US20120231900A1 - Device for teeing a golf ball - Google Patents
Device for teeing a golf ball Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120231900A1 US20120231900A1 US13/508,356 US201013508356A US2012231900A1 US 20120231900 A1 US20120231900 A1 US 20120231900A1 US 201013508356 A US201013508356 A US 201013508356A US 2012231900 A1 US2012231900 A1 US 2012231900A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- ball
- support member
- golf
- feet
- ball 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
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Classifications
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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
- 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
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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
- A63B57/00—Golfing accessories
- A63B57/10—Golf tees
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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
- A63B57/00—Golfing accessories
- A63B57/10—Golf tees
- A63B57/13—Golf tees foldable or separable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/02—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for large-room or outdoor sporting games
- A63B71/023—Supports, e.g. poles
- A63B2071/024—Supports, e.g. poles with screws or pins in the earth
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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
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
- A63B71/0619—Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
- A63B71/0622—Visual, audio or audio-visual systems for entertaining, instructing or motivating the user
- A63B2071/0625—Emitting sound, noise or music
- A63B2071/0627—Emitting sound, noise or music when used improperly, e.g. by giving a warning
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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
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
- A63B2071/0694—Visual indication, e.g. Indicia
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
Definitions
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,106,772 describes a resilient golf swing practice mat.
- the invention described in this patent is rectangular and convex and has an underside with ribbing extending therefrom and aligned parallel to the swing path.
- the ribbing engages the ground and inhibits movement when the ball is struck.
- the shoulders of an aperture positioned in the base at the maximum elevation in the profile support the ball.
- a problem with this device is that the ribbing interferes with downward movement of the device relative to the ground when the ball is struck. As with the circular disc, this interference with the downward movement results in a failure to accommodate a downward swing apex.
- a device for teeing a golf ball comprising
- a ball support member that has at least two opposed feet and that defines at least one ball locating formation for supporting a golf ball interposed between the feet, with the, or each, ball locating formation being in a plane that is spaced from a plane in which the feet are positioned, the ball support member being of a resiliently flexible material to permit the, or each, ball locating formation to deflect, against a bias of the ball support member, towards said plane of the feet when either or both of the ball support member and the ball are struck with a golf club head.
- target and approximately have been used to define sides or portions of the device. It is to be understood that this is for convenience only. It is envisaged that players can reverse the orientation of the device where required. For example, players with lower handicaps may have the necessary skill to direct what is referred to as an “approach” side or portion towards a target.
- Two or more ball locating formations may be positioned on the support member, the ball locating formations being positioned so that a user can select a desired ball locating formation depending on circumstances of play, such as the need to strike off a sloped surface.
- the device may include a golf tee, the golf tee being configured for engagement with the ball support member so that a golf ball can be supported above the ball support member.
- the golf tee may have a tubular shank with at least one end open to support a golf ball and which is capable of being received through the opening with the periphery of the opening engaging the shank to retain the golf tee in position.
- the shank may define a series of spaced engagement formations along its length to permit a position of said open end to be adjusted relative to the ball support member.
- the golf tee may include a head on one end of the shank, the head having a diameter larger than that of the shank so that the golf tee is inhibited from passing through the opening.
- One ball locating formation may be positioned between the target side and a transverse centre line.
- the ball support member may be elongate from the approach side to the target side and may have a longitudinal profile that defines an apex region between the transverse centre line and the target side of the ball support member, the ball locating formation being positioned in the apex region.
- the ball support member may define a generally planar approach portion intermediate the approach side and the apex region and a target portion that curves away from the apex region to terminate at the target side.
- the ball support member may define a furrow that extends from at least one of the approach and target sides to the, or each, ball locating formation to facilitate rolling of a golf ball with a club head from one of the approach and target sides to the, or each, ball locating formation when the ball support member is in an operative position.
- the feet may have a chiselled profile to facilitate embedding of the feet into a substrate when the feet rest on the substrate and the ball support member is deflected downwardly when a ball is struck.
- the ball support member may define at least one opening to permit the ball support member to be anchored to a substrate with a suitable anchoring device received through the, or each, opening and into the substrate.
- the ball support member may include at least one fastening arrangement to permit the ball support member to be fastened to an element that defines some form of synthetic or artificial surface.
- the device may include electronic circuitry operatively arranged with respect to the ball support member to generate a signal when a ball supported by the ball support member is struck with a golf club head.
- FIG. 1 shows a plan, view of a first embodiment of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- FIG. 2 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 1 , showing alternative positions of the golf ball.
- FIG. 3 shows a plan view of a second embodiment.
- FIG. 4 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 5 shows a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 3 with a golf tee.
- FIG. 6 shows another three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 7 shows a side view of a third embodiment.
- FIG. 8 shows a plan view of the device of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 shows a side view of a fourth embodiment.
- FIG. 10 shows a plan view of the device of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 11 shows a side view of a fifth embodiment.
- FIG. 12 shows a plan view of the device of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 13 shows a plan view of a sixth embodiment.
- FIG. 14 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 15 shows a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 13 showing how a furrow of the device is used to guide a golf ball on to a ball locating formation.
- FIG. 16 shows a plan view of a seventh embodiment.
- FIG. 17 shows a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 16 .
- FIG. 18 shows another plan view of the device of FIG. 16 .
- FIG. 19 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 16 .
- FIG. 20 shows a golf tee for use with the device of FIG. 16 .
- FIG. 21 shows a plan view of an eighth embodiment.
- FIG. 22 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 21 supporting a golf ball.
- FIG. 23 shows a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 21 .
- FIG. 24 shows a plan view of a ninth embodiment.
- FIG. 25 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 24 .
- FIG. 27 show a three dimensional view of a tenth embodiment supporting a golf ball.
- FIG. 28 shows a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 27 without a golf ball.
- FIG. 29 shows a plan view of an eleventh embodiment.
- FIG. 30 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 29 .
- FIG. 31 shows a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 29 showing how a furrow of the device is used to guide a golf ball on to a locating formation.
- FIGS. 32 to 34 show various views of an example of a ball locating formation for any of the embodiments of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- FIG. 35 shows a twelfth embodiment.
- FIG. 36 shows a closer view of the device of FIG. 35 .
- FIG. 37 shows various profiles suitable for an embodiment of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- FIG. 39 shows a manner in which the device of FIG. 38 is secured in position.
- FIG. 40 shows a three dimensional detail of the manner in which the device of FIG. 39 is secured in position.
- FIG. 41 shows a section view, in detail, of the manner in which the device of FIG. 39 is secured in position.
- FIG. 42 is another view of the device of FIG. 39 .
- FIG. 43 is a three dimensional view of a fourteenth embodiment.
- FIG. 44 is another three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 43 .
- FIG. 45 is a three dimensional view of a fifteenth embodiment.
- FIG. 46 is another three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 45 .
- FIG. 47 is a three dimensional view of a sixteenth embodiment.
- FIG. 48 is a detailed view of part of the device of FIG. 47 .
- FIG. 49 is a three dimensional view of a seventeenth embodiment.
- FIG. 50 is a three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 49 showing possible positions of golf balls.
- FIG. 52 shows a tee for the device of FIG. 51 .
- FIG. 53 shows the manner in which the tee of FIG. 52 is attached to the device of FIG. 51 .
- FIG. 55 shows another example of a strike surface of any of the embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 56 is a three dimensional view of a nineteenth embodiment.
- FIG. 57 is a more detailed three dimensional view of the device of FIG. 56 .
- FIG. 58 is a side view of the device of FIG. 56 .
- reference numeral 10 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- the device 10 includes a ball support member 12 .
- the ball support member 12 is of a sheet of resiliently flexible material.
- the ball support member 12 is elongate with shorter target and approach sides 14 , 16 and longer remaining sides 18 .
- the support member 12 defines a ball locating formation in the form of a recess 20 dimensioned so that a golf ball 22 can rest in the recess 20 in a stable manner as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the recess 20 is circular with a diameter of between about 20 mm and 25 mm.
- the target side 14 defines a front pair of feet 24 and the approach side 16 defines a rear pair of feet 26 .
- the member 12 is shaped so that the recess 20 is positioned in a plane that is spaced from a plane in which the feet 24 , 26 are located. Thus, when the member 12 is positioned on a substrate, such as grass, the recess 20 is positioned above the feet 24 , 26 .
- the member 12 has a generally curved side profile with the recess 20 positioned at an apex of the profile.
- an apex region 30 is positioned between a transverse halfway line and the target side 14 .
- the apex region can be positioned about two thirds to three quarters of the length from the approach side 16 .
- An approach portion 28 from the approach side 16 to the apex region 30 is generally planar while a target portion 32 from the apex region 30 to the approach side 16 is curved away from the apex region 30 to terminate at the target side 14 .
- the material and thickness of the member 12 is selected so that, when struck with a leading edge of a club head, or when the club head strikes the ball 22 , the apex region 30 deflects downwardly against a bias of the material and returns to an original condition once the leading edge of the club head leaves the member 12 .
- the selection of the type and thickness of material is such so as to deflect with minimal shock felt by a user but capable of being so deflected repeatedly without damage.
- the material is a polymer.
- the material can be of a thermoplastic elastomer also known as a thermoplastic rubber.
- One such suitable material is a thermoplastic vulcanizate, for example, one known as Santoprene.
- the thickness of the material can vary from about 2 mm to 5 mm.
- the material has a smooth, glassy finish allowing the leading edge of the club head to slide along the member 12 with minimal frictional resistance.
- the member 12 can be the product of an injection moulding process.
- Another suitable material is polycarbonate.
- the material can be a thermochromic material. Such a material is capable of responding to heat with a change in colour. The friction generated by a club head strike would create the necessary heat to achieve the change in colour. Thus, over a series of strikes a pattern would be discernible. This would help as a training and improvement guide.
- the device 10 has an overall length of about 200 to 210 mm.
- the sides 18 are waisted with a maximum width at the ends of about 90 to 110 mm.
- the member 12 is shaped so that, when positioned on the substrate, the apex region 30 is about 20 mm above the substrate.
- Each foot 24 has a chiselled profile with edges that are directed operatively downwardly from the approach and target portions 28 , 32 , respectively.
- the feet 24 can dig into the substrate to secure the member 12 from being dislodged from the substrate by the club head. It will be appreciated that where the substrate is turf, such as that found on a fairway, the securing effect is enhanced.
- the downward movement of the apex region 30 against the bias of the material is enhanced facilitating the required “give” against a resistance when the ball is struck and helping to ensure that the feet dig into the substrate.
- the device 10 is supplied with a tee 34 .
- the tee 34 has a tubular shank 36 .
- the tubular shank 36 is closed at one end with a head 38 of greater diameter than the shank 36 .
- the shank 36 and head 38 are in the form of a one-piece member of an elastomeric material such as latex. It will be appreciated that, if required, the tubular shank 36 may be closed or open at both ends.
- the shank 36 may define a series of circumferential ridges 42 that can engage a periphery of the aperture 40 allowing a height of an open end 44 of the shank 36 to be set and adjusted. Instead of the ridges 42 , the shank 36 can define a series of rows of Braille-like protrusions.
- a pair of keys 46 is defined at a junction of the shank 36 and the head 38 .
- Each key 46 corresponds with a respective slot (not shown) in an underside of the member 12 further to secure the tee 34 in position.
- a furrow 48 is defined in the top surface of the member 12 .
- the furrow 48 extends from the target side 14 into the apex region 32 so that the recess 20 is positioned in the furrow 48 which terminates at the aperture 40 .
- the furrow 48 is dimensioned so that the golf ball 22 can roll along the furrow 48 and into the recess 20 .
- the furrow 48 is wider at the target side 14 so that the golf ball 22 can be manipulated into the furrow 48 by a golfer using the club head and subsequently rolled into position in the recess 20 .
- the golfer is not required to bend over to position the golf ball in the recess 20 .
- the golfer can simply drop the device to the ground next to the golf ball and use his or her club to manipulate the ball 22 into position. It will be appreciated that this functionality is useful for those with limited movement, such as the elderly or otherwise infirm.
- the device 50 is shorter than the device 10 .
- the aperture 40 is positioned proximate one of the sides 18 while the furrow 48 is positioned proximate the other side 18 .
- the member 12 defines a ball locating formation in the form of an opening 52 in the furrow 48 .
- the opening 52 is defined by a countersunk periphery 54 to facilitate seating of the golf ball 22 .
- reference numeral 60 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the member 12 of the device 60 is generally slimmer than the previous embodiments. At the sides 14 , 16 it is between about 70 mm and 80 mm wide, while at the apex region 30 , it is between about 40 mm and 50 mm wide. The overall length of the member is between 180 mm and 190 mm.
- the furrow 48 is centrally oriented on the longitudinal axis.
- the furrow 48 extends from the target side 14 to the approach side 16 so that the ball 22 can be rolled from any side.
- the ball locating formation is in the form of an opening 62 positioned in the furrow 48 between the aperture 40 and the target side 14 .
- the device 70 has similar width dimensions to the device 60 . However, it is shorter with an overall length of between about 140 mm and 150 mm. Also, the device 70 only has the ball locating formation in the form of an opening 72 positioned in the furrow 48 .
- reference numeral 80 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 80 has similar width dimensions to the both the devices 60 and 70 . However, it is longer with an overall length of between about 200 mm and 210 mm. As with the device 60 , it has the opening 62 and the aperture 40 in similar locations.
- reference numeral 90 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 90 is similar to the device 70 . However, it is shorter with an overall length of between about 125 mm and 135 mm.
- the device 90 has a width at the sides 14 , 16 of between about 65 mm and 75 mm.
- the sides 18 are waisted with a minimum width about halfway along a length of the device 90 of between 35 mm and 45 mm.
- the device 90 only has the ball locating formation in the form of an opening 90 .
- the opening 90 also defines the aperture 40 allowing the tee 34 to be fitted to the device 90 in the manner described above.
- reference numeral 100 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 100 is dimensioned to be suitable for fitting in a golfer's pocket. To that end, it has an overall length dimension, when viewed in plan, of between about 115 mm and 125 mm. As with the previous embodiments, it is also waisted. However, the, approach side 16 has a rear pair of feet 102 that are particularly pronounced by a central curved recess 104 and inwardly tapering, opposed edges 106 , when viewed in plan. Furthermore, as can be seen in FIGS. 17 and 19 , the feet 102 are curved out of the plane of the approach portion 28 .
- the ball locating formation is in the form of an opening 108 that is positioned on a target side of a highest point of the member 12 in an operative position.
- reference numeral 110 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 110 has a ball support member 112 that is generally arcuate in transverse profile. Furthermore, the member 112 is of a reduced transverse curvature at an approach side 114 compared with the transverse curvature at a target side 116 . As a result, when the device 110 is placed on a substrate, a longitudinal profile is angled upwardly from the approach side 114 to the target side 116 .
- a ball support formation in the form of an opening 118 is positioned approximately two thirds along a length of the member 112 from the approach side 114 .
- a furrow 120 extends centrally from the approach side 114 to the opening 118 to serve the same purpose as the furrow 48 in the previous embodiments.
- Opposed sides 122 of the member 112 define cut outs 124 so that a pair of opposed feet 126 are defined at the approach and target sides 114 , 116 respectively.
- the device 110 operates in the same manner as the embodiments described above.
- the transverse arcuate section of the member 12 enhances the resiliently flexible characteristics of the device 110 .
- the feet 126 dig into a substrate to secure the device 110 in position.
- reference numeral 130 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 130 is intended to be used as a learning device.
- the device 130 includes a ball support member 133 which is generally rectangular in plan.
- the member 133 has a target side 132 , an approach side 134 and a pair of parallel, straight remaining sides 136 . Both the target side 132 and the approach side 134 are concave in plan.
- a ball locating formation in the form of an opening 138 is defined in the member 133 , approximately two thirds along a length of the member 12 from the approach side 134 .
- the member 133 defines an approach portion 140 which extends from the approach side 134 to an edge of the opening 138 . That edge also defines a top dead centreline 142 when the member 133 is positioned on a substrate.
- the member 133 also defines a target portion 144 that extends from the centreline 142 to the target side 132 .
- the member 12 defines a front pair of feet 146 and a rear pair of feet 148 .
- the feet 146 , 148 are curved away from the approach and target portions 140 , 144 respectively.
- the lines 150 are positioned so that they can provide a suitable target for a leading edge of a club head.
- reference numeral 160 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 160 includes a triangular ball support member 162 .
- the support member 162 has a curved profile so that corners 164 can engage a substrate with a central portion of the support member 162 raised above the substrate.
- a ball locating formation in the form of an opening 166 is defined in the support member 162 in the central portion.
- the support member 162 is deflected downwardly so that the corners 164 dig into the substrate to secure the support member 162 .
- reference number 170 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 170 is dimensioned in a manner similar to the device 90 . However, it is to be understood that the device 170 can be dimensioned similarly to any of the devices described above. The reason is that the device 170 simply illustrates an example of how a layer of synthetic grass 172 can be arranged on the support member to provide a feeling of striking turf when the golfer uses the device 170 . It will be appreciated that the layer can be of any other material that might simulate grass or provide some form of resistance and “feel” to a stroke.
- FIGS. 32 to 34 there is indicated one example of an opening 180 which can be used as a ball locating formation for any of the embodiments described herein.
- a periphery 182 of the opening 180 is configured to facilitate the rolling of the ball into the opening 180 from the approach side along the furrow. To that end, a bevelled edge that defines the periphery 182 is more pronounced at a target side of the opening 180 . Thus, there is an immediate drop off for a ball being rolled along the furrow from the approach side. The increased bevel of the periphery 182 at the target side allows the ball to settle against that side.
- a lip 184 is positioned or formed on the target side of the periphery 182 to extend towards the approach side and slightly over the peripheral edge.
- the lip 184 thus defines a stop for the golf ball.
- the periphery 182 therefore defines a dike-like formation on the target side that in turn defines a small dam-like formation partially to receive the ball, thereby helping to prevent the ball from rolling off the device towards the target, when the ball is rolled into the opening 180 .
- reference numeral 190 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 190 is intended for use with a practice mat 192 , for example of the type found, at a driving range.
- the practice mat 192 defines a passage 194 that extends through the mat 192 along a line corresponding to a strike direction.
- the mat 192 defines an opening 196 into the passage 194 .
- the device 190 includes an elongate strip 198 of material suitable for being struck by a golf club head.
- the strip 198 is flexible and defines a series of ball locating formations in the form of openings 200 extending along a longitudinal axis of the strip 198 .
- the openings 200 are positioned along a furrow 202 .
- the strip 198 is threaded through the passage 194 .
- a tubular support member 204 of a resiliently flexible material is positioned between the mat 192 and the strip 198 at the opening 196 to support any one of the openings 200 in a raised position.
- a ball can be placed on the raised opening 200 effectively to tee the ball, as shown in FIG. 36 . If the strip 198 becomes worn, the strip 198 can be fed with respect to the mat 192 so that a fresh opening 200 can be used.
- the support member 204 provides the necessary deflection and return of the strip 198 when the ball is struck.
- reference numeral 210 generally indicates a number of different profiles of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 210 is intended for use with a practice mat.
- a number of the approach sides define a formation for engaging the practice mat.
- a number of the target sides have a return portion that can engage an edge of the practice mat.
- a number of the profiles are suitable for use with other devices and even on sand, soil or grassed surfaces.
- reference numeral 220 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 220 includes a support member 222 with an arcuate profile.
- a pair of rear feet 224 is defined by the support member 222 at an approach side 226 and a pair of front feet 228 is defined by the support member 222 at a target side 230 .
- Each of the feet 224 , 228 define an opening 232 .
- a fastener 234 is received through each opening 232 to fasten the device 220 to any surface from which it might be desired to strike a golf ball.
- the surface is defined by an element 236 that is provided with a slot 238 in side 239 .
- the rear feet 224 are received in the slot 238 .
- the fasteners 234 can be received through corresponding openings in the elements 236 and through the openings 232 to fasten the rear feet 224 to the element 236 .
- the front feet 228 can be fastened to another element in a similar fashion.
- the support member 222 defines a furrow 240 in the manner described with reference to the previous embodiments.
- Three ball locating formations in the form of openings 242 are defined in the furrow 240 at different locations to suit different ball positions.
- reference numeral 250 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 250 is intended for use on a driving range or any other suitable practice area such as a backyard, a car park, a football field or a schoolyard.
- the device 250 has a ball support member 252 with an approach side 254 that is capable of being fastened to a practice mat 256 with suitable fasteners 258 .
- the approach side is capable of being fastened to any other suitable device or surface.
- the ball support member 252 extends from the approach side 254 to define an approach portion 260 .
- a target portion 262 extends from the approach portion 260 to terminate at a target side 264 .
- the approach portion 260 is generally planar while the target portion 262 curves away from the approach portion 260 .
- a highest portion is defined at a junction of the approach and target portions 260 , 262 .
- a ball locating formation in the form of an opening 267 is positioned at said junction of the approach and target portions 260 , 262 .
- the approach portion 260 defines a furrow 269 that extends from the approach side 254 to the opening 267 .
- the target portion 262 defines a pair of legs 266 that are spaced to define a gap 268 that can accommodate a golf ball. Thus, if a ball rolls forward over the opening 267 , it can simply drop between the legs 266 , instead of inconveniently rolling away from the device 250 .
- a strip 274 of fastening material such as one part of a hook and loop combination known as Velcro is positioned on the approach side 254 .
- the approach side 254 can be located under the practice mat 256 to help secure the device 250 in an operative position.
- reference numeral 270 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 270 is similar to the device 250 . However, instead of the legs and associated gap, the target portion 262 defines a transverse channel 272 at the target side 264 . Thus, if a ball rolls forward over the opening 267 , it lands in the channel 272 and is diverted sideways instead of inconveniently rolling away from the device 270 .
- reference numeral 280 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 280 has a support member 282 , a furrow 284 that extends centrally from an approach side 286 to a target side 288 and a number of ball locating formations in the form of openings 290 in the furrow 284 to suit different ball positions. Furthermore, the member 282 defines a pair of feet 292 at the approach side 286 and a pair of feet 294 at the target side 288 .
- each pair of feet 292 , 294 defines a hole 296 .
- a conventional tee 298 can be pushed through each hole 296 to secure the device 280 in an operative position.
- the support member 282 is of a material that is capable of be stretched, to some degree.
- the material is elastic and can be in the form of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomeric plastics or rubber material.
- reference numeral 300 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 300 also has a support member 302 that defines a furrow 304 extending centrally from an approach side 306 to a target side 308 .
- a ball locating formation in the form of an opening 310 is positioned in the, furrow 304 .
- the support member 302 is arcuate with the opening 310 in an apex region 312 .
- the device 300 has a carrier 316 .
- the carrier 316 defines a transversely extending channel formation 318 at an approach side and a transversely extending channel formation 320 at a target side.
- Each of the channel formations 318 , 320 define a transversely extending channel in which a golf ball can be rolled and positioned in line with the furrow 284 for rolling into the opening 310 .
- the carrier 316 has a base 322 that extends between the formations 318 , 320 .
- An electrode arrangement 324 is interposed between the base 322 and the support member 302 .
- the electrode arrangement 324 can be configured to generate a signal when a ball is struck.
- the electrode arrangement 324 can be configured to generate such signals in order to count the number of balls struck.
- the electrode arrangement 324 can be configured to generate a signal corresponding to a correct strike of the ball so that the device 300 can be used as a training tool.
- the device 330 includes a support member 332 that defines a furrow 334 extending from an approach side 336 to a target side 338 .
- a ball locating formation in the form of an opening 340 is defined in the furrow 334 approximately two thirds along a length of the support member 332 from the approach side 336 .
- the support member 332 is arcuate with the opening 336 positioned in an apex region.
- a pair of feet 341 is defined by the support member at the approach side 336 and a pair of feet 342 is defined by the support member 332 at the target side 338 .
- the device 330 includes a tee 344 .
- the tee 344 is of a resiliently flexible material and includes a tubular member or tube 346 that can be received through the opening 336 with a degree of deformation so that the tee 344 is secured in position.
- the tube 346 has an open, operatively upper end for supporting a golf ball in a conventional manner.
- the tee 344 is secured to the device 330 in a similar manner as is the tee 34 to the device 10 .
- An external surface of the tube 346 defines a series of circumferentially extending rows of projections or beads 348 .
- Each row 348 can selectively engage a periphery of the opening 336 to position the tube 346 at a desired height.
- a lanyard 350 is fast with a base of the tube 346 .
- a locking member or lug 352 is fast with an end of the lanyard 350 .
- Each of the feet 340 , 342 define a counter sunk hole 354 .
- the lug 352 is received through one of the holes 354 such that the lug 352 can be retained in the hole 354 due to the counter sunk nature of the hole 354 .
- the tee 344 is secured to the support member 332 to prevent loss thereof.
- reference numeral 360 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified.
- the support member 332 has an upper surface 362 that can define any of a number of patterns.
- the upper surface 362 in FIG. 54 defines a closed cell pattern while the upper surface 362 in FIG. 55 defines a series of lines.
- the upper surface 362 can be marked or impressed with corporate insignia or other signs.
- a lower surface of the support member 332 can also be so marked or impressed.
- reference numeral 370 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball.
- like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified.
- the device 370 includes a support member 372 has an upper surface that defines blades 374 or spikes of synthetic material that are configured for supporting the golf ball in any desired position on the device 370 .
- the blades 374 can be configured for mimicking or simulating grass.
- the support member 372 and the blades 374 can be formed integrally. It will be appreciated that such an embodiment can provide some resistance to a club head during ball strike and immediately afterwards, thus imparting “feel” to the stroke.
- the support member can be of a transparent material.
- the device in accordance with the invention, can be placed on the turf of a fairway.
- a ball can then be rolled along the furrow and into the, or one of the ball locating formations, usually in the form of an opening.
- a technically correct strike usually impinges on the golf ball first with the club head striking the turf in the follow-through.
- the device deflects to accommodate the downward movement of the golf club head, thus protecting the grass with the device itself providing a shield so that the club head does not remove a divot.
- the device of the invention can be used to protect the fairways and tee boxes of such courses.
- the device can be used at any golf course and also at driving ranges or any other suitable practice areas as described above.
- the device is capable of deflection protects the golfer against shock which can occur, for example, when the turf is particularly hard. It follows that the device is particularly suited for use by the elderly or otherwise infirm who can often be injured due to that shock. The provision of the furrow so that such players can avoid bending over to manipulate the golf ball further enhances its suitability for such players.
- two or three ball locating formations usually in the form of openings. This allows the device to be positioned on a sloped surface and the ball placed in a locating formation which best accommodates the sloped surface.
- the dimensions described above can be varied. For example, it may be possible for the device to be thinner. Also, the device may be larger or smaller as required.
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Abstract
A device for teeing a golf ball includes a ball support member that has at least two opposed feet and that defines at least one ball locating formation for supporting a golf ball interposed between the feet. The, or each, ball locating formation is in a plane that is spaced from a plane in which the feet are positioned. The ball support member is of a resiliently flexible material to permit the, or each, ball locating formation to deflect, against a bias of the ball support member, towards the plane of the feet when either or both of the ball support member and the ball are struck with a golf club head.
Description
- This invention relates to a device for teeing a golf ball.
- Most golf courses place players under certain restrictions of use. This is particularly so when fairways and other playing surfaces are vulnerable to damage. Most damage results from the desirability of taking a divot when using irons. It is known amongst golfers that most ideal iron shots require a leading edge of the iron to strike the ball first causing it to be compressed very briefly between the turf and the blade of the iron. It is the follow-through from a shot such as this that damages the fairway. That is because a downward apex of a technically correct swing is actually in a position below the turf for most strokes off the fairway. As a result, the blade of the iron, lifts a chunk of turf and attached ground from the fairway, which is known as a divot.
- It is thus usual practice for players to be supplied with a bucket of sand and chemical nutrients so that the holes remaining after the divot has been taken can be filled.
- However, many, if not most players also manage to damage the fairway with miss-hits. Also, on shorter pars, players are known to dig at the tee box to create a “natural” tee position for the ball, particularly those players uncomfortable using an iron to strike a ball on a conventional golf tee.
- All these practices can cause severe damage to a golf course, particularly during amateur competition days. The damage can be exacerbated when the golf course is wet, during winter, or during droughts. At those times, the grass stems and roots are particularly susceptible to damage by irons, in particular.
- During such times, it has become common practice for course management to mandate “preferred lie” rules and to encourage golfers to use their golf tees on the course.
- In spite of all these precautions, there is still much damage caused to the playing surfaces. As a result, course managers are often forced temporarily to restrict certain areas and holes from being played upon, which frustrates all players.
- Attempts have been made to alleviate this problem. For example, it is known for players to use a grass mat of synthetic turf. However, that material is often thick and heavy resulting in discomfort because the impact force is transferred to the golfer's hands, wrists, arms and even shoulders. This is particularly uncomfortable for the inexperienced and elderly, and can cause injury. Such force transfer can also result in the mat itself taking flight. Furthermore, such mats can be difficult and inconvenient to carry. A particular problem with such mats is that they very rarely accommodate a downward swing apex when a ball is struck correctly. That contributes to a significant amount of shock felt by a player and also possible damage to a golf club.
- Another example of an attempt to address this problem is disclosed in International Publication Number WO 98/36803. The invention defined in that publication is a convex circular disc with a central opening and, optionally, a further opening to be used depending on the lie. A problem with such a device is that deflection towards the turf can be inhibited because the entire periphery of the disc bears against the turf. This can also interfere with anchoring the device when the ball is struck. It will be appreciated that with a concave disc, deflection of a central region with respect to the periphery is inhibited as a result of tension set up in the periphery. Thus, such a device is not capable of providing deflection to accommodate a downward swing apex.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,106,772 describes a resilient golf swing practice mat. The invention described in this patent is rectangular and convex and has an underside with ribbing extending therefrom and aligned parallel to the swing path. The ribbing engages the ground and inhibits movement when the ball is struck. The shoulders of an aperture positioned in the base at the maximum elevation in the profile support the ball. A problem with this device is that the ribbing interferes with downward movement of the device relative to the ground when the ball is struck. As with the circular disc, this interference with the downward movement results in a failure to accommodate a downward swing apex. Furthermore, given the nature of a golf strike, it is not necessarily optimal to have the ball positioned at that maximum height.
- According to the invention, there is provided a device for teeing a golf ball, the device comprising
- a ball support member that has at least two opposed feet and that defines at least one ball locating formation for supporting a golf ball interposed between the feet, with the, or each, ball locating formation being in a plane that is spaced from a plane in which the feet are positioned, the ball support member being of a resiliently flexible material to permit the, or each, ball locating formation to deflect, against a bias of the ball support member, towards said plane of the feet when either or both of the ball support member and the ball are struck with a golf club head.
- In this summary and in the appended claims, the words “target” and “approach” have been used to define sides or portions of the device. It is to be understood that this is for convenience only. It is envisaged that players can reverse the orientation of the device where required. For example, players with lower handicaps may have the necessary skill to direct what is referred to as an “approach” side or portion towards a target.
- The ball support member may have a target side for facing the target and an opposed approach side, at least one of the feet being arranged on each of the target and approach sides.
- The, or each, ball locating formation may be in the form of an opening in the ball support member, the opening being dimensioned so that a golf ball can be supported by a periphery of the opening.
- Two or more ball locating formations may be positioned on the support member, the ball locating formations being positioned so that a user can select a desired ball locating formation depending on circumstances of play, such as the need to strike off a sloped surface.
- The device may include a golf tee, the golf tee being configured for engagement with the ball support member so that a golf ball can be supported above the ball support member.
- The golf tee may have a tubular shank with at least one end open to support a golf ball and which is capable of being received through the opening with the periphery of the opening engaging the shank to retain the golf tee in position.
- The shank may define a series of spaced engagement formations along its length to permit a position of said open end to be adjusted relative to the ball support member. The golf tee may include a head on one end of the shank, the head having a diameter larger than that of the shank so that the golf tee is inhibited from passing through the opening.
- One ball locating formation may be positioned between the target side and a transverse centre line.
- The ball support member may be elongate from the approach side to the target side and may have a longitudinal profile that defines an apex region between the transverse centre line and the target side of the ball support member, the ball locating formation being positioned in the apex region.
- The ball support member may define a generally planar approach portion intermediate the approach side and the apex region and a target portion that curves away from the apex region to terminate at the target side.
- The ball support member may define a furrow that extends from at least one of the approach and target sides to the, or each, ball locating formation to facilitate rolling of a golf ball with a club head from one of the approach and target sides to the, or each, ball locating formation when the ball support member is in an operative position.
- The feet may have a chiselled profile to facilitate embedding of the feet into a substrate when the feet rest on the substrate and the ball support member is deflected downwardly when a ball is struck.
- The ball support member may define at least one opening to permit the ball support member to be anchored to a substrate with a suitable anchoring device received through the, or each, opening and into the substrate.
- The ball support member may include at least one fastening arrangement to permit the ball support member to be fastened to an element that defines some form of synthetic or artificial surface.
- The device may include electronic circuitry operatively arranged with respect to the ball support member to generate a signal when a ball supported by the ball support member is struck with a golf club head.
- The invention is now described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the preceding paragraphs or the appended claims.
-
FIG. 1 shows a plan, view of a first embodiment of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. -
FIG. 2 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 1 , showing alternative positions of the golf ball. -
FIG. 3 shows a plan view of a second embodiment. -
FIG. 4 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 3 with a golf tee. -
FIG. 6 shows another three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 7 shows a side view of a third embodiment. -
FIG. 8 shows a plan view of the device ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 shows a side view of a fourth embodiment. -
FIG. 10 shows a plan view of the device ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 11 shows a side view of a fifth embodiment. -
FIG. 12 shows a plan view of the device ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 13 shows a plan view of a sixth embodiment. -
FIG. 14 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 13 . -
FIG. 15 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 13 showing how a furrow of the device is used to guide a golf ball on to a ball locating formation. -
FIG. 16 shows a plan view of a seventh embodiment. -
FIG. 17 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 16 . -
FIG. 18 shows another plan view of the device ofFIG. 16 . -
FIG. 19 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 16 . -
FIG. 20 shows a golf tee for use with the device ofFIG. 16 . -
FIG. 21 shows a plan view of an eighth embodiment. -
FIG. 22 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 21 supporting a golf ball. -
FIG. 23 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 21 . -
FIG. 24 shows a plan view of a ninth embodiment. -
FIG. 25 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 24 . -
FIG. 26 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 24 . -
FIG. 27 show a three dimensional view of a tenth embodiment supporting a golf ball. -
FIG. 28 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 27 without a golf ball. -
FIG. 29 shows a plan view of an eleventh embodiment. -
FIG. 30 shows a side view of the device ofFIG. 29 . -
FIG. 31 shows a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 29 showing how a furrow of the device is used to guide a golf ball on to a locating formation. -
FIGS. 32 to 34 show various views of an example of a ball locating formation for any of the embodiments of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. -
FIG. 35 shows a twelfth embodiment. -
FIG. 36 shows a closer view of the device ofFIG. 35 . -
FIG. 37 shows various profiles suitable for an embodiment of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. -
FIG. 38 shows a thirteenth embodiment of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball, showing alternative ball positions and anchored or fastened to another surface. -
FIG. 39 shows a manner in which the device ofFIG. 38 is secured in position. -
FIG. 40 shows a three dimensional detail of the manner in which the device ofFIG. 39 is secured in position. -
FIG. 41 shows a section view, in detail, of the manner in which the device ofFIG. 39 is secured in position. -
FIG. 42 is another view of the device ofFIG. 39 . -
FIG. 43 is a three dimensional view of a fourteenth embodiment. -
FIG. 44 is another three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 43 . -
FIG. 45 is a three dimensional view of a fifteenth embodiment. -
FIG. 46 is another three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 45 . -
FIG. 47 is a three dimensional view of a sixteenth embodiment. -
FIG. 48 is a detailed view of part of the device ofFIG. 47 . -
FIG. 49 is a three dimensional view of a seventeenth embodiment. -
FIG. 50 is a three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 49 showing possible positions of golf balls. -
FIG. 51 is a three dimensional view of an eighteenth embodiment. -
FIG. 52 shows a tee for the device ofFIG. 51 . -
FIG. 53 shows the manner in which the tee ofFIG. 52 is attached to the device ofFIG. 51 . -
FIG. 54 shows one example of a strike surface of any of the embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 55 shows another example of a strike surface of any of the embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 56 is a three dimensional view of a nineteenth embodiment. -
FIG. 57 is a more detailed three dimensional view of the device ofFIG. 56 . -
FIG. 58 is a side view of the device ofFIG. 56 . - In
FIG. 1 ,reference numeral 10 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. - The
device 10 includes aball support member 12. Theball support member 12 is of a sheet of resiliently flexible material. Theball support member 12 is elongate with shorter target and approach sides 14, 16 and longer remainingsides 18. - In this description, the words “target” and “approach” have been used to define sides or portions of the
device 10 and subsequent embodiments. It is to be understood that this is for convenience only. It is envisaged that players can reverse the orientation of thedevice 10 where required. For example, players with lower handicaps may have the necessary skill to direct what is referred to as an “approach” side or portion towards a target. - The
support member 12 defines a ball locating formation in the form of arecess 20 dimensioned so that agolf ball 22 can rest in therecess 20 in a stable manner as shown inFIG. 2 . In particular, therecess 20 is circular with a diameter of between about 20 mm and 25 mm. Thetarget side 14 defines a front pair offeet 24 and theapproach side 16 defines a rear pair offeet 26. Themember 12 is shaped so that therecess 20 is positioned in a plane that is spaced from a plane in which thefeet member 12 is positioned on a substrate, such as grass, therecess 20 is positioned above thefeet - As can be seen in
FIG. 2 , themember 12 has a generally curved side profile with therecess 20 positioned at an apex of the profile. In particular, anapex region 30 is positioned between a transverse halfway line and thetarget side 14. The apex region can be positioned about two thirds to three quarters of the length from theapproach side 16. Anapproach portion 28 from theapproach side 16 to theapex region 30 is generally planar while atarget portion 32 from theapex region 30 to theapproach side 16 is curved away from theapex region 30 to terminate at thetarget side 14. - The material and thickness of the
member 12 is selected so that, when struck with a leading edge of a club head, or when the club head strikes theball 22, theapex region 30 deflects downwardly against a bias of the material and returns to an original condition once the leading edge of the club head leaves themember 12. The selection of the type and thickness of material is such so as to deflect with minimal shock felt by a user but capable of being so deflected repeatedly without damage. - In one embodiment, the material is a polymer. The material can be of a thermoplastic elastomer also known as a thermoplastic rubber. One such suitable material is a thermoplastic vulcanizate, for example, one known as Santoprene. The thickness of the material can vary from about 2 mm to 5 mm. The material has a smooth, glassy finish allowing the leading edge of the club head to slide along the
member 12 with minimal frictional resistance. Themember 12 can be the product of an injection moulding process. Another suitable material is polycarbonate. In some applications, it might be useful to have a visual indication of a club strike. For such applications, the material can be a thermochromic material. Such a material is capable of responding to heat with a change in colour. The friction generated by a club head strike would create the necessary heat to achieve the change in colour. Thus, over a series of strikes a pattern would be discernible. This would help as a training and improvement guide. - The
device 10 has an overall length of about 200 to 210 mm. Thesides 18 are waisted with a maximum width at the ends of about 90 to 110 mm. Themember 12 is shaped so that, when positioned on the substrate, theapex region 30 is about 20 mm above the substrate. - Each
foot 24 has a chiselled profile with edges that are directed operatively downwardly from the approach andtarget portions apex region 30 deflects downwardly, for example when thegolf ball 22 is struck, thefeet 24 can dig into the substrate to secure themember 12 from being dislodged from the substrate by the club head. It will be appreciated that where the substrate is turf, such as that found on a fairway, the securing effect is enhanced. - Since only the feet make contact with the substrate prior to the ball being struck, the downward movement of the
apex region 30 against the bias of the material is enhanced facilitating the required “give” against a resistance when the ball is struck and helping to ensure that the feet dig into the substrate. - The
device 10 is supplied with atee 34. Thetee 34 has atubular shank 36. Thetubular shank 36 is closed at one end with ahead 38 of greater diameter than theshank 36. Theshank 36 andhead 38 are in the form of a one-piece member of an elastomeric material such as latex. It will be appreciated that, if required, thetubular shank 36 may be closed or open at both ends. - The
member 12 defines atee aperture 40 in theapex region 30. Thetee aperture 40 is aligned with therecess 20 along a longitudinal axis of themember 12 and is positioned on an approach side of therecess 20. Theaperture 40 is dimensioned so that theshank 36 can be pushed into theaperture 40 from underneath themember 12 with theshank 36 deforming slightly to be retained in position when extending from themember 12 as shown inFIG. 2 . There, various views of thetee 34 are shown. In particular, thetee aperture 40 is circular with a diameter of between about 13 mm and 16 mm. - The
shank 36 may define a series ofcircumferential ridges 42 that can engage a periphery of theaperture 40 allowing a height of anopen end 44 of theshank 36 to be set and adjusted. Instead of theridges 42, theshank 36 can define a series of rows of Braille-like protrusions. - A pair of
keys 46 is defined at a junction of theshank 36 and thehead 38. Each key 46 corresponds with a respective slot (not shown) in an underside of themember 12 further to secure thetee 34 in position. - A
furrow 48 is defined in the top surface of themember 12. Thefurrow 48 extends from thetarget side 14 into theapex region 32 so that therecess 20 is positioned in thefurrow 48 which terminates at theaperture 40. Thefurrow 48 is dimensioned so that thegolf ball 22 can roll along thefurrow 48 and into therecess 20. Thefurrow 48 is wider at thetarget side 14 so that thegolf ball 22 can be manipulated into thefurrow 48 by a golfer using the club head and subsequently rolled into position in therecess 20. Thus, the golfer is not required to bend over to position the golf ball in therecess 20. In fact, the golfer can simply drop the device to the ground next to the golf ball and use his or her club to manipulate theball 22 into position. It will be appreciated that this functionality is useful for those with limited movement, such as the elderly or otherwise infirm. - In
FIGS. 3 to 6 ,reference numeral 50 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference toFIGS. 1 and 2 , like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics of thedevice 50 are the same as those of thedevice 10, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 50 is shorter than thedevice 10. To accommodate the reduced length, theaperture 40 is positioned proximate one of thesides 18 while thefurrow 48 is positioned proximate theother side 18. - Furthermore, instead of a recess, the
member 12 defines a ball locating formation in the form of anopening 52 in thefurrow 48. Theopening 52 is defined by a countersunkperiphery 54 to facilitate seating of thegolf ball 22. - In
FIGS. 7 and 8 ,reference numeral 60 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference toFIGS. 1 to 6 , like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
member 12 of thedevice 60 is generally slimmer than the previous embodiments. At thesides apex region 30, it is between about 40 mm and 50 mm wide. The overall length of the member is between 180 mm and 190 mm. - The
furrow 48 is centrally oriented on the longitudinal axis. In this example, thefurrow 48 extends from thetarget side 14 to theapproach side 16 so that theball 22 can be rolled from any side. Again, instead of a recess, the ball locating formation is in the form of anopening 62 positioned in thefurrow 48 between theaperture 40 and thetarget side 14. - In
FIGS. 9 and 10 ,reference numeral 70 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 70 has similar width dimensions to thedevice 60. However, it is shorter with an overall length of between about 140 mm and 150 mm. Also, thedevice 70 only has the ball locating formation in the form of anopening 72 positioned in thefurrow 48. - In
FIGS. 11 and 12 ,reference numeral 80 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 80 has similar width dimensions to the both thedevices device 60, it has theopening 62 and theaperture 40 in similar locations. - In
FIGS. 13 to 15 ,reference numeral 90 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 90 is similar to thedevice 70. However, it is shorter with an overall length of between about 125 mm and 135 mm. Thedevice 90 has a width at thesides sides 18 are waisted with a minimum width about halfway along a length of thedevice 90 of between 35 mm and 45 mm. - The
device 90 only has the ball locating formation in the form of anopening 90. In this example, theopening 90 also defines theaperture 40 allowing thetee 34 to be fitted to thedevice 90 in the manner described above. - In
FIGS. 16 to 20 ,reference numeral 100 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 100 is dimensioned to be suitable for fitting in a golfer's pocket. To that end, it has an overall length dimension, when viewed in plan, of between about 115 mm and 125 mm. As with the previous embodiments, it is also waisted. However, the,approach side 16 has a rear pair offeet 102 that are particularly pronounced by a centralcurved recess 104 and inwardly tapering, opposededges 106, when viewed in plan. Furthermore, as can be seen inFIGS. 17 and 19 , thefeet 102 are curved out of the plane of theapproach portion 28. - In this embodiment, the ball locating formation is in the form of an
opening 108 that is positioned on a target side of a highest point of themember 12 in an operative position. - In
FIGS. 21 to 23 ,reference numeral 110 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 110 has aball support member 112 that is generally arcuate in transverse profile. Furthermore, themember 112 is of a reduced transverse curvature at anapproach side 114 compared with the transverse curvature at atarget side 116. As a result, when thedevice 110 is placed on a substrate, a longitudinal profile is angled upwardly from theapproach side 114 to thetarget side 116. - A ball support formation in the form of an
opening 118 is positioned approximately two thirds along a length of themember 112 from theapproach side 114. - A
furrow 120 extends centrally from theapproach side 114 to theopening 118 to serve the same purpose as thefurrow 48 in the previous embodiments. -
Opposed sides 122 of themember 112 define cutouts 124 so that a pair ofopposed feet 126 are defined at the approach andtarget sides - The
device 110 operates in the same manner as the embodiments described above. In this case, the transverse arcuate section of themember 12 enhances the resiliently flexible characteristics of thedevice 110. On flexing, when thegolf ball 22 is struck, thefeet 126 dig into a substrate to secure thedevice 110 in position. - In
FIGS. 24 to 26 ,reference numeral 130 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 130 is intended to be used as a learning device. - The
device 130 includes aball support member 133 which is generally rectangular in plan. Thus, themember 133 has atarget side 132, anapproach side 134 and a pair of parallel, straight remainingsides 136. Both thetarget side 132 and theapproach side 134 are concave in plan. - A ball locating formation in the form of an
opening 138 is defined in themember 133, approximately two thirds along a length of themember 12 from theapproach side 134. Themember 133 defines anapproach portion 140 which extends from theapproach side 134 to an edge of theopening 138. That edge also defines a topdead centreline 142 when themember 133 is positioned on a substrate. Themember 133 also defines atarget portion 144 that extends from thecentreline 142 to thetarget side 132. - The
member 12 defines a front pair offeet 146 and a rear pair offeet 148. Thefeet target portions - A series of
parallel lines 150 demarcated on atop surface 152 of themember 133. Thelines 150 are positioned so that they can provide a suitable target for a leading edge of a club head. - In
FIGS. 27 and 28 ,reference numeral 160 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 160 includes a triangularball support member 162. Thesupport member 162 has a curved profile so thatcorners 164 can engage a substrate with a central portion of thesupport member 162 raised above the substrate. - A ball locating formation in the form of an
opening 166 is defined in thesupport member 162 in the central portion. - It will be appreciated that as the ball is struck, the
support member 162 is deflected downwardly so that thecorners 164 dig into the substrate to secure thesupport member 162. - In
FIGS. 29 to 31 ,reference number 170 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 170 is dimensioned in a manner similar to thedevice 90. However, it is to be understood that thedevice 170 can be dimensioned similarly to any of the devices described above. The reason is that thedevice 170 simply illustrates an example of how a layer ofsynthetic grass 172 can be arranged on the support member to provide a feeling of striking turf when the golfer uses thedevice 170. It will be appreciated that the layer can be of any other material that might simulate grass or provide some form of resistance and “feel” to a stroke. - In
FIGS. 32 to 34 , there is indicated one example of anopening 180 which can be used as a ball locating formation for any of the embodiments described herein. - A
periphery 182 of theopening 180 is configured to facilitate the rolling of the ball into the opening 180 from the approach side along the furrow. To that end, a bevelled edge that defines theperiphery 182 is more pronounced at a target side of theopening 180. Thus, there is an immediate drop off for a ball being rolled along the furrow from the approach side. The increased bevel of theperiphery 182 at the target side allows the ball to settle against that side. - Furthermore, in order to avoid the ball rolling over the
opening 180 and down towards the target side, alip 184 is positioned or formed on the target side of theperiphery 182 to extend towards the approach side and slightly over the peripheral edge. Thelip 184 thus defines a stop for the golf ball. It will be appreciated that theperiphery 182 therefore defines a dike-like formation on the target side that in turn defines a small dam-like formation partially to receive the ball, thereby helping to prevent the ball from rolling off the device towards the target, when the ball is rolled into theopening 180. - In
FIGS. 35 and 36 ,reference numeral 190 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 190 is intended for use with apractice mat 192, for example of the type found, at a driving range. Thepractice mat 192 defines apassage 194 that extends through themat 192 along a line corresponding to a strike direction. Themat 192 defines anopening 196 into thepassage 194. - The
device 190 includes anelongate strip 198 of material suitable for being struck by a golf club head. Thestrip 198 is flexible and defines a series of ball locating formations in the form ofopenings 200 extending along a longitudinal axis of thestrip 198. Theopenings 200 are positioned along a furrow 202. - The
strip 198 is threaded through thepassage 194. Atubular support member 204 of a resiliently flexible material is positioned between themat 192 and thestrip 198 at theopening 196 to support any one of theopenings 200 in a raised position. - Thus, a ball can be placed on the raised
opening 200 effectively to tee the ball, as shown inFIG. 36 . If thestrip 198 becomes worn, thestrip 198 can be fed with respect to themat 192 so that afresh opening 200 can be used. Thesupport member 204 provides the necessary deflection and return of thestrip 198 when the ball is struck. - In
FIG. 37 ,reference numeral 210 generally indicates a number of different profiles of a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 210 is intended for use with a practice mat. A number of the approach sides define a formation for engaging the practice mat. A number of the target sides have a return portion that can engage an edge of the practice mat. Instead of being used with a practice mat, a number of the profiles are suitable for use with other devices and even on sand, soil or grassed surfaces. - In
FIGS. 38 to 42 ,reference numeral 220 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - As with a number of the previous embodiments, the
device 220 includes asupport member 222 with an arcuate profile. A pair ofrear feet 224 is defined by thesupport member 222 at anapproach side 226 and a pair offront feet 228 is defined by thesupport member 222 at a target side 230. Each of thefeet opening 232. Afastener 234 is received through each opening 232 to fasten thedevice 220 to any surface from which it might be desired to strike a golf ball. - In this example, the surface is defined by an
element 236 that is provided with aslot 238 inside 239. Therear feet 224 are received in theslot 238. Thefasteners 234 can be received through corresponding openings in theelements 236 and through theopenings 232 to fasten therear feet 224 to theelement 236. Thefront feet 228 can be fastened to another element in a similar fashion. - The
support member 222 defines afurrow 240 in the manner described with reference to the previous embodiments. Three ball locating formations in the form ofopenings 242 are defined in thefurrow 240 at different locations to suit different ball positions. - In
FIGS. 43 and 44 ,reference numeral 250 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 250 is intended for use on a driving range or any other suitable practice area such as a backyard, a car park, a football field or a schoolyard. To that end, thedevice 250 has aball support member 252 with anapproach side 254 that is capable of being fastened to a practice mat 256 withsuitable fasteners 258. Instead of the mat 256, the approach side is capable of being fastened to any other suitable device or surface. Theball support member 252 extends from theapproach side 254 to define anapproach portion 260. Atarget portion 262 extends from theapproach portion 260 to terminate at atarget side 264. Theapproach portion 260 is generally planar while thetarget portion 262 curves away from theapproach portion 260. Thus, when thesides target portions - A ball locating formation in the form of an
opening 267 is positioned at said junction of the approach andtarget portions approach portion 260 defines afurrow 269 that extends from theapproach side 254 to theopening 267. Thetarget portion 262 defines a pair oflegs 266 that are spaced to define agap 268 that can accommodate a golf ball. Thus, if a ball rolls forward over theopening 267, it can simply drop between thelegs 266, instead of inconveniently rolling away from thedevice 250. - A
strip 274 of fastening material such as one part of a hook and loop combination known as Velcro is positioned on theapproach side 254. Thus, theapproach side 254 can be located under the practice mat 256 to help secure thedevice 250 in an operative position. - In
FIGS. 45 and 46 ,reference numeral 270 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 270 is similar to thedevice 250. However, instead of the legs and associated gap, thetarget portion 262 defines atransverse channel 272 at thetarget side 264. Thus, if a ball rolls forward over theopening 267, it lands in thechannel 272 and is diverted sideways instead of inconveniently rolling away from thedevice 270. - In
FIGS. 47 and 48 ,reference numeral 280 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - As with a number of the previous embodiments, the
device 280 has asupport member 282, afurrow 284 that extends centrally from anapproach side 286 to atarget side 288 and a number of ball locating formations in the form ofopenings 290 in thefurrow 284 to suit different ball positions. Furthermore, themember 282 defines a pair offeet 292 at theapproach side 286 and a pair offeet 294 at thetarget side 288. - One of each pair of
feet hole 296. When thedevice 280 is placed on the ground, aconventional tee 298 can be pushed through eachhole 296 to secure thedevice 280 in an operative position. - The
support member 282 is of a material that is capable of be stretched, to some degree. In other words, the material is elastic and can be in the form of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomeric plastics or rubber material. - In
FIGS. 49 and 50 ,reference numeral 300 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
device 300 also has asupport member 302 that defines afurrow 304 extending centrally from an approach side 306 to atarget side 308. A ball locating formation in the form of anopening 310 is positioned in the,furrow 304. Thesupport member 302 is arcuate with theopening 310 in anapex region 312. - The
device 300 has acarrier 316. Thecarrier 316 defines a transversely extendingchannel formation 318 at an approach side and a transversely extendingchannel formation 320 at a target side. Each of thechannel formations furrow 284 for rolling into theopening 310. - The
carrier 316 has a base 322 that extends between theformations electrode arrangement 324 is interposed between the base 322 and thesupport member 302. Theelectrode arrangement 324 can be configured to generate a signal when a ball is struck. In particular, theelectrode arrangement 324 can be configured to generate such signals in order to count the number of balls struck. Furthermore, in one embodiment, theelectrode arrangement 324 can be configured to generate a signal corresponding to a correct strike of the ball so that thedevice 300 can be used as a training tool. - In
FIGS. 51 to 53 ,reference numeral 330 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - As with a number of the previous embodiments, the
device 330 includes asupport member 332 that defines afurrow 334 extending from anapproach side 336 to atarget side 338. A ball locating formation in the form of an opening 340 is defined in thefurrow 334 approximately two thirds along a length of thesupport member 332 from theapproach side 336. Thesupport member 332 is arcuate with theopening 336 positioned in an apex region. - A pair of
feet 341 is defined by the support member at theapproach side 336 and a pair offeet 342 is defined by thesupport member 332 at thetarget side 338. - The
device 330 includes atee 344. Thetee 344 is of a resiliently flexible material and includes a tubular member ortube 346 that can be received through theopening 336 with a degree of deformation so that thetee 344 is secured in position. Thetube 346 has an open, operatively upper end for supporting a golf ball in a conventional manner. Thus, thetee 344 is secured to thedevice 330 in a similar manner as is thetee 34 to thedevice 10. - An external surface of the
tube 346 defines a series of circumferentially extending rows of projections orbeads 348. Eachrow 348 can selectively engage a periphery of theopening 336 to position thetube 346 at a desired height. - A
lanyard 350 is fast with a base of thetube 346. A locking member or lug 352 is fast with an end of thelanyard 350. Each of thefeet 340, 342 define a counter sunkhole 354. Thelug 352 is received through one of theholes 354 such that thelug 352 can be retained in thehole 354 due to the counter sunk nature of thehole 354. Thus, thetee 344 is secured to thesupport member 332 to prevent loss thereof. - In
FIGS. 54 and 55 ,reference numeral 360 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. Other characteristics are the same as those of the previous embodiments, unless otherwise specified. - The
support member 332 has anupper surface 362 that can define any of a number of patterns. For example, theupper surface 362 inFIG. 54 defines a closed cell pattern while theupper surface 362 inFIG. 55 defines a series of lines. It will be appreciated that, instead of patterns, theupper surface 362 can be marked or impressed with corporate insignia or other signs. A lower surface of thesupport member 332 can also be so marked or impressed. - In
FIGS. 56 to 58 ,reference numeral 370 generally indicates a device, in accordance with the invention, for teeing a golf ball. With reference to the previous drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. - In this embodiment, the
device 370 includes asupport member 372 has an upper surface that definesblades 374 or spikes of synthetic material that are configured for supporting the golf ball in any desired position on thedevice 370. Thus, theblades 374 can be configured for mimicking or simulating grass. - In particular, the
support member 372 and theblades 374 can be formed integrally. It will be appreciated that such an embodiment can provide some resistance to a club head during ball strike and immediately afterwards, thus imparting “feel” to the stroke. - In another embodiment, particularly either of those shown in
FIGS. 1 to 28 , the support member can be of a transparent material. - In use, the device, in accordance with the invention, can be placed on the turf of a fairway. A ball can then be rolled along the furrow and into the, or one of the ball locating formations, usually in the form of an opening. As is known, a technically correct strike usually impinges on the golf ball first with the club head striking the turf in the follow-through. With the device, when the ball is struck, the device deflects to accommodate the downward movement of the golf club head, thus protecting the grass with the device itself providing a shield so that the club head does not remove a divot.
- There are a significant number of iconic golf courses which experience significant traffic at certain times of the year. Those managing such golf courses are under a significant amount of pressure in order to maintain the high standards usually associated with such courses. The device of the invention can be used to protect the fairways and tee boxes of such courses. Of course, it will readily be appreciated that the device can be used at any golf course and also at driving ranges or any other suitable practice areas as described above.
- Many driving or practice ranges use practice mats. Such mats are provided with a layer of artificial turf in an attempt to simulate a fairway. However, over time, the ground beneath the mat can become extremely hard. As a result, a golf club head is incapable of moving downwardly subsequent to a technically correct strike. This can cause damage to a golf club and injury to a user. By using the device, it is possible to achieve a degree of downward follow-through as a result of deflection of the device. Thus, damage to a golf club head and injury to a user is avoided.
- While striking the golf ball first may be technically correct, most golfers tend to strike a region just in front of the golf ball. When using the device, such a strike causes a downward deflection of the device with the golf ball effectively remaining in the same position. In other words, the golf ball “hovers” momentarily before being struck. This enhances the feel of the strike for the golfer since the ball experiences very little resistance when subsequently being struck by the club head.
- The fact that the device is capable of deflection protects the golfer against shock which can occur, for example, when the turf is particularly hard. It follows that the device is particularly suited for use by the elderly or otherwise infirm who can often be injured due to that shock. The provision of the furrow so that such players can avoid bending over to manipulate the golf ball further enhances its suitability for such players.
- In a number of the embodiments, there is provided two or three ball locating formations, usually in the form of openings. This allows the device to be positioned on a sloped surface and the ball placed in a locating formation which best accommodates the sloped surface.
- It is to be appreciated that with different materials and requirements, the dimensions described above can be varied. For example, it may be possible for the device to be thinner. Also, the device may be larger or smaller as required.
- Throughout the specification, including the claims, where the context permits, the term “comprising” and variants thereof such as “comprise” or “comprises” are to be interpreted as including the stated integer or integers without necessarily excluding any other integers.
- It is to be understood that the terminology employed above is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The described embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the invention, without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of being practised with various modifications and additions as will readily occur to those skilled in the art.
Claims (16)
1. A device for teeing a golf ball, the device comprising
a ball support member that has at least two opposed feet and that defines at least one ball locating formation for supporting a golf ball interposed between the feet, with the, or each, ball locating formation being in a plane that is spaced from a plane in which the feet are positioned, the ball support member being of a resiliently flexible material to permit the, or each, ball locating formation to deflect, against a bias of the ball support member, towards said plane of the feet when either or both of the ball support member and the ball are struck with a golf club head.
2. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which the ball support member has a target side for facing the target and an opposed approach side, at least one of the feet being arranged on each of the target and approach sides.
3. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which the, or each, ball locating formation is in the form of an opening in the ball support member, the opening being dimensioned so that a golf ball can be supported by a periphery of the opening.
4. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which two or more ball locating formations are positioned on the support member, the ball locating formations being positioned so that a user can select a desired ball locating formation depending on circumstances of play, such as the need to strike off a sloped surface.
5. A device as claimed in claim 3 , which includes a golf tee, the golf tee being configured for engagement with the ball support member so that a golf ball can be supported above the ball support member.
6. A device as claimed in claim 5 , in which the golf tee has a tubular shank with at least one end open to support a golf ball and which is capable of being received through the opening with the periphery of the opening engaging the shank to retain the golf tee in position.
7. A device as claimed in claim 6 , in which the shank defines a series of spaced engagement formations along its length to permit a position of said open end to be adjusted relative to the ball support member.
8. A device as claimed in claim 6 , in which the golf tee includes a head on one end of the shank, the head having a diameter larger than that of the shank so that the golf tee is inhibited from passing through the opening.
9. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which one ball locating formation is positioned between the target side and a transverse centre line.
10. A device as claimed in claim 9 , in which the ball support member is elongate from the approach side to the target side and has a longitudinal profile that defines an apex region between the transverse centre line and the target side of the ball support member, the ball locating formation being positioned in the apex region.
11. A device as claimed in claim 10 , in which the ball support member defines a generally planar approach portion intermediate the approach side and the apex region and a target portion that curves away from the apex region to terminate at the target side.
12. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which the ball support member defines a furrow that extends from at least one of the approach and target sides to the, or each, ball locating formation to facilitate rolling of a golf ball with a club head from one of the approach and target sides to the, or each, ball locating formation when the ball support member is in an operative position.
13. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which the feet have a chiselled profile to facilitate embedding of the feet into a substrate when the feet rest on the substrate and the ball support member is deflected downwardly when a ball is struck.
14. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which the ball support member defines at least one opening to permit the ball support member to be anchored to a substrate with a suitable anchoring device received through the, or each, opening and into the substrate.
15. A device as claimed in claim 1 , in which the ball support, member includes at least one fastening arrangement to permit the ball support member to be fastened to an element that defines some form of synthetic or artificial surface.
16. A device as claimed in claim 1 , which includes electronic circuitry operatively arranged with respect to the ball support member to generate a signal when a ball supported by the ball support member is struck with a golf club head.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2009905456 | 2009-11-09 | ||
AU2009905456A AU2009905456A0 (en) | 2009-11-09 | Divvex | |
PCT/AU2010/001195 WO2011054025A1 (en) | 2009-11-09 | 2010-09-15 | A device for teeing a golf ball |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120231900A1 true US20120231900A1 (en) | 2012-09-13 |
Family
ID=43969461
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/508,356 Abandoned US20120231900A1 (en) | 2009-11-09 | 2010-09-15 | Device for teeing a golf ball |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20120231900A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2498880A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2013509918A (en) |
CN (1) | CN102686286A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2010314793A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2786136A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2011054025A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD770580S1 (en) * | 2014-11-21 | 2016-11-01 | Timothy Russell | Collapsible golf tee/ball stand |
US10052543B1 (en) * | 2014-03-24 | 2018-08-21 | Raymond Steele | Sports equipment swing training aid incorporating a reversible thermochromatic leuco dye for providing a temporary visual swing-related feedback to a user and a method of use |
WO2019191533A1 (en) * | 2018-03-30 | 2019-10-03 | Brian Carr | Golf practice mat with virtual divot feature |
US10870043B2 (en) * | 2019-05-22 | 2020-12-22 | Jack Cooper | Golf tee with reduced friction |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8968118B2 (en) * | 2013-06-14 | 2015-03-03 | Tee-Claw Llc | Golf teeing device |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2809839A (en) * | 1953-10-23 | 1957-10-15 | Charles B Overbaugh | Golf tee blank |
US3143350A (en) * | 1963-01-09 | 1964-08-04 | William P Lester | Golf practice mat |
US5645494A (en) * | 1994-11-01 | 1997-07-08 | Dionne; Thomas A. | Instructional golf mat |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1936625A (en) * | 1931-07-01 | 1933-11-28 | Goldman Benjamin | Golf tee and support therefor |
GB603876A (en) * | 1945-11-02 | 1948-06-24 | Percy Joseph Gillespie | Improvements relating to golf ball tees |
US3690676A (en) * | 1971-01-26 | 1972-09-12 | Frank Costa | Golf ball tee |
US4106772A (en) * | 1977-01-04 | 1978-08-15 | Sports Technology Inc. | Golf swing practice base |
US5885167A (en) * | 1997-05-05 | 1999-03-23 | St. Martin; Kirk D. | Ball support and golf swing aid for golf practice |
US6152837A (en) * | 1999-02-16 | 2000-11-28 | Pin-Amax Golf Products, Llc | Golf tee |
US20050059511A1 (en) * | 2003-09-15 | 2005-03-17 | Anthony Chernetsky | Flexible golf tee |
US7094163B2 (en) * | 2004-10-11 | 2006-08-22 | Lay Lu | Adjustable golf tee |
-
2010
- 2010-09-15 WO PCT/AU2010/001195 patent/WO2011054025A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-09-15 CN CN2010800599821A patent/CN102686286A/en active Pending
- 2010-09-15 AU AU2010314793A patent/AU2010314793A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2010-09-15 US US13/508,356 patent/US20120231900A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2010-09-15 JP JP2012537261A patent/JP2013509918A/en active Pending
- 2010-09-15 EP EP10827698.1A patent/EP2498880A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2010-09-15 CA CA2786136A patent/CA2786136A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2809839A (en) * | 1953-10-23 | 1957-10-15 | Charles B Overbaugh | Golf tee blank |
US3143350A (en) * | 1963-01-09 | 1964-08-04 | William P Lester | Golf practice mat |
US5645494A (en) * | 1994-11-01 | 1997-07-08 | Dionne; Thomas A. | Instructional golf mat |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10052543B1 (en) * | 2014-03-24 | 2018-08-21 | Raymond Steele | Sports equipment swing training aid incorporating a reversible thermochromatic leuco dye for providing a temporary visual swing-related feedback to a user and a method of use |
USD770580S1 (en) * | 2014-11-21 | 2016-11-01 | Timothy Russell | Collapsible golf tee/ball stand |
WO2019191533A1 (en) * | 2018-03-30 | 2019-10-03 | Brian Carr | Golf practice mat with virtual divot feature |
US10870043B2 (en) * | 2019-05-22 | 2020-12-22 | Jack Cooper | Golf tee with reduced friction |
US11717732B2 (en) * | 2019-05-22 | 2023-08-08 | Jack Cooper | Golf tee with reduced friction |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2011054025A1 (en) | 2011-05-12 |
JP2013509918A (en) | 2013-03-21 |
EP2498880A1 (en) | 2012-09-19 |
AU2010314793A1 (en) | 2012-07-05 |
EP2498880A4 (en) | 2013-10-02 |
CN102686286A (en) | 2012-09-19 |
CA2786136A1 (en) | 2011-05-12 |
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Owner name: DIVOTEND PTY LTD, AUSTRALIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:KILBY, DAMIAN;KILBY, GLENN;SIGNING DATES FROM 20120503 TO 20120504;REEL/FRAME:028162/0029 |
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