US20210086053A1

US20210086053A1 - Gripping device for handling a golf club

Info

Publication number: US20210086053A1
Application number: US17/026,782
Authority: US
Inventors: William Douglas Erickson Blakely
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Foreflex Golf LLC
Priority date: 2019-09-20
Filing date: 2020-09-21
Publication date: 2021-03-25

Abstract

A golf grip device for handling a golf club provides a flexible, comfortable joint resistance for a user's finger. The grip device contains a number of features configured to help improve one's golf game. The grip device is configured to be worn as a stand alone piece to be placed over a user's finger without a glove, to be bonded directly onto a glove or to be built within a glove. The device provides a cooperating relationship between the flexible material, reduced resistance applied, reduced tension and enhanced muscle memory in the fingers.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/903,218 filed on Sep. 20, 2019.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

The government has not provided any funding with respect to the present invention. THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
The inventor has not entered into a joint research agreement with any third parties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to a grip device used primarily in the game of golf In particular, the embodiments of the present invention are directed to a grip device designed to be placed on a digit or finger with or without use of a separate glove. The device can be bonded directly to a glove or built within a glove itself. The device is designed to alter the effect of force applied through the digit to the hands while gripping the handle, reduce tension, and promote swing consistency and positive muscle memory.
The game of golf is notoriously difficult to learn for many beginners. One of the most important fundamentals an amateur must learn is a proper grip technique. Beginners will often discover that what feels comfortable to them often does not result in an effective golf swing and preferred soft shot. Paradoxically, in many cases, those comfortable techniques are often detrimental to the swing.
One of the most popular grip styles used by amateurs and professionals is the interlocking grip style as depicted in FIG. 18, which many players choose because of the comfort and natural feel that the grip provides. However, such natural and comfortable feel can be detrimental to the swing because many amateurs apply excessive force due to the comfortable nature of the grip, which causes the swing to break down and leads to the development of negative grip and swing habits.
As a result, many golf instructors do not recommend that amateurs use the interlocking grip and many instructors advocate for beginners and amateurs to use alternate grip techniques such as the vardon grip or a baseball style grip which many players find to be uncomfortable or unnatural. In recent years, younger PGA players have developed a remedy to the disadvantages of the interlocking style grip by utilizing a neutral to weak grip style whereby the index (or forefinger) digit of the lead or non-dominant hand is isolated within the interlocking grip. This technique allows the player to completely remove, at his or her discretion, excessive force and/or tension which may naturally be applied by the index digit to the handle during the swing. This consistent removal or reduction in force and tension of a single digit can result in an improved swing execution and can enhance the muscle memory of the remaining digits during the swing.
The embodiments of the present invention provide a device solution for amateurs to accomplish what the professionals achieve naturally. The grip device as shown in FIG. 19 promotes a grip style such that, when a right handed player is wearing the device or glove containing the device, use of the device on the preferred left hand index digit allows the left hand index digit to remain almost completely and comfortably separated from the club shaft and permits the index digit to remain disconnected throughout the swing. As a result of reducing the force applied by the lead hand (left hand in this example) index digit, less manipulation of club face will be present, swing plane control may be more consistent, and the player may experience enhanced positive muscle memory in each of the remaining digits of both of hands.
Gripping a golf glove with reduced tension is recognized as a way to improve a player's swing. Repetition and consistent application of force during a swing is recognized as a way to improve positive muscle memory in the hands and a way to create more consistent ball striking and a more consistent swing. The embodiments of the present invention focus on reducing tension and the development of positive muscle memory and consistency in a grip. Other golf improvement devices and gloves do not focus on the role of tension and the restriction of force as applied to specific digits of the hands, such as the index digit. Other golf improvement devices and gloves do not focus on creating consistent positive muscle memory of the hands due to manipulation of specific digits in the hand such as the index or forefinger.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

An objective of the present invention is to provide a grip device, which reduces tension from selective parts of the human hand, preferably the index digit, when the hand is in a clenched position and to promote consistent application of force and positive muscle memory in the hand. The invention addresses the need in the art by providing a tool that effectively utilizes the interlocking grip style when the desired results of such grip style requires reduced tension through joint restriction to keep the swing from degrading. The device is a single digit gripping device that can exist in three forms: a stand-alone device, as a device bonded directly to a glove, as a device built into a glove. In all of these forms, the device is particularly useful for providing flexible resistance to reduce the tension applied to the handle primarily when using an interlocking style grip. The method of the present invention includes use of the device as a single digit gripping device that exists either as a stand-alone device, a device bonded directly to a glove or a device built into a glove.
Another object of the present invention is to promote consistency and positive muscle memory of the hands due to effective joint restriction and the repetitive and consistent amount of force applied to the handle while using the device.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a grip device that is easy to use, either as a stand-alone device or in a form incorporated into a glove and presents an aesthetically pleasing or discreet appearance.
More particularly, the device has various embodiment designs and preferably fits either entirely or partially around the index digit either separately or incorporated into a glove. The outer surface of the device is flexible based upon various durometer levels and device's flexible material allows the digit to move relatively easily.
In an embodiment, the device is a hollow, tubular vessel to be disposed over a person's index finger. A preferred embodiment of the device is approximately 1 to 4 inches in length but the length may vary as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. The device contains a proximal side that, when disposed on a finger, is closest to the knuckle; a distal side that is closest to the nail, a first lateral side that is next to the middle finger and a second lateral side that is next to the thumb, and a palm side. The tubular vessel contains legs on both lateral sides that are similar in length in a preferred embodiment, but may vary in other embodiments. On the proximal and distal side of the device, a cavity exists between the corresponding legs, where the cavity preferably includes a V-shape inward design having different depths as determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art as the depth of the V-shape can vary. The first and second lateral sides preferably have similar shapes and design, namely indented mid-sections. The indented mid-sections may have different designs including, but not limited to, an obtuse shape, but such design includes a width of the device that is narrower in a mid-section as shown in FIG. 1 than the width of an external side of the legs. An embodiment may be used as a stand-alone device or incorporated into a glove.
In an embodiment, the device is a hollow, tubular or partially tubular vessel having a stretch material that is bonded or sewn into the inside of the index finger of a glove. An embodiment may entirely or partially cover areas within the proximal side, distal side, lateral sides and palm side of an index finger portion of a golf glove extending from the proximal side to the distal side.
It is, therefore, an advantage of the present invention to provide an enhanced tactile feel, which includes comfortable flexible resistance and joint restriction depending upon user preference.
Another advantage of the present invention is to reduce grip tension that will promote a more consistent swing and positive muscle memory in the hands.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide easy ingress and egress of the device upon the digit or to provide incorporation into a glove or to provide application or removal of device as bonded or built into a glove.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a durable device available in multiple levels of flexibility and sizes based on user preference.
Another advantage of the present invention is that the device can be manufactured from many processes and from many materials, and that such manufacturing processes and materials are relatively inexpensive.
Another advantage of the present invention is that the device is aesthetically pleasing and can be used in both practice and regular play.
Further objects and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description and appended claims.
All patents, patent applications, provisional applications, and publications referred to or cited herein, or from which a claim or benefit of priority has been made, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to the extent they are not inconsistent with the explicit teachings of this specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

A better understanding of the invention will be had upon reference to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals refer to like parts throughout several views and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a single-section, grip enhancement device with proximal and distal sides shown and legs connecting along the lateral sides as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the same device shown in FIG.1 with only partial views of the proximal and distal sides and legs shown connecting along the lateral sides as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 3 is a top or bottom view of the same device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the tip of the same device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the same device shown in FIG. 1 depicting the device worn on a finger.

FIG. 6 is side view of an alternate embodiment of FIG. 1 with proximal and distal sides shown and legs connecting along the lateral sides as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 7 is a side view of device shown in FIG. 6 as worn on the index finger.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the device shown in FIG. 6 as worn on the dorsal side of the finger between the proximal and distal sides.

FIG. 9 is a side view of an alternate embodiment as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the alternate embodiment of FIG. 9 as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 11 is a side view of device shown in FIG. 9 as worn between the proximal and distal sides of a finger shown connecting along a lateral side.

FIG. 12 is a side view of device shown in FIG. 1 as bonded to a glove and worn between the proximal and distal sides of a finger shown connecting along a lateral side.

FIG. 13 is a side view of device shown in FIG. 9 as bonded to a glove and worn between the proximal and distal sides of a finger shown connecting along a lateral side.

FIG. 14 is a side view of an alternate embodiment where the grip enhancement device is a located in both dorsal and palm sides as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 15 is a side view of an alternate embodiment where the grip enhancement device is located in the palm side as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an alternate embodiment where the grip enhancement device is located in the dorsal side as shown in accordance with the present application.

FIG. 17 is a side sectional view of an index finger the device of FIGS. 14-16, illustrating the grip enhancement device located inside the glove.

FIG. 18 is a front view of a demonstration of the interlocking grip style.

FIG. 19 is a view of a user wearing the device during a backswing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-11 provide a hollow, tubular vessel to be placed over a person's finger while practicing or playing golf. The preferred location on which the device is to be placed is the index finger of the lead hand between the distal side, closest to the nail, and proximal side, closest to the knuckle, while the player is gripping the handle, preferably while utilizing an interlocking grip style as exemplified in FIG. 18. For right hand players, the device is to be preferably placed on the index finger of the left hand, and, for left-handed players, the device is to be placed on the index finger of the right hand. The purpose of the device, through the use of comfortable and flexible material is to create comfortable joint restriction and a tactile sensation that the player is applying adequate force to the handle with the finger on which the device rests, when, in fact, little or no such force by the finger on which the device rests is actually being applied.
Use of the device may reduce or eliminate a player's desire or reasonable belief in the need to apply excessive force using the finger on which the device rests, preferably the forefinger.
In using the device, the player is able to grip less forcefully, which allows the finger onto which the device rests to be quieted during the swing, or to be isolated partially or completely off the handle during the swing, by applying less force as exemplified in FIG. 19. Such reduced force or tension and/or isolation or reduced force or tension of a specific finger, such as the index finger, promotes positive muscle memory within both hands and fingers and may result in more consistent ball striking. The tactic that the device promotes, the isolation of a specific finger through joint restriction, is commonly used by many professional golfers, and the device promotes a discreet, easy to use application of this tactic for non-professionals. FIGS. 1-17 illustrate various views and embodiments of the device.
FIGS. 1-11 illustrate embodiments of the invention as a hollow, tubular vessel and a stand-alone device designed to be placed on the index finger, or over the index finger enclosed in a glove, preferably without being incorporated into or bonded directly to a predetermined glove. The hollow, tubular vessel provides comfortable joint restriction of the joint between the distal and proximal sides of the finger due to device's flexible material. The hollow, tubular vessel of FIGS. 1-11 slides comfortably on and off the index finger between the distal and proximal sides. FIGS. 12-13 utilize the same designs as FIGS. 1-11, except that the hollow, tubular vessel of FIGS. 12-13 may be affixed, bonded or sewn directly onto a predetermined golf glove between the distal, proximal, and lateral sides of the finger and can be manufactured using the same materials as FIGS. 1-11 or using materials including stretch material, nylon, LYCRA® (a registered trademark of the Invista corporation), spandex, and mesh, along with other materials. FIGS. 14-17 illustrate the hollow, tubular vessel utilizing the same functionality as FIGS. 1-13 either as a hollow, tubular vessel or a partially tubular vessel, which is built into a glove between the distal side and proximal side of the index finger, beneath the outer layer of the glove and manufactured using the same or similar materials as FIGS. 1-13.

Stand Alone Device

FIGS. 1-5 show a preferred embodiment of the invention directed to a hollow, tubular vessel that is disposed over a person's finger, preferably a person's index finger. A preferred embodiment includes a hollow, tubular vessel approximately 1-4 inches in length, and having a hollow interior diameter great enough to fit over a person's finger or in other embodiments over a person's finger and glove; as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the interior hollow diameter may vary but a preferred diameter is approximately point 5 of an inch to 2 inches.
As shown in FIG. 1, the tubular vessel includes four sides: a proximal side 2 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to a person's knuckle; a distal side 3 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to person's nails; a first lateral side 4 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's middle finger; and a second lateral side 5 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's thumb. As shown in FIG. 1, the proximal side 2 of the vessel includes two legs 11 and 12 and a cavity 13 disposed in between legs 11 and 12. The legs 11 and 12 have a similar length as shown in FIG. 1 but in different embodiments, the legs 11, 12 length may vary. The cavity 13 preferably has a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 1 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the depth of the V-shape can vary. Similarly, the distal side 3 of the vessel includes two legs 15, 16 and a cavity 17 disposed in between legs 15, 16. The legs 15, 16 have a similar length as shown in FIG. 1 but in different embodiments, the legs 15, 16 length may vary. The cavity 17 preferably has a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 1 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other designs can be incorporated between the legs 15, 16 and also, for the V-shape, that the depth of the V-shape can vary.
As shown in FIG. 1, the first lateral side 4 and second lateral side 5 preferably have similar shapes and design, namely indented mid-sections 20, 21. The indented mid-sections 20, 21 may have different designs including the obtuse shape shown in FIG. 1 but such design includes a width that is narrow in a mid-section of the vessel as viewed from the proximal to the distal side, than the width of an external side of legs 11, 12 and separately legs 15, 16. The device of FIGS. 1-5 is designed to slip over the index finger and fits comfortably in the areas of cavities 13, 17. The device's flexible material and the structure provided by the legs 11, 12, 15, 16 and the proximal side 2 and distal side 3 enhance comfortable restriction of the joints of the index finger and promote positive muscle memory during the golf swing. As shown in FIG. 1, additional cavities 22, 23 are located next to the lateral sides and may vary in shape and size as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.
FIG.1 shows a preferred embodiment, the hollow, tubular vessel that can be comfortably slipped onto a finger or onto a predetermined glove and illustrates the device having a V shaped cavity 13, between legs 11,12 and a V shaped cavity 17 between legs 15,16 that provide flexibility and ventilation among other purposes. As exemplified in the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, the distal side 3 of the grip piece is located closest to the nail, and the proximal side 2, is located closest to the knuckle. The hollow, tubular vessel continues along the distal side 3 and extends to the proximal side of the finger 2, closer to the knuckle. A section of the finger located at the end of the distal side is extracted to form a cavity 17 between leg 15 and leg 16, which exposes the end of the index finger in the cavity 17. A section of the finger located near the proximal side is extracted to form a cavity 13 between leg 11 and leg 12, which exposes the index finger in the cavity 13.
FIG. 2 depicts a side view of the device depicted in FIG.1. Legs 11, 12 and legs 15, 16 are shown to transverse and merge at the lateral sides 4, 5. As FIG. 2 shows, the device does not connect in the cavity 17 between the distal side 3 and leg 16 and does not connect in the cavity 13 between the proximal side 2 and leg 12. An additional cavity 22 exists between the proximal side 2 and the distal side 3 leaving cavity 22 above lateral side 5. An additional cavity 23 exists between the legs 12 and 16 leaving cavity 23 below lateral side 4. The end of the device at the distal side 3 is a flat surface, but may also be in the form of angles. The end of the device at the proximal side of device 2 is in the form of an angle, but may also be a flat surface. FIG. 2 shows the indented mid-sections 20, 21 that may have different designs but such design includes a width that is narrower than the width of an external side of legs 11, 12 and separately legs 15, 16.
FIG. 3 depicts a top view of the device of FIG. 1, which can be either the top, dorsal side or bottom, palm side of the device, where both dorsal and palm sides are symmetrical. FIG. 3 depicts leg 11 shown extending to lateral side 5, which connects and merges with leg 15 in lateral side 5. The tubular device ends at distal side 3, allowing a finger to protrude at the open end of the distal side 3. Construction of the device ends at proximal side 2, allowing a finger to protrude at the open end near the middle knuckle. The V shaped cavities 13, 17 exist along the lateral sides 4, 5 and form the angular V shape as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 5. An additional cavity exists between the leg 11 and leg 15 leaving cavity 22 located next to lateral side 5. An additional cavity exists between the legs 12 and 16 leaving cavity 23 located next to lateral side 4.
FIG. 4 depicts a view of the device of FIG. 1 facing the device from the distal side closest to the nail, which is where the tip of the finger is located. Cavity 22 is shown between the leg 11 and leg 15 leaving cavity 22 located next to lateral side 5. Cavity 23 exists between the legs 12 and 16 leaving cavity 23 located next to lateral side 4.
FIG. 5 depicts the device as fitted on a finger, although the device is also designed to slip comfortably over a separate predetermined glove. Due to the main characteristic of the device being its flexible structure, FIGS. 1-5 can be manufactured from elastomer, various polymer materials, elastomeric polymers, plastics, thermoplastics, polyurethanes, resins and interwoven fibers infused with resin, molded rubbers or other rubber-like materials, and filament materials, among others. The device would be available in various sizes and durometers and the manufacturing processes may include various elastomeric printing processes and techniques, carbon digital light synthesis printing, continuous liquid interface production, stereolithography printing, injection molding and urethane casting among other processes.

Other Embodiments and Variations

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the measurements, lengths and interior hollow diameter of the preferred embodiment which is a hollow, tubular device vary, including other embodiments and alternate embodiments by a person of ordinary skill in the art. All embodiments can be made from various shapes and designs and can be connected and associated with adjacent elements. For example, as shown in FIG.1, the legs 11, 12, 15, 16 which traverse and merge to form the X-shape in the lateral sides 4, 5 may vary in measurement, width length and design. The cavities 13, 17 preferably have a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 1 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the depth of the V-shape can vary. The shape of the cavities 22, 23 have a pentagon like shape as depicted by FIG. 3, but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the shape of cavities 22, 23 can vary in form from a diamond, pentagon, hexagon, or octagon, among other designs and shapes. Where the tubular device ends at the distal side 3 and proximal side 2, the end points may vary in angle formation and may be flat or curved. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the preferred embodiment's lateral sides 4, 5 preferably have similar shapes and design, namely indented mid-sections 20, 21. The indented mid-sections 20, 21 may have different designs including the obtuse shape shown in FIGS. 1, 5 but such design includes a width that is narrow than the width of an external side of legs 11, 12 and separately legs 15, 16. FIGS. 1-5 may have an inner and outer surface with at least part of the outer surface further comprising at least one projection or a plurality of projections, wherein the projections or plurality of projections are selected from a group that may consist of written designs such as an X or Z, among other designs, recesses, indentations, serrations, serrations at points of flexibility, slits, dots, ridges, scales, ribs, cuts, blades, plurality of grooves, and shapes that are of conical, cylindrical, polygonal, rectangular, elliptical or tubular structure and may have perforations for air flow or flexibility among other designs or structures as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.
Alternative embodiments of FIGS. 6-8 include a hollow, tubular vessel approximately 1-4 inches in length, and having a hollow interior diameter great enough to fit over a person's finger or in other embodiments over a person's finger and glove; as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the interior hollow diameter may vary. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the tubular vessel includes four sides: a proximal side 2 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to a person's knuckle; a distal side 3 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to person's nails; a lateral side 4 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's middle finger; and a lateral side 5 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's thumb. As shown in FIG. 6, the proximal side 2 of the vessel includes two legs 11 and 12 and a V shaped cavity 13 disposed in between legs 11 and 12. The legs 11 and 12 have a similar length as shown in FIG. 1 but in different embodiments, the legs 11, 12 length may vary. The cavity 13 preferably has a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 6 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the depth of the V-shape can vary. Similarly, the distal side 3 of the vessel includes two legs 15, 16 and a V shaped cavity 17 disposed in between legs 15, 16. The legs 15, 16 have a similar length as shown in FIG. 6 but in different embodiments, the legs 15, 16 length may vary. The cavity 17 preferably has a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 6 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the depth of the V-shape can vary. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, additional cavities 22, 23 are located next to the lateral sides and may vary in shape and size as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.
The lateral sides 4 and 5 preferably have similar shapes and design, namely mid-sections 20, 21. The mid-sections 20, 21 may have different designs including the obtuse shape shown in FIG. 6 but such design includes a width that is narrower than the width of an external side of legs 11, 12 and separately legs 15, 16. Device of FIGS. 6-8 are designed to slip over the index finger and fit comfortably between the cavities 13, 17. Device's flexible material and the structure provided by the legs 11, 12, 15, 16 and the proximal side 2 and distal side 3 enhance comfortable restriction of the joints of the index finger and promote positive muscle memory during the golf swing.
FIGS. 6-8 are alternate devices still retaining many of the characteristics of FIGS. 1-5, except that the alternate devices contain a plurality of projections, which include recesses, indentations, serrations and slits among other designs. It is not desired nor intended to limit the devices of FIGS. 1-8 as to the exact construction, operation and surface properties shown, and, accordingly, similar constructions, operations and surface properties by a person skilled in the art may be resorted to, falling within the scope of device of FIGS. 1-5, as exemplified by FIGS. 6-8 and as defined by the claims. For example, FIG. 7 displays the device that includes a distal side 3 forming a sharp angle. Additionally, FIG. 7 displays a proximal side 2 with a flat surface angle, among other surface or angle formations. As shown in FIG. 7, the lateral sides 5 is shown where there is an intersection of legs 11 and 16 and where the legs overlay one another in various formations, among other designs and constructions. FIG. 8 depicts a top or dorsal side view of device of FIG. 7, and shows cavities 22, 23 where those cavities are symmetrical on both the dorsal and palm sides of the device. Parts comprising FIGS. 1-8 can be made of different shapes and materials and may be connected and associated with adjoining elements in different manners.
FIGS. 9-11 display an alternate device which still retains many of the characteristics of FIGS. 1-8. FIGS. 9-11 show an alternative embodiment of the invention directed to a hollow, tubular vessel that is disposed over a person's finger, preferably a person's index finger. Embodiment of FIGS. 9-11 includes a hollow, tubular vessel approximately 1-4 inches in length, and having a hollow interior diameter great enough to fit over a person's finger or in other embodiments over a person's finger and glove; as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the interior hollow diameter may vary. As shown in FIGS. 9-11, the tubular vessel includes four sides: a proximal side 24 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to a person's knuckle; a distal side 25 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to person's nails; a lateral side 26 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's middle finger; and a lateral side 27 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's thumb. As shown in FIG. 9, the embodiment does not contain separate legs or cavities. The lateral sides 26 and 27 preferably have similar shapes and designs on the surface, which may include different designs including obtuse shapes as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. The device ends along the open end of the distal side 25 and the open end of the proximal side 24 closer to the middle knuckle. FIG. 11 displays the device as fitting on a finger, although the device is also designed to slip comfortably over a separate predetermined glove.
Device Bonded to Predetermined Glove or Incorporated into Glove Design
FIGS. 12 and 13 are alternate embodiment devices still retaining many of the characteristics of FIGS. 1-11, but the devices depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13 may be sewn into or bonded directly to the outer surface of a finger of a glove, and due to sewing or bonding, are not designed to be removed from the golf glove. The device bonded to a predetermined glove is designed for those players who do not wish to separately remove the device multiple times during a round or training, in addition to separately removing a golf glove. The general construction of the glove is similar to prior art golf gloves and is therefore not discussed in greater detail. FIGS. 12-13 show an alternative embodiment of the invention directed to a hollow, tubular vessel that is affixed, bonded or attached directly to a finger of a golf glove, preferably a person's index finger. The embodiment of FIGS. 12-13 includes a hollow, tubular vessel approximately 1-4 inches in length, and having a hollow interior diameter great enough to be affixed directly to the finger of a golf glove or to fit over the index finger of a golf glove; as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art the interior hollow diameter may vary. As shown in FIG. 12, the tubular vessel includes four sides: a proximal side 2 which, when the vessel is affixed, bonded or sewn to the glove and placed on a person's finger, is located closest to a person's knuckle; a distal side 3 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's finger, is located closest to person's nails; a first lateral side 4 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's middle finger; and a second lateral side 5 which, when the vessel is disposed on a person's index finger, is located next to a person's thumb.
As shown in FIG. 12, the proximal side 2 of the vessel includes two legs 11 and 12 and a V shaped cavity 13 disposed in between legs 11 and 12. The legs 11 and 12 have a similar length as shown in FIG. 12 but in different embodiments, the legs 11, 12 length may vary. The cavity 13 preferably has a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 12 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the depth of the V-shape can vary. Similarly, the distal side 3 of the vessel includes two legs 15, 16 and a cavity 17 disposed in between legs 15, 16. The legs 15, 16 have a similar length as shown in FIG. 12 but in different embodiments, the legs 15, 16 length may vary. The cavity 17 preferably has a V-shape inward design as shown in FIG. 12 but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the depth of the V-shape can vary.
As depicted in FIG. 12, the first lateral side 4 and second lateral side 5 preferably have similar shapes and design, namely indented mid-sections 20, 21. The indented mid-sections 20, 21 may have different designs including the obtuse shape shown in FIG. 12 but such design includes a width that is narrower than the width of an external side of legs 11, 12 and separately legs 15, 16. Devices of FIGS. 12-13 as affixed or bonded to a glove are designed to slip over the index finger and fit comfortably between the cavities 13, 17. As shown in FIGS. 12-13, additional cavities 22, 23 are located next to the lateral sides and may vary in shape and size as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art.
FIG. 13 includes the hollow, tubular vessel of FIGS. 9-11 that is approximately 1-4 inches in length, and having a hollow interior diameter great enough to be affixed, bonded or sewn directly to the finger of a golf glove. Device of FIG. 13 incorporates the features of embodiments of FIGS. 9-11 as bonded, affixed or sewn onto a golf glove. For example, embodiment of FIG. 13 includes lateral sides, such as lateral side 27, but does not include the separate legs of embodiments of FIGS. 1-8. The device of FIG. 13 ends along the open end of the distal side 25 and the open end of the proximal side 24 closer to the middle phalanx, or knuckle.
Alternate devices of FIGS. 12 and 13 can be manufactured from the same materials as FIGS. 1-11, which include, but are not limited to, elastomer, various polymer materials, elastomeric polymers, plastics, thermoplastics, polyurethanes, resins and interwoven fibers infused with resin, molded rubbers or other rubber-like materials. The devices of FIGS. 12 and 13 would be available in various sizes, shapes and durometers and would be fitted to gloves of various sizes. In addition, the hollow tubular vessel can be constructed by use of flexible, restrictive materials including stretch material, nylon, LYCRA® (a registered trademark of the Invista corporation), spandex, mesh, elastic and, among other similar materials, or any combination of such material and manufactured through various stitching methods and may be made for various sizes and shapes.
FIGS. 14-17 illustrate an alternate device with many of the characteristics of FIGS. 1-13 although designed into the inner layer of a glove. The general construction of the glove is similar to prior art golf gloves and is therefore not discussed in greater detail.
Golf is a competitive game and therefore, it is beneficial to have a more discreet version of the devices depicted in FIGS. 1-13 directly inserted or bonded inside a glove, without the need to separately remove the device from the glove and without the sewn or bonded device being visible on top of the glove. Having the flexible restrictive material manufactured separately but bonded or sewn directly inside of a glove has the exact same functionality and serves the exact same purpose and utility as the exterior devices of FIGS. 1-13, which is to comfortably apply pressure via the device and to reduce the player's need to apply excessive force to the club. The device of FIGS. 14-17 have the same impact on positive muscle memory and consistency as FIGS. 1-13.
FIG. 14 displays the outer layer of the index finger of a golf glove, the proximal side 31, closest to the knuckle and the distal side 32 located closer to the nail. As shown in FIG. 14, a hollow, tubular vessel made of flexible restrictive material 29 and 30 may be inserted, bonded or sewn directly into the inside lining of the index finger of the glove beginning near the palm sides 28 but not past the proximal knuckle. The hollow, tubular vessel made of flexible restrictive material may be manufactured separately from the glove and through the same processes and using the same materials as FIGS. 1-13 or in the glove manufacture process. The hollow, tubular vessel in the form of flexible restrictive material may extend from the proximal side 31 to the the distal side 32 around the entirety of the finger to the palm sides 28, 33. Multiple embodiments and variations of devices from FIGS. 14-17 may be constructed. For example, the hollow, tubular vessel made of flexible material may cover the entirety of the lining of inside of the index finger of a glove from the middle knuckle to the distal knuckle as shown in FIG. 14, or a partial hollow tubular vessel may cover a smaller portion of the lining of inside of the index finger of a glove as shown in FIGS. 15-16.
FIG. 15 shows a hollow, partial tubular vessel 34 as located in the palm side of the glove 38, 39 and not inserted and sewn into portions of the distal side of the glove 37 or the proximal side of the glove 36. As shown in FIG. 15, the hollow partial tubular vessel may not be sewn, bonded or affixed inside the glove in the lateral section 35, but a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the length and width of the hollow partial tubular vessel 34 may vary. An alternate embodiment in FIG. 16 displays the hollow partial tubular vessel 40 inserted and bonded or sewn into the proximal side of the glove 41 and the distal side of the glove 42 and may not be inserted and sewn in the palm side 43, 44, 45 of the glove. As shown in FIG. 16, a person of ordinary skill in the art will note that the length and width of the hollow partial tubular vessel 40 may vary. The sectional view of the glove FIG. 17 displays the section of the hollow, tubular vessel or partial hollow, tubular vessel made of a flexible restrictive material 46 that may be inserted, bonded and sewn partially in the distal, proximal, lateral, or palm sides of the glove or entirely in the distal, proximal, lateral and the palm sides of the glove. As affixed, bonded and sewn directly into the golf glove, the hollow, tubular vessel or partial hollow tubular vessel proceeds from the middle to the distal side, but not past the proximal side of the finger. As depicted in FIG. 17, the outer layer of the glove is shown 47 and the main area of the glove 48 in which the finger is inserted is shown.

CONCLUSIONS, RAMIFICATIONS, SCOPE

From the description above, a number of advantages are evident. Accordingly, the reader will see that the device can be used as a separate device for easy ingress and egress or can be used as affixed directly to a glove for golf, or within a golf glove. The device is to fit comfortably onto a finger and does not apply excessive restriction or force due to its flexible structure. The finger and hand's capability is enhanced by the characteristic properties of the material and shape comprising the device. In the device shown in the figures provided and alternative devices, the characteristics are enhanced tactility through comfortable joint restriction, including, but not limited to, resistance and pressure resulting in the feeling that the finger under which the device is situated is flexing when, in fact, no pressure is necessarily being provided by that finger. A reduction in force applied by the lead hand index finger will result in a more dominant hand swing, which may increase consistency, positive muscle memory, and ball striking. The device can be used during practice play and training, is available in multiple sizes and durometers, is manufactured from durable material and made from inexpensive manufacturing processes.
The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the device and should not be considered as limiting the scope. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the device to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims which follow.
This application incorporates by reference the subject matter in U.S. Provisional Application, Ser. No. 62/903,218 filed on Sep. 20, 2019 and U.S. Provisional Application, Ser. No. 62/733,687 filed on Sept. 20, 2018.

Claims

Patent application attorney docket no.: 100685-666602 via efs-web I claim:

1. A gripping device for handling a golf club comprising:

a tubular hollow vessel having four sides including a proximal side having at least two legs and and a first cavity disposed in between the at least two legs, wherein the first cavity includes a V-shape inward design;

a distal side having at least two legs and a second cavity disposed in between the at least two legs, wherein the second cavity includes a V-shape inward design;

at least two lateral sides connecting the proximal side to the distal side, wherein the vessel is made of flexible material.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device has a length of 1-4 inches and a hollow diameter great enough to comfortably fit over a person's finger or golf glove.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is disposed over an index finger.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the flexibile material includes stretch material such as nylon, LYCRA, spandex, and mesh.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible material can be manufactured from materials including elastomer, various polymer materials, elastomeric polymers, plastics, thermoplastics, polyurethanes, resins and interwoven fibers infused with resin, molded rubbers or other rubber-like materials, and filament materials.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device would be available in various sizes and durometers, and manufacturing processes for making the device may include elastomeric printing processes and techniques, carbon digital light synthesis printing, continuous liquid interface production, stereolithography printing, injection molding and urethane casting.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the lateral sides include a first lateral side and a second lateral side connecting the proximal side of the device to the distal side of the device. PATENT APPLICATION Attorney Docket No.: 100685-666602 Via EFS-web

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the first lateral side includes an inward indentation having an obtuse shape thereby providing for a mid-section of the device (when considered from a proximal to distal end) having a narrower width than the proximal end and distal end of the device.

9. The device according to claim 7, wherein the second lateral side includes an inward indentation having an obtuse shape thereby providing for a mid-section of the device (when considered from a proximal to distal end) having a narrower width than the proximal end and distal end of the device.

10. The device according to claim 2, wherein the hollow diameter is approximately point 5 of an inch to 2 inches.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein a depth of the v-shape inward design of the first cavity and the second cavity can vary.

12. A golf glove comprising:

a gripping device for handling a golf club comprising:

at least two lateral sides connecting the proximal side to the distal side, wherein the vessel is made of flexible material, and wherein the gripping device is disposed over the glove's index finger.