axially outward with respect to the thin center piece.
- the modular golf club head is a modular golf club putter head comprising a generally elliptical and hollow body, wherein the large hollow cups are substantially symmetric.
- the large hollow front cup includes a large striking surface for contacting a golf ball.
- the large hollow front and back cups are interchangeable to provide use for both, right-handed and left-handed, golfers.
- the large striking surface is complimented with centered alignment lines extending along a top surface of the putter head.
- the combination of the two features facilitates overall accuracy by enabling a golfer to visualize a clear path to the hole.
- the large hollow front cup may comprise varying loft angles for providing optimal strokes. More specifically, the modular putter head is preferably configured to ensure that the striking surface essentially contacts the ball at the putter head's “sweet spot.” The net effect of the foregoing configuration allows for the ball to be struck with sufficient topspin to produce a straight line trajectory to the hole.
- the present invention preferably provides a peripherally-weighted modular putter head, wherein one or more weights can be removably secured within the putter head.
- the removable weights may be distributed according to any configuration a golfer desires. In this manner, individual golfers may customize the weight of the putter head to provide a particularized center of gravity.
- the thin center piece may comprise a curved bottom surface for providing minimal contact with the green. That is, the bottom surface has a maximum peak to help reduce potential impediments to the putter head during the course of a swing.
- the modularity of the putter head alternatively allows for the incorporation of a thin center piece comprising a flat bottom surface, thereby reducing rocking of the putter head when a golfer lines up to putt.
- One object of the present invention is to provide a modular putter head that reduces the need for purchasing additional putters.
- Such a modular putter head not only serves a variety of practical advantages, but serves significant financial advantages as well.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a modular golf putter head in accordance with present invention
- FIG. 2 is a front view of the modular golf putter head
- FIG. 3 is a top view of the modular golf putter head
- FIG. 4 is a front view of a center piece of the modular golf putter head depicted in FIGS. 1-3 ;
- FIG. 5 is a rear view of a large hollow front cup of the modular golf putter head taken along the lines 5 - 5 of FIG. 3 looking in the direction of the arrows;
- FIG. 6 is a front view of a large hollow back cup of the modular golf putter head taken along the lines 6 - 6 of FIG. 3 looking in the direction of the arrows;
- FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the modular golf putter head depicted in FIGS. 1-3 ;
- FIG. 8 is a front view of a center piece in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a front view of a center piece in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a modular golf putter head 10 embodying features of the present invention.
- the modular golf putter head 10 generally comprises a center piece 12 disposed between a pair of large cups 14 , 16 .
- the center piece 21 is relatively thin and includes a front side 18 and an opposite back side 20 , wherein the front and back sides 18 , 20 are symmetric in shape.
- the thin center piece 12 further includes a top surface 22 and a bottom surface 24 , the top surface 22 having means, such as, but not limited to, a cavity 22 A, for attaching a shaft 26 .
- the cavity 22 A is preferably configured to attach any type of shaft 26 known in the art.
- the cavity 22 A is positioned off-center with respect to the top surface 22 and extends therethrough (see FIG. 4 ). Nevertheless, it should be understood that the cavity 22 A can be centrally positioned along the top surface 22 , and it is not necessary that the cavity 22 A extends through the top surface 22 . Alternatively, it also is within the scope of the present invention to position the cavity 22 A on either of the large cups 14 , 16 .
- the pair of large cups 14 , 16 comprise a front cup 14 and a back cup 16 , each substantially symmetrical in shape.
- the front and back large cups 14 , 16 are selectively securable to the front and back sides 18 , 20 of the thin center piece 12 , respectively, to provide a putter for a right-handed golfer.
- the front and back large cups 14 , 16 can be secured to the back and front sides 18 , 20 , respectively, to provide a putter for a left-handed golfer.
- the modular golf putter 10 can be configured to provide use for both, right-handed and left-handed golfers, by simply alternating the pair of large cups 18 , 20 .
- the modular putter head 10 is designed such that when the large front and back cups 14 , 16 are secured to front and back sides 18 , 20 , the large cups 14 , 16 extend axially outward with respect to the thin center piece 12 .
- the large front cup 14 comprises a striking surface 28 for contacting a golf ball (not shown).
- the striking surface 28 is configured to provide a three degree loft angle (i.e., angled three degrees from vertical). Yet, it is within the purview of the present invention to provide a striking surface 28 having any suitable loft angle known in the art. Alternatively, it should be noted that the striking surface 28 can also be configured to provide a substantially flat striking surface 28 .
- the large front and back cups 14 , 16 are substantially symmetric in shape, the large back cup 16 preferably includes a back surface 30 comprising a loft angle (if applicable) corresponding to that of the striking surface 28 .
- the loft angle corresponding to the striking surface 28 is configured such that the striking surface 28 essentially contacts the golf ball at its “sweet spot.”
- the net effect of the foregoing configuration allows for the golf ball to be struck with sufficient topspin to produce a straight line trajectory to a hole.
- the striking surface 28 is designed to contact the golf ball at a point of impact to ensure a crisp and accurate shot, such that the ball rolls smoothly (i.e., without hopping) with optimal rotation.
- the modular putter head 10 can greatly increase a golfer's accuracy by providing topspin to the golf ball.
- the thin center piece 12 comprises a plurality of recesses extending therethough.
- the thin center piece 12 includes a large central recess 32 for reducing the overall weight of modular putter head 10 .
- additional recesses can be provided to further reduce the overall weight of the modular putter head 10 .
- two arrow-shaped recesses 34 A, 34 B can be disposed at each lateral distal end 40 A, 40 B of the thin center piece 12 , as depicted in FIG. 4 .
- each set of holes 36 A, 36 B is disposed on opposite sides of the large central recess 32 .
- the two sets of holes 36 A, 36 B are equidistantly spaced apart from one another, each set 36 A, 36 B including three holes 37 A, 37 B, 37 C, 37 D, 37 E, 37 F disposed in-between the two arrow-shaped recesses 34 A, 34 B and the large central recess 32 , respectively.
- the two sets 36 A, 36 B are disposed such that their respective holes 37 A, 37 B, 37 C, 37 D, 37 E, 37 F extend vertically with respect to the top and bottom surfaces 22 , 24 .
- each set 36 A, 36 B includes a hole 37 B, 37 E for receiving a fastener 42 A, 42 B passing therethrough, wherein the fastener receiving holes 37 B, 37 E are symmetrically aligned along a central horizontal axis extending across the thin center piece 12 (see FIG. 7 ).
- the remaining holes 37 A, 37 C corresponding to the first set 36 A are configured to selectively receive a first key 44 A extending therethrough.
- the remaining holes 37 D, 37 F corresponding to the second set 37 B are configured to selectively receive a second key 44 B extending therethrough.
- the large front cup 14 preferably comprises an eye-shaped configuration. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that the large front cup 14 can be configured to take on any suitable shape.
- the large front cup 14 comprises a plurality of recesses to provide a generally hollow core therein. Notably, the recesses do not extend through the striking surface 28 . Rather, the recesses terminate at or before an opposite surface 28 A of the striking surface 28 .
- the large front cup 14 preferably includes a large central recess 32 A, two arrow-shaped recesses 34 C, 34 D, and two sets of holes 36 C, 36 D.
- the two sets of holes 36 C, 36 D comprise at least two holes 39 A, 39 B, 39 C, 39 D each, wherein each set 36 C, 36 D includes a hole 39 A, 39 D for receiving the fastener 42 A, 42 B.
- the remaining holes 39 B, 39 C corresponding to the first and second sets 36 C, 36 D are configured to selectively secure the first key 44 A and second key 44 B, respectively.
- the large central recess 32 A, the two arrow-shaped recesses 34 C, 34 D, and the two sets of holes 36 C, 36 D are generally, axially aligned with the large central recess 32 , the two arrow-shaped recesses 34 A, 34 D, and the two sets of holes 36 A, 36 B (see FIG. 7 ).
- the large back cup 16 is substantially identical to the large front cup 14 .
- the large back cup 16 preferably includes a large central recess 32 B, two arrow-shaped recesses 34 E, 34 F, and two sets of holes 36 E, 36 F.
- the two sets of holes 36 E, 36 F comprise at least two holes 41 A, 41 B, 41 C, 41 D each, wherein each set 36 E, 36 E includes a hole 41 B, 41 C for receiving the fastener 42 A, 42 B.
- the fastener receiving holes 41 B, 41 C corresponding to the large back cup 16 extend therethrough. In this manner, the fastener receiving holes 41 B, 41 C extend through the back surface 30 to provide means for inserting the fasteners 42 A, 42 B, as clearly depicted in FIG. 7 of the drawings.
- the remaining holes 41 A, 41 D corresponding to the first and second sets 36 E, 36 F of the large back cup 16 are configured to selectively secure the second key 44 B and the first key 44 A, respectively.
- the large central recess 32 B, the two arrow-shaped recesses 34 E, 34 F, and the two sets of holes 36 E, 36 F are generally, axially aligned with the large central recess 32 , the two arrow-shaped recesses 34 A, 34 D, and the two sets of holes 36 A, 36 B.
- the holes corresponding to the first and second sets 36 A, 36 B, 36 C, 36 D, 36 E, 36 F of each component 12 , 14 , 16 are coaxially aligned with one another (see FIG. 7 ).
- the large front and back cups 14 , 16 can be secured to the thin center piece 12 by various means known in the art.
- the fasteners 42 A, 42 B comprise screws 42 A, 42 B, wherein the screws 42 A, 42 B are threadable through the fastener receiving holes 37 B, 37 E, 39 A, 39 D, and screw into the fastener receiving holes 41 B, 41 C, as depicted in FIG. 7 .
- any suitable fastener known in the art can be used.
- the modular putter head 10 is configured to receive one or more removable weights W for enabling golfers to customize the overall weight of the modular putter head 10 .
- the recesses corresponding to the thin center piece 12 and large and front back cups 14 , 16 provide users with the ability to dispose the removable weights W within the modular putter head 10 .
- the removable weights W can be disposed nearly anywhere within the modular putter head 10 that a golfer desires.
- users can adjust the center of mass of the modular putter head 10 according to their unique preferences. For instance, in FIGS. 5-6 , the removable weights W are disposed within the large central recesses 32 A, 32 B of the large front and back cups 14 , 16 , respectively.
- the removable weights W can comprise one or more types of weights known in the art, e.g., tire weights, stick-on weights, etc. It should be understood to those skilled in the art that the removable weights W need not be identical. That is, two or more different types of removable weights W can be incorporated within the modular putter head 10 at any given time. Thus, the removable weights W can vary with respect to numerous aspects, including, but not limited to, material, shape, size, and weight.
- the modular putter head 10 preferably comprises means for aligning the golf ball with the hole.
- alignment means can include one ore more sight lines.
- the large front and back cups 14 , 16 each comprise a sight line 46 A, 46 B extending along upper surfaces 48 , 50 of the two cups 14 , 16 .
- the sight lines 46 A, 46 B preferably extend perpendicularly with respect to the striking and back surfaces 28 , 30 , respectively.
- the sight lines 46 A, 46 B can comprise thin straight lines disposed along the upper surfaces 48 , 50 , respectively, wherein the thin lines can be etched, raised, painted, taped, or similarly defined thereon.
- the sight lines 46 A, 46 B can be enhanced with color for increased alignment.
- the sight lines 46 A, 46 B can be sandwiched by symmetric graphic lines (not shown), wherein the graphic lines preferably comprise a different color than the sight lines 46 A, 46 B.
- the graphic lines extend laterally outward with respect to the sight lines 46 A, 46 B, such that the collective width of the graphic lines and sight lines 46 A, 46 B of each cup 14 , 16 , correspond to the width of the golf ball.
- the bottom surface 24 of the thin center piece 12 is curved, as best shown in FIG. 4 , to reduce turf snagging.
- the thin center piece 12 can alternatively comprise a generally flat bottom surface 24 A.
- the flat bottom surface 24 A is preferably configured to reduce rocking of the modular putter head 10 when a golfer lines up to putt.
- the thin center piece 12 preferably comprises a plurality of recesses 32 , 34 A, 34 B extending therethrough, it is also within the purview of the present invention to provide a substantially solid thin center piece 12 , as depicted in FIG. 9 .
- the solid thin center piece 12 is essentially equivalent to the thin center piece discussed above, except that the solid thin center piece 12 does not comprise the large central recess 32 or the two arrow-shaped recesses 34 A, 34 B. Accordingly, the solid thin center piece 12 provides an alternative means to centrally locate additional weight within the modular putter head 10 .
- the present invention further provides the modular putter head 10 including the shaft 26 attached thereto.
- the shaft 26 comprises a generally sinuous neck 26 A designed to avoid wiggle.
- the shaft 26 secures to the top surface 22 of the thin center piece 12 so that the shaft 26 substantially extends over the large front cup 14 .
- a longitudinal axis of the shaft 26 is aligned parallel to the striking surface 28 .
- the shaft 26 can be secured to the modular putter head 10 such that the longitudinal axis of the shaft 26 is substantially aligned with the top surface 22 .
- the shaft 26 can be secured to the modular putter head 10 in a variety of arrangements.
- modular putter head 10 and its respective elements can be constructed from a multitude of materials, including, but not limited to, plastics, metals, and various alloys.
Abstract
A modular golf putter head having a hollow body is provided. The modular putter head comprises a permeable thin center piece disposed between two substantially identical large hollow cups. The large hollow cups selectively secure to either side of the thin center piece to enable use for right-handed or left-handed golfers. The modular putter head is configured to receive one or more removable weights, wherein the removable weights can be distributed in accordance to a user's preference to provide a customized center of gravity.
Description
- The present application claims priority to commonly-owned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/005,644, entitled “Modular Golf Putter,” filed on Dec. 7, 2007.
- The present invention relates generally to golf clubs, and more specifically, to a modular golf putter.
- It is widely accepted among golfers that putting is the most critical aspect of the game. This is manifested by the fact that putting can often consume nearly half of a golfer's strokes in a single round of golf. Thus, the ability to putt accurately is clearly an invaluable asset to a golfer. Accuracy generally depends on numerous factors ranging from variable traits such as a golfer's body size and level of skill, to external elements such as the putting surface and the actual putter employed.
- Given that a golfer's level of skill adjusts with time and practice, it is common for golfers to seek various putters that conform to their respective skill level. For instance, it is generally recognized that heavier putter heads are better suited for amateur golfers, while lighter putter heads are better suited for more experienced players. Additionally, depending on a golfer's level of self-confidence, putting can frequently impose considerable psychological effects onto golfers. For example, it is not unusual for a golfer to become significantly frustrated due to merely one poor outing with a particular putter. In such cases, the frustration can evolve to the extent that the golfer no longer puts well in subsequent attempts with that putter. As a result, the golfer's frustration may effectively compel him/her to believe that their poor play is directly attributable to the putter, thereby driving the golfer to hastily seek a new, and perhaps entirely different, putter.
- In light of the foregoing factors, manufacturers have developed a wide array of putters in an attempt to accommodate each individual's perceived needs. Therefore, current putters may vary with respect to size, weight, loft angle, shaft length, appearance, etc. Moreover, due to the fact that a golfer's use of a certain putter is susceptible to change, many manufacturers have developed adjustable putters in order to satisfy a golfer's need at a particular time. For instance, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0172816 to Johnson discloses a modular putter head comprising a front face and a back face that are removably secured to a central body. The putter head can be adapted to left-handed and right-handed clubs by altering the face plate. The face plate can be configured to various shapes, and can be affixed to the putter head with any loft angle. Additionally, the body includes one or more recesses for receiving two or more removable weight inserts.
- While the foregoing reference discloses a modular putter head having a variety of features, the inventor of the present application has conceived a more practical and improved modular golf putter which addresses at least some, if not all of the aforementioned issues regarding existing putters.
- The present invention provides an improvement over conventional golf clubs by presenting a novel golf club that is configurable to accommodate a multitude of individual needs. The golf club comprises a modular golf putter head characterized by three primary components. In particular, the modular golf club head includes a center piece disposed between a large hollow front cup and a large hollow back cup.
- The center piece includes means such as a hosel for attaching a shaft, wherein the shaft may be shaped to be positioned in accordance with a golfer's preference (e.g., over the center of the putter head, or over the front cup). Preferably, the center piece is defined by a thin wall including a front side and an opposite back side. The large hollow front and back cups are selectively securable to the front and back sides, respectively. As such, the secured arrangement provides a large hollow front cup and a large hollow back cup extending axially outward with respect to the thin center piece.
- In a preferred embodiment, the modular golf club head is a modular golf club putter head comprising a generally elliptical and hollow body, wherein the large hollow cups are substantially symmetric. The large hollow front cup includes a large striking surface for contacting a golf ball. Notably, the large hollow front and back cups are interchangeable to provide use for both, right-handed and left-handed, golfers.
- Preferably, the large striking surface is complimented with centered alignment lines extending along a top surface of the putter head. As a result, the combination of the two features facilitates overall accuracy by enabling a golfer to visualize a clear path to the hole.
- In addition to the large striking surface, the large hollow front cup may comprise varying loft angles for providing optimal strokes. More specifically, the modular putter head is preferably configured to ensure that the striking surface essentially contacts the ball at the putter head's “sweet spot.” The net effect of the foregoing configuration allows for the ball to be struck with sufficient topspin to produce a straight line trajectory to the hole.
- The present invention preferably provides a peripherally-weighted modular putter head, wherein one or more weights can be removably secured within the putter head. Advantageously, the removable weights may be distributed according to any configuration a golfer desires. In this manner, individual golfers may customize the weight of the putter head to provide a particularized center of gravity.
- In one aspect of the present invention, the thin center piece may comprise a curved bottom surface for providing minimal contact with the green. That is, the bottom surface has a maximum peak to help reduce potential impediments to the putter head during the course of a swing. Nevertheless, the modularity of the putter head alternatively allows for the incorporation of a thin center piece comprising a flat bottom surface, thereby reducing rocking of the putter head when a golfer lines up to putt.
- One object of the present invention is to provide a modular putter head that reduces the need for purchasing additional putters. Such a modular putter head not only serves a variety of practical advantages, but serves significant financial advantages as well.
- The above features and other features and advantages of the present invention are readily apparent from the following detailed description of the best modes for carrying out the invention when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a modular golf putter head in accordance with present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a front view of the modular golf putter head; -
FIG. 3 is a top view of the modular golf putter head; -
FIG. 4 is a front view of a center piece of the modular golf putter head depicted inFIGS. 1-3 ; -
FIG. 5 is a rear view of a large hollow front cup of the modular golf putter head taken along the lines 5-5 ofFIG. 3 looking in the direction of the arrows; -
FIG. 6 is a front view of a large hollow back cup of the modular golf putter head taken along the lines 6-6 ofFIG. 3 looking in the direction of the arrows; -
FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the modular golf putter head depicted inFIGS. 1-3 ; -
FIG. 8 is a front view of a center piece in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 9 is a front view of a center piece in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. - Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like components throughout the several views,
FIG. 1 illustrates a modulargolf putter head 10 embodying features of the present invention. The modulargolf putter head 10 generally comprises acenter piece 12 disposed between a pair oflarge cups front side 18 and anopposite back side 20, wherein the front and backsides thin center piece 12 further includes atop surface 22 and abottom surface 24, thetop surface 22 having means, such as, but not limited to, acavity 22A, for attaching ashaft 26. Thecavity 22A is preferably configured to attach any type ofshaft 26 known in the art. - As illustrated in the drawings, the
cavity 22A is positioned off-center with respect to thetop surface 22 and extends therethrough (seeFIG. 4 ). Nevertheless, it should be understood that thecavity 22A can be centrally positioned along thetop surface 22, and it is not necessary that thecavity 22A extends through thetop surface 22. Alternatively, it also is within the scope of the present invention to position thecavity 22A on either of thelarge cups - The pair of
large cups front cup 14 and aback cup 16, each substantially symmetrical in shape. The front and backlarge cups thin center piece 12, respectively, to provide a putter for a right-handed golfer. Alternatively, however, the front and backlarge cups front sides modular golf putter 10 can be configured to provide use for both, right-handed and left-handed golfers, by simply alternating the pair oflarge cups modular putter head 10 is designed such that when the large front and back cups 14, 16 are secured to front and back sides 18, 20, thelarge cups thin center piece 12. - As best illustrated in
FIG. 2 of the drawings, the largefront cup 14 comprises astriking surface 28 for contacting a golf ball (not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, thestriking surface 28 is configured to provide a three degree loft angle (i.e., angled three degrees from vertical). Yet, it is within the purview of the present invention to provide astriking surface 28 having any suitable loft angle known in the art. Alternatively, it should be noted that thestriking surface 28 can also be configured to provide a substantially flatstriking surface 28. Moreover, since the large front and back cups 14, 16 are substantially symmetric in shape, thelarge back cup 16 preferably includes aback surface 30 comprising a loft angle (if applicable) corresponding to that of thestriking surface 28. - In the preferred embodiment, the loft angle corresponding to the
striking surface 28 is configured such that thestriking surface 28 essentially contacts the golf ball at its “sweet spot.” The net effect of the foregoing configuration allows for the golf ball to be struck with sufficient topspin to produce a straight line trajectory to a hole. Thus, thestriking surface 28 is designed to contact the golf ball at a point of impact to ensure a crisp and accurate shot, such that the ball rolls smoothly (i.e., without hopping) with optimal rotation. On a level playing surface, therefore, themodular putter head 10 can greatly increase a golfer's accuracy by providing topspin to the golf ball. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 of the drawings, a planar view of thethin center piece 12 is shown. While the thin center piece is depicted as comprising a football or eye-shaped configuration, it is to be understood to those skilled in the art that thethin center piece 12 can be configured to take on any suitable shape. As illustrated inFIG. 4 , thethin center piece 12 comprises a plurality of recesses extending therethough. In the preferred embodiment, thethin center piece 12 includes a largecentral recess 32 for reducing the overall weight ofmodular putter head 10. Similarly, additional recesses can be provided to further reduce the overall weight of themodular putter head 10. For instance, two arrow-shapedrecesses thin center piece 12, as depicted inFIG. 4 . - Moreover, a first set of
holes 36A and a second set ofholes 36B are provided, wherein each set ofholes central recess 32. In the preferred embodiment, the two sets ofholes holes recesses central recess 32, respectively. Preferably, the twosets respective holes bottom surfaces hole fastener fastener receiving holes FIG. 7 ). The remainingholes first set 36A are configured to selectively receive a first key 44A extending therethrough. Similarly, the remainingholes second set 37B are configured to selectively receive a second key 44B extending therethrough. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , an internal view of the largefront cup 14 is shown. As illustrated in the drawings, the largefront cup 14 preferably comprises an eye-shaped configuration. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that the largefront cup 14 can be configured to take on any suitable shape. The largefront cup 14 comprises a plurality of recesses to provide a generally hollow core therein. Notably, the recesses do not extend through thestriking surface 28. Rather, the recesses terminate at or before anopposite surface 28A of thestriking surface 28. - Analogous to the
thin center piece 12, the largefront cup 14 preferably includes a largecentral recess 32A, two arrow-shapedrecesses 34C, 34D, and two sets ofholes holes holes hole 39A, 39D for receiving thefastener holes 39B, 39C corresponding to the first andsecond sets large front piece 14 is secured to thethin center piece 12, the largecentral recess 32A, the two arrow-shapedrecesses 34C, 34D, and the two sets ofholes central recess 32, the two arrow-shapedrecesses 34A, 34D, and the two sets ofholes FIG. 7 ). - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , a front view of the largehollow back cup 16 is shown. As illustrated in the drawings, thelarge back cup 16 is substantially identical to the largefront cup 14. Thelarge back cup 16 preferably includes a largecentral recess 32B, two arrow-shapedrecesses 34E, 34F, and two sets ofholes holes holes hole fastener front cup 14, however, thefastener receiving holes large back cup 16 extend therethrough. In this manner, thefastener receiving holes back surface 30 to provide means for inserting thefasteners FIG. 7 of the drawings. - Furthermore, the remaining
holes second sets large back cup 16 are configured to selectively secure the second key 44B and the first key 44A, respectively. Analogous to the largefront cup 14, it is preferred that when thelarge back cup 16 is secured to thethin center piece 12, the largecentral recess 32B, the two arrow-shapedrecesses 34E, 34F, and the two sets ofholes central recess 32, the two arrow-shapedrecesses 34A, 34D, and the two sets ofholes - Accordingly, when the
thin center piece 12 is secured to the large front and back cups 14, 16, the holes corresponding to the first andsecond sets component FIG. 7 ). It should be understood that the large front and back cups 14, 16 can be secured to thethin center piece 12 by various means known in the art. In the preferred embodiment, for instance, thefasteners screws screws fastener receiving holes fastener receiving holes FIG. 7 . Nevertheless, any suitable fastener known in the art can be used. - Additionally, the
modular putter head 10 is configured to receive one or more removable weights W for enabling golfers to customize the overall weight of themodular putter head 10. More particularly, the recesses corresponding to thethin center piece 12 and large and front back cups 14, 16, provide users with the ability to dispose the removable weights W within themodular putter head 10. In the preferred embodiment, the removable weights W can be disposed nearly anywhere within themodular putter head 10 that a golfer desires. As a result, users can adjust the center of mass of themodular putter head 10 according to their unique preferences. For instance, inFIGS. 5-6 , the removable weights W are disposed within the largecentral recesses - The removable weights W can comprise one or more types of weights known in the art, e.g., tire weights, stick-on weights, etc. It should be understood to those skilled in the art that the removable weights W need not be identical. That is, two or more different types of removable weights W can be incorporated within the
modular putter head 10 at any given time. Thus, the removable weights W can vary with respect to numerous aspects, including, but not limited to, material, shape, size, and weight. - Moreover, the
modular putter head 10 preferably comprises means for aligning the golf ball with the hole. Such alignment means can include one ore more sight lines. As best depicted inFIG. 3 , the large front and back cups 14, 16 each comprise asight line upper surfaces cups sight lines sight lines upper surfaces sight lines sight lines sight lines sight lines sight lines cup - In a preferred embodiment, the
bottom surface 24 of thethin center piece 12 is curved, as best shown inFIG. 4 , to reduce turf snagging. Nevertheless, as best depicted inFIG. 8 of the drawings, thethin center piece 12 can alternatively comprise a generally flatbottom surface 24A. Theflat bottom surface 24A is preferably configured to reduce rocking of themodular putter head 10 when a golfer lines up to putt. - Furthermore, while the
thin center piece 12 preferably comprises a plurality ofrecesses thin center piece 12, as depicted inFIG. 9 . The solidthin center piece 12 is essentially equivalent to the thin center piece discussed above, except that the solidthin center piece 12 does not comprise the largecentral recess 32 or the two arrow-shapedrecesses thin center piece 12 provides an alternative means to centrally locate additional weight within themodular putter head 10. - The present invention further provides the
modular putter head 10 including theshaft 26 attached thereto. In the preferred embodiment, theshaft 26 comprises a generallysinuous neck 26A designed to avoid wiggle. As depicted inFIG. 3 , theshaft 26 secures to thetop surface 22 of thethin center piece 12 so that theshaft 26 substantially extends over the largefront cup 14. In this manner, a longitudinal axis of theshaft 26 is aligned parallel to thestriking surface 28. Alternatively, theshaft 26 can be secured to themodular putter head 10 such that the longitudinal axis of theshaft 26 is substantially aligned with thetop surface 22. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that theshaft 26 can be secured to themodular putter head 10 in a variety of arrangements. - Finally, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the
modular putter head 10 and its respective elements can be constructed from a multitude of materials, including, but not limited to, plastics, metals, and various alloys. - While the best modes for carrying out the invention have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which this invention relates will recognize various alternative designs and embodiments for practicing the invention within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (14)
1. A modular golf club head securable to a shaft comprising:
a center piece including a wall having a front side and an opposite back side, and a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the top surface including a cavity for securing the shaft;
a large hollow front cup selectively securable to the front side, the large hollow front cup including a striking surface for contacting a golf ball; and
a large hollow back cup selectively securable to the back side, the large hollow back cup including a back surface;
wherein the large hollow front and back cups extend axially outward with respect to the center piece.
2. The modular golf club head of claim 1 , wherein the wall of the center piece is relatively thin; and
wherein the center piece, the large hollow front cup, and the large hollow back cup each include at least one hole coaxially aligned with each other.
3. The modular golf club head of claim 2 , further comprising:
at least one fastener threadable through each hole of the center piece, the large hollow front cup, and the large hollow back cup;
wherein the fastener is configured to selectively secure the large hollow front and back cups to the front and back sides, respectively.
4. The modular golf club head of claim 3 , further comprising:
at least one removable weight, the removable weight securable therein; and
at least one alignment line disposed along a top surface of the putter head, the alignment line extending in a perpendicular direction with respect to the striking surface.
5. The modular golf club head of claim 4 , wherein the club head is a putter head.
6. A modular golf putter head securable to a shaft and adaptable to right-handed and left-handed users comprising:
a thin center piece including a wall having a front side and an opposite back side, and a top surface and an opposite bottom surface, the top surface including a cavity for securing the shaft;
a large hollow front cup selectively securable to the front side, the large hollow front cup including a striking surface for contacting a golf ball;
a large hollow back cup selectively securable to the back side, the large hollow back cup including a back surface; and
at least one removable weight, the removable weight securable therein;
wherein the large hollow front and back cups extend axially outward with respect to the center piece.
7. The modular golf putter head of claim 6 , wherein the thin center piece, the large hollow front cup, and the large hollow back cup each include at least one hole coaxially aligned with each other;
wherein at least one fastener is threadable through each hole of the center piece, the large hollow front cup, and the large hollow back cup; and
wherein the fastener is configured to selectively secure the large hollow front and back cups to the front and back sides, respectively.
8. The modular golf putter head of claim 7 , wherein the large hollow front and back cups each include a top surface having a centered alignment line extending in a substantially perpendicular direction with respect to the striking surface and the back surface, respectively.
9. The modular golf putter head of claim 8 , wherein the striking and back surfaces are flat.
10. The modular golf putter head of claim 8 , wherein the striking and back surfaces are angled to provide a loft when the large hollow front and back cups are secured to the front and back sides, respectively.
11. The modular golf putter head of claim 10 , wherein the lofts of the striking and back surfaces are each three degrees from vertical.
12. The modular golf putter head of claim 6 , wherein the bottom surface of the center piece is convex, the convex bottom surface having an apex configured to provide minimal contact with golf surfaces.
13. The modular golf putter head of claim 6 , wherein the bottom surface of the center piece is substantially flat.
14. The modular club head of claim 6 , wherein the large hollow front and back cups are interchangeable.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/315,927 US20090149273A1 (en) | 2007-12-07 | 2008-12-08 | Modular golf putter |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US564407P | 2007-12-07 | 2007-12-07 | |
US12/315,927 US20090149273A1 (en) | 2007-12-07 | 2008-12-08 | Modular golf putter |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090149273A1 true US20090149273A1 (en) | 2009-06-11 |
Family
ID=40722229
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/315,927 Abandoned US20090149273A1 (en) | 2007-12-07 | 2008-12-08 | Modular golf putter |
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Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20090149273A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110294597A1 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2011-12-01 | ANEEGING GOLF Ltd. | Golf club head |
US20120077611A1 (en) * | 2010-09-27 | 2012-03-29 | David Lorince | Weighted Golf Club Training Device |
US20130331197A1 (en) * | 2012-06-11 | 2013-12-12 | Jimmy Hack Golf, Llc | Spherical Impact Putter-Face System |
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US2820638A (en) * | 1954-03-01 | 1958-01-21 | Vaughn E Morrison | Golf club |
US5569098A (en) * | 1994-12-15 | 1996-10-29 | New Vision Golf Corp. | Golf putter having tapered shaft and large grip |
US5683307A (en) * | 1994-07-11 | 1997-11-04 | Rife; Guerin D. | Putter type golf club head with balanced weight configuration and complementary ball striking face |
US6203443B1 (en) * | 1998-10-02 | 2001-03-20 | Jrd Golf, Llc | Golf putter |
US6264571B1 (en) * | 1999-05-05 | 2001-07-24 | Carl Lekavich | Dynamically balanced modular putter with a sliding hosel |
US6485375B1 (en) * | 1999-05-26 | 2002-11-26 | Robert C. McKinley | High CG, modular putter |
US7004852B2 (en) * | 2002-01-10 | 2006-02-28 | Dogleg Right Corporation | Customizable center-of-gravity golf club head |
US20060172816A1 (en) * | 2005-02-03 | 2006-08-03 | Johnson Lanny L | Modular putter |
-
2008
- 2008-12-08 US US12/315,927 patent/US20090149273A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2820638A (en) * | 1954-03-01 | 1958-01-21 | Vaughn E Morrison | Golf club |
US5683307A (en) * | 1994-07-11 | 1997-11-04 | Rife; Guerin D. | Putter type golf club head with balanced weight configuration and complementary ball striking face |
US5569098A (en) * | 1994-12-15 | 1996-10-29 | New Vision Golf Corp. | Golf putter having tapered shaft and large grip |
US6203443B1 (en) * | 1998-10-02 | 2001-03-20 | Jrd Golf, Llc | Golf putter |
US6264571B1 (en) * | 1999-05-05 | 2001-07-24 | Carl Lekavich | Dynamically balanced modular putter with a sliding hosel |
US6485375B1 (en) * | 1999-05-26 | 2002-11-26 | Robert C. McKinley | High CG, modular putter |
US7004852B2 (en) * | 2002-01-10 | 2006-02-28 | Dogleg Right Corporation | Customizable center-of-gravity golf club head |
US20060172816A1 (en) * | 2005-02-03 | 2006-08-03 | Johnson Lanny L | Modular putter |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110294597A1 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2011-12-01 | ANEEGING GOLF Ltd. | Golf club head |
US20120077611A1 (en) * | 2010-09-27 | 2012-03-29 | David Lorince | Weighted Golf Club Training Device |
US20130331197A1 (en) * | 2012-06-11 | 2013-12-12 | Jimmy Hack Golf, Llc | Spherical Impact Putter-Face System |
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